Prada presents a playful collection for the festive season, titled “The Prada December Issue,” it celebrates iconic heroines and heroes from cinema history. Styles reference cinematic moments that have defined eras throughout the past century.

The women’s collection features a series of pieces that fuse fragility with strength through pieces that are bold yet delicate in their details. With a colour palette of blush, green, lilac and grey, classic jackets and elegant dresses are glittered with embroideries enriching the surfaces of materials. Hems are tipped with feather embellishment, and duchesse satin is requisitioned to reinvent a man’s overcoat. The same silhouette is present in animalier pony hair, a piece that can be worn from day to night. 

Materials cling to the skin thanks to the use of stretch raso, which is utilised to create pieces with elegance and dynamism. They have an intimacy; a feeling reiterated through lingerie reference, delicate straps, fine knits, and transparencies revealing the body within. The focus on details continues throughout with crystal buttons and slip dresses in sablé or degradé crystal, held together with a microscopic chain at the shoulder.

The brand also references its own past with a re-edition dress from the brand’s Spring/summer 1995 collection. Meanwhile, in accessories, some of the brand’s most recognisable bags of the moment – the Galleria, the Odette, the Cleo – are reinvented in patent styles. The new Arqué bag is also presented in calf and Re-Nylon. Completing the offering, shoes are quintessentially Prada – slingback, sandals and mules, minimal shapes for men in brushed leather and patent. The Prada December Issue collection is available at selected stores now.

prada.com

Each year, Claire Choisne, Creative Director at Boucheron, looks forward to designing the brand’s high jewellery collection, also known within the Parisian masion as the “carte blanche” collection, thanks to the freedom of creativity surrounding it.

With high jewellery at Boucheron, there are no boundaries or limits on creativity, which is perhaps why, when she found herself bound to her home during the 2020 lockdown, her desire to create something bold and out-of-the-box was greater than ever. Unable to travel or even meet with her team face-to-face, Choisne had to take her inspiration from the internet and the situation she was in. She chose to rebel against the limits of lockdown and created “More is More”, a vibrant, rule-defining collection that takes high jewellery to new levels. She worked with never-used-before materials, bright colours and unexpected surprises to create perhaps the Maison’s most impactful offering yet. Here, we find out more about the challenges and achievements during the creation process of this truly special collection.

Tell us about the story and inspiration behind this year’s high jewellery collection.

We started working on the “More is More” collection in 2020, during the second lockdown. We were stuck at home, unable to go outside. There were too many constraints; we could not do anything. I felt really tired and hopeless. Every year, I love to travel to get inspired, and two days before a trip with my team in Africa, we had to cancel and replace it with a brainstorming session on Teams. Everyone was sad! We went on Pinterest and spent hours looking for inspiration. I needed colours and playfulness to offer joy as a remedy. Through this process, I found pictures of Memphis Milano (the Italian interiors and architecture group that was popular during the eighties); it reminded me of a happy time during my childhood. Using these pictures, we created a mood board, and it became the frame of the collection. I wanted my team and I to design whatever made us happy, in scales that made us happy, expressing whatever we wished to express. After that, it was quite easy to imagine the pieces. When I look back, I think it’s cool, how from a bad situation, you can achieve something so positive.

What are some of the highlight pieces for you this year?

I would start by talking about “Tie the Knot” which was one of the most challenging pieces. We wanted to push back the limits with a gigantic – yet ultra-lightweight – hair bow with red, black and white stripes. To get to that, we used magnesium, a material we’d never used before. It’s a metal that’s ten times lighter than gold. It naturally possesses an incredible resiliency for its weight, which is why it is widely used in the aerospace and medical industries 

However, it has never been used in a high jewellery collection. One of the greatest difficulties is that, unlike a gold prong, a magnesium prong is impossible to repair if it breaks as the diamonds are being set. For the Tie the Knot piece, the gem-setting step using magnesium was much more complex than it would have been using gold. The combination of diamonds and magnesium was a true first.

Another challenging piece was “In The Pocket”, and it’s one of my favourites. It may seem easy to create a high jewellery pocket that you can put on your garment, but in reality, when you start getting into the technique, you realise that a pocket is not like a necklace. A necklace is put around the neck, and it will be fine. A pocket, you have to be able to move with it, to sit down, to put your hand in it and that it supports the weight of a phone. It becomes much more complex to make than a necklace! We found the solution using a textile material, lycra, usually used in sportswear, and we combined it with titanium, four times lighter than gold. The pocket seems rigid on the photo, but titanium screws fix together a system of plates and counter plates printed in 3D and allow the pocket’s articulation. The pocket can be attached to a garment with two magnetised parts, and the fabric is held between these two elements. This structure is covered with onyx, diamonds, and grey lacquer. What I like is that in the end, it doesn’t show. The piece gives the feeling that it was simple and easy to make!

What are some of the biggest challenges you encountered during the creation process, and how did you overcome them?

For this collection, I did not want to consider any constraints because I realise, we usually restrict ourselves on a creative level. So that’s what that creative process was about: not caring about the constraints, going for what we wanted but then, taking responsibility for our choices and finding solutions to make it all work. It is a learning curve, when you use new materials or techniques to achieve your dream, you find yourself with a big toolbox of traditional and new tools that you can play around with in the future. It opens up the possibilities of creation in the industry. For each high jewellery collection, techniques are created that are linked to what we want to achieve in terms of aesthetics. Today’s innovation is tomorrow’s craftsmanship. You never get bored stepping out of your comfort zone!

So, we used several unexpected materials such as magnesium, red bio-acetate, blue Murano glass, or titanium dyed with a cataphoresis treatment to bring out pop colours and incredible volumes. It allowed us to craft the creations as they had been imagined while keeping them pleasant to wear. We made it: the pieces are here, and I’d love to have everyone’s opinion, but I sincerely think anyone discovering this collection will have a feeling of joy. 

The images that accompany the collection are quite different for the brand – tell us about this.

Our campaigns are always a reflection of the dream or the emotion we wish to convey through our collections. As we imagined the More is More collection during lockdown, at that time, the most precious thing for me was joy, which I wanted to express through the campaign. With my creative studio, we used the sketches that we drew on women’s and men’s portraits as a reference to create the campaign because it must be an extension of this story of joy, even further than what only the creations are showing. I’m so happy with the result because the casting, the colourful looks and the backgrounds are exactly what we imagined! It is an extension of this story of joy.

What are some of the positives and negatives of having such freedom around creating a collection?

I am very lucky to have unlimited freedom at Boucheron; it’s a privilege and a mission! Initially, I was unsure if people would accept my style, but over the past decade, my designs have slowly gained recognition, and now I am confident to go forward without fear. It used to be a type of intuition, which has now transformed into a dynamic power. Because I realised it always pays off! Everyone is different: some people are looking for the little black dress with Boucheron Histoire de Style collections, while others love the exuberant and unexpected dresses that we offer with our Carte Blanche collections. With CEO Hélène Poulit-Duquesne, we are lucky to be part of the Maison during a small period of its life and to be able to bring a very small stone to the building. It is our duty to be bold and push the boundaries of high jewellery by innovating and being as free as possible. We don’t want any regret; we want to know that we did everything we could for each collection without any constraint. And we do. Just like our founder, Frédéric Boucheron, we can be pioneers and try new things. It’s funnier and more interesting that way. As a Creative Director, I do not want to stay in this comfort zone; I do not want to hit snooze. I want to continue exploring, continue innovating, and continue to convey emotions through my creations. I intend to focus all my efforts so that the modern Boucheron collections will similarly remain for future generations. 

What is something you would still like to do with the brand that you haven’t done yet?

A lot of things! But I can’t say too much; it will be the subject of future collections.

To what extent do you still believe that high jewellery still has a place in society today?

I am lucky that I’ve been in this industry for over 25 years and at Boucheron for more than 12 years now. Over the last 5 to 10 years, we noticed the emergence in society of a new clientele in high jewellery who are more sensitive to the creativity and the emotional storytelling of the pieces than to the actual value. This trend is linked to the shifting balance toward younger clients, women, and men, especially in Asia and more specifically in China. Beyond the value of stones and materials, the value of our collections, therefore, lies in the deep emotion it offers.

Personally, what I find most attractive in this industry is pushing the limits of high jewellery, and associating traditional know-how with innovation to extend the possibility of creation. I believe that high jewellery is at the service of emotion and poetry, and it is our duty to question the precious. The great benefit of this alliance in design is the freedom to create, which allows us to explore territories of experimentation without setting limits. As a cutting-edge high jewellery maison, we allow ourselves to test and play with new materials or techniques never used in high jewellery as long as they help us express this creative dream. It must precisely fade away to make way for dreams, art, and emotion. I strive to give our best, and I believe that the pieces will find their way to those who will buy them with love. The important thing is to maintain a good balance between traditional techniques and digital technology without setting limits, even if it means looking for creative solutions in other industries.

What do you think women are looking for from jewellery today?

I think that more and more women are buying pieces themselves because they wish to wear them, not leave them locked away in a safe. It is becoming a luxury accessory which allows women to find their own style. It is no longer a status symbol but a style story. At Boucheron, we say that we propose, we never impose but rather propose a wide choice for our clients. For example, in our jewellery collections, the Quatre clip earrings give you the total freedom to compose your own style. They can be worn in a classic way as earrings but can also be seen as versatile pieces and be placed on a hat, the lapel of a jacket, or even transformed into hair clips. I hope when people wear jewellery I design, it can express who they are and their personal style. Hence, a good piece of jewellery is versatile and can be worn daily as a signature of style. Through Boucheron’s collections, I want to help men and women to assume their own style and tell their own story. We open up the possibilities through the design and the way we shoot our campaigns, but the most important thing is that men and women feel good and comfortable with the pieces they wear. 

How do you continue to be inspired and be original?

Personally, working on the same theme and style again and again isn’t interesting for me. My creative process is very intuitive; it’s guided by an inspiration, a moment, a dream.

Inspiration can come from absolutely anywhere and is constantly evolving! Mine is mainly visual; it can be a trip, a movie, a photo… many different things. The important aspect is to keep your eyes open to the world to catch these inspirations. I love nature. I spend a lot of time in Portugal surrounded by nature, and I think that is when I’m most creative and inspired. When I’m there, ideas pop into my head easily. The moments when I’m travelling are the times that are the best for my creativity. That’s why, before designing a new high jewellery collection, I plan an “inspirational travel” trip every year with my team. For example, in 2019, I had the chance to travel to Mexico to see the work of architect Luis Barragan, to visit one of the houses he designed, and to spend some time with one of his former associates. It was a great source of inspiration for the Carte Blanche, Holographique collection unveiled in 2021, to find a new approach around the theme of colours by exploring its link with light.

What is the motto that you live by?

Freedom to create! As a jewellery designer, you have to trust and always listen to yourself, and never give up your ideas to avoid soft or banal designs. Don’t be afraid to have strong ideas; believe in them and always stick to them. There will always be people to prevent us from believing in them, but go for it, because it will bring you infinite happiness!

How would you describe this collection in one word?

Joy!

Boucheron.com

Nature has been at the heart of Chaumet’s collections since its founding in 1780. This year’s high jewellery collection Le Jardin de Chaumet, poetically highlights this connection with the natural world, taking you on a journey through beautiful lands, embracing the world’s untouched beauty. The collection sees everyday natural objects – flowers, wheat, vines, leaves – presented in a romantic and enchanting way, using the finest savoir-faire and creativity to bring these beautiful pieces to life. The 68-piece collection undoubtedly posed challenges for the 12 Vendôme workshop, where the Maison’s experts worked tirelessly to achieve these works of art.

Heading up the workshop is Benoît Verhulle, who took on this crucial role in 2017 after working as a jeweller for many years. Verhulle’s role is to support the team that crafts the pieces, ensuring they are brought to life with the best results possible. With the collection one of the brand’s most beautiful yet, we take a deep dive into the savoir-faire and creation process behind the pieces.

Take us through the story and inspiration behind this year’s high jewellery collection.

It’s in Chaumet’s DNA where one finds the natural aspect, the naturalist, nature, and this botanical vision. The goal was that we could immediately recognise and name a plant or flower when looking at our creations. There is also a keen sense of detail to capture this naturalist side. The collection follows the Maison’s esteemed legacy.

What are some of the highlight pieces for you this year?

The Wheat necklace encapsulates a subject dear to the Maison, and we’ve covered it several times before. We brought something new to this collection, something never done before – a necklace with three different worn styles – the yellow gold wheat necklace, the calibrated white gold necklace, and both worn together. The ingenious part of this necklace is that it has a single mechanism for all three versions. The Bark necklace with its stunning opal; for this creation, it’s more about the opal defining the necklace. The Iris necklace has the advantage of dual wear: the husband can wear the brooch, and the wife can wear the necklace. The entire collection features magnificent stones, such as the emeralds in the Mistletoe set. In my opinion, creating this collection was a real joy because it carries many messages and aligns perfectly with the Maison’s DNA, featuring transformable pieces, some more daring designs, and the Pansy choker-like second skin. The Maison’s codes are still present, with the “fil-couteau” technique resembling the Rouen collar.

There is a slight variation with the Chrysanthemum and Magnolia where the gold is textured as seen in the Golden Age exhibition, with a very metallic aspect and modernity with the Empress cut. As for the Fern set, it is simple and effective, with small stones but a lot of technique: three large articulated Fern leaves. 

Tell us about some of the savoir-faire processes used in this collection.

The “fil-couteau” technique and pave setting with 8×8 diamonds (Wheat, Mistletoe, Pansy,…) On the figurative parts of the jewellery, the gold has been worked on, and sculpted, and is less mechanised.

What about the choice of stones?

During their travels, our stone buyers look for the most exciting stones for the Maison, and then we build collections around these stones.

Tell us about the creation process from the sketch to the final piece.

We begin with a drawing, sometimes a shape, that inspires us to begin imagining what they desire. Then, it’s up to us to run various tests and find the best jeweller for this collection. The designer is always open to suggestions and expects us to make them. The primary goal is to find the aesthetic; multiple possibilities can emerge depending on the craftsman. We continue to exchange ideas with the studio until the piece is finalised.

How do you ensure the process runs according to time and that the final piece reflects the initial vision?

For each collection and piece, I must select the jewellers, setters, and polishers. We then establish a retro-planning schedule with the project managers, highlighting key moments for each collection: dates for aesthetic validation, validation in white (piece without stones), followed by the paving of the piece, polishing, and final touches. 

What are some of the biggest challenges you encountered during the creation process, and how did you overcome them?

We were initially concerned about the Wheat Necklace because it was a very covering and rigid necklace. The aesthetic was established first, followed by technique, flexibility, and movements. The 3-in-1 wearing system with a single clasp presented a technical challenge. Every creation/jewel remains a challenge in terms of finding that extra something that ensures it truly conforms to the Chaumet style.

How important do you believe it is for jewellery to still be handmade today?

It’s our profession, our DNA, and the strength of our workshop. There’s always a manual aspect. With 3D design, the jeweller forms a part of their interpretation, their art; otherwise, it becomes assembly mechanical. Handcrafting is similar to writing a love letter. Do we really want to write a love letter on a computer? It doesn’t have the same sensitivity or soul. It’s also the flaws, the imperfections, that make the jewel unique. 

What is Chaumet doing to sustain the atelier for future generations, and how do you educate aspiring artisans?

There are currently four apprentices in the workshop. It’s a profession where experience and dedication are crucial. We select our apprentices based on their sensitivity and then train them by sharing our expertise. The objective is to push them even further, to allow them to develop in areas where they may be less comfortable. When you can convey your passion, you can push people even further in their work.

How much does Chaumet get inspired by its archival pieces for new designs?

All the time we are fortunate to have an archive stock of about 600,000 drawings. We draw a lot of inspiration from what our predecessors did. In fact, there are still so many things in our archives that amaze us, like the pieces from the “Golden Age” (Un Age d’Or) exhibition. The Wheat Tiara from 1800 versus the latest Wheat Tiara in 2023: there’s a world of difference between the two, but we have the same subject and a way of doing things that remains similar and consistent. Our heritage is also our testimony to what happened in the world in a specific era. 

What is the professional motto you live by?

Never be satisfied, always in anticipation of challenging myself. I always look forward to the next collection to always see what’s next.

When and how did your passion for jewellery begin?

I discovered jewellery at the age of 12 while walking the streets of Toulouse when I saw an artisan working in his shop. I was glued to the window; I told my mother: this is what I want to do. It stayed with me; I was lucky that my parents supported me and helped me to do a Certificate of Professional Aptitude (CAP) in Art and Techniques of Jewellery. And since then, the years have just flown by. It’s truly a profession of passion. We are fortunate; we bring objects to life. And now, I have this role of passing on, transmitting not only the craftsmanship but also my passion.

What is a message you would send to our readers about this collection?

Transmission is not only the savoir-faire but also the values of the Maison. Having the naturalist jeweller aspect, reflects tradition and modernity.

How would you describe this collection in one word?

Naturalist.

chaumet.com

Diriyah, the cultural capital of Saudi Arabia, hosted its first-ever arts and fashion exhibition last month, with a host of showcases showing the best of art and design as well as highlighting the tradition and culture of the region.

