Some of the must-try skincare brands we love for 2023.

Tata Harper

Tata Harper has become a go-to skincare brand for celebrities and beauty experts over the past few years. Founded by Tata Harper her namesake brand comprises revolutionising luxury skincare products that are non-toxic and 100% natural. Growing up in Colombia in a household full of women with a deep love for the ritual of beauty, Tata quickly realized that self-care was a luxury that everyone deserved. On an endless search for non-toxic yet high-performing skincare products following her stepfather’s cancer diagnosis, Tata decided to create them herself. Seeking the top botanists and chemists in the industry to crack the code, she embarked on a five-year journey to develop her unique formulation process and proprietary bio-engineering technology for creating her signature Complex Formulas, grounded in the philosophy that more ingredients equal more results.

Using the latest technology, the full range of luxurious, high-efficacy products are formulated with the highest-quality natural ingredients available. Created from start to finish on Harper’s 1,200-acre certified-organic farm in Vermont Champlain Valley, nothing in production is outsourced, allowing Tata to oversee every aspect of production to ensure maximum freshness and quality. Every Complex Formula is engineered with the highest possible quantity of precious skin innovative ingredients, captured at their most effective peak for maximum potency and meticulously packed into a small green bottle.

Highlight ranges include the Superkind range for sensitive skin. Formulated with meticulously curated ingredients to fortify the skin barrier and revitalize reactive skin. The range of three products is designed to replenish, fortify, and optimize the skin barrier, rebalancing the microbiome and acid mantle filter and defending against irritants and aggressors, comforting and soothing irritated and stressed skin. The Supernaturals are High-performance natural products that deliver multi-targeted results to achieve benefits that are exponentially more powerful than nature or science alone. And the new Elixir Vitae Collection; the ultimate wrinkle solution.

Sunday Riley

Sunday Riley founded her namesake beauty brand after failing to find beauty products that met her skincare needs. Sunday delved into the world of science to look into how chemically researched formulas can produce skincare products that really work. Sunday is the brand’s formulator, creating the product formula from her own process of trial and error. All of the brand’s products are powered by active ingredients and balanced with soothing botanicals so that they also work for sensitive skin. because of this intense research and unique combination of ingredients the brand’s products offer truly visible results.

Highlight products include the cult classic Good Genes, a highly potent chemical exfoliation serum that will remove dead skin cells and replenish them with a fresh, glowing appearance. The multitasking, targeted lactic acid treatment rapidly exfoliates and boosts naturally youthful radiance, while visibly reducing the look of lines, wrinkles, and dark spots. And the C.E.O range, comprising of three products; Brightening Serum, Face Oil and the newest addition, C.E.O Afterglow, a Brightening Vitamin C Gel Cream. The range offers a high dose of vitamin C which supercharges your natural radiance and delivers instant hydration. It also offers a more even-toned complexion and plumper appearance in weeks.

Olivanna

London-based beauty brand Olivanna houses beauty secrets that have been passed down for generations. Founded by Janine Summers, the entrepreneur had a vision to empower and inspire women, starting with her daughters. The products are designed to be passed down through generations, shared for women of all ages and aimed at tackling some of the most common skincare worries. Born out of Janine’s love for her children and belief in the power of botanicals, Olivanna’s products combine potent, high-performing ingredients that are as safe for your skin as they are effective. There is a strong focus on locally-sourced and organic ingredients, many of which are sourced in the British countryside. The high-performance formulas are packed with nature’s most-trusted active ingredients and the best the British seasons have to offer, including the powerful antioxidant bakuchiol – nature’s alternative to retinol – and the brand’s signature Soothing Complex of rosemary, chamomile and cornflower extracts.

Highlight products in the range include the Bakuchiol Miracle Night Serum, which encourages cell turnover while you sleep, for a rejuvenated appearance. The Intense repair night cream is an ultra-reparative overnight cream enriched with collagen-boosting organic cotton thistle extract and proven powerhouse botanicals to restore and revive skin whilst you sleep. And the Rosewater & Chamomile Cream Cleanser will kick off your skincare routine with an omega-rich formula. The brand also recently launched the My Olivanna range; a vegan-friendly skincare solution designed especially for pre-teens and twenty-somethings, with a focus on young skin and simple yet effective routines.

pHformula

pHformula situates itself between cosmeceuticals and a physician’s practice and is the first professional skin resurfacing system applied by skin specialists worldwide. Under the guidance of expert dermatologists pHformula has developed a unique skin resurfacing treatment system and daily skincare solutions which treat specific skin disorders and enhance and maintain healthy skin. Based on innovative scientific technology, these products and treatment protocols help skin specialists provide continuous skin health for all skin types. The secret behind pHformula lies in pharmaceutical science. pHformula classifies as Pharma-cosmeceuticals, which is the result of an innovative alliance between cosmeceutical and medical prescriptions, more specifically built on skin resurfacing and not traditional peeling. The concept of skin resurfacing rejuvenates your skin layer by layer. New skin cells form from the inside out, resulting in a tighter, younger-looking surface without any of the negative side effects often associated with conventional peelings. All treatments and formulae used in pHformula are supported by more than 30 years of combined scientific and medical experience. All the active ingredients are pharmaceutical grade and offer an opportunity for physicians to recommend and apply one of the most advanced and effective skin resurfacing treatment systems available in today’s aesthetic market.

Some of the brand’s highlight products include the E.X.F.O Cleanse, a gentle cleansing exfoliant, which helps to effectively remove makeup and impurities. It contains specific actives, which assist in loosening rough keratinized cells and therefore is ideal to use in combination with all the pHformula skin resurfacing treatments. The N.E.C.K Recovery is formulated with a unique, advanced skin-tightening glycoprotein complex to help lift, firm, and smooth crepey, ageing skin of the neck and décolleté. And the P.O.S.T Recovery Cream is a rich emollient cream that contains a blend of humectants for maximum hydration. It helps alleviate immediate skin dryness and provides excellent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Treatments and products are now available at Al Shunnar Plastic Surgery, Sisters Beauty Lounge, Wellbeing Clinic, That Hair Though, Lueur Clinic and The Nordic International Beauty & Training Centre, with more locations to be added soon.

Noble Panacea

Noble Panacea, the luxury skincare brand founded by Nobel Laureate, Sir Fraser Stoddart is making its debut in the UAE this February. Noble Panacea uses groundbreaking OSMVä Technology to produce a line of meticulously crafted, performance-driven, clean, and sustainable beauty products. The brand’s founder Sir Fraser Stoddart is one of the world’s top 10 chemists and has received multiple honours in the field of chemistry including the Nobel Prize in 2016, in recognition of his lifetime contribution, from which the revolutionary Organic Super Molecular Vessel (OSMV)ä Technology was invented. His work and research are applied to Noble Panacea’s products to offer unparalleled skin results. The OSMVä is a system of encapsulation that has been proven to enhance the efficacy of your skincare.

With efficacy and a focus on scientific ingenuity, Noble Panacea’s range of skincare is crafted by expert scientists to preserve one’s natural beauty for a pure expression of self. The brand was founded on the belief that with the current capabilities of scientific advancements and innovations, women can enjoy and celebrate their authentic natural beauty to the fullest potential.

OSMVä is made of 100% organic material that is fully biodegradable. Unique to Noble Panacea, it is shaped like a cubic octagon and is around 10,000 times smaller than a skin cell. The technology encapsulates and protects active ingredients with controlled release, improving formula potency by up to tenfold. It provides ultimate protection of ingredients from external aggressors like light and air while preventing cross-interaction to ensure that the potency of the formula does not get compromised before it reaches the skin. OSMVä controls ingredients with extreme precision and through a programmed sequence that determines the optimum release time for each ingredient to be activated ensuring maximal absorption and overall formula potency. It also allows extended release for a continual, long-term dosage.

The scientific discovery has led to the creation of products with unique formulations that can withhold both oil and water-soluble ingredients as each vessel can be tailored to hold multiple active ingredients, that otherwise cannot co-exist. Quality over quantity, Noble Panacea produces in small batches taking up to 10-12 weeks to manufacture one existing formulation, with the final product hand-assembled by technicians in-lab to promise complete protection and an impeccable finish.

The brand introduces its three collections to the region: The BrilliantNP prevents, preserves, and protects for a radiant, healthy-looking complexion, while The AbsoluteNP repairs, restores, and regenerates for luminous and replenished skin. The ExceptionalNP complements The BrilliantNP or The AbsoluteNP, to elevate, transcend, and transform by addressing specific skin needs for unparalleled results.

Noble Panacea launches in the UAE in February 2023 and will be available at ounass.com, bloomingdales.ae and Bloomingdale’s Dubai.

Guerlain has collaborated with Dubai-based Lebanese jewellery designer Nadine Kanso to redesign its iconic Bee Bottle with a unique creation featuring Kanso’s love for Arabic letters.

The glitzy design sees the bottle reinterpreted as a bejewelled ornament and a declaration of love.

The dreamlike creation featured the word “Love” etched in calligraphy all around the bottle, which has been gilded with 24-carat fine gold and studded with 1,710 Swarovski crystals using the finest expertise in jewellery-making. Each piece was hand-crafted in France and required twelve hours of meticulous craftsmanship, making each piece unique.

