This week will see Balenciaga open a couture store in Paris.

Located at the House’s iconic address: 10 Avenue George V the space will open on July 6th 2022, the same day as the unveiling of the Houses 51st Haute Couture show.

The Balenciaga Couture Store Is dedicated to preserving the brand’s heritage in its original Couture location which first opened in 1937.

Going beyond the salons reserved for client fittings, the Couture Store is a gesture to share Balenciaga know-how and welcome customers who want rare and unique products within the historic Parisian address.

The store will feature both men’s and women’s designs including exclusive creations that can be found only at this store. All of the pieces are limited edition and can be personalised or altered in the atelier upstairs.

“The concept of the Couture Store is a gateway to Couture, which remains a very closed universe, especially for new generations. In this new store, products, made to measure services and retail excellence are a reinvention of the Balenciaga client experience. It is exciting to be able to present this level of craft, creativity and made-in-France savoir-faire in our historical address.” says Cédric Charbit, Balenciaga CEO

BALENCIAGA COUTURE STORE:

10 Avenue George V 75008 Paris, France

OPENING HOURS:

Tuesday to Friday: 11AM to 7PM Monday and Saturday: by appointment

Elsa Schiaparelli is one of the most iconic and recognised couturiers of the last century, and now a new exhibition will celebrate some of her bold and exciting fashion creations from over the years.

Taking place at the Musée des Arts Décoratifs in Paris “Shocking! The Surreal World of Elsa Schiaparelli” will run from July 6th 2022 to January 22nd 2023 sharing the story of the fashion icon’s life and some of her most iconic creations. Elsa drew much of her inspiration from the close ties to the Parisian avant-garde of the 1920s and 1930s. Her design style was both innovative and groundbreaking for its time and her designs were often eccentric and bold, bringing thrill to the world of fashion.

Details of the “Phoebus” Cloak
Winter 1937-1938
Wool, silk and embroidery Musée des Arts décoratifs © Valérie Belin

In just 25 years Elsa Schiaparelli transformed the Haute Couture industry with her avant-garde designs as she recreated the interaction between women and femininity, allure and spirit. She embodied a vision of a bright and vibrant Paris, and she was curious about everything, enjoying each novelty that came her way. The exhibition brings together 520 works including 272 silhouettes and accessories by Schiaparelli herself, displayed alongside iconic paintings, sculptures, jewellery, perfumes, ceramics, posters, and photographs by the likes of Schiaparelli’s dear friends and contemporary artists: Man Ray, Salvador Dalí, Jean Cocteau, Meret Oppenheim and Elsa Triolet.

Elsa Schiaparelli —
Evening gown
Summer 1939
Silk
Musée des Arts décoratifs © Les Arts Décoratifs / Christophe Dellière

The exhibition will also showcase creations designed in honour of Schiaparelli by fashion icons including Yves Saint Laurent, Azzedine Alaïa, John Galliano and Christian Lacroix. Daniel Roseberry, Artistic Director of the House of Schiaparelli since 2019, will interpret the heritage of Elsa Schiaparelli with a design of his own.

Jean Clément —
Necklace
1938
Golden metal
mounted on fabric
Musée des Arts décoratifs © Les Arts Décoratifs / Jean Tholance
© Adagp, Paris, 2022

Displayed on two levels the exhibition is organised both thematically and chronologically around key moments of the designer’s career, linking her most remarkable collections from year to year with the works of friends and contemporaries who inspired her fashion designs. The exhibition was curated by Nathalie Crinière and will be presented in the Christine & Stephen A. Schwarzman fashion galleries of the Musée des Arts Décoratifs. It will showcase the close relationship between the worlds of fashion and art and how Elsa Schiaparelli was inspired by her deep fascination with artists and artwork. Elsa was not only a designer but an artist in her own right. She played with designs, creating artistic and bold pieces that were considered to be works of art in their own right.

The showcase begins with the introductory room, a vast and immersive space that is dedicated to the drawings of the couturière which number in their hundreds, conveying the extent of her work. The awakening of the artist in fashion and modernity is explored alongside the defining role that designer Paul Poiret played as a mentor in Schiaparelli’s life beginning in 1922.

Elsa Schiaparelli in collaboration with Salvador Dalí — Evening gown
1937
Silk
© Philadelphia Museum of Art

Elsa Schiaparelli went on to design her trompe l’œil patterned sweaters which awakened her taste for Art Deco, particularly after her contact with Jean Dunand, who designed a refined dress with lacquer painted pleats for Schiaparelli. She also collaborated with several iconic artists such as Ela Triolet, Jean Cocteau and Salvador Dalí. Their surrealist aesthetic is reflected in her designs during this time as she developed her acute sense of detail, introducing new patterns and materials in transparent plastics, crawfish-shaped buttons, “drawer pockets,” and lobsters.

The exhibition continues with pieces dedicated to the designer’s Italian heritage, nature and music. The Pagan Collection gives a nod to Antiquity with references to Ovid’s metamorphoses while the Butterfly Collection is an ode to insects. The Music Collection features extended silhouettes, something that has come to be an instantly recognisable symbol of the brand.