Diriyah Company partnered with renowned international Saudi Designer Abdulrahman Al-Romaizan, (founder and creative director of RAMZEN) to present an extraordinary fusion of art and fashion in Bujairi Terrace, the region’s premier dining destination overlooking the majestic UNESCO World Heritage Site of At-Turaif, and the verdant Wadi Hanifah.

The show featured RAMZEN’s latest collection, which was inspired by the beauty and culture of Diriyah and its rich heritage. “This haute couture collection features 60 looks inspired by the history, art and beautiful elements that are showcased within Diriyah. It is a celebration of the past, incorporating old Saudi techniques and aspects of traditional Saudi dress, but these influences were reinterpreted in ways that have never been seen before.” Said Al Romaizan. “Some looks feature visual components inspired by At-Turaif, the City of Earth. The colours of this singular landscape are woven into many of the designs. At the same time, half of the collection is contemporary and timeless, with Saudi patterns and lovely Najdi style subtly incorporated in these one-of-a-kind fashion statements with international appeal.” He added.

The collection was crafted in Italy, using the finest materials, hand-sewn by expert artisans. “RAMZEN is wearable art for thinkers, risk- takers and romantics. We are a global brand that believes fashion unites us, and we strive to create designs that appeal to fashion lovers worldwide. Our international following is a gift that gives us insights into the fashion dreams and desires of a diverse audience. While the City of Earth Collection resonates with Saudi fans of the brand in particular, the designs are contemporary and have broad appeal far beyond the region.” Al Romaizan added.

The festival also saw a week-long art exhibition at Bujairi Terrace, which included a collection of creative artworks of Saudi designers. The exhibition was in collaboration with Athr Gallery and was complemented by a musical performance by Saudi artists, who played a selection of distinctive melodies and musical pieces amidst an atmosphere that blended the essence of Diriyah’s rich culture and heritage with the artistic creations of Saudi talents.

The partnership represents a shared commitment to promoting local talent, fostering innovation, and strengthening the position of Saudi Arabia as a global fashion hub. 

Ramzen

If you aren’t familiar with the name Jenny Packham, you would have undoubtedly seen one of her elegant dresses. The British designer has become the go-to dressmaker for everyone from Catherine, Princess of Wales, to Sarah Jessica Parker, Adele, Paris Hilton, Angelina Jolie, and so many more in between. Packham’s feminine silhouettes, sequin-detailed gowns and eye-catching hues mean that she has become one of the most sought-after red carpet and bridal designers in the world.

Studying at the prestigious Central Saint Martin College of Art and Design in London, Packham was one of the first of a long line of alums that includes Lee (Alexander) McQueen, John Galliano, Stella McCartney, Phoebe Philo, Christopher Kane and more. After graduating, Packham launched her eponymous label in 1988, with her first designs presented at the London Design Show. Over the years, Packham has designed numerous iconic dresses and gowns. For the Princess of Wales, she designed the gold dress she wore to the London premiere of James Bond film No Time To Die, and she also created looks worn by Kim Cattrall’s character Samantha Jones in Sex and The City.

Packham’s design style is instantly recognisable. With sculptural silhouettes celebrating the female form, unrivalled craftsmanship and that all-important sparkle. Packham’s dedication to creating responsible, sustainable fashion is key to her success as she continually strives to reduce her brand’s environmental impact, incorporating ethically sourced materials where possible and promoting fair trade practices.

This month, Packham is launching her Resort 24 collection and an exclusive capsule collection at Bloomingdale’s Dubai. Inspired by the vibrancy of the ocean and her collaboration with Ocean Rising—an initiative from the Schmidt Ocean Institute and Nekton—the Resort 24 collection is a celebration of the deep blue. At the same time, the capsule is a colourful array of styles perfect for women in the Middle East. Here, we find out more about what to expect.

What can we expect from the Resort 24 collection?

The collection is vibrant with jewel-inspired colours and lots of sparkle. Featuring sharp, architectural crepes with powerful shoulders and sweeping silk chiffons. The Resort 24 collection exudes an attitude of modern femininity.

What can you tell us about your brand in the Middle East?

It has been one of our most important markets for many years. I have always found the client’s love of eveningwear so inspiring.

What about the exclusive Capsule collection at Bloomingdale’s Dubai?

The capsule features six styles in platinum, cherry blossom, and jewelled tones. I wanted the collection to encapsulate the energy of the wonderful events they will be worn to and reflect the glamorous women who wear them.

We used sumptuous light fabrics embellished with delicate beadwork on some of our best-selling silhouettes: a chiffon wrap dress, embellished caped gowns and column dresses with statement sleeves. My favourite look is a platinum-caped ball gown scattered with sequins and hot fix crystals.

What else is in the pipeline for the brand in the coming year?

I am currently designing our new Spring bridal collection and finalising our AW24 Collections, which we’ll be presenting in Paris early next year. We’re also designing pieces for a collaboration, which we’ll be announcing in the new year; I love that my work leads me to collaborative projects that push me out of my creative comfort zone. 

You have had an impressive career – what have been her biggest achievements over the years?

2023 marks 35 years of the brand. Fashion is a tough game, and you have to have the passion and the ability to adapt – so I think my biggest achievement is that I’m still designing and doing what I love.

You have dressed so many incredible women – are there any favourite looks you can share, and is there anyone you would like to dress?

I’ve been incredibly lucky to have dressed so many inspiring women from across the globe, including Adele, Paris Hilton, Angelina Jolie, Helen Mirren and Taylor Swift. I am always so proud of every one of our dresses that are worn on the red carpet; however, those with the wild anecdotes are always my favourite! We once made a dress for Kate Winslet in 4 days, our studio worked around the clock, and she looked iconic. I’d love to dress Cate Blanchett; I love her red carpet style. 

What inspires you, and when are you at your most creative?

Living in London, I am very lucky to have access to some of the world’s most amazing galleries and exhibitions, but there is something very rewarding about being inspired in the most unexpected places: a corporate boardroom or in a queue at the airport! Travelling always ignites my creative thoughts, and I often come back from a trip brimming with ideas for our next collection.

What is the professional motto you live by?

Be true to yourself, find a niche and don’t give up.

How would you describe your own style?

Like most women, I dress for myself and when shopping, fabrication and fit are very important to me. I love Dries Van Noten, and his use of prints and colours, and I have lots of his pieces in my wardrobe. 

jennypackham.com

COP 28 is the 28th annual United Nations climate meeting, this time taking place in Dubai at Expo City. The meeting will see international governments come together to discuss how to limit and prepare for future climate change. The annual conferences bring together countries’ governments that signed the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) – an international environmental treaty addressing climate change.

As the notion of climate change becomes ever more a reality, this summit becomes even more crucial in sustaining and ensuring the future of our planet. According to scientists, 2023 is almost certainly the hottest year on record, and time is running out to keep global warming below 1.5C above pre-industrial levels – as per the Paris Agreement decided at COP21. The summit, which is being held from November 30 until December 12, will see global leaders gather to discuss vital issues and ways to avoid the most damaging impacts of climate change moving forward. 

The world is currently on track for approximately 2.5C of warming by 2100, which is still set to be drastically damaging. More work needs to be done to reduce this number and slow the rate of global warming for our planet to continue for many years to come. This year COP28 will focus on:

•  Focusing on nature, lives and livelihoods.
•  Fast-tracking the move to clean energy sources and slashing greenhouse gas emissions before 2030.
•  Fixing climate finance and funding for poorer countries to assist with climate action and working on a new deal for developing nations.
• Fostering inclusivity for all, with Blue and Green zones working side-by-side to deliver real, actionable solutions to the climate crisis.

COP28 is being headed up by Dr Sultan Al Jaber, COP28 UAE President, who has been steering the planning process and engaging world leaders. He is assisted by HE Razan Al Mubarak, High-Level Champion and HE Shamma Al Mazrui, Youth Climate Champion, who will be working to enhance the impact of the event and ensure positive outcomes for the future. More than 200 world governments have been invited to the event, although official confirmations are yet to be revealed.

The event will run across a two-week schedule, covering key areas and topics that are crucial in the fight against climate change. This will include health, finance, gender equality, energy, food and water, nature, land and oceans, youth and education, urbanization and more. Cross-cutting themes include technology and innovation, inclusion, frontline communities and finance.

The event, which will take place at Expo City Dubai, will be sectioned into two areas: The Green Zone and the Blue Zone – the first is where the official negotiations will take place, and the second will be open to stakeholders and members of the public. 

unfccc.int/cop28

Hind Abdul Hamied Seddiqi, Director General of Dubai Watch Week and Chief Marketing & Communications Officer at Seddiqi Holding sat down with A&E magazine this month to discuss Dubai Watch Week 2023.

What can we expect from this year’s edition of Dubai Watch Week?

Dubai Watch Week is set to be the biggest edition yet, with over 60 leading watch brands participating – the highest participation to date. Our programmes will return with some exciting Masterclasses, Creative Hubs, and Horology Forum panels that are free to attend and open to the public. We look forward to providing a platform for the meeting of minds across our industry and industries alike – the event truly is a moment to highlight innovation and fine watchmaking. 

What are the prerequisites when selecting the brands participating in this event?

There are no such prerequisites – Dubai Watch Week is pleased to welcome all brands in the industry. We constantly strive to present a diverse mix of brands – including those in our portfolio, independents, and brands new to the region. It is especially rewarding to introduce our clients to new brands and watchmakers as we further cement our vision to strengthen our platform as a bridge between key industries. In this edition, we have over ten brands that are first-time participants, and we are keen to hear their experience of the event.

 What do you hope to achieve with this year’s event, and what’s the current vision for the platform?

The goal of this year’s event is to grow beyond expected and establish the entity as a significant cultural event in Dubai which caters to a wide audience. To this end, our vision is to continue to establish Dubai Watch Week as a premier intersection for horology, design, and art and provide a platform to connect thought leaders and brands. 

We notice a lot of exciting panels and talks are taking place – What are some of the highlights we should add to our calendar?

Certainly, there are many insightful and interesting discussions; we are also introducing our first-ever Arabic panel tackling family businesses in the UAE. Additionally, we are bringing back the debate format, which we launched during the travelling edition of Horology Forum in 2022. The upcoming edition features a distinguished roster of globally renowned speakers and moderators, including François-Henry Bennahmias, CEO of Audemars Piguet; Mohammed Abdulmagied Seddiqi, Chief Commercial Officer of Seddiqi Holding; Daniela Dufour, Watchmaker; Jean Arnault, Watch Director at La Fabrique du Temps Louis Vuitton; Nicholas Foulkes, Author & Historian; George Bamford, Founder of Bamford Watch Department; Austen Chu, Founder & CEO of Wristcheck; Tim Mosso, Watch Specialist & Media Director at WatchBox and Wei Koh, Founder of Grail Watch and Revolution Watch.

Dubai has firmly established itself as a crucial hub in the region for the industry – how would you describe the industry here today?

As we enter the 6th edition, the feedback and response received from attendees, including media, novices, and brands, cements the importance of the event in the Dubai and international luxury events calendar. Dubai, as a central hub, represents a vibrant sector, one that is the perfect place to witness such a mingling of minds. We consistently see an increased appetite and eagerness to learn more and are proud to further pioneer a platform that caters to this.

How has it developed here over the last few years?

Over the past few years, the watch industry in Dubai has flourished due to an increased demand for luxury timepieces and the city’s global reputation for luxury. Dubai Watch Week’s focus on innovation has further elevated its prominence in the industry, making it a dynamic and educational platform for all.  

Spanning over 100,000 sq. ft, visitors will enjoy immersive experiences with over 60 brands set to participate and with over 20 launches taking place at Dubai Watch Week. This year, we will have more stand-alone brands, which include brands such as Rolex, Audemars Piguet, TUDOR, Hublot, Chopard, Ulysse Nardin, Girard-Perregaux, Van Cleef & Arpels, CHANEL and Bulgari in addition to the Brands Exhibition space.

What opportunities do you see for incoming brands looking to move to the region?

Dubai Watch Week’s ever-growing presence and diverse offering present a gateway to a wide audience, attracting collectors, enthusiasts, and novices alike who are keen to learn from and about iconic and new up-and-coming brands. Participating in events like Dubai Watch Week provides brands with increased exposure and a platform to showcase their collections to a discerning and international audience, elevating their visibility in our region.

How important do you think it is today for watchmakers to create a lifestyle or experience around their brands?

We encourage all brands to provide and present their collections in an experiential format, as this is especially important for those experiencing and learning about a brand on-site. For novices, this will further develop their passion and awareness, and for keen enthusiasts’, this allows brands to establish a deeper connection with them while cultivating loyalty. 

How do you think consumer habits have changed over the last few years, and what do you think they are looking for from watches today?

Over the past few years, consumer habits in the watch industry have evolved significantly. It is more important than ever to gauge the client’s interest and look at what each brand has to offer, as each consumer is different and may value different factors such as brand heritage, craftsmanship, the use of unique techniques and elements and much more. It is important, now more than ever, that DWW is the spearhead in the calendar, providing new and engaging experiences to drive passion for horology in our region further. 

As a leader in the industry, how do you ensure you are always ahead of the game and supporting brands as well as moving forward?

It is not just about the brands but also the artisans, designers, watchmakers and artists – who are leaders or newcomers in their respective fields. Our goal is to nurture and incubate talent via Dubai Watch Week as we collectively grow and further innovate our industries. 

What else is in the pipeline for the coming year? 

Dubai Watch Week is a biennial event, and we’re looking forward to the travelling edition of the  Horology Forum in 2024. We have some exciting prospects for the event location and can’t wait to share more in the coming months.

Dubai Watch Week is scheduled from 16th to 20th November 2023 at The Gate, Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC). 

The upcoming 6th edition of Dubai Watch Week is highly anticipated amongst industry insiders, collectors and experts and is expected to be the largest edition yet.

Held under the patronage of Her Highness Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of the Dubai Culture & Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) and Member of the Dubai Council, Dubai Watch Week is set to attract the regional and international watch community, raising awareness of the industry in Dubai and offering opportunities for insiders to discover the latest, product and innovations in the industry, as well as engaging in talks, discussions and presentations on key industry topics. 

This year’s edition will see big-name international brands hosting exclusive spaces on-site, sharing their latest timepieces, and opening discussions around products, industry values, watch collectors and more.  

The Horology Forum will also offer the opportunity to look at the intersection of horology with luxury automotive, artisanship and education to provide a platform for free-flowing discussions between master artisans, captains of industries, visionaries, and seasoned collectors. 

It will this year feature six panels and three debates, gathering renowned leaders from their respective fields to dissect and dialogue. A series of masterclasses will be hosted, including hands-on workshops, as well as the Creative Hub, which will feature thought-provoking dialogues and conversations over the four days. With the event set to take place this month, we find out what more to expect from the upcoming edition. 

Dubaiwatchweek.com

Looking for a new timepiece? Here is a round-up of all the best watches released at Geneva Watch Days 2023.

Bulgari

Bulgari unveiled three key novelties at the recent Geneva Watch Days. Starting with the Monete Secret Watches, the new Monete Catene Dual Time watch evokes the legendary couple formed by Emperor Septimus Severus and his empress Julia Domna, revered as a goddess. The Monete Catene watch features a single denarius, a silver coin with the effigy of formidable Emperor Caracalla. Monete Catene, made of gold and diamonds, demonstrates sophistication and aesthetic mastery, showcasing exceptional antique treasures of Ancient Rome and Greece. The Octo Finissimo story continues with new materials in the form of carbon and gold. Two Automatic models and the Octo Finissimo Perpetual Calendar are now clad in the anthracite hues of high-tech carbon, contrasted with the luminous brilliance of gold. Thirdly, Bulgari’s Piccolissimo BVL 100 round miniature mechanical movement, the smallest on the market, marks the mystique of mechanical time in High Jewellery, true to the spirit of secret jewellery watches. Here, two new models come to the fore: the Serpenti Misteriosi in white gold set with over 33 carats of diamonds and the Serpenti Misteriosi in rose gold with black lacquer and navette-cut diamonds.

De Bethune

The DB28XP Kind of Blue is the result of a combination of characteristics of two of the brand’s iconic timepieces: the proven elegance of the DB28XP and the timeless charm of the DB28 Kind of Blue, offering watch enthusiasts an exceptional piece that harmoniously combines tradition and innovation. The new limited edition timepiece features a full blue version of the DB28XP, inspired by the DB28 Kind of Blue and bearing the Manufacture’s signature. Crafted from blued titanium, the watch reveals an architectural fusion of space, time, and light at first glance. Its deep and luminous blue is achieved through the natural oxidation of the material, making each watch a unique work of art. The dial, entirely made of Microlight, reimagines and modernises the traditional guilloché technique.

Arnold & Son

The new Luna Magna Red Gold Meteorite is inspired by the sky, fire and the stars. Its three-dimensional moon-phase complication gives it an astronomical feel. At the same time, the 44mm red gold case highlights the terrestrial influence, and the blue PVD-treated meteorite dial offers a stellar dimension. The subdial displaying the hours and minutes has a milky, almost lunar sheen thanks to its surface in opal, a semiprecious stone prized for its white colour, whose delicacy perfectly complements the unique complication of the Luna Magna Red Gold Meteorite. The spacious dial, freed up by the structure of this display, is made from a large disc of ferrous meteorite-coloured blue using the PVD process. The warm glow of the red gold, which contrasts with the midnight-blue dial, completes the precious and understated look of this limited edition of 38 pieces.