Nadine Kanso

This elegant bottle will house Réve d’Amour, an exclusive Eau de Parfum. The fragrance opens with a fresh, vibrant blend of mandarin and petitgrain, before revealing a luminous bouquet of white flowers, as well as a sensual base of woody cedar, ambrette and benzoin notes.

This exclusive creation will be limited to just 30 pieces worldwide.

Tiffany & Co. has revealed Nancy Ajram as its first female ambassador from the Middle East.

The Lebanese singer appears in a new image from the brand wearing a Tiffany High Jewelry Diamond Ring, Tiffany Victoria Diamonds, and creations by Jean Schlumberger, who famously collaborated with the House to create designs of unprecedented beauty, including the original Bird on a Rock brooch.

“It is a great pleasure to work with Tiffany & Co. and to collaborate with a House, which dedicates itself to innovation while also cherishing craftsmanship,” said Nancy Ajram. “I have long been fascinated by Tiffany & Co., its incredible archives and the intriguing stories hidden in so many of its magnificent pieces, and with every new collection I find myself mesmerized all over again.”

The appointment coincides with the reveal of the reinterpretation of the Iconic Bird on a Rock Brooch, created by Jean Schlumberger in 1956, with the World’s Rarest Natural Pearls – Bird on a Pearl.

This debut High Jewelry Capsule Collection was presented in Doha for the first time.

It’s still only February but this year has already seen so many changes and surprises happening in the fashion industry. One of the most highly anticipated of those was Daniel Lee’s first collection for Burberry after the former Bottega Veneta Creative Director was revealed as Burberry’s Chief Creative Officer late last year.

On a cold winter’s night in South Kensington, London, fashion experts, celebrities and friends of the brand gathered for the reveal of the designer’s Fall/Winter 2023 collection for the British Fashion House.

Rumours had already been circulating of what the collection might divulge ae a new logo and Burberry font was revealed on the brand’s digital platforms earlier this month, with a nod to the brand’s heritage, and Daniel’s own Britishness, there were sure signs that this would be a celebration of the brand’s DNA and its connection to the United Kingdom.

Set against a black backdrop the Fall/Winter 2023 collection for men and women celebrated the fundamentals and key icons of the brand. This was surely a celebration of “Britishness” as well as a celebration of the iconic elements that make Burberry what it is. The classic check print was blown up and presented in bold colours across tailoring, blanket coats and knits, alongside an evolution of the Equestrian Knight Design (EKD).

Lee’s love for colour is reiterated through his choice of royal blue, yellow and green, combined with rich purples, bold red and pink, reinterpreted and paired together in a modern way.

In outerwear, the classic Burberry trench coat made a return to the runway, this time oversized with faux fur-trimmed lapels, while the car coat was deconstructed, and the duffle and aviator exaggerated with softer silhouettes.

The connection to the UK was reinforced by pleated tartan-inspired kilts over trousers, chunky Aran and argyle jumpers and British motifs, including the English rose.

In accessories, bags draw on the outdoor aesthetic that Burberry is known for, and saddle bags and satchels in sturdy colours and fabrics carry an initial ‘b’ that also forms its fastening. Details are considered and functional.

Casual shoe styles draw on the functionality of the brand, from heritage-inspired equestrian boots to rubber rain boots. Sneakers are amplified, whilst a signature square shape frames sandals, mules and pumps in iterations that include cosy faux fur and shearling.

The show not surprisingly, attracted an A-list audience with celebrity guests including Baz Luhrmann, Bianca Jagger, Bright, Jason Statham, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Naomi Campbell, Jodie Comer, Stormzy and many more.

This colourful interpretation of the brand’s DNA opens an exciting new chapter for the House and a successful debut for Daniel Lee.

Givenchy reveals Gentleman Society, the newest fragrance part of the iconic Gentleman collection. The luxury fragrance has an exclusive signature combining wild narcissus flower with a deep woody accord.

Gentlemen Society is the newest addition to the Gentlemen collection, the French brand’s luxury collection for men.

The bottle offers a powerful design with architectural lines and an embossed metal plate bearing the iconic Givenchy 4G logo. In line with the brand’s eco-responsibility commitments, it is composed of 15% recycled glass. Its box, made with FSC^TM (Forest Stewardship Council) cardboard, features a chrome design stamped with the 4G logo and enhanced by a black frame: a nod to the design of L’Interdit, the House’s emblematic feminine perfume.

The Gentleman Society Eau de Parfum comes in 60ml and 100ml bottles. It’s also available as a must-have bath range: a shower gel, as well as two deodorants (in stick and spray versions), complete the perfuming ritual.

Kim Kardashian is the face and muse of Dolce&Gabbana’s new Spring/Summer 2023 campaign.

Featuring the collection that she curated along with the designers Kim appears in the rooms of an Italian villa which serves as the perfect backdrop for the vintage-inspired pieces. The images were shot by photography duo Mert&Marcus.

The clothes in the collection come from a singular reinterpretation of the Dolce&Gabbana 1990s and 2000s archives which have so often inspired Kim throughout her life and career.

The campaign is a journey through Dolce&Gabbana’s DNA n which new meanings meet the unmistakable characters that have made the brand’s history: a universal language that gives voice to everyone’s desires and aspirations.

Bahrani designers Shaikha Noor Al Khalifa and Shaikha Haya Al Khalifa of Noon By Noor unveiled their Fall Winter 2023 collection at London Fashion Week.

Inspired by images by French illustrator Francois Berthoud the collection combines fashion, art and imagery in a neautral colour palette.

“For Fall Winter 2023, we began our dialogue with images from the french Illustrator Francois Berthoud and his book titled ‘Facsimile.’ First commissioned by Anna Piaggi for Conde Nast’s Vanity Fair, his work soon appeared in all leading magazines, including Vogue, Numero and Interview.” Said the designers.

“Beautiful high–impact imagery that blends art, fashion and communication created in tones of black, grey, and browns – this was a starting point.”

“Sometimes we are so busy looking outward that we forget to look inward and this season, we also looked at the things surrounding us growing up. Art, culture and the beauty of our home.”

The looks comprise a sleek elongated silhouette where skirts and coats graze the floor. Menswear-inspired pieces add to a collection of essential core looks that reconsider the idea of seasonal dressing. These are long-lasting pieces that will transcend the traditional seasonal cycle.

Column-cut cowl front dresses carry precise cuts and constructions and are easy to wear, while classic sailor collars are seen on t-shirt shape shirts or tunics. Jackets are cut with precision and shape, often patched together using tones of noir. Paired back designs reflect a 90’s minimal New York scene combined with an understated element of tradition, craft and avant-garde glamour.

Ahead of the presentation in London the new season creative ­– a catwalk film – was captured on the grounds of RAK Art Foundation in Bahrain, a non-profit art gallery founded by Bahraini artist and collector HE Shaikh Rashid bin Khalifa Al Khalifa. Originally built in 1930, the converted traditional Bahraini house, where the painter was raised, contains myriad works from international artists and his oeuvre.

Original artwork by Shaikh Rashid titled ‘CUSP’ (2020) set the perfect catwalk backdrop, showing the moment of transition between the sun and the moon, the point where two curves meet. A portrayal of the brand’s love for East meets West. Masculine and feminine, light and shade. The sun and the moon.

For more information, visit noonbynoor.com.

Tod’s and Automobili Lamborghini have announced an exclusive partnership that will see the two Italian brands create a line of luxury leather goods, shoes, apparel and accessories.

Combining Italian craftmanship and tradition as well as technological research and innovation the collection will represent the highest expression of Italian design taking the best from these two Italian powerhouse brands.

“Tod’s was founded at the beginning of last century by a passionate and visionary artisan. About 50 years after, Ferruccio Lamborghini made his dream come true and founded a company moved by the same passion and vision, with a relentless commitment to research and innovation,” said Stephan Winkelmann, Chairman and CEO of Automobili Lamborghini. “We are proud of this collaboration that sports an undisputed Italian touch.”

Diego della Valle, President and CEO of Tod’s Group added: “Lamborghini represents the highest expression of design and technical integrity in the automotive industry. The attention to detail, the constant research and innovation are key values for both brands, and truly represent Italian style.”

More is yet to be revealed about the collaboration and its specific products but it’s sure to be the epitome of Italian chic. Stay tuned!

Nestled into the stylish beachfront location of West Palm Beach on The Palm Jumeirah, a new elegant Italian restaurant has become the go-to luxury dining destination for UAE residents and tourists.

Loren Ristorante combines the flavour of the Italian Riviera with gorgeous art deco-inspired interiors to create one of the city’s hottest locations. Situated in a rooftop setting with stunning views overlooking the Arabian Gulf and the Dubai Marina skyline this picturesque setting is the perfect location for a romantic evening or a catch-up with friends. We were immediately impressed with the interiors which combine Art Deco elements with sixties and seventies Italian-Riviera-style details.

If the weather allows, a table outside will give you the opportunity to take in the impressive views, while the inside tables offer views into the open kitchen. The service here is impeccable with international staff sharing their expertise on the food and drinks throughout your evening.

When it comes to the food you won’t be disappointed. Open for lunch and dinner Loren Ristorante focuses on hearty Italian dishes with an artistic flair. Presentation here is second to none and with colourful dishes and creative plating that make each course perfectly Instagrammable.

On the Menu

From delicious seafood to Italian classics to irresistible dessert Loren Ristorante is a treat for your senses. Highlight starter dishes include:

• Manzo Battuto Alla Piemonthese; an angus beef carpaccio with Bagna Cauda, Stracchino Cheese, Baby Spinach, Topinambur Chips.
• Branzino Alla Catalana; the Sea Bass Tartare, Catalana Sauce, Potato Soufflé, Red Onion & Grapes Gel.
• If you are looking for something colourful the Melanzana Affumicata is for you. It comprises of Oven Baked Eggplant, Tomato Sauce, Mozzarella, Grana Padano & Basil.
• Burrata E Peperoni 90 Burrata Cheese, Roasted Bell Peppers, Green Olives, Aromatic Oil.
• Insalata Loren is a must-try salad with Mixed Seasonal Leaves, Peach, Orange, Roasted Mixed Nuts, Loren Dressing.

Our favourite main courses include:

• Tortelli Loren; Tortelli Pasta Stuffed With Burrata & Pistacchio, Creamy Lemon Sauce.
• Bresaola E Stracchino pizza croccante.
• Branzino Mediterraneo; Seared Wild Sea Bass Fillet, Beluga Lentils, Broccoli Purée, Artichoke, Fish Broth

From the grill, highly recommended dishes include:

• Branzino Al Sale; Oven Baked Sea Bass In A Salt Crust.
• Wagyu Ribeye 300g: Chargrilled Wagyu Ribeye Ms – 5.

And finally, make sure you save room for dessert. Our favourite sweet treats are:

• Profiteroles Al Cioccolato: Profiteroles Filled With Hazelnuts Praline, Topped With Warm White Chocolate.
• Traditional Tiramisu Served With A ‘Cremino’ Sigaro.

For more information visit: lorenristorantedubai.com

For Reservations: 04 5578293 | reservations@lorenristorantedubai.com

We reveal the latest resort and hotel openings in the region to look out for in 2023.

Atlantis The Royal Dubai, UAE 

Perhaps the most highly anticipated hotel opening of 2023 is Atlantis The Royal, this expansive luxury resort is already an icon in Dubai’s skyline as it towers over the Arabian Gulf at the tip of The Palm Jumeirah. This spectacular property is set to be the pinnacle of luxury, offering guests an experience like no other, uniquely tailored to their every desire. The resort will feature 795 rooms and suites across 43 floors with 44 of the resort’s luxury Suites and Signature Penthouses offering private infinity pools, inviting guests to swim amongst the clouds. All rooms will come with five-star facilities and amenities as well as the best in technology systems and many will offer an exclusive butler service.

Atlantis The Royal will feature 17 unique dining experiences with show-stopping new restaurants and bars throughout. Following on from the success of Atlantis the Palm’s dining destinations the new resort will have Signature restaurants from culinary icons including Gaston Acurio, Ariana Bundy, Costas Spiliadis and Jose Andres, while Nobu will be opening their first-ever pool and beach club and Heston Blumenthal will introduce Dinner, as well as his debut bar, Resonance. The six towers that make up the hotel will be brought together by a 90-metre-long Skypool on the 22nd floor, which forms part of an outdoor entertainment experience called Cloud 22. Adjacent to Cloud 22 on the 22nd-floor guests will find Ling Ling, a modern Pan-Asian, day-to-night venue featuring 360-degree views of the Arabian Gulf and the Dubai skyline.

Tim Kelly, Managing Director of Atlantis Dubai says “This is it. Our moment is finally here to reveal Atlantis The Royal as the world’s most ultra-luxury entertainment resort. Openings of resorts like this one only come around once or twice in a decade, and we can’t wait to share it with the world. As these new images demonstrate, this is a resort like no other and the building itself will become an instantly recognisable icon of the Dubai skyline. We are excited to begin welcoming guests next year and treat them to an experience they’ll never forget.”

To be one of the first to stay at Atlantis The Royal, guests can make a reservation at www.atlantistheroyal.com. Reservations will open from 31st October 2022, for stays from 2023 onwards.

Bab Al Shams, UAE 

Dubai’s quintessential desert resort, Bab Al Shams is now accepting reservations, as it prepares to enter a new era, reopening in early 2023 under the Rare Finds vertical of Kerzner International. The extensive reimagination of the iconic desert resort will introduce a completely renewed aesthetic whilst maintaining the resort’s authentic identity. Captivating destination experiences and vibrant entertainment will be the beating heart of the reborn resort, spreading intangible energy to every stay, and imprinting everlasting memories.

Guests can return to reimagined, world-class culinary experiences such as modern Arabic cuisine, a rooftop lounge, and al fresco dining. Championing local producers and using responsibly sourced ingredients, each outlet will showcase the exceptional array of sensorial and theatrical dining available throughout the resort.

For more information visit: www.babalshams.com

SIRO One Za’abeel 

Immersive lifestyle and fitness brand, SIRO, will launch its inaugural hotel, SIRO One Za’abeel, in Q4 or 2023. This first hotel for the SIRO brand will be located in the heart of Dubai’s iconic One Za’abeel development in Downtown Dubai.

A fitness and recovery destination, SIRO One Za’abeel will offer holistic fitness and wellbeing programs, in a beautifully designed hotel environment with stunning views of Dubai’s skyline. Guests will have access to top-of-the-line facilities while receiving expert guidance and coaching from a team of fitness and wellbeing experts. Programs will focus on five pillars: fitness, nutrition, sleep, recovery and mindfulness. When the hard work is done guests will relax in the hotel’s guest rooms, known as the ‘Recovery Cocoons’. The rooms will feature the latest technology, in place to improve physical and mental recovery, mitigate jet lag, enhance mood and ensure restorative sleep.

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Room features include a thermoregulation mattress, a recovery cabinet, wellness pillows and anti-allergen duvets, through a sound-proofed environment, a dimming lighting system and wake-up and sleep rituals.

For more information visit: www.sirohotels.com/dubai

One&Only One Za’abeel

Situated in the new exclusive Za’abeel neighbourhood, One&Only One Za’abeel Resort is set to be a must-visit destination in the heart of the busy city. Dubai’s newest icon, designed by internationally acclaimed architect Nikken Sekkei, the dual-tower edifice showcases 360-degree views of Dubai’s glimmering skyscrapers, lush green expanses and transcendental sunsets. Featuring an impressive design this modern building is set to reshape the city’s skyline.

A place where timeless elegance fuses with intuitive function, tradition meets modernity and contemporary style marries with bespoke individuality One&Only One Za’abeel rises high above the city representing the pinnacle of urban living. It will feature private residences as well as luxury accommodation. The rooms and suites have been designed with comfort and style in mind with earthy-toned interiors, floor-to-ceiling windows and curated artworks.

The hotel will be home to 11 restaurants and bars, spanning Argentinean, Indonesian and Middle Eastern delights located within “The Link – World’s Longest Cantilevered Building”. The Link is a panoramic sky concourse that connects the two towers of One Za’abeel, floating an awe-inspiring 100 metres above the ground. It will offer an exploration of world-class restaurants, celebrity chef outlets, a statement swimming pool, wellness facilities, retail and entertainment.

For more information visit: www.oneandonlyresorts.com/one-zaabeel/

The Outpost, Qatar

The Outpost Qatar is located in Al Barari in the unique Inland Sea nature reserve of Qatar’s desert. The resort is designed to provide a one-of-a-kind luxury experience celebrating Qatar’s rich natural environment and heritage. Surrounded by soaring sand dunes and desert wilderness, each of the private 21 tented villas delivers an authentic nature experience, blended with the expected flourishes of luxury hospitality. Many of the villas include a private pool and extensive outdoor terraces that allow guests to experience the beauty of nature in privacy. Created as an escape from busy life, The Outpost is a wellness experience and private getaway in one offering exclusive experiences for guests from desert yoga to spa treatments to high tea.

The Outpost is located around one hour from Doha city by car and a pickup service can also be provided by the resort. For more information visit: www.theoutpostalbarari.com.

Banyan Tree AlUla, Saudi Arabia

Situated in the magical surroundings of AlUla, this new all-villa resort features 79 luxurious tented villas in one of the world’s most mysterious and exciting new destinations. Infused with elements from the nomadic nature of Nabataean design and heritage, the resort offers one, two, and three-bedroom villas with private pools and outdoor living space, showcasing stunning views of the rock formations in the Ashar Valley.

The resort is designed to offer a multi-sensory experience combining the stillness and peacefulness of the area with stunning nature and five-star hospitality. The resort’s spa is a perfect haven offering a holistic approach blending Asian rituals and Arabian traditions, where natural and native ingredients are at the core of each treatment. The impressive Rock Pool is not to be missed, surrounded by the majestic sandstone mountains it makes for a sanctuary of relaxation.

For more information visit: www.banyantree.com/saudi-arabia/alula

As the temperature heats up and we embrace the warmer months it’s time to adapt your wardrobe for Spring. We reveal three key trends for men to try this season.