Girard-Perregaux

The new Laureato Absolute 8Tech, the latest addition to Girard-Perregaux’s Laureato Absolute collection, draws on the Manufacture’s amassed knowledge in tech and materials. Using 8Tech, a ground-breaking technique, the case is formed of octagonal carbon parts, creating a random structural pattern. The 44mm dial is featherlight, meaning maximum comfort. The case material comprises unidirectional, non-braided and pre-impregnated carbon fibres combined with lightweight titanium powder to form extremely thin layers measuring just 0.05mm in thickness. These layers are superimposed upon one another, each orientated differently to form ‘stacks’, which are then cut into octagons, an industry first. The dial incorporates three sandblasted counters along with a date display positioned between 4 and 5 o’clock. A baton-type hour and minute hands, presented in a grey titanium hue, are lined with luminescent material. The Laureato 8Tech is presented on a black rubber strap featuring a fabric-effect look and incorporating grey stitching

H Moser & Cie

Moser & Cie. combines radiant red gold with the absolute black of Vantablack® for two striking new timepieces the Endeavour Tourbillon Concept Vantablack® and Endeavour Centre Seconds Vantablack®. These two timeless designs offer a perfect marriage between tradition and nanotechnology. The flamboyant warmth of the 40 mm-diameter case and hands in red gold contrasts with the endless abyss of a dial in Vantablack®, an ultra-black coating recognised as the darkest substance in the world. Composed of carbon nanostructures, this innovative material was developed for astrophysics and is used in telescopes and by the army to increase the stealth level of certain equipment. When a photon hits Vantablack®, this material absorbs 99.965% of the light. As our eyes need reflected light to perceive what we are looking at, Vantablack® is perceived as the absence of matter, a black hole.

Meanwhile, the Endeavour Tourbillon Concept Vantablack®, H. Moser & Cie. is writing an ode to minimalism. Positioned at 6 o’clock, the one-minute flying tourbillon seems literally to float in the centre of a black hole, with no reflection and without indices or logo by way of distraction. A marvel of ingenuity, the self-winding HMC 804 calibre which drives this model is equipped with a double hairspring designed and produced in-house. Thanks to this pair of matched hairsprings, the movement of the point of gravity on each spring, when it expands, is corrected, and the effect of friction is reduced, significantly improving accuracy and isochronism in the continual pursuit of perfection.

Jacob & Co

“The World Is Yours” Dual Time Zone watch is a tribute to an Arabov family heirloom, inspired by a double time zone watch that Jacob Arabov received at the age of 13, from his father, Nison Arabov. A timepiece so special in his eyes that it gave him the desire and the determination to one day create his own timepieces. It is the original spark that inspired every single Jacob & Co. timepiece. This watch is still in the family, waiting to be passed on to the next generation. While waiting, it became the inspiration for The World Is Yours Dual Time Zone. Creation is a personal, emotional process for Jacob Arabo. And in this case, one that rings closest to the heart. So “The World Is Yours” Dual Time Zone is more than a two-timezone watch, with independent hours and minutes. It’s more than a piece of beautiful craft, with a great domed dial featuring the Earth as seen from the sky.

Maurice Lacroix

Maurice Lacroix embraces the urban landscape and takes inspiration from the tall architectural buildings that endow a city with its unique skyline. The new Aikon Skeleton Urban Tribe is another daring creation from Maurice Lacroix, subscribing to the Urban Tribe design but presented in skeleton form. The brand has worked closely with movement specialist Sellita to produce the exclusive Automatic ML135 (base SW200). Similar to some of the most interesting buildings, this movement plays with transparency, allowing light to pass through various openings, thereby illuminating a myriad of parts. The oscillating weight is customised and sports sandblasted and sunbrushed decoration. Furthermore, the movement is endowed with circular graining and colimaçon.

The hour and minute hands are facetted and lined with Super-LumiNova®, while the dial is framed with luminescent indexes and a dark grey flange. Housed in a 39mm stainless steel case, the exterior of the AIKON Skeleton Urban Tribe is laser engraved with an intricate motif. The various patterns have been inspired by the concrete, glass and steel structures which have come to define the avenues and boulevards populating the world’s most vibrant cities. Fitted with an integrated bracelet, this new watch, in common with all AIKON models, proffers peerless wearer comfort.

MB&F

First presented in 2018, Horological Machine N°9 – nicknamed HM9 ‘Flow’ – was a tribute to the extraordinary automotive and aeronautic designs of the 1940s and 50s. Today, the watch is presented in a new sapphire version. The HM9’ Sapphire Vision’ editions (HM9-SV) features an outer hull of sapphire crystal and precious metal, curved and bubbled and precisely fitted together in three parts, and sealed with a proprietary combination of patented three-dimensional gasket and high-tech compound bonding process. Two fully independent cantilevered balances channel data into a differential that turns two heartbeats into one coherent time pulse. Ultra-precise conical gears efficiently turn the engine’s energy and information current through a 90° angle to feed the time display on a sapphire crystal dial, marked with Super-LumiNova. On the reverse, co-axial beneath each of the balances are propellers: twin turbines that spin freely as an element of pure visual interest, waiting for someone to begin a new type of exploration.

BYRNE

The ZERO Pink Gold is a blend of sophistication and industrial aesthetic, with a stunning pink gold dial. The precious metal’s silky sparkling effect contrasts with the watch’s industrial aesthetic to create a stylish yet robust design. True to its unique original watch concept, the ZERO Pink Gold changes its dial every day, at midnight or noon, as the four cardinal indexes at 3, 6, 9 and 12 o’clock pivot in a flash to reveal a different face, transforming the appearance of the whole in the spirit of the brand’s motto: One watch, Four faces. Sleek and elegant at the same time, the watch profoundly embodies the brand’s values, presenting all the essential assets of a Byrne watch, combining elegant design and singular complication, legibility, precision, reliability and craftsmanship.

There are plenty of new scents available this season, here is a round-up of the best ones on the market.

Prada

The new Luna Rossa Ocean Eau de Parfum by Prada embodies a fresh wave of masculine intensity. This fragrance seamlessly blends intense sophistication and sensuality through nature’s finest ingredients. Top notes open with the invigorating and sparkling sensation of grapefruit, sublimated by the presence of fresh, spicy juniper berry and peppery elemi essence that creates an aromatic wave. Sage forms the heart offering a warm amber note and shaping the note by revealing its powerful lavender and honey-like facets. This is complemented by the house’s signature creamy iris accord, awakened here by the vibrancy and verticality of frankincense augmented by elemi and amber woods accord.

Guerlain

Guerlain has added a new fragrance to its L’Art & La Matière line. Tobacco Honey pays tribute to one of the most mysterious, unsung ingredients of the perfumery world: tobacco. The sensual substance of raw tobacco reveals itself as an accord, unveiling its most beautiful facets when paired with honey. The contrasting ingredients make way for a deeply captivating fragrance incorporating leather, smoke, chocolate and wood. For the reveal, Guerlain partnered with artist Anne Féat Gaiss to craft an exceptional plate in the palette of Tobacco Honey featured on the perfume’s campaign images. The Parisian artist has embodied the fragrance of Tobacco Honey by assembling sheets of paper, which she has delicately sculpted and gilded with copper leaf.

Hermès

Tutti Twilly d’Hermès is the newest fragrance from the Parisian luxury house. Designed for the chic Hermès girl, this playful perfume combines distinctive ginger notes and delicate petals with exhilarating lychee and the enveloping embrace of musk. Tutti Twilly d’Hermès is presented in an eye-catching lychee-red bottle, complete with a cute silk ribbon. Designed by Hermès perfumer Christine Nagel, the fragrance is designed to be worn in unexpected areas on the body; dabbed behind the ears, in the hollow of a shoulder or the crease of an ankle.

Loewe

Loewe’s Botanical Rainbow collection is getting a new edition in the form of Aire Anthesis: the first in a new generation of scents featuring a signature ‘LOEWE Accord’, based on the Spanish rockrose. The Loewe Accord is crafted by in-house perfumier Nuria Cruelles to express LOEWE’s singular identity and unify the Botanical Rainbow with a single connective olfactory thread. This unisex perfume is presented in an eye-catching blue hue and features in the brand’s new campaign, which stars actress Úrsula Corberó and Greta Lee, alongside actor and Brand Ambassador Stéphane Bak.

Creed

The House of Creed has revealed the latest edition to its feminine fragrance portfolio. Carmina is a bold yet sultry scent that will take you on a journey to magical locations. In a nod to the House’s tailoring origins, Carmina takes its inspiration from Henry Creed’s sketchbooks which have been passed down for generations within the house’s founding family and recently rediscovered in the private rooms of Avenue Pierre 1er de Serbie. The fragrance captures the spirit of the colourful, creative designs seen on the pages of the sketchbook. It features black cherry, silage, pink pepper, violet and muted rose. Saffron adds a touch of warmth, and finally, cashmere wood adds a captivating edge.

Aesop

Aesop’s Ouranon Eau de Parfum encapsulates the interplay of permanence and decay via earthy minerality, incandescent spices and ritualistic, resinous woods. This new scent is the sixth and final instalment of Othertopias, a collection of transportive aromas that will whisk you away. Ouranon opens with the sparkling citrus of Petitgrain alongside the green, vibrant spice of Elemi and fresh, almost camphoraceous notes of Lavender Flower. These gradually recede to reveal the vast expanse of warm aromatics that make up the fragrance’s heart—resonant herbaceous notes of Chamomile, amplified by Hay and underpinned by rich, resinous Frankincense. Ouranon’s final act alludes to silent monoliths casting shadows in the moonlight—steeped in ambery warmth. Myrrh exudes enduring minerality, descending into the powerful and dark earthiness of Patchouli and rich, rounded notes of Tonka.

Lancôme

Lancôme has a new feminine update to its Idôle line, which first debuted in 2019. The new Idôle Now is inspired by a brighter future and the light of a new dawn. Idôle Now expresses the perfect symbiosis between high-quality natural ingredients origin and science to create bolder and richer fragrances. It combines a unique trio of iconic ingredients augmented by science: uplifted rose, nature-print orchid and augmented vanilla combine to perfect this floral fragrance, finished with the juicy freshness of a pear accord, the vibrant woodiness of Patchouli and the floral twist of ambery chypre.

Penhaligon’s

British perfumer Penhaligon’s newest scent is inspired by English butler Mr Thompson. The namesake perfume is an enchanting tribute to the art of being a perfect butler, much like Mr. Thompson himself. Imagine an infusion of soft yet sparkling spices that open this captivating fragrance, inviting you into a world of olfactory delight. The journey continues with the velvety allure of sesame milk, a note that adds depth and richness, evoking images of opulent feasts and grand banquets as you savour this scent, a rich and sweet vanilla bean unfolds, revealing its spellbinding sensuality. It’s a fragrance that lingers on your skin, leaving an invisible but unforgettable presence in your wake. 

YSL

MYSLF EDP by YSL is a suave, sensual orange blossom fragrance with the sparkling quality of vert de bergamot. It’s a fine-tuned, superbly balanced scent that twists the woody fragrance family with flowers. This woody quality is subtle and intensifies the fragrance by adding depth, sensuality, and long-lastingness to it. A 100% natural biotech material derived from sugar cane, AmbrofixTM brings uniquely sensual, modern woody ambery vibes and an authentic ambergris note that ties in with the clary sage of the fresh aromatic accord. Other key ingredients include diva lavender and clary sage heart, both from Provence in France as well as geranium bourbon heart from Madagascar. 

This month, a first-of-its-kind art installation arrived in the Middle East.

An origami art installation by celebrated artist and architect Charles Kaisin will be unveiled on 5th October, alongside an exclusive pairing menu at Netsu Dubai.

The aim of the installation is to blend cuisine and Japanese culture in a unique way.

Inspired by the vibrant culture of Netsu and its colourful walls adorned with Kabuki masks, Netsu Unfolded pays homage to Kamakura Gongorō Kagemasa, the legendary samurai celebrated for his enduring spirit, even after losing an eye in battle—a story deeply embedded in Kabuki theatre.

An origami-inspired menu will also be expertly paired with a selection of sake, creating a sensory experience that harmonizes art, culture, and cuisine. Several dishes on the menu draw inspiration from origami, echoing the precision, craftsmanship, and cultural significance of this ancient art. These culinary creations embody the spirit of origami, showcasing meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail.

Charles Kaisin specialises in recycling, geometry, and movements, creating contemporary designs through objects, architecture, and scenography. He has collaborated with iconic luxury houses such as Hermès, Cartier and Rolls-Royce, and has designed projects in Europe, USA, and Asia. Netsu’s collaboration with the artist marks the first time his origami has been extensively displayed in the Middle East.

The unique installation and the origami-inspired menu will be available for viewing and enjoying until the end of October. The menu is priced at AED450 per person, for four courses, inclusive of sake pairing. 

mandarinoriental.com/en/dubai/jumeira-beach

Luxury luggage manufacturer Rimowa has partnered with Tiffany & Co. to unveil one-of-a-kind travel companions that won’t go unnoticed. The collection features a selection of travel essentials, combining the luggage know-how of German company Rimowa with the luxury sparkle of the jeweller’s designs. The collection comprises impressive sparkling cases designed to hold your most treasured possessions when you travel. It consists of a RIMOWA x Tiffany & Co. Jewellery Case, a RIMOWA x Tiffany & Co. Rock Cut Cabin suitcase, and a RIMOWA x Tiffany & Co. Jewellery Personal. 

Each features a glistening ‘Rock Cut’ artwork on the outside, created using an aluminium-brushed technique, while the inside features the iconic Tiffany Blue® hue throughout its exterior. “We are thrilled to debut the RIMOWA x Tiffany collection, bringing together two Maisons with unmatched craftsmanship and innovative designs,” Alexandre Arnault, Executive Vice President of Product and Communication at Tiffany & Co. added. “This one-of-a-kind collaboration unifies two icons in one, both of which are incredibly personal to me and represent the highest calibre of craftsmanship.”

The collection is now available at select RIMOWA stores worldwide, at RIMOWA.com and Tiffany.com.  

Josette is the UAE’s answer to Parisian chic. With its elegant 1920s-inspired design and impeccable French cuisine, this inviting destination is the place to be seen in the vibrant city of Dubai. With a boudoir-style design that’s as cute as it is glamorous, Josette combines the finest in hospitality with fabulous interiors.

Josette is the brainchild of the renowned artist Luke Edward Hall. His playful style is evident across various design elements, including his 30 colourful hand-painted illustrations decorating the pastel pink-coloured walls and a carefully curated range of ceramics. The spectacular green marble entrance with the wooden revolving door and a retro look leads the guests into a special place with a strong eccentric female character. Full of charm, the interior design transports guests to the alluring vintage bistros of France. Marble floors, gorgeous chairs, and velvet green banquettes add to the restaurant’s whimsical character, while the mirrored columns complete the overall extravagance.

 The restaurant also sets the stage for world-class entertainment acts, performing weekly. Under the direction of artistic director Sebastien Agius, a group of international artists from some of the best theatres and shows in Paris present an entertainment program that crosses different eras, dance styles, aesthetics, and overall repertoire. “We’ll have some opera vibes, some burlesque, and some cabaret. I want the evening to feel like travelling through time, from the 1920s and the Années Folles to today”, said Sebastian, who was also the winner of the inaugural season of the French X Factor series in 2009. Every night, the ambience is taken up a notch with unique live shows, art and entertainment that ignite mischief and temptation. 

A unique offering of beloved French classics on the menu, all given a special Josette twist. Highlight dishes include, the indulgent plateau de Josette, l’artichaut, soupe a l’oignon, escargot and foie gras. In addition to the daring menu, Dubai diners will be wowed with some culinary theatrics as the chefs prepare and serve a signature crêpe Josette in a special trolley. Josette brings rôtisserie back to its French roots with a special poulet roti prepared daily in a rôtisserie oven. The restaurant is helmed by the fabulous chef Burcu Cracknell, who brings years of experience cooking at a handful of acclaimed French restaurants in Dubai and around the world.

 The restaurant recently launched its afternoon tea experience, a decadent affair served in the Le Moulin Rose room. Named “Sparkling Afternoons” the tea takes place four days a week and features freshly baked scones and a selection of sweet treats, including Macarons, Cheesecake Josette with blueberry caviar, Madeleine Au Chocolat and many more, crafted by talented pastry chef Jibu K. Mohan. Savoury snacks include Sandwich a L’ouef, Croque Josette, Saumon fume, Coronation Chicken, and Concombre, all served on a stylish multi-tiered platter, accompanied by my custom-blended Josette herbal tea and coffee selection.

Another highlight of this French destination is the daily breakfast, available from 9am until 11am. The specially curated menu caters to all cravings from Omelette au Crabe (king crab leg omelette with Hollandaise sauce) to Ouef Royale (poached eggs with smoked salmon and Oscietra caviar). When it comes to sweet indulgences, my guests are spoilt for choice with a viennoiserie selection, vegan overnight chia, Pain Perdu and the infamous table-side flambé Crêpes. To complement the delightful breakfast, fresh juices and healthy booster shots are served, as well as the extremely indulgent Chocolat Chaud (hot chocolate).