Stripes

From preppy pinstripe to bold nautical stripes the geometric print is set to be a statement look for Spring. Choose monochrome stripes for an understated look or, opt for bold colours if you want to make more of an impact.

Emporio Armani

Versace

Dries Van Noten

Double Denim

Another revisit to the nineties comes in the form of double denim which was seen across the Spring/Summer 2023 runways. No explanation is needed here, just6 pair your best denim pieces together and you’ll perfect the look.

Givenchy

Fendi

Tod’s

Dolce&Gabbana

Kenzo

Bold & bright

Colours are bolder and brighter than ever in today’s menswear collections. From Pillar Box red to highlighter yellow and green, don’t be afraid to experiment with the strongest and most eye-catching hues.

Versace

Givenchy

Ferragamo

The Louis Vuitton LV Ski Collection returns this year with a new winter-ready wardrobe. Designed for both style and performance the collection captures the House’s travelling spirit and puts an elevated spin on activewear.

Pieces in the collection can be worn as full looks or mixed and matched to suit any style. Highlight pieces include a Monogram fleece with a new signature winter Monogram, puffer jackets and sporty knitwear.

Technical materials offer performance and durability. For example, a series of puffer jackets combine the heat of genuine goose down padding, sourced from responsible farming which ensures the respect of animal well-being, and the use of recycled nylon fabric, ECONYL®.

Outerwear combines shearling and leather for an elegant look and a chic parka in Monogram double wool can be worn at least five different ways. Salopettes, trousers and a funnel-necked jacket are among the dedicated ski wear grouping made from technical nylon and waterproof stretch gabardine traced with white piping and Monogram inserts.

Closer to the body, silhouettes are close-fitting with details that accentuate form. Technical compression jersey pieces in sporty tonal grey, blue and red are streamlined and feminine, while ribbed knits in sumptuous cashmere boast athletic stripes that give off a throwback allure.

The collection is complemented by a series of accessories including the Louis Vuitton ski goggles which first debuted in 2021.

Prada’s Spring Summer accessories feature antique Nappa surfaces which have been patinated, pressed and wrinkled, as to reinterpret archetypal and classic Prada handbag silhouettes.

Offering a worn look that is both timeless and modern, this season’s key bags are undoubtedly going to appeal to the younger generation who are looking to own a slice of Prada heritage.

Polarities are explored between minimalism and decoration, occasion and everyday – as in life, in reality, unanticipated dichotomies are observed, explored, and embraced.

Now available at Prada stores across the UAE and globally.

Alicia Keys will return to Maraya in AlUla for an exclusive evening and performance this February.

Performing in the country’s epicentre of art, culture and history the superstar will headline a concert as well as hosting “Women to Women” an exclusive gathering that discusses power and purpose with the region’s female trailblazers.

The second edition of Women to Women will embrace a future-forward mindset. The topics will be focused on their personal journeys, the importance of being resources to each other, benefitting from wisdom to nurture the collective, and legacy-making.

Keys is no stranger to the city after visiting, where she was captivated by the desert and the ancient civilizations who resided there. “There is no denying the beauty and history of AlUla, but there is something more. As an artist, I feel a sense of belonging and connection – with nature, with humanity, with the past and the future. I love it here, and I am excited to make magic again in AlUla.” said Keys.

Women to Women event with Alicia Keys and Princess Reema Bint Bandar Al-Saud

The concert and Town Hall is once again, presented by Good Intentions, co-founded by Keys’s husband, producer and creative mogul Kasseem “Swizz Beatz” Dean and Saudi native Noor Taher. The movement creates one-of-kind, culturally driven experiences with a focus on community impact in the Kingdom.

The concert will be broadcast on MBC TV channel and AlUla Moments Youtube channel. Follow AlUla Moments on social media to stay updated on the ticket sales date.

With a new take on Iberian Latino fusion, La Niña Launches in the heart of DIFC.

With fans including Dubai Crown Prince, La Niña’s opulent interiors and vibrant dishes make it one of the city’s hottest new dining destinations. With a new take on Modern Iberian Latino cuisine, this elegant restaurant in DIFC’s ICD Brookfield Place promises to steer away from the traditional dining scene, offering a one-of-a-kind experience. The restaurant is accessed through a dedicated entrance where you will be welcomed by friendly staff. Next, you’ll head upstairs in a dedicated elevator before being greeted by the grandeur and opulent interiors and design.

The dishes at La Niña will take guests on a memorable journey around the world, with flavours and scents that take inspiration from multiple cultures and experiences. Visitors can expect to be immersed in a gourmet journey full of taste and adventure inspired by vibrant gastronomic cultures from the Iberian Peninsula to South America.

Drawing inspiration from these two rich cultures the restaurant menu is packed with tantalizing creations crafted by a team of exceptional chefs who combine their world-class culinary expertise and international know-how, to bring flavours from around the world to the table. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner La Niña’s dishes combine traditional ingredients with unique textures and techniques to create bold and complex flavours that guests won’t find anywhere else in Dubai.

Highlight dishes on the menu include Plato de Mariscos, a decedent seafood platter, as well as the Tuna Tartare and Ensalada Rusa. For dessert, the sweet white chocolate and avocado mousse is a treat for your senses and to make things even more exciting – it’s in the shape of an avocado!

The food isn’t the only element worth noting as La Niña’s interiors are also something quite special. Mimicking a traditional dining room this intimate setting draws inspiration from forgotten eras of centuries of sea exploration. The opulent blue and white interiors offer a regal feel, mirroring that of a regal dining room.

Painted tiles on the wall reflect the influence of the ocean and green plants a red velvet seating adds a touch of colour. There is fine attention to detail down to the hand-sewn napkins and creatively shaped serving dishes. Each element has been carefully thought out and perfected.

New York Fashion Week has kicked off and as designers present the Fall/Winter 2023 collections we reveal highlights from the runway so far.

Carolina Herrera

Wes Gordon’s Fall/Winter 2023 collection for Carolina Herrera was inspired by the dichotomy of discipline and grandeur found in ‘Sisi’, Empress Elisabeth of Austria. This dazzling figure was a symbol of opulence and elegance, unapologetic beauty and drama. This concept of opulence has been reinterpreted in a colourful and statement-making way. Voluminous silhouettes layers and layers of tulle are juxtaposed against a sharply tailored suit precisely cut to the millimetre. Geometric stripes, jewelled-toned colours, gold embroidery and chunky embellishment offer a regal appeal to this luxurious collection.

AREA

New York-based brand AREA kicked off New York Fashion Week with a colourful collection inspired by fruit which was interpreted in a playful pop-art way. The brand also unveiled a collaboration with Italian shoe designer Sergio Rossi which celebrates finding beauty in unexpected and challenging places.

Coach

Coach went back to basics with key essentials such as leather, denim and jumper dresses for its Fall/Winter 2023 collection that was presented at New York Fashion Week yesterday evening. Stuart Vevers created a simple silhouette paired with statement accessories and bold touches of colour.

Dior Beauty has introduced a new skincare ritual for men with the addition of new Dior Homme shaving products to its sports skincare range.

This new shaving step in your man’s morning routine is designed to be followed by the Dior Homme After Shave Balm. Simple yet, beneficial these new products are enriched with ingredients that will leave the skin feeling clean, soft and soothed.

The collection features a razor that glides easily over the skin, while the Dior Homme shaving cream is smooth and easy to apply. It was designed and formulated with precision to effectively alleviate razor burn thanks to a formula infused with cotton extract. Developed with a natural approach, it features 94 per cent natural origin ingredients, that have been carefully selected to keep the skin hydrated, fresh and smooth. Shaving time is reduced and the skin will be left feeling fresh all day.

The routine finishes with the fresh and spicy signature scent of Dior Homme Sport Eau De Toilette. Energetic and sophisticated with a lively and sensual edge the recently revisited edition of this scent offers a rich yet dynamic edge.

The collection is supported by a campaign starring actor Robert Pattinson, a Dior Man who knows how to embrace his masculinity, combining sophisticated and relaxed versions of himself. Pattinson is captured in a series of images by photographer Mikael Jansson in graphic black and white with red text.

The Dior Homme complete shaving collection is now available worldwide.

This weekend Sharjah was painted in colour for the 2023 edition of the Sharjah Light Festival.

For the 12th edition of the cultural event, Key landmarks around the Emirate including Sharjah Mosque, University City Hall, Al Noor Mosque, Khalid Lagoon Corniche and more were drenched in colour for a spectacular display.

The event was opened with a ceremony in the presence of His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Salem bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, and His Excellency Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, Chairman of the SCTDA, along with a number of officials from the emirate, representatives of various media outlets in the UAE, and visitors to the event from the UAE and abroad.

The opening ceremony included a dazzling light show titled Chasing the Light, a story of finding that flicker of light in the shadows, the silver lining and the efforts we take to keep the flame of curiosity high.

This year’s edition of the Sharjah Light Festival presents performances and events in a new format, highlighting the emirate’s unique urban and architectural character, as well as its cultural identity, which have positioned it as an attractive destination for tourists and visitors from around the world. Mesmerising light shows and art displays will adorn buildings and destinations across the Emirate of Sharjah, with seven international artists taking part alongside a group of emerging creative artists.

Speaking at the launch event, H.E. Al Midfa asserted that: “Sharjah Light Festival continues on its journey of excellence and innovation, continuously updating its visions and ideas, developing the technologies it relies on, and adapting to new developments, in order to ensure sustainable, positive results. With that in mind, the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority is committed, with every edition of the festival, to reinvent its performances, develop side events, and attracting world-renowned artists, all in an effort to highlight the latest destinations and landmarks in the Emirate of Sharjah and provide more services to the public at each of the festival’s locations.”

H.E. Al Midfa explained that the festival’s success is the result of the Authority’s tireless efforts, which are in line with the vision of H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, UAE Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, and the boundless support of H.H. Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Crown Prince, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, and Chairman of the Sharjah Executive Council.

“The Sharjah Light Festival has become a leading event that the public looks forward to every year to create unforgettable memories, immortalised in thousands of posts on various social media platforms that travel across borders and bring joy to millions of followers,” H.E. added. “Here in Sharjah, we take pride in all our achievements, and celebrate the festival’s popularity and good reputation, which had a tangible positive impact on the domestic and international tourism sector in the emirate.”

For more information and to check the dates of the light shows and events, please visit the Festival’s official website: www.slf.ae

For the first time an exhibition of Guy Bourdin’s artworks is being shown in Dubai.

Through a partnership between THAT Concept Store and ap8.art, large hand-printed formats of some of the French artist’s most iconic works are being displayed exclusively at THAT Concept Store in Mall of the Emirates, Dubai.

© The Guy Bourdin Estate 2023 Courtesy of AP8

This special exhibition includes 17 large format hand-printed and framed photographs by the artist and fashion photographer, which are also for sale and exclusively available at THAT Concept Store.

© The Guy Bourdin Estate 2023 Courtesy of AP8

“We are delighted to mark the start of a new collaboration between THAT Concept Store and the prestigious ap8.art, showcasing this iconic exhibition for our discerning customers. We are committed to continuously evolving THAT’s lifestyle section through the development of diversified product categories that deliver a unique customer experience, and by joining forces with ap8.art, we are able to deliver exclusive artwork to the region, making the collecting of art even more accessible,” says Fahed Ghanim, Chief Executive Officer, Majid Al Futtaim Lifestyle.

© The Guy Bourdin Estate 2023 Courtesy of AP8

Guy Bourdin’s career spanned more than forty years during which time he worked for the world’s leading fashion houses and magazines. From his early editorial fashion commissions, Guy immediately revealed his distinct style. His photographs went beyond fashion and can be considered some of the most iconic images of our time.

His pioneering techniques and skilful use of plot and perspective, meticulous compositions, hyper-colour, and contrast mean his works are instantly recognisable and timeless. This exciting project marks the first time Bourdin’s work has been presented in the Middle East.

© The Guy Bourdin Estate 2023 Courtesy of AP8

The selection of images includes some of the artist’s most recognisable images. Shot between 1970-1979, the collection showcases his bold aesthetic, fusing art, fashion, and culture.

“It has been a dream of mine to bring this sumptuous exhibition to the Middle East. There is no better place than THAT to showcase the artworks of the iconic Guy Bourdin – the photographer who was responsible for elevating fashion photography to an art form. This curated and framed collection is going to transform the home of collectors in Dubai and beyond,” says Viola Raikhel, Curator, and co-founder, ap8.art.

© The Guy Bourdin Estate 2023 Courtesy of AP8

The THAT Concept store & AP8 Guy Bourdin exhibition will run from 2nd February until 7^th March. All prints will be available for purchase at THAT Concept and online at THATConceptStore.com.

This season Dior’s men’s accessories are getting a makeover in the form of the CD Diamond canvas.

Designed by Marc Bohan the CD Diamond was first unveiled in 1974 on the Miss Dior lines before appearing on sweaters and shoes. The brand’s CD initials are revisited to resemble a refined diamond, creating a hypnotic design.

Brett Lloyd for Dior

For Summer 2022, the motif was reinterpreted by Kim Jones, Artistic Director of Dior Men’s collections, into a signature fabric, and for Spring 2023, it returned, this time on the House’s latest leather goods creations.

Brett Lloyd for Dior

The all-over print is featured on the Hit the Road backpack and crossbody, as well as on the Dior Lock pouch and wallet on a strap. It appears in both sporty and elegant iterations. As an extra surprise, the CD Diamond canvas adorns e B27 sneakers, completing the Modern Tailoring silhouette.

Brett Lloyd for Dior

Available at select Dior boutiques globally and online.

This winter if you’re looking for the perfect destination to relax, but still benefit from the vibrancy and excitement of the city, Address Beach Resort has it all.

Address Beach Resort has quickly become the city’s go-to destination, combining the best of cosmopolitan life, with a stylish beach escape, this hotel is a favourite of UAE residents and international tourists.

From the moment you arrive, you will be impressed by the architecture and design of this unique property.

Hotel lobby

As you enter the hotel from the lobby a breathtaking scene awaits with bright light flooding through the floor-to-ceiling windows and a series of welcoming seating areas for guests to gather and meet.

Deluxe King Room (Sea Facing)

With 217 modern guest rooms and suites, the hotel combines fine architecture with understated interior design. A blue, grey and white colour palette makes this property feel modern and airy while wooden details in the room add to the contemporary mood. Mesmerising abstract artworks throughout the hotel add a more homely feel to the property.

During the cooler months, the Jumeirah Beach hotel is the perfect place to enjoy the weather with many outdoor experiences and al fresco dining destinations. Choose from beachside Mediterranean dining at The Beach Grill to an exciting afternoon of fun at Daydreamer brunch, to evening glamour at Lebanese-Brazilian restaurant Li’Brazil.

The Beach Grill

Meanwhile, for sunseekers, there are endless locations around the hotel to soak up the warm rays. The beach has direct views of Ain Dubai, as well as access to nearby Jumeirah Beach Residence, with everything you need just a short few steps away.

Li Brasil

A visit to Address Beach Resort is not complete without a visit to the hotel’s 77th floor. Here you will find the world’s highest outdoor infinity pool, as well as the exclusive rooftop restaurant ZETA Seventy Seven. The views from here are entirely unrivalled in the city and it’s an experience you won’t forget.

As for the menu, there are so many delicious dishes to choose from. Start with a selection of signature sushi dishes including the 77 Role, Tempura Roll and California Roll.

If you are a seafood fan the oysters are a must-try, followed by a selection of hot appetisers such as duck spring roll, prawn tempura and Edamame. When it comes to main courses our personal favourite is the Wagyu Striploin, as well as the Grilled Lobster, and Pan Seared Sea bream. These mouth-watering dishes are perfectly finished off with the Amai 77 dessert.

For more information and booking click HERE

Giorgio Armani has partnered with Italian Sea Group to create a 72-metre Admiral Megayacht featuring Armani/Casa interiors which will be unveiled with an exclusive event at the Marina di Carrera headquarters on 11^th February.

The project was launched in 2020 and developed by Giorgio Armani in collaboration with the Admiral Style centre and perfectly blends the two company’s brand DNA and style. Combining the worlds of fashion and the most exquisite aspects of nautical life, the one-of-a-kind megayacht will be a unique avant-garde creation celebrating the best of design and innovation.

Image: Giorgio Armani

This yacht is the first of two designed entirely by Giorgio Armani, whose unmistakable style is immediately recognisable in both the exterior lines and the refined interiors. Timeless minimalism, which has always been part of the designer’s creative philosophy, redefines the very essence of the high-end megayacht concept in a radical yet elegant way, basing itself on the principles of simplicity and sophistication.

The design of the exterior, featuring a clear architectural influence, is both meticulous and captivating: large, sharp, geometric volumes are perfectly balanced with curvier, softer shapes, for an ensemble that is majestic yet dynamic. Thanks to the large, full-height glazed openings, the effect inside is one of being seamlessly immersed in light and the surrounding environment, which can be adjusted thanks to a clever positioning of sliding panels.

Image: Giorgio Armani

The Armani/Casa interiors amplify Giorgio Armani’s aesthetic philosophy, offering discreet, refined luxury and subdued tones. The décor is bold yet relaxed; the overall harmony is provided by a combination of elements that are skilfully combined into a space that is unquestionably exclusive and one of its kind. The apparent minimalism finds its counterpoint in the use of exquisite, refined materials, fine hand-crafted finishes, and a masterful mix of soft or vibrant colours.

Image: Giorgio Armani

“The sea and design are two of my greatest passions. With this new collaboration, I have extended my idea of furnishing and decor to the nautical world, in which – just as in fashion – aesthetics and functionality come together in a natural and elegant style. This highly stimulating project has allowed me to create customised spaces with Armani/Casa – like made-to-measure clothing – with the same craftsmanship applied to the choice of materials, details and production”, says Giorgio Armani, Chairman and CEO of the Armani Group.