Whether you’re heading down for a glam dinner and show or a quick cocktail with friends, Josette is THE place to be seen. 

josette.com

Ferrari models, the 296 GTB and the 296 GTS combine contemporary style and ultimate performance.

Available with Al Tayer Motors, the UAE’s official Ferrari importer these two sleek and stylish cars offer the perfect way to navigate the cosmopolitan city.

The 296 GTS is the brand’s mid-rear-engined Berlinetta sports car, perfect for day-to-day driving and redefining fun behind the wheel. 

The car features a new engine type to flank the marque’s multi-award-winning 8-and 12-cylinder power units: a 663 cv 120° V6 coupled with an electric motor capable of delivering a further 122 kW (167 cv).

It unleashes an impressive 830 cv total power output for incredible performance levels.

What’s more, the 296 GTS’s plug-in hybrid (PHEV)system guarantees it is an incredibly usable car as well as cutting pedal response times to zero and delivering a 25km range in all-electric eDrive mode.

The 296 GTB is an evolution of Maranello’s mid-rear-engined two-seater Berlinetta. 

It ushers in an authentic revolution for Ferrari with an engine type to flank the marque’s multi-award-winning 8- and 12-cylinder power units: a 663 cv 120° V6 coupled with an electric motor capable of delivering a further 122 kW (167 cv).

The car’s name, which combines its total displacement (2.992 l) and number of cylinders with the GTB (Gran Turismo Berlinetta) acronym, in finest Ferrari tradition, was chosen to underscore this engine’s epoch-changing importance to Maranello: it is not simply the living, beating heart of the 296 GTB but also ushers in a new V6 era that has its roots deep in Ferrari’s unparalleled 70-year-plus experience in motorsports.

Concept & Direction: Lindsay Judge

Photographer: Ziga Mihelcic

Location: Address Grand Creek Harbour

www.altayermotors.com

John Sanei is a global speaker, future strategist and trend specialist, who combines human behaviour and future studies. Here he offers his insights on why he believes courage is key for the future of mankind. 

Men have ruled the world for thousands of years based on two elements. The first is connected to physical power. Men have traditionally always been stronger than women physically, and in the agricultural era, your ability to be strong was what made you successful.

Then the Industrial Revolution came along, and again, there was very much a masculine approach of logic, analytics and outcome-based actions.

When a woman comes to speak to you about her problems, she is not looking for a solution; she just wants to talk about it. In contrast, men want to find ways of solving a problem so they can move on. Women have a different approach; they don’t necessarily want a solution; they just want to talk about it.

The world we are moving into, however, is not masculine. On the contrary, it’s very feminine, and for us to understand how we need to show up in the future, we need to think about courage.

Firstly, we need to understand the word courage and where it comes from. The first half comes from the French word “cour”, meaning heart. So, if you break down the word courage, it means the rage of the heart.

We as a society have moved from a physical reality to a logical reality to a heart-based reality. In order for us to ‘rage from the heart’, as men we need to access our hearts more than ever. We know now that steam engines are stronger than our bodies, and AI is better than our logical left-brain thinking. So now what’s left is that technology isn’t competing against our hearts it’s competing against our logic and our bodies.

So, for us to show up in the future, we need to develop new types of courage, which is actually raging of the heart. So how do we do this? We have to break down courage into five different steps. This will allow us to realise if we are genuinely courageous or not.

The first type of courage is intellectual courage. This involves us asking ourselves if we are willing to think new thoughts. And the truth is, we’re not. Because science has proven that by the time we are 30 years old, we have between 60 and 70,000 thoughts a day, of which 90 per cent are the same thoughts as yesterday. Our brains are familiarity machines, not adaptability machines. They stick to what they know. Men are much worse at this than women because they are outcome-based, not creative. So, men are not courageous intellectually. They want to stick to what they already know.

Secondly, we need to think about whether we are emotionally courageous. Are we willing to deal with uncomfortable emotions? And the truth is, no, we’re not. We can see that anxiety and loneliness have drastically increased, and men suffer the most from this loneliness and disengagement from reality. 

johnsanei.com

Gianvito Rossi has been surrounded by shoes his whole life. The son of legendary shoemaker Sergio Rossi, he was inspired by his father’s success to set up his own footwear brand which opened in 2006. Gianvito’s designs are far from his father’s classic styles, with a bold modern design aesthetic that still considers comfort and the elements that will help a woman to look and feel beautiful. Much like his father, Gianvito Rossi prefers to keep his shoe production in Italy, specifically in San Mauro Pascoli, an area renowned for its longstanding tradition in the art of luxury footwear. He prides himself on using only the best Italian craftsmanship and puts quality and the highest savoir-faire at the heart of his brand. Here, we discover more about the brand and the latest collections to launch in stores this season.

Tell us about the universe of Gianvito Rossi today. What is your current vision and direction for the brand?

My direction has always been to enhance a woman’s silhouette and make them feel beautiful on every occasion. I design shoes that women can enjoy for what I like to call ‘the red carpet of their everyday life’. The world keeps changing, and trends evolve faster and faster. Our clients know how to recognise substance and quality in a product, and I believe women have been searching for a more modern take on shoes – which made me reconsider the proportions, making the design even more geometric with clearer lines. Having said this, my research for perfection never stops, and I try to create sophisticated and original styles every day, which is what makes our product special.

Looking at our retail distribution, we have worked on an important rollout of openings for the Middle East. We have recently opened a store in Doha, and we will soon open in Saudi Arabia and Kuwait.

Sustainability is also a very important practice for us at the moment. Luxury should produce products that last and that can be repaired over time so that they last as long as possible. This approach has been in the back of my mind since the start, it is how I conceive my collections, from design to manufacturing. Nowadays, technology allows us to improve the production process, reducing waste and shifting toward energy coming from renewable sources.

Tell us about your current collection and the new Carla Ballerina Flats.

I am currently finalising our new collection presentation, which will take place during Milan Fashion Week – but I don’t want to ruin the surprise for you! Carla is the latest addition to our family of flat styles; it reinterprets ballet shoe proportions with a modern take. It is handmade using the best traditional Italian method: the construction is carried out according to the so-called “slip-lasting method”, the artisanal process results in a final product with extraordinary softness and flexibility thanks to unique full stitching, which is used for the insole too.

Who is the woman that you design for today?

Every woman has a special relationship with her own shoes, and this feeling is 100% based on the quality of the product and the special emotion it encourages. I have always tried to produce shoes that can enhance the feminine silhouette in all its beauty. Making people feel their very best has always been my starting point and my final goal. The Gianvito Rossi factory is made up of people who try to create every single pair of shoes in the best way possible; our thoughts are always towards our clients and their needs. It’s not just a matter of aesthetics; the relationship with shoes is much more intimate: they are in touch with your whole body, and if impeccably constructed, they transmit joy and pleasure.

How important is it for you to stay loyal to the ‘Made In Italy’ notion and to produce shoes in your home country?

Italy is an amazing country, rich in culture, arts, and history. Those are fundamental elements that characterise the DNA of all Italian designers, in addition to the knowledge of craftsmanship that has been passed from generation to generation. For these reasons, Gianvito Rossi can only exist if our shoes are made in Italy, otherwise, it wouldn’t have been authentic to me.

What for you makes a successful luxury brand today?

I believe quality is the key. One aspect of this element is how a style is made, which is why I spend so much time on every new development. I ensure all our collections are produced with excellent materials, spending a long time on each step of the process. We can speak about the duality of quality, the quality of the material but also, and perhaps most importantly, the quality of the design. I am used to thinking that our approach to product development is like an “Atelier”, where all is special, and nothing can be anything but perfect. This requires a lot of time, and if you think, this is the quintessential essence of luxury.

What is the biggest challenge you have faced or face today, and how do you overcome that?

There have been many of them through the years, but there are no secrets: you must face them fiercely and directly. The most important thing has been to have my family near me; this has been a force of support that has allowed me to always perform in the best way. With this reassuring force behind you, you can ensure the highest level of performance that helps overcome any problem you might encounter along the way.

What is a lesson that you learned from your father?

From my father, I learnt not only the secrets of the job but also the real savoir-faire of being an artisan. He was a very strong and disciplined man, and work meant the world to him. The most important thing that I learnt from him is to try to look to the future in a positive way and always try to create the highest quality product possible.

What are your first memories of shoes growing up?

The memories I cherish the most are connected to the “Veglie” (vigils in English). Once our collection was ready in the factory, we were used to finalising it in just one night. We would stay there until the early hours of the morning to ensure everything was complete. Of course, we were exhausted but very excited to see the new models come to life, one after the other.

What makes Gianvito Rossi different from the competition, and how do you stay ahead of competitors?

Time. We put a lot of effort into every step. From the study of the perfect proportion to the research of the materials, each pump requires a specific process, and to ensure the maximum quality, you need a lot of time, which is the essence of luxury. My obsession is the research of perfect proportions, which I research, aiming to find the best possible enhancement of the female silhouette. I wanted the proportions of our Pumps to give length to the leg.

What’s the professional motto that you live by?

To always try to perform at my best and to think positively!

What can you tell us about Gianvito Rossi in the Middle East?

Middle Eastern women are sophisticated; they understand luxury well and recognise the value of quality and craftsmanship. I think this is why they appreciate our creations so much.

What message would you send to your fans and clients in the region?

I can’t wait to return and visit your beautiful cities, meet more people, and be inspired by them!  

gianvitorossi.com

Since joining Etro as Creative Director last year, Marco De Vincenzo has made it his mission to reinterpret the brand’s beauty and heritage in a new way that remains true to its roots.

With a rich history deeply rooted in fabrics and textiles, Etro was founded in 1968 and became known almost immediately for its quality products and refined prints. In 1981, Gerolamo Etro introduced the Paisley pattern to the brand, enhanced in all its forms and colour variations. Paisley has become the Milanese fashion house’s signature design and remains a key motif of the house today. Since joining the house as Creative Director in 2022, he has played with this pattern, offering new ways of presenting it that continue to honour the brand’s DNA, but allow it to appeal to a wider audience. His experience in the industry allowed him to offer fresh eyes on the brand’s designs, bringing years of experience at Fendi, where he headed up the leather goods vertical. Fresh from presenting the Spring/Summer 2024 collection in Milan, we talked to the Creative Director to find out more about his vision and direction for the Milanese House.

Congratulations on the Spring Summer 24 collection that just showed in Milan – tell us about this collection and its inspiration.

I wanted my imagination to take me to a place of a thousand possibilities. This is why I called it “NOWHERE” because fantasy places are sometimes more beautiful than real ones.

What are some of the highlights for you regarding looks, prints, shapes, colours, etc.?

Mix and match has been part of Etro’s universe since long before I joined the brand. And I love this maximalist approach to mixing. The protagonist print of the collection is a reinterpretation of an eighteenth-century brocade in a psychedelic key. We made it graphic, pop, and opulent without being too classic.

You joined the brand last year; how have you settled in, and what is your current vision and direction for Etro?

More than a year is needed to understand the history of a brand that is more than 50 years old. I would say I have now moved on to the second level, but I don’t know how many more await me. I love learning, and I would never put a limit on what I can learn at this brand.

Etro is a brand that has a rich history and clear DNA – how do you stay true to this but put your own twist onto your designs?

I was hired to renew and renewing sometimes means nothing more than taking up the past and looking at it with new eyes.

Paisley is a key signature for Etro – tell us about the paisley print and how you plan to continue to use it within your designs.

Paisley is a wonderful symbol with an ancient history. Undeniably, it has become part of the brand’s codes, but I am also trying to widen the field of action in terms of patterns. In the SS24 show, for example, there is only a paisley print at the end of the show, even if the collection is unequivocally Etro.

How has your relationship with textiles and fabrics developed since you joined the house?

If there is a passion that I have cultivated throughout my career, it is for fabrics. So, I feel a strong affinity with Etro: born as a textile company and only later became a fashion brand. Fabric has always been my key ingredient.

Can you tell us about the Fall/Winter 23 collection, which is in stores now and what our readers should look out for?

The RADICAL ETRO collection is my first homage to the brand’s heritage, of which I also wanted to talk about lesser-known aspects. For example, the male universe, made of tartan fabrics, oversized jackets with collegiate mood and bow ties that become maxi bows. I then mention the most well-known codes: the fluid dresses, the bohemian spirit, and the long and voluminous silhouettes.

Tell us about the menswear category and your direction for this. 

I try to tell a coherent story in all the categories I deal with. The men’s collections also consolidated my interest in the textile world and in a free spirit in terms of attitude.

We’ve seen some great accessories over the last year – tell us about this category and what else is in the pipeline.

I have been working in the leather goods world for 25 years; Fendi was my school in this category. I am working hard to give Etro accessories the necessary identity that allows the brand to become authoritative in this category, too, as it is already ready-to-wear. The Etro VELA bag is an example of this; it is growing daily in terms of sales and desirability.

What is something you would still like to do with the brand?

Lots of things! I have just started telling the new generations about its beauty.

What’s the biggest challenge you face, and how do you overcome it?

The market is a stormy sea; the biggest challenge for those who work in fashion today is to reach their destination by overcoming the pitfalls of globalisation. This requires a lot of creativity: the only thing capable of overcoming the frenetic speed of the system.

When are you in your most creative state of mind?

Usually, when I’m doing something else, when I leave fashion aside for a moment, it comes back with surprising ideas and takes back her space.

What is the professional motto you live by?

Never stop dreaming.

What else is in the pipeline for the coming year?

I would spend more time at the seaside, by far the most inspiring place I know.

What message would you send to clients in the Middle East?

To never give up fashion. Because fashion lives on thanks to the passion of the people who follow it.  

etro.com

Luxury watch brand Jacob & Co. has been making waves in the industry over the last few years and becoming the go-to watchmaker for many VIP and celebrity clients looking for the ultimate luxury timepieces.

While working in the world of fine jewellery, Arabo decided to create a small booth in New York City’s bustling diamond district and began designing collections for jewellery brands and private clients. This eventually led to him starting his own watch brand at the age of just 21 in 1986, designing custom-made high-end watches for exclusive clients. Over the years Jacob’s watch has become iconic as he pushes the boundaries with his designs, creating some of the world’s most complicated and most expensive timepieces. Inspired by the impossible, Jacob is energised by the creative challenge of envisioning and realizing new jewellery and timepiece designs that will continue to intrigue and invite fans and followers to enjoy his creations.

In 2021, Jacob handed over the reins of the business to his son Benjamin Arabov, who oversees the brand’s growth as CEO. The brand has since seen rapid growth into new regions and sectors, including a move into real estate with an exciting new partnership in Dubai. Here, we talk to Benjamin to learn more about the brand and the exciting future ahead.

We saw the recent launches at Geneva Watch Days – tell us about that. 

The recent launch in Geneva had a special feel, highlighting our family history. It was the story of the watch that started it all. The watch that opened the doors of the world and of watchmaking to Jacob Arabov. “The World Is Yours” Dual Time Zone is a tribute to the Arabov family heritage, inspired by a dual time zone watch that Jacob Arabov received at the age of 13 from his father, Nison Arabov.

Watches passed down from father to son are uniquely important. They are more than just an object: they are a symbol of what is really being passed on: values, love, wisdom, blessings and a healthy dose of pressure to succeed. This particular timepiece bears the famous Wakmann name and has inspired every Jacob & Co. watch ever made. The feedback on this piece was very emotional, and the watch was much appreciated, even evoking its astonishing “simplicity” as well as its elegance. It was a pleasure to share this novelty and evoke a part of our family history.

We know you have many fans and clients in the Middle East – tell us about the brand in the region.

We’ve been doing this for over 20 years, and we’ve gained many fans and clients worldwide. But it never gets old. We love hearing what people say about our pieces; we love seeing them marvel at our creations just as much as we do! The people in the Middle East have beautiful taste, warm hospitality, and a love for all things beautiful, so it’s always been a pleasure to visit them as often as we do.

Can you share more about your working relationship with your father, Jacob Arabov – how do you balance the responsibilities of the business between you?

Jacob and I have established an effective working relationship that has helped the business grow exponentially. We’ve essentially divided our business responsibilities: I concentrate on operations and marketing, while he focuses on design and production. Over the past few years, I’ve collaborated closely with him, offering my insights and viewpoints regarding new products. His creative process is primarily guided by intuition, emotions, and personal reactions to his designs. This emotional approach is incredibly beneficial for a creative designer.

On the other hand, my creative approach is also rooted in emotions but strongly emphasises data. I strive to comprehend what today’s consumers find interesting, grasp the current design trends, consider factors like size and retail pricing, and consolidate all these various elements to make more data-driven decisions about the future designs of our products. This is how we engage in a back-and-forth process to arrive at decisions regarding our product planning.

For you, what is the most memorable or impressive watch you have seen since joining the brand?

 The Chiron and the Godfather are two of my all-time favourites. Adding to that list is the recently launched The World is Yours Dual Time Zone timepiece because of its significance to our family and the brand’s story.

Can you tell us about the luxury residences you are building in Dubai?