Image: Giorgio Armani

Giovanni Costantino, Founder & CEO of The Italian Sea Group added: “This megayacht, the result of an exciting partnership of which I am extremely proud, is further confirmation of our way of being able to realize unique projects with Made in Italy brands of excellence that share our values. Giorgio Armani is synonymous with timeless elegance and sophistication, and his stylistic vision has also increased our stylistic sensitivity. This new yacht is projected to be positioned as a stylistic benchmark, also given the countless comments and regards we’ve received from various industry players. This therefore confirms our business model, which aims to customise every detail in order to make each of our works absolutely unique, in line with the vision and desire of each owner”.

The yacht will be unveiled during an exclusive event in Carrara Italy and will be officially delivered in early 2024.

Maison Valentino has revealed its newest boutique in the exclusive location within Atlantis The Royal.

The iconic hotel which officially opens on 10^th February 2023 will house an elegant new space featuring the Italian brand’s latest collections.

Spanning over 160 square metres the new boutique marks an important step in the development of Valentino’s worldwide retail network expansion featuring the new store concept that is entirely in sync with a client-centric approach and the expression of how today the brand has translated the values of couture into a language connected to the spaces, and architecture.

The concept represents Valentino’s identity as a Maison de Couture with an interior design which reflects the house’s artisanal approach, and it has been designed to fit into the territory and the community in which it is located in order to match the surrounding environment.

The interiors allude to 1930s Art Déco motifs and aesthetic, which merge into a contemporary language expressed through an eclectic material palette and details. The key elements are all made by natural materials such as natural canapa rope that wraps around different elements of the store, sisal for the floor and a spun silk fabric shantung wallpaper.

Valentino Atlantis Boutique in Dubai carries both Men’s and Women’s Valentino Collections including Valentino Garavani accessories. The boutique will open on Friday, February 10th.

It’s been revealed that Phoebe Philo will reveal her long-awaited brand this September.

Two years since the British designer revealed she would launch her own label under the LVMH Group there has been much speculation about how and when it would launch.

An Instagram account for Phoebe Philo says: “our inaugural collection will be revealed and available on our website, pheobephilo.com in September 2023. We will be opening for registration in July 2023 and look forward to being back in touch then.”

Philo has gained a cult following since her time at Celine where she was Creative Director from 2008 to 2018 and at Chloé from 1997 to 2006. She redefined how women dress with a new never-seen-before silhouette, new materials and new ways of wearing staple wardrobe pieces.

Little has been revealed about the brand so far but it’s likely Phoebe’s signature style which has become so popular will once again shine through with her new brand. We can’t wait!

Dubai Design District (d3) and Arab Fashion Council have announced the launch of Dubai Fashion Week. The inaugural show will take place from 10^th to 15^th March 2023 and will showcase collections from emerging and established designers from around the world.

The brand new celebration of talent will help to cement Dubai’s place amongst the leading fashion capitals of the world.

Building on the success of Arab Fashion Week, Dubai Fashion Week will become a definitive fashion feature in the region, featuring Men’s, Women’s, ready-to-wear and couture collections.

The announcement was made on 7^th February 2023 with an exclusive event at Dubai Design District (d3) in the presence of Abdulla Belhoul, Chief Executive Officer of TECOM Group, Issam Kazim, Chief Executive Officer of Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism,  Ammar Al Malik, Executive Vice President – Commercial, TECOM Group, Khadija Al Bastaki, Senior Vice President of Dubai Design District (d3), Jacob Abrian, CEO of the Arab Fashion Council, among other dignitaries, including government officials and high-profile fashion and culture media.

With shows planned in line with the global fashion calendar, Dubai Fashion Week will provide an international platform for emerging and established designers to grow their brands. Not only will regional designers get to meet and do business with international buyers and distributors, but it will also serve as a gateway for international talent and brands to continue expanding their global footprint through the regional market.

Khadija Al Bastaki, Senior Vice President of Dubai Design District (d3), part of TECOM Group, said: “Where there was Paris, Milan, London and New York, there is now Dubai. From economic activity to tourism and creativity, Dubai has carved its own space among the world’s cosmopolitan capitals, and fashion is one industry boosting its status. All eyes are on the Middle East for fashion and creativity, and now the sky is the limit. Dubai has the vision, ambition and innovation to elevate the impact and reach of creatives globally. Our evolving partnership with the Arab Fashion Council will strengthen our networks with international and regional partners and boost the industry’s contribution to the creative economy.”

Jacob Abrian, CEO of the Arab Fashion Council, said: “Dubai has arrived on the global fashion stage. Emerging and established creatives have shaped a distinct identity for the region that resonates far and wide. Our region’s fashion industry is entering a new chapter as we become increasingly active contributors to the global fashion narrative. Arab Fashion Council is proud to amplify this voice and partner with d3 and TECOM Group to launch Dubai Fashion Week, the official industry platform. Presenting Dubai as a global creative hub, Dubai Fashion Week will boost fashion exports and attract world-class investment.”

Serge Carreira, Head Emerging Brands Initiative, Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode added: “Over the last years, Dubai became one of the most dynamic places for arts and creative industries. The Arab Fashion Council and Dubai Design District have been successfully promoting and supporting talents from all the regions focusing on creativity, values and excellence. Fashion is a cultural expression fuelled by tradition but also by the zeitgeist.  I strongly believe that Dubai has now the capacity to become a global fashion hub addressing today’s questions of sustainability, technology and diversity.”

Leading up to Dubai Fashion Week, the official calendar will enable brands, designers and industry players to activate their own programme of runway shows, presentations, exhibitions, pop-ups, special celebrations and workshops in d3 and across Dubai. More details about the inaugural edition will be revealed closer to the date.

For more information, please visit: dubaidesigndistrict.com

EAST Architecture Studio is a collective practice committed to architectural design and experimental research.

Based in Beirut, the studio has a strong focus on innovation and modern environments that it brings its unique touch. Founded by architects Charles Kettaneh and Nicolas Fayad, the studio works on projects of various scales ranging from master planning to interior design and adaptive reuse, engaging both contemporary society and traditional culture. The firm operates as an open laboratory continuously in search of new architectural typologies that reconsider the intersection between spatial experience, form, and technology while adjusting to changing social, economic, and political environments.

With the architecture industry at a crucial point of growth, there are many exciting projects on the horizon. Emphasis on history, culture and territory is an integral part of the Studio’s adopted design methods, defining an architectural response that engages with the challenges of our time. Along with a growing team of talented architects, partners, and consultants, the practice is constantly evolving in the shifting landscapes of modern life. Here we find out more about the Studio and what’s in the pipeline for the coming year.

Tell us a little about how East Architecture Studio came to life and where it is at today.

East Architecture Studio is a collective practice founded in 2015 focusing on architectural design and experimental research led by architects Nicolas Fayad and Charles Kettaneh. With projects ranging from master planning to interior design and adaptive reuse, the studio gained international recognition in its early days after winning major design competitions for large-scale developments in Africa and the Middle East. Last fall, the studio was announced as the winner of the Aga Khan Award for Architecture for its 2022 cycle.

What is your vision for the company moving forward? 

The studio operates as a boutique architectural office yielding projects of multiple scales. This is in part due to a communal effort nurtured by a dedicated team of architects, collaborators and visionary clients with whom we share a joint vision for building a better future. We like to carry that joint spirit while exploring new territories, staying true to our design ethos regardless of the nature of the project.

You were recently awarded the prestigious Aga Khan award – tell us about this.

The Aga Khan Award for Architecture is given every three years to projects that set new standards of excellence in architecture, planning, historic preservation and landscape architecture. The Award seeks to identify and encourage built projects that successfully address the needs and aspirations of societies across the world, in which Muslims have a significant presence. Our project, the Renovation of Niemeyer Guest House, located at the Rachid Karami International Fair of Tripoli, North Lebanon, is one of the six winners of this year’s award. Our intervention was particularly commended for its social relevance in the context of Tripoli, as well as its sensitive renovation approach and its timelessness, as it sets out a relevant benchmark for the renovation of modernist heritage buildings in the region and in the Fair in particular.

What does it mean to you for your work to be recognised on an international scale?

We couldn’t be more honoured with this recognition. It comes with immense responsibility and great pride in equal measure. It also demonstrates that successful architecture comes in many different forms and that from great constraints intricate and surprising architectural responses can emerge.

How would you define your style of architecture?

Rather than defining our work stylistically, we opt to embrace specificity with every project that comes to the studio. We engage with these specificities in a contemporary way while being mindful of local cultures and construction techniques, bridging history with modernity.

It seems more than ever the lines are blurring between architecture, interior design and construction – where do you stand on this and how do you think the industry has changed?

Historically, there were never any boundaries between architecture, interior and construction, it has always been a holistic endeavour. We believe in that approach of envisioning spaces that operate in that way. In addition, the intricacies and complexities of a given construction technique create a very specific set of three-dimensional behaviours, materiality and applications. This directly informs the architectural qualities of a space, be it interior or exterior.

Where does sustainability fit into your business model and how has this changed the way you work? 

We are very sensitive to the local specificity of the projects we work on. Our studio relies on applied research when it comes to construction methods that borrow from the past while embracing innovative building techniques. This focus on local resources and techniques goes a long way in promoting sustainable development and is embedded culturally in our part of the world. We embrace it, as it has always been a primordial aspect of our design process.

What is a project you are particularly proud of?

We are currently completing a gallery and private residence for an art collector. A capsule retreat that surges from a process of truly listening to the aspirations of its owner. The decisions behind its form and materiality are rooted in the interpretation of the local building culture, an assemblage of fair-faced concrete and local stone. The result follows this premise, an introverted shelter in close contact with its environment.

What do you consider when taking on a client?

Architects are listeners, and with every client comes a story. Our role is to envision a narrative, or an imaginary construct through our own design principles. When given this liberty for interpretation, clients allow architects to believe in the progress and push the boundaries of architectural knowledge. This exchange is crucial through early conversations with a prospective client.

What do you say no to?

We believe that every challenge hides opportunities that could offer unique possibilities for architecture. We do not reject but hold on to those challenges, because we know that the best projects come out of a complex process of negotiation.

How would you assess the architecture industry in the Middle East today?

The Middle East has become an epicentre for cultural production in an emerging new world. Giving shape to the region is a complex endeavour. Its character is rooted in the past, while its mind is set towards the future – a truly exciting time for architects and makers.

How do you get inspired?

As designers in today’s complex world, it is vital to acknowledge tradition, values, and beliefs but to also project ourselves into the future. We are very much inspired by contexts that have been shaped by history and time and like to carry our findings throughout every design project. In parallel, we heavily seek inspiration in the art world, through concepts that have become our own design principles.

What is in the pipeline for East Architecture studio for 2023?

2023 holds many exciting projects. On the drawing board is a commercial tower for the Kuwaiti quarters of Al-Qibla as well as a private home tucked in the coniferous hills of Mount Lebanon. Some of our construction sites are reaching their finishing stages, waiting to be revealed and lived. We always look forward to witnessing our clients appropriating their spaces, it’s always a very rewarding moment for everyone. Other planned events include the curation of a national ceremony for the Aga Khan Award for Architecture, and a book launch co-edited by our studio on the urgency of preserving our modern heritage. The year will also be interspersed with a series of lectures and symposiums around the theme of architecture, culture and contemporary society.

Hidden beneath the impressive architecture of Address Beach Resort The GARDEN of Dreams is a hidden sanctuary amongst the hustle and bustle of the city.

Located close the JBR Beach this Mediterranean lounge makes the perfect relaxing escape to hang out with friends during the weekend and soak up the warm winter weather.

Every Saturday GARDEN of Dreams hosts its Saturday Daydreamer brunch which offers lively entertainment and delicious food for guests, beginning with a selection of sharing starters including lentil salad, prawn tempura, pizza rucola, and the must-have burrata you’ll kick off your weekend in style with a colourful selection of cocktails and mocktails. The main courses include homemade pasta Arrabbiata, baby chicken and sirloin steak. Finish with a colourful dessert platter (you’ll never eat it all we promise!)

While you soak up the sun and the delicious flavours, you’ll be entertained by a DJ and singers and dancers throughout the day. This colourful carnival of shows will make this a day to remember.

DAYDREAMER Brunch

Saturdays 12.30 pm – 4 pm

Soft AED 280 / Premium AED 360 / Bubbly AED 500

For more information visit dreamdxb.com

Get ready for your little ones to look even cuter as Louis Vuitton reveals its first-ever baby collection.

Debuting this March the newborn collection will feature elegant yet playful accessories and clothing for boys and girls that will accompany the babies through their early days.

The timeless offering features Louis Vuitton branded accessories clothing and objects featuring the LV monogram, rearranged in the Meli-Melo motif, as well as the brand’s iconic flowers which appear as perforations on leather shoes, as a 3D knit in the finest cashmere, and as a discreet label affixed to many of the pieces.

Accessories include luxurious blankets, emblematic items in silver, small travel cases and even a Louis teddy bear.

The collection was inspired by the House’s DNA when Gaston Louis Vuitton introduced toys to the Maison’s universe with a Salon de Jouets inside the Champs-Elysées store in the 1930s.

Clothing is sized up to 12 months and includes onesies, coordinating ensembles, essential bodies, pyjamas, a dress, and a double-faced hooded coat that boasts Monogram flowers on the pockets and the Meli-Melo motif inside. In these complete outfits, babies will be effortlessly enveloped and adorably chic.

Details are delicately and meticulously considered, whether mother-of-pearl buttons on cotton cashmere cardigans, small embroideries on bloomers and bodies, or the subtle appearance of
the Monogram as a jacquard and printed on grosgrain.

Two shoe styles embellished with Monogram perforations bring extra cuteness to each look: Mary Janes or Babies in white and pink, and booties in white or dune with yellow laces. Knitted slippers and flower beanies will keep little feet and ears extra cosy. Bibs, socks and other small accessories – all given discreet Louis Vuitton signatures – are proposed as perfect gift sets.

Babies can indulge in the warmth of textile accessories such as a plush sleeper in natural silk with embroidered flowers, a knitted Monogram blanket, and a thicker, double-sided Meli-Melo blanket that can be laid out as a colourful mat.

Two cases – a small suitcase and a toiletry pouch – rework the traditional toile as tonal jacquard with leather accents and yellow piping. Engraved with different Maison motifs, a silver tumbler, a souvenir case, and a rounded rattle combine refinement and functionality.

The Louis teddy bear covered in jacquard with Monogram flower eyes and an affectionate smile will become a beloved friend to keep forever.

The collection will be available in selected Louis Vuitton stores from March 2023.

After the tragic death of her brother and founder of Qasimi, Sheikh Khalid bin Sultan Al Qasimi in 2019, Hoor Al Qasimi was tasked with taking over the running of her sibling’s fashion label, finding a way to continue with the vision of the brand as well as honouring his legacy.

Hoor Al Qasimi was born in Sharjah to the Emirate’s ruling family and she has worked for many years in the art and culture industry, including establishing the Sharjah Art Foundation in 2009 to help promote and grow the art and culture scene in Sharjah and the UAE as a whole. She also serves as President and Director of the Sharjah Biennial which highlights regional and local talent within the art world. Noting that the worlds of fashion and art can be closely intertwined, Hoor Al Qasimi has spent the last few years drawing out a roadmap that would honour her late brother’s vision, but also connect the work she is doing in the art world, with the brand her brother spent many years establishing. Qasimi is based in London but its roots are still closely linked to the UAE, with the culture and traditions of the country being a great source of inspiration.

Late last year Qasimi revealed Qasimi Rising. A talent incubator that will identify promising designers in the UAE and amplify their voices through a development and mentorship programme. The Qasimi Rising Talent Incubation will select and nurture two emerging designers over three years, providing holistic support across all business verticals. Talents will have access to a co-working studio space and support with production, product development, merchandising, marketing and all business functions from a network of industry leaders, placing them firmly within the Qasimi family while they develop their own voice. Qasimi will relaunch its e-commerce platform to accommodate its incubated brands, creating a digital space for them to build brand identity and sell products. Here we find out more about how the platform will work and discuss the UAE’s cultural scene with Hoor Al Qasimi.

Congratulations on the launch of Qasimi Rising – what inspired your to create this platform for emerging talent?

A lot of the work I do at Sharjah Art Foundation is focused on creating a platform for artists and filmmakers which has become a network, we continue to work with artists throughout the years and see their work grow and their careers flourish. It is something that I as a curator am interested in doing, within my many jobs and fields. I saw an opportunity to bring this same idea to Qasimi and look at how this can benefit designers in the long run. Another reason is of course to share resources, it’s important to support each other with networks, facilities, workshops etc. I see this as a way to work together, it’s not about competing, it’s more of a solidarity and becoming a community.

Talk us through the process and what the platform will do to support emerging designers.

We aim to give up-and-coming designers a platform that will support them in all areas of growth. The process starts with the application, these are reviewed by a panel of experts and the finalists will then be taken to Sharjah where they will meet one-on-one with panel and industry experts over two days. The finalists will be chosen on 14th March 2023. Two selected designers will get an initial three years of 360-degree business support, funding and mentoring, and an additional seven years of mentoring to build a long-term approach to their success.

Can you tell us some of the criteria you are looking for from the designers chosen for this project?

We are looking for designers who have a strong brand narrative and a voice that needs a platform. They should be able to demonstrate a clear brand vision and strength as a creative entrepreneur.

Why do you think it’s important to support upcoming talent, especially in this region and what do you hope to achieve with the platform?

Some parts of the world have fewer opportunities and access to these kinds of platforms. I believe that our location and connections help us to reach a more diverse group of designers and I am hoping that they will find the support and encouragement they need through this platform.

Can you share more details on the seven-year mentorship that will take place after the initial three years and how the support will continue?

We wanted to take a long-term approach and build a community around the RISING program. So, outside of the initial three years, we will continue the mentoring with business and team support. The chosen designers will also have access to the multi-brand wholesale showroom and our dedicated e-commerce platform to build their brand identity and share it with a wider audience.

Tell us about the Qasimi brand and where it is at today and what is the vision in this new chapter.

Qasimi is undergoing many changes, it was important to try to continue with Khalid’s vision and ideas but as with everything, you can’t second guess what someone would do especially with all the changes happening in the world. So the new chapter is to insert more of my vision and way of working in a way that will still honour him and his work, but also connect with the way I would like the brand to progress.

Can you share a preview of the curated permanent collection that will launch in 2023?