In our relentless pursuit of excellence in design and craftsmanship, Binghatti and Jacob & Co. proudly introduce the Burj Binghatti Jacob & Co. Residences – the crown jewel of Dubai, designed for avant-garde living. We have entered into a design partnership with leading Dubai-based real estate developer Binghatti to create a jewel of residential construction. Dubai’s shining Hyper-Tower is set to break the record for the highest residential tower in the world. With its majestically designed exterior and radiant crest, the Burj Binghatti Jacob & Co. Residences has deservedly been labelled “the crown jewel of Dubai”. The Hyper-Tower encapsulates Binghatti’s unwavering dedication to design excellence, infused with Jacob & Co.’s unique artistry and craftsmanship for interior design.

As a brand, you have fantastic partnerships with ambassadors, and we know many celebrities and VIPs come to you – how does this help to increase brand awareness?

We’re lucky to have always been surrounded by big names who love and own our pieces. We don’t consider these relationships to be anything but friendships with a mutual love for creativity, beauty, and innovation. We often have a common driver of always pushing the envelope in whichever industry they’re in!

What do you look for in a brand ambassador?

We seek individuals who possess credibility, respectability, and a strong reputation, much like ourselves. We are interested in aligning with those who, like us, constantly push the boundaries within their respective domains. An example of this alignment would be someone like Ronaldo, who is considered the best in his field. We see ourselves as a brand consistently breaking new ground and undertaking unprecedented endeavours. Therefore, we are looking for ambassadors who share this same commitment to innovation and boundary-pushing.

Where would you like to see the brand in ten years?

Given that our current price range mainly falls within the USD300-500k bracket, our products may not be within reach for individuals who don’t typically spend at that level. I’d like to expand our accessibility by offering timepieces aimed at customers who spend between USD50-200k.

What else is in the pipeline for 2023 and 2024?

We are thrilled to introduce two brand-new timepieces. The first is an innovative addition to our Astronomia collection, while the second is another remarkable Bugatti timepiece. Stay tuned!

What watch are you wearing today?

I like to mix things up depending on where I’m headed, but for my “daily beater”, I love wearing the Epic X. It’s perfect for its wearability and comfort. It is a versatile timepiece and fun to wear. With the several strap options available, I can switch up the look from day to night or for different seasons.

What message would you send to your friends and clients in the Middle East?

The Middle East constitutes a robust market for our brand. We receive significant support from this region, and we are immensely thankful for the recognition and support we receive for our craftsmanship and innovative approach. I would like to say thank you for that. It strongly motivates us to persist and grow our presence further in the Middle East. We look forward to continuing our business expansion in this region.

What else can you share with us that’s coming up at the brand?

We always look into our past to devise our future. This year, we’re set to have one major global launch at Dubai Watch Week. We can’t say much, but we can say that we’ve challenged ourselves again mechanically and artistically, and we’re bringing in something inspired by the GCC.  

jacobandco.com

A civil engineer by trade, SemSem Founder Abeer Al Otaiba realised she could take her passion for fashion and her desire to help women further, so she decided to create a philanthropy platform to support charitable efforts focused on female empowerment. Drawing from her life experiences and cultural background, every piece of clothing in Semsem’s collection is entirely hand-made and incorporates two recurring Egyptian motifs: a triangle and a lotus flower – a nod to Al Otaiba’s upbringing. But Semsem wasn’t ever just about creating beautiful clothes; Al Otaiba wanted to support women through her venture, with an intent to improve the welfare of women and children worldwide. SemSem merges fashion with a social conscience. Each season, the fashion label partners with a different women’s charity to support causes such as gender equality, women’s health and education. SemSem champions nonprofit organisations that align with the brand’s values of philanthropy, family and quality. As the brand launches its latest collection, we find out more.

Tell us a little about the current direction and vision for Semsem.

My vision for SemSem is to create clothing that allows women to feel as bold and empowered as I know them to be, while being uncomplicated and comfortable.  As fashion continues to evolve, women remain exceptionally confident and distinctly strong.  I hope SemSem continues to be a brand women can look to for special pieces while knowing they are supporting a brand that is sustainable, consistent, and forward-thinking. 

What are you currently working on? 

We’re currently showcasing the Spring-Summer 2024 collection in New York Fashion Week, which we photographed at the stunning Aman Hotel in New York. We had the pleasure of seeing Nancy Ajram wearing SemSem for her performance in New York as well.  I love seeing our customer’s reactions to our designs and what they’re drawn towards. We’re also developing relationships with new retailers both across the Middle East, the US and online.  

How do you stand out as a brand when there is so much competition out there?

It took us a few years, but we ultimately found our unique customer. When you are building a brand (or any business for that matter), I think the best thing you can do is listen. I am not trying to be anyone else, nor do I focus on trends. Our customers are thoughtful and know a SemSem piece has a unique spirit, that it can carry their whole look and leave a lasting impression.  

What do you think women in the Middle East are looking for from fashion today?

Women in the Middle East are breaking barriers across all industries. I think they are looking for effortless statement pieces that make them feel confident and powerful. I find they appreciate supporting designers from the region and promoting the Middle East as a place for innovation in the fashion world.

Tell us about your collections – the fabrics, the silhouettes, the colour palettes. 

The collection is precise, graphic, bold, and feminine.  I like to lean on my engineering background to create meticulously embellished dramatic evening and ready-to-wear looks using a variety of couture techniques.  Gold and silver metallics, deep Emerald jewel tones, vibrant Mediterranean blue, and delicate off-whites create invigorating statements for eveningwear.  Luxurious silks and sequin fabrics are pleated using a unique technique to create revitalized energy.  These all combine to create our unique SemSem DNA.

What can we expect to see from Semsem in the coming months? 

You can expect to see a beautiful, luxurious, and flattering SS24 collection, which will be available online, in the Middle East, Europe and the US – as well as incredible celebrities like Nancy Ajram wearing the brand.

What first inspired you to start your own fashion brand?

SemSem is named after my daughter Samia’s nickname. Shortly after she was born, I felt called to pursue my dream of fashion. I have a background in engineering that has proven to be vital to my business and design philosophy.  Civil engineering is about function and fit while solving problems efficiently and creatively. 

What is the biggest challenge you face today in what you do?

If only there were more hours in the day! I’m involved in every aspect of my brand and care deeply about the process – from design, sourcing, merchandising, fit and beyond. Our industry is constantly changing and I’m trying to stay at the forefront so we can give our customers the best. 

What is the most rewarding part?

I love making women feel confident. Fashion is so much more than clothes – it’s an opportunity to express oneself in a way that is meaningful.  Fashion gives many people the tools to express themselves in ways that words can’t.  You can convey whether you want to be approached or not, what mood you’re in, and how serious you feel all with what you’re wearing.  Making a woman feel confident in SemSem is the greatest compliment I can receive. It’s so much more than clothes for me, it’s about empowering women to advocate for themselves and inspire others – the young and young at heart – to pursue their dreams.  

We know you are passionate about inspiring and supporting women – tell us a little about that.

As a mother raising a daughter, I believe it is vital to support and recognize other women. No one attains true success on their own and giving back is something that was instilled in me, by my parents, from a very young age. I feel passionate about corporate social responsibility and am dedicated to supporting women-led businesses and projects across the globe.  Each season we choose a different charity to support and highlight, and this philosophy continues to be one of my favourite objectives since launching SemSem.  

Who is a woman that inspires you?

I’m inspired by strong independent Arab Women, who define their own paths to success.  

Tell us about your work as a businesswoman.

The fashion landscape is evolving, and sustainability is more important now than ever. As someone who manages both the design and business side of my brand, I’m in a unique position to impact real change in how we operate day to day. I’m also constantly seeking advice and sharing best practices with my peers and fellow entrepreneurs. I believe in supporting, empowering, building each other up, and being inclusive because that’s the only way we can grow together as a sustainable industry.

How do you balance your career with being a mother?

My kids come first, and my staff knows this. It’s also why I’ve hired an incredible team of people who not only support me but are empowered to push the business and brand forward.  While raising two children, supporting and growing a solid family unit, as well as fostering a brand – finding work/life balance is a necessity. What I realized is that I must constantly nurture the creative and business side of my mind in tandem with fostering my home life. I want to showcase how this can work to encourage my kids to do the same.

What is the professional motto that you live your life by?

“Success is not final; failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts.”  Winston Churchill.

What is something that you would still like to achieve?

I’d love to have my own store one day. The retail environment has changed quite a bit over the last few years, but to have a flagship store is still a dream of mine. I’d love to not only showcase SemSem but also other women-led businesses in a space that is both beautiful and purposeful.  

Here Sheikha Majda Jaber Humoud Al Sabah discusses her tips for resetting, refocusing and recharging for the new academic year. 

As students across the globe begin a new academic year, the pressure to perform and excel is palpable. The burden of assignments, deadlines, and exams looms large, often overshadowing the essence of education – to learn, grow, and develop holistically. A comprehensive review of 33 studies from six countries, conducted by the National Library of Medicine, reveals alarming figures related to mental health and behavioural disorders among youth, with 45.09% identified via the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS). Furthermore, the World Health Organization affirms that the global prevalence of depression among the young populace is on an upward trajectory. 

For many, the pursuit of academic excellence becomes a seemingly endless race, with burnout and mental fatigue as constant companions. Yet, there is a strategy to tackle this challenge head-on and triumph: Reset, Refocus, and Recharge. Just as we prioritise our physical well-being and nourish our social connections, it’s essential to fortify our mental game for our journey ahead. Allow me to elucidate the path forward.

Understanding Mental Fatigue in Academics: Modern education often pushes students to multitask and juggle multiple responsibilities. Therefore, resetting our minds is no longer a luxury but a necessity. It’s not just about taking breaks but about quality disengagement from academic tasks. This disengagement allows the brain to recover, consolidate learning, and refresh focus. Another great way to battle mental fatigue is by implementing structured breaks, where students detach completely from academic tasks – this can aid in preventing cognitive overload. Techniques like the aforementioned Pomodoro, where students work intensively for a set period and then take a short break, can be effective in fostering this balance. Wondering how it works? Start by prioritising your task list, breaking each task into specific Pomodoro sessions. As you embark on each session, be vigilant of potential distractions, aiming to minimise them. Initiate your study period by setting a timer for your chosen interval, commonly 25 minutes, and commit to concentrating solely on one task during this period. Upon the timer’s signal, allow yourself a brief respite of around 5 minutes. After completing 3-4 of these Pomodoro cycles, indulge in a more extended break ranging from 20-30 minutes.

The Importance of Sleep in Recharging

Lack of adequate sleep is a common problem among students, which can negatively impact academic performance. According to a report from the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the prevalence of daytime sleepiness among college students is alarming. Daytime sleepiness is defined by the NIH as “the inability or difficulty in maintaining alertness during the major wake period of the day, resulting in unintended lapses into drowsiness or sleep.” The NIH’s findings indicate that more than 70% of college students report getting less than eight hours of sleep daily. Additionally, 60% of these students express feeling “dragging, tired, or sleepy” on at least three days a week. Most notably, over 80% of college students acknowledge that a lack of sleep detrimentally affects their academic performance.

Physical Exercise as a Recharging Tool

Physical activity isn’t just about building muscles or enhancing cardiovascular health. At its core, exercise releases endorphins, which are chemicals in the brain that act as natural painkillers and mood elevators. Besides endorphins, exercise also promotes the release of neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, which play pivotal roles in mood regulation, focus, and mental clarity. Whether it’s hitting the gym, joining a local sports team, or practising yoga at home, maintaining a regular exercise regimen can offer consistent mental benefits. Just like classes, make exercise a fixed part of your weekly schedule. 

Building Resilience through Social Connections

Building resilience through social connections is a cornerstone of a thriving academic environment. The interactions and bonds formed with peers, mentors, and faculty are not merely transactional but deeply transformative. Engaging meaningfully with other students fosters a sense of fellowship, allowing individuals to share insights, challenges, and mutual encouragement. Seeking guidance from mentors and faculty, on the other hand, opens doors to invaluable wisdom, feedback, and perspective. These relationships collectively act as a robust support network, buffering against academic pressures and uncertainties. By proactively seeking and nurturing these connections, students not only enrich their academic experience but also fortify their emotional and psychological well-being, ensuring they navigate their educational journey with strength and assurance.

Nutrition, the Vital Link to Brain Health

Nutrition is intrinsically linked to cognitive performance and overall brain health. A diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, found in foods such as fatty fish and walnuts, ensures optimal brain cell communication and protects against cognitive decline. Antioxidants, abundant in foods like berries and spinach, guard against cellular damage by neutralising harmful free radicals, promoting memory retention and learning capabilities. Additionally, essential vitamins and minerals like vitamins B and D support neurotransmitter production and mood regulation. Furthermore, it’s essential to consider the role of complex carbohydrates, quality proteins, and healthy fats. These macronutrients provide sustained energy, support mood regulation, and maintain optimal neurotransmitter function. In essence, a balanced diet is a cornerstone for maintaining mental sharpness and resilience, particularly during demanding academic pursuits.

The Importance of Seeking Support

In the face of mounting pressures and challenges, reaching out for support is not just an act of courage but a crucial step toward well-being. Human connection, be it through friends, family, or mentors, provides an emotional cushion, offering understanding, validation, and alternative perspectives. However, there are instances when we need more specialised guidance. The Houna Initiative platform stands as a beacon in such situations, offering access to expert, certified counsellors and therapists. Engaging with these professionals provides a safe space to unravel complex emotions, pinpoint the root causes of distress, and chart out actionable strategies for emotional resilience and growth. The value of seeking external, professional perspectives cannot be understated; they offer clarity, holistic understanding, and the tools to foster lasting positive change in one’s life.

In the demanding world of academia, where challenges are as constant as the pursuit of knowledge, the mantra “Reset, Refocus, and Recharge” emerges as an essential compass. It reminds us that intellectual vigour is intricately tied to mental well-being. By nurturing our minds, seeking support when needed, and regularly recalibrating our strategies, we lay the foundation for not only academic excellence but also holistic personal growth. As we journey through the realms of learning, it’s paramount to remember that the most formidable asset we possess is our mental fortitude. By fortifying our mental game, we equip ourselves to navigate academic terrains with resilience, agility, and unwavering focus, ensuring that the path of knowledge is both enriching and empowering. 

Rabih Fakhreddine is the CEO and Founder of 7 Management. Recently he sat down with A&E magazine to discuss his plans for the future and following his dreams.

As a global hub for the entertainment and hospitality industries, Dubai has become a melting pot of talent for entrepreneurs in the sector. Over the past few years, the industry in the UAE and the wider Middle East has grown astronomically, with successful venues and concepts opening all around the region. To succeed in such a fast-paced industry, particularly in a cosmopolitan city such as Dubai, you must be ahead of the game and on the ball regarding new ideas and opportunities. Someone who is leading the way with this is the CEO and Founder of 7 Management, Rabih Fakhreddine. 

After leaving his corporate job in 2015, Lebanese-born Fakhreddine opened Seven Sisters, a luxurious oasis of music and cuisine in Beirut. It soon became one of the city’s most popular entertainment venues and led to the formation of 7 Management. Fakhreddine’s passion and knowledge of the industry led him to open further venues in Lebanon before realising there was plenty of room for international expansion.

In 2020, Fakhreddine moved to Dubai with his family and founded 7 Management in the city. In just three years, it has become one of the country’s leading entertainment companies with successful concepts such as The Theater, Limonata, B018.dxb, Seven Sisters, Antika, Lucia’s and February 30, Sayf in Dubai as well as Parasol, and Sayf in Beirut and Bagatelle in Greece. As the company grows, so does Fakhreddine’s passion, and the entrepreneur plans to grow the company internationally and further within the region. His undeniable passion for what he does is the drive behind each venture and concept 7 Management creates. Here we find out more.

What brought you to leave the corporate world and venture into this part of the business?

My passion for this industry led me to leave the corporate world. Even at school and college, I would organise events, and when I joined the American University of Beirut, I was quite active when it came to student activities and events. I would organise tents during Ramadan, for example. I graduated from University with a Business Marketing degree, and soon after, I joined British American Tobacco, where I worked for six years. This taught me a lot and put me in the right mindset. At this point, I was also investing as a silent partner in a few ventures, so in 2014, when I decided to quit my job and start 7 Management, I had a few things in mind, and the passion eventually came out in a more serious and formal way when I established the company in Beirut.

From seven sisters in Beirut to over ten successful entertainment projects over the region, tell us more about 7 Management and your vision and direction for the group.

Since I was a kid, I have always envisioned having an empire of restaurants, bars, and hotels. I have achieved most of my visions so far, but there is much more to do. 7 Management is a regional player, soon to be international. We are one of the leading entertainment and F&B operators in the Middle East, and very recently, we signed an agreement to enter Europe. More about that later… Currently, 7 Management is operational in Lebanon, UAE, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia and in the pipeline, we have Bahrain, Greece and more to come.

Why did you call it 7 Management? 

I first opened Seven Sisters in Beirut, so we opened 7 Management simultaneously. But the number seven is often a sign of victory and has many positive meanings. It also keeps people wondering.

What makes your concepts stay ahead of the competition in a competitive city like Dubai?