The permanent collection is more about having key pieces that are signature styles that our customers buy each season. They reflect timeless silhouettes and styles that are key to our ongoing collections and build a strong business to have a recognisable identity for QASIMI.

Can you tell us about the collaborations with artists that you plan to incorporate into the brand?

We have collaborated and worked with many artists in the past, for the last season; SS23, we collaborated with Omani photographer Tariq Al Hajri by using his photograph of a Dove as a print in the collection and we then invited him to photograph the collection in various locations in Sharjah.

How can your work for the Sharjah Art Foundation be complemented by the projects for Qasimi?

We have a few collaborations between Sharjah Art Foundation and Qasimi, such as a T-shirt to commemorate our upcoming biennial. Sharjah Biennial 15 “Thinking Historically in the Present” will open on the 7th of Feb 2023 in Sharjah and will celebrate 30 years of the biennial. We have also used an artwork by Nari Ward “We The People” (the Arabic version) which was part of the Sharjah Art Foundation’s collection for our SS21 collection.

In your opinion how would you assess the fashion and cultural scene in the UAE today?

There are many young designers in the UAE and a lot of platforms that are trying to support them. I have spoken to many designers to try to understand what is lacking and what they are looking for. I would say the fashion scene and culture scene intersect at times but more around certain trends or fields so it would be good to see more of those crossovers. The presence of fashion magazines like yours has also helped push the fashion scene here.

How do you think the industry has grown in recent years and what would you like to see happen moving forward?

I think brands are thinking a lot more about what they produce and how they produce it. Fair labour practices and trying to be more environmentally friendly. To produce less and make the garments last longer. In a time where everything is fast-paced and things are overproduced, and mass production of garments, it’s important to understand the social and environmental impacts of it all.

Are there any designers or artists that you are particularly inspired by or excited about currently?

I am always inspired by artists and work with many artists all the time, there are some artists I am working with currently for Qasimi but unfortunately, you’ll have to wait to see who they are!

What is the biggest challenge you face currently? 

There are many challenges, but I think trying to get the brand out there and have more visibility is a big challenge for sure. Not only for what we’re doing in terms of Qasimi Rising but for the brand as a whole and its collections at Qasimi.

What is the professional motto that you live by?

It’s an Arabic saying that translates as “every delay has a blessing”. Whenever we have had delays for any reason, it’s important not to fight it and see the reasoning behind those delays, usually and more often than not it has been an advantage and a “blessing”!

After discovering his passion for fragrance, Emirati entrepreneur and architect Assim Al Qassim decided to launch his own perfume brand that would capture the beauty of Arabian hospitality and share it with the world.

Knowing that Emiratis love to welcome guests into their homes Al Qassim wanted to capture this feeling in a series of perfumes inspired by his heritage and culture. So he decided to study perfumery which would enable him to put his plan into action and ensure it was done in the right way. He became the UAE’s first certified perfumer and once he qualified, he launched his brand Anfas.

With the idea that every home has a specific scent, and with every scent a new experience begins, Al Qassim wanted to capture this magical concept with Anfas. So he set about creating perfume collections inspired by emotional Arabian moments and concepts. As he plans to launch his fourth collection we find out more.

We know you are first and foremost an architect – how did your passion for fragrance come about and how did it turn into a career?

I also used to be a singer, not as a profession but as a passion, which allowed me to bring something to people in the form of sound. Architecture is a part of art, where you present people with something visually appealing. So I am interested in many artistic sectors. People from the Gulf region also love to play with and mix fragrances together, I had a great passion for fragrances as well, so I decided to follow that passion and try to create something that caters to the sense of smell. Coincidently, this passion turned out to be a profession over time. I met a professional perfumer and he sensed this passion in me. He asked me about my fragrances and what I was wearing and I told him I had mixed three fragrances together. He said I have a good nose and that I could maybe think about developing it more professionally. So from that point, I started to experience the perfume world, and then I decided to study perfumery. I always try to tweak my habits to be more professional and in the case of perfumes, this is exactly what I did.

Anfas Products 

How did you go from realising you had this talent to creating your company and making it formal?

It was a journey of up and downs. I first started the company before and I had all the knowledge so the perfumes I was making didn’t match the market or the customer’s needs. You can have a creative mind, but sometimes you need to understand the business side to make it work. The perfumers told me I had a very good nose, but I needed to make it more professional. So I decided to study perfumery and once I had done that I decided to establish the right brand that could professionally drive my passion and drive the business growth forward. The message I want to share with my brand is “a sense of Arabian home”. Through my perfumes, I am always trying to communicate this idea of opening my door to welcome the world to my home. I want people to smell the style of our life in the UAE, and the way that we welcome people to our country, I want to share that with people through the perfumes I create. I think anyone that comes to Dubai can feel how welcoming the people are here and this is what I’m trying to capture and share with everyone that smells my perfumes.

How do you manage to portray that message through your perfumes?

The name Anfas means “to breathe”. The reason I chose this name is that in the UAE we are breathing hospitality. We are breathing the way of being humble and tolerant and welcoming others. The story behind my first collection was this sense of Arabian home. I started by writing the story behind each fragrance and then I developed them one by one. We created a full collection that tells the exact message of the brand. After the first collection, we know each other, we have built a relationship, and we brought you to our home. Then it was time for the second collection; which focused on the angles that you need to establish in any place to make it feel like your home. We have followed this same concept with our third collection, and we are now working on our fourth collection, again I am trying to put my passion and love into every perfume I make.

Anfas Dhai fragrance

What are your favourite ingredients to use in your fragrances?

I am in love with vanilla and tonka bean because I feel like these two ingredients make everyone feel so calm. They have this earthy feeling which I love. Then from that, I play around with many different ingredients.

In our culture, we mix fragrances together. To some, it might seem unbalanced but in a strange way, it is perfectly balanced. We may not understand the formulations, but we understand which kinds of fragrances go together. So in my collections, if you take each collection by itself and you spray all of the fragrances together, you will have one fragrance and this has been done deliberately.

What’s the vision for your company moving forward?

I plan to be a well-known Emirati perfumer by 2026. I am proud to be Emirati and I want to give something back to my country in the form of delivering very nice fragrances to the world. My brand is an international brand already, everything is made in Italy, but I want to be a well-known Emirati brand and a recognised perfumer worldwide. That is the goal for 2026 and I wish for my fragrances to be in the top ten worldwide. I will be so happy that my country will be proud of my efforts.

What is the message that you want to share with other countries about the UAE and the heritage of fragrance here?

In the Middle East, we used to import fragrances from everywhere around the world and we learned a lot from this. But we also know that we have very nice ingredients here in the Middle East that can be developed into fragrances and this is what we want to share with the world. So my main message is first to my people; we have very good potential and a market to be established worldwide, and instead of only developing the local market, we can develop very nice globally known brands and showcase our culture and inspiration. We have our own style but we can make that international.

The second message that I want to deliver to the world is to tell them that they are welcome to our home. You can come to my city and not only smell my fragrances but understand how our culture is related to this. We want to welcome you. To visit our city and experience the smells of our country. Then you will understand that we have a very deep culture, representing this beauty.

What is the biggest challenge that you face?

Personally, it would be balancing my full-time job with the company. I am handling urban planning and infrastructure and development in Dubai, and I also have my passion and my business. It is a challenge but I already have the plan to do all these things.

The other major challenge is that there is a lot of competition in the world of fragrances, so you need to be the best that you can be to be well known. We have a huge market of perfumes, at certain times in Dubai you could have two or three new perfume brands established in a month. So there is a lot of competition but there is also good potential if you have a nice product.

How do you think The Middle East has influenced the fragrance industry as a whole?

The Middle East was the link point for trading from the North, South, East and West. So you can see in the Middle East a lot of different and varied ingredients. Because of our trading experiences with the whole world, we understand other people’s tastes. We have lots of successful fragrance brands in the Middle East and we see a lot of international brands today using Arabic names or Arabic ingredients. So we are already influencing.

When are you at your most creative?

My passion usually comes from our leadership. When I see how our leadership in Dubai put in great effort to build this beautiful city and to host so many people from around the world, that inspires me. We are aiming to be the best place to live in the world and this is where my passion comes out and I get most inspired. This is what drives me to do the best at whatever I’m doing.

What is the professional motto that you live by?

Every day is different. I need to be different. Some people can grow up normally and live their life normally, and then there are different people. Sometimes these people will struggle when they are young, but they are the ones who will grow up to be different in a very good way. I want to be someone who is remembered every day and I need to be a remarkable person. I want to be an ambassador for my country.

What would you still like to do that you haven’t done yet?

There is a lot on my wish list today! I have already designed two or three fragrances for other brands but my dream is to develop a perfume for one of the top ten brands in the world.

Are there any perfumers that you are inspired by or look to for inspiration?

Maison Francis Kurkdjian. I get inspired by the deep messages and passion that come from his fragrances. And from brands like Amouage. They are from our region and are already very well established so that is inspiring.

What is a message you would send to our readers on why they should discover your fragrances?

If you want to experience our heritage and our city, you are more than welcome to experience it through our collection, and if you want to feel the deep culture of Arabian homes, you will experience this through my fragrances.