I see competition as a positive element that makes me strive to be up to the level of others. A key milestone was when I relocated from Lebanon to Dubai in 2020. We had established a large company in Lebanon, and we were one of the biggest players in the industry, but when we came to Dubai, it was a game-changer. In two years, 7 Management became one of the most prominent players in town. We now have ten brands in operation across the city. I see competition in Dubai as a healthy competition; it’s good for the industry, and I think that’s what makes Dubai a hub that’s attractive for all industries. Dubai used to be a regional player, but I think now, as one of the main destinations globally for F&B and entertainment, it is an international player.

How would you assess the hospitality and F&B market in the UAE today?

I think the dynamics of Dubai are constantly evolving, which gives us an advantage in our industry because we always have new areas and destinations. It’s a natural and organic development of the city thanks to its leaders and their vision to become the number one city, in the world. I think this is a main factor that encourages me and many others to keep giving and continuing to excel in what they do. How Dubai is positioned now attracts the crème de la crème of all industries. It has become a hub for entrepreneurs worldwide who see Dubai as a success story and want to be part of that.

On a personal level, Lebanon has always been home, and it was a big decision to leave my country and move to Dubai. But thanks to Dubai and its infrastructure and services, it made our transition very smooth, and I think this is the case with many others. I believe Dubai always surprises us, and while it is a modern city, it has also retained its values and authenticity. As a young Arab entrepreneur, I am proud to have achieved my goals here.

One of your flagship projects was “The Theatre”, how did that come to life?

We are very proud that The Theater is a homegrown concept and that in two years, it has managed to compete with international brands that have been in the industry for decades. I remember very well in February 2021, I called my friend Guy Manoukian and told him that he had to come to Dubai, and we had to do a concept together, and I wanted it to be a dinner show.

There is something I call the “Netflix syndrome”, and I think it came after the pandemic, where today’s consumer wants everything to be a one-stop-shop, from how we watch TV and film, to our F&B experiences. People like to have an all-in-one experience – a nice show, dinner, entertainment, good food, and a good ambience – and this was the main trigger for me to come up with the concept of The Theater, as well as some of our other concepts such as our festive restaurant, Lucia’s.

How challenging was it to position The Theater as a respected elevated and artistic venue that also features incredible talents? 

It was quite challenging. I remember when we were brainstorming for our entertainment and our auditions, we wanted to know the rules and regulations that we needed to follow for this kind of concept. And there was nothing written at that point in terms of what should be done, and that’s why we managed to offer something special. Just like Dubai, it is modern and attractive, but at the same time, it has core values. This is what we created with the assistance of our Chief Entertainment Officer, Guy Manoukian, and we managed to provide a unique offering when it came to entertainment, and everyone loved it. Another advantage that we had, other than the phenomenal location at the Fairmont Hotel, is that the food is also exceptional, which we invested a lot into. We wanted to make sure we excelled in all aspects. Many people came and told us the show was amazing, but they didn’t expect such good food, which was a great advantage for us.

We’ve visited most of your venues, and we noticed an exemplary choice of staff and service standards set aside talents and artists. What are the prerequisites when it comes to adding members to the 7 Management family? What do you look for, and how do you convince them to join?

First of all, being in Dubai, people would not expect anything less than that. This puts a lot of pressure on us to ensure we have the right teams in place. 7 Management is now a big player in the city, but we previously had to convince people to join, and I used to interview for the key roles and team members personally. I would share my vision of where I wanted to take the company, and I think after two years we managed to prove to everyone that 7 Management delivers. It’s an ongoing learning curve, we learn every day, especially in a city that keeps evolving. There are constantly new destinations opening and new brands coming on board that raise the bar, and I always tell my team that if you excel, we can grow together. If the company grows, they will grow in their career and as people. Now, fortunately, many key profiles knock on our door wanting to join our company, and fortunately enough, we always have new concepts in the pipeline, so we always have roles for good talents to come on board.

What’s your biggest challenge, and how do you overcome that?

Since we have succeeded on many fronts, the biggest challenge is to keep our positioning and to sustain our success, especially in a market like Dubai. And the other challenge is to expand. I always like to use the phrase “From Beirut to the World”. That’s how I started, most of our brands were created in Beirut, and I think expanding our success story from Beirut and Dubai to Europe and eventually North America is a challenge and a dream that I would like to achieve. We started with baby steps – we are looking to expand The Theater to London, and we are being approached by venues and companies in other markets around the world. Dubai now sets the trend for the world, and we are a big player in town, so we do have people approaching us wanting our brands and wanting to export our brands.

What do you look for when thinking of starting a new concept?

I treat it as a customer experience and consider what customers are looking for and how they want to go out and enjoy their time, and I like to see what’s missing in the market. This has been my main drive to come up with the concepts so far. Of course, I have the support of the team at the beginning, it is the marketing and branding teams that are mainly involved in creating the concept of a brand, but the initial idea comes from me, and we grow it together. After years of experience, I think I can say that the location is key. My mentality has changed slightly: today, if I find a prime location, I will see what concept could fit in this location, whether it is an existing brand from our portfolio or something we need to create to cater to a particular location and client.

Are there any new concepts in the pipeline that you can tell us about?

A lot! And I think you are one of the first to know this. For Dubai, we have a second branch of February 30 opening soon at Dubai Island in collaboration with Nakheel. This is an area of the city that’s growing and is set to be a popular destination. The area there is thirsty for such concepts. Secondly, we have Limonata – another Italian concept that we are launching at Vista Mare on Palm Jumeirah. It’s family-friendly and affordable with traditional Italian cuisine. After the success of Lucia’s and the popularity of the food we serve there, we saw that we needed another Italian concept at the beach, and I think this fits perfectly.

The third concept is Tamada. This will be a festive restaurant that we are opening in collaboration with Ennismore at the SLS Hotel. SLS is known to be one of the best party hotels in town, and this collaboration will be fantastic. Ennismore is a group that is leading in lifestyle all around the globe, and we would like to collaborate further with them. Tamada will be a stepping stone for us to expand further with Ennismore across international cities. Then we have KUN, which is a brasserie from Lebanon. We are bringing the franchise to Dubai. It will launch in the new Marsa Al Arab, which is part of the Jumeirah Group and will be a unique experience and destination within the marina.

Then, out of Dubai, we are proud to be one of the first regional players to enter NEOM. We will be at the Sindalah Island, and we were selected as the operator to manage seven restaurants and cafes for Joel Robuchon. We will be the operators for their brand in NEOM, and we are very proud to be selected for this.

7 Management is also taking Bagatelle to Athens in Greece, and it will be located in one of the best locations in Europe – The Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel. It will be one of the first international brands to enter Athens since many shut down after the crisis. We are proud to be the ones bringing such an experience to the city.

With all the achievements and success, you’ve cemented so far, your company would surely be attractive to potential investors; tell us about this.

Coming from a corporate background helped me to envision where I want to take my business.  When I started the company, I also had an offshore sister company for all the IPs that I would create. Maybe people questioned my decision, but I knew what I wanted to do. Now, when we sit with the institution of investors, we see a big appetite towards our industry and big transactions taking place with many big groups acquiring existing operators and brands. 7 Management has been approached by a lot of big funds and we are in discussion around this which will help us a lot with our expansion plan, but this is still confidential for now. It’s not only about funding, but I also think another advantage of such partnerships is the access to locations, faster expansion globally, and working with legitimate names.

Tell us about a day in your life.

I wake up early to get my kids ready. I have breakfast, go to the gym at least three days a week, and then I go back home and spend quality time with my daughter before I come to the office. When I get to the office, I usually have a back-to-back schedule of meetings, internally or with external stakeholders. I spend a lot of time brainstorming, we have weekly operations meetings, and I like to work closely with the branding and marketing teams. I don’t like to spend a lot of time behind a desk; I like to have meetings across the city, and I’m always on the go regarding new destinations and locations. I also like to travel a lot, discovering new places.

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned so far?

Always be humble and keep your feet on the ground. And always have a plan B!

What is the professional motto that you live by?

Making people happy. This is what 7 Management is all about; we create everlasting memories for our clients, and we take pride in that.

What’s a message that you would tell your younger self?

You were right when you dreamt!  I’m a self-made person and I always wanted to be a better person and to succeed in life and so, I would tell my younger self that you made the right decisions, and you should never forget where you came from.

What’s a message you would send to your family?

My wife has been my backbone and support system from day one. I am very attached to my kids, and I truly believe that life without kids is nothing. They are the main source of happiness in my life, and when you see them growing and teaching them, you appreciate the role of your parents and the sacrifices they made. So, I will keep investing in my family through quality time because this is what matters the most.

And a message to your clients?

We promise to keep making you happy and giving you new experiences to create everlasting memories. We will always be a step ahead of the game.  

7management.me

Growing up in the UAE, Mohamed Faisal Mostafa had dreams of becoming a professional footballer from a young age. Born to an Emirati father and English mother, his mixed heritage gave him the best of both worlds with a happy childhood in Dubai and many summers spent in the United Kingdom, which further encouraged his passion for football.

Mostafa came close to achieving success as a professional footballer but after realising the challenges of making it big in the sporting world and suffering from injuries, he started to look to other passions. He had always been close to his older brother Ali, (Emirati filmmaker and former A&E cover star), and was often the subject of Ali’s films growing up, being taught how to act by his sibling from a young age. He realised that acting was something he was also passionate about and has pursued this on the side ever since, most recently starring in Apple TV+ series Hijack alongside Idris Elba. Another dream of Mostafa’s has always been to join the family business, one that he has fulfilled over the last few years. Of course, it has not always been a smooth journey, Mostafa has faced many challenges along the way and is the first to admit he is not perfect. But today, he sees many paths ahead of him and many directions for his life. Here, we find out more.

Mohamed wears ZEGNA Winter 2023 Collection

What are some of your fondest memories growing up in the UAE?

When I was growing up in Dubai, it was much more intimate – you would know everyone in your neighbourhood – it was much more family orientated. So I think my fondest memories were around this, playing with the kids in the neighbourhood and going to friend’s houses.

Tell us more about your childhood – where you hung out what you were into etc.

I spent a lot of time at Al Wasl Football Club, firstly playing tennis before moving on to football, so that’s a place that’s been part of my life for a very long time. If I wasn’t there playing sports I would be at friends’ houses or playing football on the streets in my neighbourhood. And then, every summer, we would travel to London and Ireland, and I have very fond memories of that.

Mohamed wears ZEGNA Winter 2023 Collection

How do you think having a mixed heritage of British and Emirati has helped shape you as a person?

I experienced discrimination to a certain level because I was Arab, but at the same time, not Arab. In school, there were times when people would make comments about my heritage, but I believe it was my responsibility to show people that it didn’t matter. When I started playing football, I experienced something similar because I was half British – then, as soon as they saw me play, there were no more comments!

I am named after my grandfather and, most importantly, named after Prophet Mohammed and I think especially today, we have a responsibility as Arabs and as Muslims who carry this name to show what it represents. I’m not saying I’m perfect, but I never hide away from my name, and I’m proud to show people who I am, and I do think some of the discrimination I received when I was younger helped me to appreciate who I am today.

We know you were into football when you were young – tell us about this and your experience of playing.

I’ve always been into sports – tennis, martial arts, basketball – but then I started to play football, and I was really good with my hands, so naturally I became a goalkeeper. From then on, it became my dream. I went to every camp you could imagine in Dubai and then in London, I would often be awarded with player of the week. When I turned 13, I went to join Al Wasl Football Club, and I played every day for about seven years. Every summer, I would travel to London and have trials with various teams. I always had issues with my height because in England, they are very strict with the height of goalkeepers. I got to a stage where I started to think football might not work out as a career so I decided to open my first business with my best friends when I was 20. I always kept football in my life but not in such a serious way; then at 27 I had this feeling that I wanted to play again. I started reading a book called “The Key to Living and Law of Attraction”, and I started working really hard to get back into the game. I travelled to Tenerife and hired my own goalkeeper coach, I trained for five hours a day. Then I came to Dubai, and I ended up signing for Al Ain, one of the best clubes in Asia.. I signed my first professional contract at 27 years old. It was incredible, but it didn’t last too long. I think I used to be a bit naïve when it came to football. It’s not just about playing well, it’s a business. You need the right relationships and connections, and I wasn’t really focused on that. I also fractured my head two times and had a bad concussion, so I realised it was time to stop. I do miss it, and I have been offered to play again, but as much as I’m tempted, I have to put it behind me.

Mohamed wears ZEGNA Winter 2023 Collection

Tell us about your entrepreneurship and business career.

When I was 20 years old, I opened my first business, which was a gym in Dubai. Our concept was that we wanted people to leave their ego at the door and come in with the right intentions. We wanted to separate vanity from fitness. We closed it after four years to pursue other projects, but I learned a lot from the experience. As an entrepreneur, I always take accountability for my mistakes, and I think you have to make mistakes in order to learn from them.

After University in London, I worked for a private equity firm based in Mayfair in The United Kingdom, focusing on tech investments, something I am quite fascinated about. I then moved back to Dubai and opened my own business in this sector. It focuses on digital transformation and IT services – I wanted to add value to the start-up community, helping small businesses to transform.

My dream was always to work at our family company and to continue the family legacy that my grandfather first built. So after three years of my company, Versatile Synergy, it was the right time, and I started helping with the family business around digital transformation, and then they offered me a job within the family business which is what I continue to do today. It’s an honour to be working as part of the business and being part of the legacy that my great-grandfather built.

Tell us a little about the history of the family business.

My great-grandfather founded Mostafa Bin Abdullatif Investments in 1924, starting with pearl trading. Today we work between the UAE and Bahrain, and we work in real estate development, distribution and investments. We have a very diverse portfolio of clients. We also have a services and manufacturing sector, a signage company and a film production company. And then have our family office, focusing on PE and VC investments. On the private equity side, in our technology investments, we co-invest with Green Sands Equity, a Silicon Valley-based company. Here we invest in impact investments in technology, and after building a relationship with Green Sands, they have appointed me to be their director of investor relations within the Middle East. On our venture capital side, I have been set up to focus on investing in ventures of the future generations of family members.

I have also just set up a new business called The Element with a friend of mine. It is a fitness and yoga business, that focuses on anything that serves your mind and body in the right way.

Mohamed wears ZEGNA Winter 2023 Collection

Tell us about your journey into acting.

Ever since I can remember, I was acting in my brother’s movies. He taught me how to act – I never went to drama school – but his dream was to be a director, and he needed someone to practice with, and that’s where I came in. So I think because I practised so much growing up, it became natural for me, and it’s something I enjoy. Of course, I never enjoyed it as much as football, that was my dream, but it’s something I have always been interested in. When I stopped playing football I had the opportunity to star in another movie that Ali was directing called “The Worthy”, and this is when I realised I could still act and that I enjoyed it. So I started to consider taking it seriously, and a few roles began to come up. I realised that acting really makes me feel in my element, much like when I used to be on the football field, so I hired an agent and started to take it seriously.

Tell us about your most recent role in “Hijack”.

After hiring an agent, this was the first role I auditioned for. And it was incredible. With everything I do in life I try to relate it back to the UAE, and I feel there is so much room for growth for the film industry in the UAE and we have immense talent here. The more we try to push this, the more it will draw attention to the industry here. There are a few things happening now, both on the acting and production sides, and I’m really optimistic about it.

Talking specifically about Hijack, it was a great experience. I knew that it was going to be big as it was being made for Apple TV+, but initially, I didn’t really ingest it until I got to set and really saw the scale. I did at first question my ability because I didn’t have as much experience as everyone that was working on this project – you have people from Peaky Blinders, and Hollywood movies – it was quite intense, but honestly, the whole production from top to bottom treated me like an equal. Very quickly I felt worthy of being there, and I really enjoyed the experience. The more I experienced being on set the more I started to think that this idea of becoming an international Emirati actor was one that could possibly become reality.

Mohamed wears ZEGNA Winter 2023 Collection

You’re a man of many talents – we know you are also a keen yoga instructor – how did this come about?

About three years ago, I fell into depression. At the time, I was pointing fingers, but I would say now that it was an accumulation of my own behaviour. I’ve done things in my life that I’m proud of but also things that I’m not proud of and I think it’s essential to speak up about these things and be honest about the fact that we aren’t perfect and it’s OK if we mess up. So I was in this dark place, and I ended up turning to yoga as a form of initially exercising, and it became a method of therapy. The more I did it, the more I was taken into the light, and it made me learn so much about myself and my faith. Yes, I still have flaws that I need to work on, but I take full accountability for things that I have done wrong, and I’m working every day to be better.

I decided I wanted to become a yoga teacher because I wanted to give the same value that yoga had given me to others. So I flew to Thailand and did my yoga teacher training, and I had the best experience of my life. In my practical exam, I was asked to base my class on a theme. I chose tolerance because of its connection to the UAE. I have always written songs and poems and I decided to write a poem on tolerance for this. I wanted to bring together all people of different backgrounds and beliefs, so I asked everyone to say a prayer in their own way at the beginning of the class, and I still do that in my classes today. Today I structure my classes similarly. My class is called the Journey Flow, because we’re all on our own journeys in life, but we all have qualities we can work on to live a more peaceful, happy life. For example, being more present, forgiving, grateful – the list goes on. So every class is based on a theme, which will be one of these qualities that we all share, and every theme has a poem written by me, dedicated to that theme/quality, for us to absorb and better the qualities we share in our own personal journeys. Yoga is not for everyone of course but it has something that has helped me a lot and I think can help a lot of others. I am by no means saying that yoga has fixed me or that I’m perfect, I’m still a work in progress, and I’m fine-tuning myself to be better day by day, if yoga is a tool that can help me with that, then I am grateful.

Where would you like to see yourself in ten years?

Since we touched on personal growth, I would like to know for sure that I have grown immensely in the areas where I needed growth. Hopefully, in ten years, I will be content, healthy and at peace. I would like to be a father and a husband. I hope that I’ll be in a position where I can be a bit more philanthropic and invest back into charities and causes. I hope that I substantially grow and add value to the family company. And of course, on the film side, keep shooting and keep growing the film industry in the UAE.

Mohamed wears ZEGNA Winter 2023 Collection

What is a message you would tell your younger self?

When you’re going through an obstacle, know that it will pass. Life is a cycle of ups and downs and you have to appreciate the downs as much as the ups. I would also tell myself now and today that people’s opinion of you does not define you, and lastly, you are your own and only artist, so make that canvas as beautiful as you are, because you are always beautiful, whatever part of that journey you are on.

What is the motto that you live by?

This is a difficult one because I feel that as you evolve and change, your mottos change. But I would make it very simple and say; be kind, be loving, be gentle with yourself and others and take accountability for your actions. You never know when it’s your last moment on earth, so always be ready to apologise and forgive.

Tell us a little about your style.

I like to dress smart and subtly. I like colour, but I’m usually in my gym gear, my kandura or a shirt and blazer.

What else is in the pipeline for the rest of the year?

Film-wise, I’m working on a couple of things that I can’t discuss yet. There is potential for me to get into producing, which is very exciting. Business-wise, we are now launching Element, and at Versatile Synergy, we are becoming a transformation platform to assist start-ups in the region with digital transformation.

Photographer: Ziga Mihelcic

Styling, Direction and Words: Lindsay Judge

Grooming: Amanda Kay

With thanks to Al Wasl Club, Dubai

A new fashion season is (nearly) upon us;  here are all the essential trends you need to know about this Fall/Winter. 

Lady in Red 

If this season were a colour, it would almost certainly be red. Autumnal red looks come in the form of bold winter essentials and elegant eveningwear that takes the colour from day to night. 

Metallics 

We may be a while away from the festive season yet, but that doesn’t mean we can’t start to sparkle. Metallic looks made a huge statement on this season’s runways, from iridescent fabrics to all-over sequins. 

Hourglass Silhouette

While its big moment may have come in the fifties, the hourglass silhouette is timeless. This season we’ll see clothing revert to the classic shape with nipped-in waists and structure jackets designed to accentuate the body.

Neo Punk Chic

Rough hems, experimental layering and unfinished styling bring the edgy neo-punk look into 2023. Add statement shoes and a pop of colour to finish your vibrant ensemble. 

School Girl

Britney Spears is having a comeback, and so is her iconic look. This season will put the chic back into the school girl aesthetic with oversized blazers, knee-high socks and pencil skirts leading the way. Don’t forget the statement bag!

Winter Florals

Summer may be over, but florals are most certainly not. This season’s prints are dark with rich hues and maximum impact. Don’t be afraid to try! 

Office Chic

Take your office look to the street this fall as workwear becomes the new chic. Think sharp blazers, cigarette trousers, pencil skirts and crisp shirts paired with elegant accessories.

Tuxedo with a Twist

The classic tuxedo had a new feminine upgrade this season as it appears in contemporary iterations across the runway. There’s something for everyone, from a new play on the suit jacket to a tuxedo-inspired dress. 

All Black

This trend needs no explanation when it comes to colour, but when it comes to style, don’t be afraid to experiment with layering, clashing materials and conflicting textures – you’ll be surprised how it works!

Dressing Down

Who needs to dress up with you can be super-model-chic in your favourite pair of jeans. Style your denim trousers with a chic blazer or jumper, and you’ll have a runway-worthy look in no time!

Sheikha Majda Jaber Humoud Al Sabah is a philanthropist, entrepreneur, and founder of Houna Initiative. Here she offers her insights into how our friendships and social connections can profoundly impact our mental health.

In the hustle and bustle of modern life, where work demands and piled responsibilities seem to consume every waking moment, maintaining social relationships and meaningful friendships can sometimes take a backseat. However, the significance of these social connections should not be underestimated or overlooked as they profoundly impact our mental health and overall well-being – sometimes more than we even realise. A study conducted by researchers at the University of Virginia (UV) in Charlottesville has shown that those with close friendships tend to be more adaptive to stress, often have higher self-esteem and are more assertive.

Just as healthy eating and regular exercise are necessary for one’s overall health, maintaining positive relationships and spending time with friends is a vital investment that’s enjoyable and yields many long-term physical and emotional health benefits. Let me tell you how.

Combating feelings of loneliness

In today’s fast-paced and digitally connected world, where social media platforms and virtual interactions can create an illusion of connection, it’s easy to feel isolated despite being surrounded by people. Nurturing friendships provides genuine human connection, thus playing an invaluable role in combating feelings of loneliness and promoting a sense of belonging. This significance is underscored by Professor Mahzad Hojjat (PhD), the Professor of Psychology and Chairperson at the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth, who points out that no matter what unites us with our group of friends, simply feeling included — as we belong to a particular group — is beneficial. Another study has shown that the sense of belonging obtained from being a part of a group fulfils an essential emotional need that helps decrease feelings of hopelessness among people diagnosed with depression.

Enhancing coping skills

Healthy friendships have a proven record of helping us navigate life’s trials. When life inevitably presents us with challenges and obstacles, friendships provide a safe space for us to share our experiences and feelings, serving as a safety net that usually offers emotional support and different perspectives and coping strategies that can help us navigate difficult times more effectively. It’s important to remember that life’s challenges become more manageable when we have friends to lean on. Sharing experiences, offering advice, or simply lending an empathetic ear can help us develop effective coping mechanisms.

Boosting self-esteem

Our self-esteem is influenced by how we perceive ourselves and others perceive us. A 2020 meta-analysis published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology found that self-esteem and positive social relationships go hand in hand. Maintaining friends who appreciate us for who we are, enhances our sense of self-worth, eventually making us more confident in our abilities and qualities. In turn, having positive self-esteem strengthens our ability to be genuine and authentic in our friendships, attracting like-minded individuals who appreciate us for who we truly are while offering support and care without feeling diminished and accepting help from friends without feeling inadequate.

Resisting negative self-talk

According to the National Science Foundation, the average person has about 12,000 to 60,00 thoughts a day – 80% of these are negative. Positive friendships can have a profound impact on our self-image and can help us counteract negative self-talk. Through validation and acceptance of who we are, and by providing emotional safety to express our vulnerabilities without fear of judgement, friends can help us challenge negative self-talk and develop a healthier self-image. These meaningful connections enrich our lives and contribute to our overall well-being and mental health.

Reducing stress

The daily grind can lead to elevated stress levels; however, spending time with friends and engaging in meaningful conversations can act as a natural stress reliever. Venting, receiving support, or simply enjoying a friend’s company helps improve our emotional regulation and fosters a sense of security and comfort.

Sharing joy

Shared happiness has a compounding effect. When we celebrate wins, big or small, together, we increase our individual joy and build a shared reservoir of positive experiences that, in turn, create lasting memories that bind friends together and foster a sense of camaraderie and belonging. Shared joy also builds meaningful memories that become cherished treasures. Reflecting on these memories can bring comfort and happiness during challenging times. This promotes a positive outlook on life and contributes to mental well-being.

It’s crucial to emphasise that deepening the roots of our friendships isn’t merely a social exercise; it’s a form of self-care and a potent tool for mental health enhancement. These personal relationships form a robust emotional backbone that provides the necessary support, minimises feelings of isolation, and positively contributes to mental health and well-being. So, as we journey through life’s peaks and valleys, let’s ensure we do so arm-in-arm with our friends, who make the journey not just bearable but also deeply enriching.

Words: Sheikha Majda Jaber Humoud Al Sabah 

Image: Supplied

London-based accessory brand BOVENUE was founded by Saudi-born designer Reema Amer. It is the first Saudi-founded zero-waste accessories brand, with all products being made from sustainable materials, including leather cut-offs and vegan leathers. All the brand’s designs are produced with zero waste, ensuring they are kinder to the planet. But there is no compromise in quality.

BOVENUE works with some of the most talented artisans around the world, including in the Middle East, to create luxury leather handbags by hand. Saudi women inspire each collection, whether it’s from Reema’s own family or iconic women throughout time, and this strong sense of empowerment and individuality can be felt within each collection. As the brand prepares to launch its latest collection, we discover more.

Tell us about the BOVENUE brand and how it came to be where it’s at today. 

BOVENUE was established in 2012 in London. We wanted to talk about art, a universal language understood by all, as well as share a little of our origin and heritage with the world through our designs. Our first collection Noura (named after our grandmother) had multiple pieces, each of which was inspired by a part of The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This idea of sharing stories grew as the brand grew. Every collection we released following this told the story of a Saudi woman. We would create a piece inspired by her style and personality and share her story on the collection page. We started with real women, Laila (my mother), Nawal (my aunt), Ghada (one of our co-founders), and most recently, our latest collection Ghaliyya (inspired by Ghaliyya Al Bogammiah who had a huge role to play in recapturing Mecca during the Ottoman war.) We love to use our designs and creativity to share their beautiful stories and create collections with so much meaning that people can relate to them on a more personal level.

What can you tell us about the materials used in the bags?

We have two lines of products. We recently converted to producing zero-waste leather handbags using cut-offs from some major brands in the handbag sector, which ensures we are doing no further damage to the planet whilst providing pieces made with the best quality out there! Our second line, which was also recently introduced, is a vegan collection which we use special fabrics to create. These fabrics are usually locally sourced, such as the Damask Fabric made in the Levant region.

Tell us more about the brand’s zero-waste method and how you achieved this. 

We have always been eco-conscious as a brand, constantly looking for ways to create our products without harming our planet. From the beginning, our packaging was biodegradable, our invoices were recyclable, our tags were always recyclable, and our dust bags were created for multi-use purposes.

In 2020, we started to consider other approaches, and we stumbled upon manufacturers in Italy who had hundreds of metres of cut-out leather which would have been disposed of (although it was in perfect quality!) We started to discuss the approach and the best way to make use of this. In 2022, we started the shift and began producing zero-waste collections.

What are some of the biggest challenges you have faced in achieving this goal?

We faced several challenges with our zero-waste journey. First and foremost, we cannot control the quantity or type of leather we can find as it is limited. This means there are collections we cannot immediately reproduce, and there are collections we must change before production based on leather availability. We also find that some regional customers are not familiar with the process and so cannot truly appreciate it for its value.

Can you tell us more about the production process and how it differs from other brands?

We do not produce in bulk – simply put! Our manufacturer is a family-run business, and our pieces are each created by hand by extremely talented artisans. We dedicate an incredible amount of time, effort, attention and money into each and every detail to ensure we receive a beautiful product which is luxurious but also sustainable and of the highest quality.

How would you assess the industry’s approach to sustainability today?

We are seeing it pop up everywhere, which is incredible. Unfortunately, the concept of zero-waste and luxury together is still new to the customer base, which will take some time to fully develop into its true value.

What would you still like to achieve with your brand around sustainability moving forward?

We want to continue to create our zero-waste products and luxury handbags in various fabrics and materials. We are also paper-free and send our items in fully recyclable packaging – we want to continue to reduce our carbon footprint.

Can you tell us about the latest collections from BOVENUE? 

We have two new collections which will be released in the fall and winter. Each tells a story of an inspirational woman and a strong historical figure. We are very excited to share their accomplishments with the world in the way we know best, through our creations.

We know you have been part of the Saudi 100 Brands platform; what can you tell us about this and how it is helping to elevate design talent in Saudi Arabia?

We have been very fortunate to be part of the Ministry of Culture’s Saudi 100 Brands initiative. Through the program, we were advised as a brand by experts with years of experience in guiding international brands with an extensive history. We were also fortunate to learn directly from the industry leaders such as Tommy Hilfiger, Anya Hindmarch and Messika. We have exposure to incredible talent and a wealth of knowledge which cannot be obtained anywhere else.

What more would you like to see happen to support upcoming brands from the Middle East?

For the region’s mindset to shift enough to appreciate local brands and the immense amount of work that goes into their creations, we would need retail spaces to cater for such brands in their buying seasons and give them a platform locally.

Who are some designers or brands that inspire you? 

Yves Saint Laurent, not only are they not afraid to change things up and keep to their identity, but I love that their first collection was partly inspired by childhood memories of his mother’s dress in 1940s Algeria.

What is your vision for BOVENUE – would you like to expand further than bags?

We love to create what we excel in – handbags – but that’s not to say that we are not looking into our first capsule collection, which includes other accessories!

In this issue, we are celebrating Saudi National Day – what does that day mean to you?  

We are incredibly proud to be a Saudi brand created by Saudi siblings and operated by some of the most talented Saudis we know! It’s an incredible time for the Kingdom and its people, and we are honoured to play even a small part in the change and the growth.

What is the professional motto that you live by?

“Follow your instincts – you never know if your ideas will work out unless you try them.” Lulu Guinness.

What else is in the pipeline for BOVENUE for the rest of the year?

A lot of innovation, colour, material and statement pieces. All whilst being environmentally friendly!

“Overcoming anxiety and being overwhelmed will be our pathway to success.”

As a society, we have been taught that excellence and professionalism are the most important things we can do to add value to the world. But there is a dark side to this professionalism and excellence that means before we even start our day, we are overwhelmed with the idea that we have too much to do and don’t know how we will get through it. So we arrive at our day with anxiousness. The day flashes by in a blur, and at the end of it, we constantly remind ourselves that we haven’t done enough. We are in this perpetual cycle of needing to do more and being overwhelmed by what needs to get done next. I call this “Excellence, Integrity and Professionalism”. This is a form of self-abuse disguised as adding value and being ambitious in the corporate or business world. The problem is that no matter how successful you are in your business and how much money you make, if you arrive feeling anxious, you will continually seek more because you believe you aren’t enough. Nothing will ever be enough.

We need to realise that the result of what we think is driving us in our idea of professionalism, integrity and ambition is a fool’s game. What’s the point of having three Ferraris when you’re unhappy? Unfortunately, this has become our reality. Many of us are disappointed in our ambition, and once we achieve what we wanted to achieve, we’re still unhappy because we want more! We have misconstrued excellence with self-abuse. We’ve misconstrued ambition with greed. We get the material things we strive for, but our emotional state is in disarray.

So what do we do to solve this?

First and foremost, we must realise that we are on a treadmill taking us nowhere. And if that treadmill isn’t taking us anywhere, we must question why we’re on it. We must ask ourselves deep questions like ‘What am I actually doing here?’ ‘Am I just here to make money and still tell myself that I haven’t made enough?’ There will always be somebody richer, fitter, and faster than you, and if you’re coming to the game of ambition from a place of insecurity and lack of self-worth, jealousy is created because of these comparisons.

As we move out of the summer, many of us will feel more relaxed, more lateral thinking, and quite open to what’s coming next. But then, after just a few days back at work, we’ll be back on that treadmill, running towards a fictitious idea you’ve created for yourself.

So take a moment to stop and realise that you are on the treadmill and secondly, the secret to a successful future is a calm nervous system. When you are calm, you are able to be adaptable and creative and see opportunities you wouldn’t have otherwise seen. When you’re always in a hurry and constantly anxious and frustrated, you can’t see solutions. But when you calm your heart and clear your head, opportunities will become available to you, which will actually make you more money. So you need to play the game of calming your nervous system to become more impactful in a changing world. Survival mode is not the skill you need for a changing world because it wants to control everything, and when the world is changing, nothing is controllable. Survival mode will only allow you to access a tiny percentage of your lateral and creative thinking. When you calm your nervous system, you will see your creativity increasing, your vision will change, your approach to things will become more collaborative, and you’ll become more friendly towards others. This is what the future is truly about.

I am an advanced meditator, so meditation gets me to the place where my brain becomes available and my heart becomes calm. That’s when I can start making difficult decisions. We also must heal trauma from our past. We need to understand what’s happened to us throughout our lives, re-engage with these traumas, and heal them so that we can understand that the skill of the future is emotional intelligence, not logical intelligence.

We must also realise that AI is commoditising everything around us – all services, all knowledge, all IQ – which means that the way we used to add value is no longer available to us. This makes people panic and panic because they’re addicted to certainty and stuck in a brainwave that tells them they are in survival mode. Meditation and healing trauma relax our hearts and unhook us from the past, allowing us to think about the future in new ways. If your future is predictable, it means that the familiarity of your past has not been healed. So, the trauma cycles keep happening over and over again. I am a futurist, but I’m starting to realise that there is no future because if we arrive at our future anxious and frustrated, what is the point?

To summarise, we need to redefine ambition for the months and years ahead. Ask yourself how you are evolving and elevating through the change process and how you are adding value in brand-new ways. How are you coming at your day in a state of curiosity and fascination rather than feeling overwhelmed? Then, you will become a new version of yourself, one where you add value in new ways, which means you can create new flows of success. This becomes paramount as we move towards 2024.

Words by John Sanei

Saudi Arabian sisters Leena and Hala M. El Khereiji co-founded their fine jewellery brand Charmaleena in 2012 as a means of celebrating their passion for creativity and art and channelling it into a business idea.

Charmaleena is inspired by the heritage and traditions of Saudi Arabia, combined with international excellence to become one of The Kingdom’s most successful homegrown jewellery brands. It offers a bridge where the east meets the west by eating pieces with symbolic cultural designs whilst offering our clients a profound, unique way of pairing its pieces, with modern layering at the centre of its brand DNA. Here, we find out more about the brand and its ambitious plans for the future. 

Tell us about your brand and how it came to life.

Our story started in 2012 when Hala and I decided to combine our talents to create a brand that would reflect our unique vision and style. We always shared a passion for creativity and art and saw an opportunity to turn our shared interests into a successful business venture. We come from a merchant family, so we combined creativity and art and transformed them into a business and a brand that has united us for more than a decade. We have remained true to our shared values and the passion that initially brought us together, and we have continued to evolve in every aspect of the business, ensuring that Charmaleena maintained its standards of excellence. Today, Charmaleena is a testament to the vision and determination we started with on day one. The brand continues to thrive, and we are proud to see women wearing our pieces and connecting with the meaning behind every piece. 

What makes Charmaleena different from other jewellery brands?

What sets Charmaleena apart from other brands is its commitment to several key elements: quality, storytelling, creativity, craftsmanship, and original recognisable designs. Charmaleena thrives on creativity and originality. As partners, each of us brings her unique perspective and artistic sensibilities to the design process. We are passionate about researching and digging to develop new ideas and find new materials and ideas. We constantly push boundaries and explore innovative ideas, enabling us to stand out in the market, creating everyday luxury pieces that are recognisable and highly regarded. Allowing our clients to wear our jewellery in multiple ways and feel the freedom to express their style. 

Tell us about the name and where it came from. 

Charming: someone who is sweet yet forceful, reflecting Hala perfectly. Leena in Arabic means a young palm tree – “soft and delicate”. Charmaleena is a cultural and artistic fine jewellery brand connecting the east and west through linear and delicate pieces of art. 

What are the challenges you faced in setting up a brand?

Challenges will always present themselves in some way. When we started 12 years ago, we faced challenges that many entrepreneurs may encounter when starting a jewellery brand. Finding reliable suppliers of high-quality materials, such as gemstones, metals, and other components, can be challenging. Ensuring the materials are ethically sourced adds an additional layer of complexity. Standing out and creating a unique identity can be a challenge, especially that the jewellery market is highly competitive, with many established brands and designers already in the industry. Overcoming these hurdles requires perseverance, creativity, adaptability, and a strategic approach to building a successful business. 

What is your vision for the brand moving forward?

Our commitment to delivering exceptional customer experiences aligns with our dedication to creating exquisite jewellery collections. We want our customers to feel a sense of delight, luxury, and personal connection when they engage with our brand and wear our designs. The jewellery market is constantly changing and evolving, and we are committed to keeping up with its ever-changing updates through our designs, materials and ideas. At Charmaleena, our journey has been fuelled by passion, creativity, and a relentless pursuit of excellence, and it will continue to be so. We are dedicated to realising our vision and establishing ourselves as a globally recognised and respected jewellery brand that leaves a lasting impression through its craftsmanship, storytelling, and commitment to sustainability. We want to leverage new technology, AI and e-commerce. We aim to position ourselves as a worthy contender in the high-end jewellery market through our unique designs, meticulous craftsmanship, and commitment to excellence. 

Tell us about the latest collection. 

Our latest collection, “Elements” is a captivating exploration of the four natural elements: water, fire, earth, and air. Inspired by the forces of nature that exist within us, this collection invites individuals to embrace and cultivate these elemental energies. A meticulously carved stone beautifully represents each element, adding a touch of elegance and symbolism to the designs. Each piece is a wearable reminder of the elemental energies that exist in our surroundings and within us, inviting us to tap into their power and find balance in our lives.

Air: The element of air is embodied by white Mother of Pearl, which evokes a sense of lightness and fluidity, reflecting the gentle breezes and ethereal nature of the air element.

Fire: Pink Opal symbolises passion, transformation, and the fiery intensity that resides within us and ignites a sense of strength and determination. 

Water: Lapis Lazuli represents the element of water in the Elements collection. Deep blue Lapis Lazuli mirrors the serene and fluid qualities of water. It is associated with inner wisdom, emotional healing, and a sense of tranquillity. 

Earth: Malachite embodies the grounding and nurturing qualities of the Earth element. It symbolises harmony, growth, and connection to nature. It serves as a reminder of our deep-rooted connection to the earth.

Who is the woman that you design for?

The Charmaleena girl is full of life and passion. She has a unique character and is full of style and self-expression. We believe that jewellery is a powerful means of self-expression, allowing women to showcase their unique personalities. Whether you are classic or edgy, we are here to empower you to embrace your authenticity and express yourself confidently. 

How do you think Charmaleena can appeal to women all around the world?

We connect with women on an emotional level by creating jewellery pieces that tell a compelling story. Whether it’s drawing inspiration from nature, historical events, personal journeys, or empowering messages, we infuse our designs with narratives that resonate with women’s aspirations, values, and experiences. Our pieces celebrated meanings such as strength in our Swords of Love collection “Love is Your Weapon” or My Heart collection that invites us to “Open Your Heart”. Every woman will find herself in our collections no matter where she is in her journey.  

Thanks to the Saudi Fashion Commission, we are seeing many events around the world promoting Saudi designers – tell us about your experience of this and how you think this is helping to raise the profile of designers in Saudi.

We feel incredibly grateful and honoured to be part of the Saudi 100 program for our second year and for more years to come. This remarkable initiative has provided us with a platform to connect with exceptionally talented designers and has been instrumental in fostering a vibrant creative community. Through the Saudi 100 program, we have had the privilege of engaging with like-minded individuals who share our passion for design and craftsmanship. The program has created a supportive network where we have been able to exchange ideas, collaborate on projects, and learn from one another’s experiences. One of the most valuable aspects of the Saudi 100 program has been the exposure it has given us to both local and international audiences. This increased visibility has opened doors to new business opportunities, allowing us to showcase our designs to a wider customer base. The program has provided a platform for us to present our work, connect with potential clients, and build meaningful partnerships. Moreover, the program has facilitated our participation in various events, exhibitions, and showcases, allowing us to present our creations to a diverse audience. 

Can you give us an insight into the industry in Saudi Arabia based on your experience?

The jewellery industry in Saudi Arabia has witnessed the emergence of local brands that are making a mark both domestically and internationally. These brands are known for their unique designs, craftsmanship, and commitment to quality and are contributing to the growth and recognition of Saudi Arabian jewellery on the global stage. We are lucky that our government has been actively supporting the growth of the jewellery/Fashion industry. Investment in training programs and mentorship initiatives like the Saudi 100 created an infrastructure for fashion and jewellery brands. Also, these programs nurture local talent, promote entrepreneurship, and position Saudi Arabia as a hub for jewellery excellence. 

Who is a designer of jewellery talent that inspires you?

Many local and international designers have significantly contributed to the field, and all have inspired us. We are open to learning and getting inspired by everyone.

When are you in your most creative state of mind?

I’m the most inspired when I travel. I always come back fully inspired and full of ideas. 

Can you tell us how your heritage inspires your designs?

Heritage plays a significant role in inspiring jewellery design. It provides a rich source of cultural, historical, and artistic references that designers can draw upon to create meaningful and unique pieces. Heritage often encompasses many symbols and motifs representing traditions, beliefs, and values. Some of our iconic, heritage-inspired pieces are our Palm and Sword, which not only showcase the fusion of traditional motifs with contemporary design but also carry deep meaning and symbolism that resonates with people. By designing the heritage-inspired motifs in a contemporary way, you create an intriguing juxtaposition between tradition and modernity. This blending of styles and meanings makes the piece visually striking and emotionally impactful, attracting not only those who appreciate traditional symbolism but also individuals who seek unique, meaningful jewellery. 

What is in the pipeline for you for the rest of the year?

We are very excited to open our design studio/showroom in Riyadh. The pipeline is full of surprises and new designs! Each collection we introduce opens a new horizon of possibilities and creations. As usual, we continuously surprise and delight our customers with new designs and celebrate special occasions such as The Saudi National Day, which is an occasion, we love to celebrate by releasing a special edition, so stay tuned.

What message would you send to your clients and friends in the Middle East?

Be authentic and stay true to your roots. 

Saudi Arabian designer Noora Hefzi started her fashion brand to satisfy a need for elegant yet contemporary designs. With an innate sense of style inherited from her mother, Noora was unfulfilled by anything she could find on the market and realised the only way to fill her fashion needs was to start designing her own garments.

She soon realised that other women were also inspired by her creations, leading to the development of her own brand. Noora’s pieces are designed with timeless appeal, transcending trends, and seasons; they have a classic sense of elegance with a unique twist. She loves to work with colour and uses luxurious, unusual fabrics in her collections, offering an unexpected edge and attitude. As Noora prepares to launch her next collection, we learn more about her brand and her opinion of the growing fashion industry in Saudi Arabia.

Who is the woman that you design for?

The woman I always design for is an inspiring, confident woman who appreciates the finer things in life and loves to dress for herself without following trends. She creates her own trends.

What more would you like to see being done to support designers from Saudi Arabia?

There has been huge support for Saudi designers in the last two years, since the creation of the Fashion Commission under the Ministry of Culture. Along with many of my fellow designer friends from Saudi, I was selected for special mentoring from some of the top fashion figures in the fashion world. As a result, I am in close contact with many top designers in the country. Now, what we all need support with are PR and investment. Saudi brands need PR for the world to see their designs and investment to help them grow and scale up.

Tell us about your journey to where you are today – what have been the biggest challenges?

My journey started from a need I was fulfilling for myself, and to this day, I am my own customer. I never wanted to dress like the rest of the crowd. During high school, I realised how limited the options were for the stylish and unique contemporary woman. Far too often, I found people dressed in similar or identical outfits at a gathering or event, which made me even more selective regarding my choice of clothing and the pieces I bought. So I started changing the details in my garments, adding or removing elements to make them more personalised, customised and reflective of my personal style.

Eventually, this led me to make my own clothes, which got many compliments from friends, family, and strangers. So, I started my own label from home, creating unique and one-of-a-kind pieces. It began with one collection a year of around 30-40 pieces, mostly dresses. They were like pieces of art that could easily start a conversation with a stranger when wearing them, as many clients have expressed.

My biggest challenge is balancing my personal life with being a wife and a mother of young children who need attention and quality time. As well as trying to do everything on my own, it was a lot of pressure and responsibility at the same time.

What is your most significant achievement so far?

One of my biggest achievements in the fashion world so far would be dressing Pharrell Williams just last year for a magazine cover shoot and the fact that he loved the piece and wanted to wear it. But my most significant achievement in this field must be my loyal customers, who have continued to return for years. I have wonderful relationships with them; they trust me to style them, select colours and looks for them, and advise them on personal growth or healthy lifestyle changes. It means a lot to me to be that person for so many women.

How do you think you have evolved as a designer? 

I feel I have evolved in many ways. The main one is that I have learnt to let go of people’s opinions of me, and I have become indifferent to what others think of me. When I first started, it was important for me to be liked and approved of, but it doesn’t matter now. I love and approve of myself, and that’s what’s important.

I have also let go of trying to make things work, and now I try to go with the flow. I have begun to delegate more, as I used to do everything myself. It’s a challenge to let go of some of my responsibilities, but I am getting there!

What message would you send to aspiring designers from the Middle East?

Do what you love, and don’t try to fit in or please others. You will fit in naturally when you are true to yourself and love what you do regardless of other’s opinions. Fashion is very subjective, and you can always choose “what’s in and what’s not” for you personally. So don’t follow the trends, but rather create your own or go with what you love, regardless of the trend. That is what makes you unique. Don’t take every opportunity, learn to say no to something that won’t add value or elevate your brand or your business, and be selective with everything.

What is the biggest lesson you have learned along the way?

To trust my intuition and my gut. Listen to your heart on all matters and not your mind. Sometimes it won’t make sense, but it’s the heart’s mind that knows. And when one door shuts, know there is a better one opening for you soon. Things always work, even though you can’t always see it.

Who is someone who inspires you?

I find something inspiring in everyone I meet and see. There is a special gift in every one of us. However, the first person that comes to mind is my mother and how supportive, confident, determined and motivated she is; no matter what happens, she keeps going. She has a growth mindset, a grateful heart, and a young soul. She is a well-educated, charismatic leader who always keeps evolving and learning.

And last but not least, she is elegant, graceful and has always been so stylish on top of all that. She is the reason I started designing in the first place. She has been inspiring in her personal style since we were younger children.

What else is in the pipeline for the rest of the year?

I’m working on an exciting, colourful new line that I hope to release by the beginning of next year. I will keep the rest as a surprise!

What is something you would like to do with the brand that you haven’t done yet? 

I’ve always loved shoes and have been a collector myself for years. However, in the last few years, I have found it more and more difficult to find shoes that are not trend-focused. So I have been planning to start a shoe collection within my brand to fill the gap I see in the market. I want to create beautiful, timeless, elegant, yet special shoes that bring joy and comfort to the wearer.

I also want to expand further with the accessories and semi-fine jewellery segments. It’s something I personally use a lot in my own styling. Statement pieces that are timeless and that bring joy when you wear them.

Are there any upcoming designers from Saudi that you are excited about?

There are many! There is such huge potential and creative talent in Saudi Arabia. I have many names on my mind; I can think of a few now. Firstly, it would be my sister Deemah Hefzi, who has recently started creating unusual fine jewellery. The rest of the names I have in mind have been in the business for some time, are inspiring, and have huge international potential. Some of my favourite designers are: Yousef Akbar, Abadia by Shahad Alshehail, Lurline, Nobel & Fresh by Nayef Alhayef, Mona Alshibel, Chador, La’beso by Balqees Alqadeeb, Dazluq by Salma Zahran, Noura Sulaiman, kaf by kaf (Kawthar Alhuraish) to name a few.

What is a message that you would send to your clients and friends in the Middle East?

Thank you for always inspiring me and for your love, support, and trust in me! The heart-warming feedback and encouragement I always get from my clients and friends makes me feel so grateful and blessed, and it’s what keeps me going in what I do.

Dior’s ready-to-wear autumn-winter 2023-2024 collection celebrates chic Parisian style. See more in our latest editorial shoot at aeworld.com.

Photography: Ziga Mihelcic

Styling & Direction: Lindsay Judge

Hair & Makeup: Sophie Leach

Model: Lyona at Fashion League

Black Dress Black Gloves Pink “Saddle” bag Black “Dior Rose” pumps
All Dior

Black Shirt
Black and Purple Coat
Black Multicolored Skirt
“Plan de Paris” Beige and Black Saddle bag
All Dior

Earrings Beige trench coat “Plan de Paris” Beige & Black Skirt Beige Macrocannage “Dior Toujours” Bag
All Dior

Black Berret
Necklace
Black Jacket
Black Skirt
Black Embroidered Micro “Lady D-Joy” Bag Black “Naughtily-D” boots
All Dior

Grey & Black Short-sleeved Jacket Grey & Black Skirt Black and White Houndstooth “Lady D-Joy” bag
All Dior

Earrings
Beige and Black Dress Black Gloves
Black “CD Signature” clutch Black “Dior Soul” Pumps
All Dior

Earrings
Necklace
Blue Sweater
Blue Multicolored Skirt
All Dior

A new exhibition has landed in Dubai, highlighting the immense landscapes of our world and the harmful impact of climate change on some of nature’s most treasured destinations. Three stories take viewers on a journey to the intersection of the world’s three tallest mountain ranges – the Karakoram, Himalaya and Hindu Kush- showcasing some breathtaking landscapes and mountain ranges.

The stories illustrate the harmful impacts of climate change on our natural world. Once-glacial peaks, a defining feature of these mountains, now gradually wither away, causing calamities that ripple within Pakistan and far beyond its borders.

Sara – The North 2

The exhibition, which is taking place at ICD Brookfield Palce in association with Dastaangoi Gallery, follows the journey of three artists from the prestigious Florence Academy of the Arts: Austrian painter Louis Szápáry, Finnish-American painter Saara Knapp, British painter Phoebe Stewart Carter, along with the Dastaangoi team. Their perspectives uniquely frame the narratives interwoven within these landscapes.

The North is a first-of-its-kind exhibition that transcends beyond the paint, evoking emotions beyond your anticipation. Malak Abu Qaoud, Arts & Events Manager at ICD Brookfield Place, states;

“At ICD Brookfield Place, we proudly unveil “The North”, an exhibition that delves into the profound impacts of climate change on our environment. As advocates of sustainability, this showcase aligns with one of our fundamental pillars, underscoring our commitment to a greener future.” 

Louis – The North 3

Curated by Dastaangoi’s co-founder Amad Mian, “The North is an exhibition that transcends borders and paints; it is a desperate call for awareness on what is happening at the forefront of our generation with the climate crises.”

The exhibition runs from August 24 to September 23, 2023, at ICD Brookfield Place, Level 1.