Elsa Schiaparelli —
Evening coat
Winter 1938-1939
Wool, silk and china Musée des Arts décoratifs © Les Arts Décoratifs / Christophe Dellière

The second floor opens onto the reconstruction of Elsa Schiaparelli’s couture salons, then located at 21 Place Vendôme in Paris, which she inaugurated in 1935. The interiors were designed by Jean-Michel Frank, known for his sleek, ultra-chic and elegant lines. The perfume cage delicately showcases her original olfactory creations, including the legendary “Shocking” which became a worldwide success. Emphasis is also placed on the intricate and luxurious art of embroidery and Schiaparelli’s taste for the works of Maison Lesage, founded in 1924, who created bespoke embroideries for her and other important fashion houses and continues to do so.

Pieces from 1938 to 1939 include the “commedia dell’arte,” inspired by the characters of the colourful 18th-century Italian comedy. The Astrological Collection, which blends Baroque references linked to Versailles with the Sun King celebrating the 17th century, and lastly, the Circus Collection with its sumptuous boleros embroidered with horses, acrobats, and elephants. Pre-war designs show a rather narrow cigarette-like silhouette while post-war designs are looser and more constructed.

The journey through time ends with Daniel Roseberry’s exclusive silhouette created to translate the Surrealist inspiration of the fashion house’s founder.

Shocking! The surreal world of Elsa Schiaparelli is open for visitors from 6th July until January 22nd 2023. 

Swiss watchmaker Breitling has revealed a redesigned version of its sporty sea watch.  The new Superocean builds on the original design, taking inspiration from the pared-down aesthetic of the Superocean Slow Motion; a design from the sixties and seventies.

This is combined with new modern features and a bright colour palette for a new version of this watch that can be worn from the sea to the pool, to the beach bar!

The simple design pays homage to a time when divers were looking for a simplified design that focused on precision, timing and performance. With many features of the original Slow Motion still in place, this watch combines watchmaking expertise and style.

The collection was unveiled to VIP guests at the Wheels & Waves surf and motorcycle festival in Biarritz. Following the unveiling, a day of sea-themed activities with surprise appearances from European surf and screen personalities entertained guests.

Speaking from the festival, Breitling CEO Georges Kern said, “There’s a certain sameness to the look of most dive watches, but the Slow Motion always stood out from the crowd. We’re so pleased to introduce our modern take on this classic, the all-new Superocean.”

The new collection features a series of colourful designs in four sizes (46, 44, 42, and 36 mm). The colourful dials are paired with a choice of three case metals: steel, steel-gold, and bronze. Two strap options in rubber and a three-row metal bracelet offer a variety of styles so it can work for both sports and leisure.

The technical elements of this watch include it being water-resistant up to 300 metres, a scratchproof ceramic-inlayed bezel, broad hands and indexes coated in Super-LumiNova® that allow for exceptional readability underwater. It is also shock and saltwater-resistant.

The watch features an automatic Breitling Caliber 17 which comes with a 38-hour power reserve and a two-year warranty.

The collection also features an exclusive special edition Superocean Automatic 42 Kelly Slater. Co-designed with the surf champion and limited to 1000 pieces. This watch has a bold orange dial and military green rubber strap that won’t go unmissed! This watch is inspired by a timepiece Slater’s dad used to wear when he was surfing.

Of the collaboration, Slater says, “I’ve been co-creating watches with Breitling for the past few years but this one, in particular, is very personal. It’s inspired by my late father, who had a watch with an orange face that he used to wear surfing for as long as I can remember. The green and orange together is a colour scheme I used to like for the airbrushes on my boards growing up. That combination has always stuck with me.”

The new Superocean is now available at Breitling stores around the world and online.

Bulgari Hotels & Resorts has announced the opening of a new luxury property in the Maldives.

Set to open in 2025 the island resort will be the group’s 13th hotel and will bring a touch of Italian luxury to the Indian Ocean paradise.

The Bulgari Resort Ranfushi, meaning Little Gold Island in the Maldivian language, will be located in the Raa Atoll of the Maldives archipelago, 45 minutes by seaplane from Maldives’ Malé airport. Surrounded by pristine waters and framed by lush, landscaped gardens, the Resort will spread over 20 hectares.

It will feature 54 keys including a Bulgari Villa on a separate exclusive island, 33 Beach Villas each with an individual swimming pool, 20 Overwater Villas and a full range of luxury hotel facilities including a fitness centre, yoga pavilion, private library, Bulgari boutique and an exclusive concept store featuring designs from handpicked international designers.

As with all of the group’s properties, design in key and Bulgari have enlisted once again the expertise of Italian architectural firm ACPV ARCHITECTS with Antonio Citterio Patricia Viel, introducing modern Italian style to the region.

The resort will feature four distinctive gastronomic experiences including renowned Italian Il Ristorante – Niko Romito by Michelin-starred chef Niki Romito. There will also be a Chinese fine-dining experience; Bao Li Xuan, twin of the two Michelin stars restaurant at Bulgari Hotel Shanghai, Hōseki, the Japanese concept already present at Bulgari Resort Dubai and the Italian beach food of La Spiaggia.

Bulgari’s CEO Jean-Christophe Babin said: “We are particularly proud to have secured such an extraordinary location for the new Bulgari Resort Ranfushi, as the Maldives are a key dreamy destination for our clients from all over the world. We are convinced that this new gem of hospitality addition will ensure once again the highest levels of quality and innovation to our international customers and we look forward to sharing with them the Bulgari values in hospitality at this new, very exclusive location.”

Dior presented its Cruise 2023 collection in the historic location of Seville, Spain.

With a spectacular backdrop featuring a procession of professional flamenco dancers, Maria Grazia Chiuri offered a modern interpretation of traditional Spanish dress, including red flamenco dresses, bolero jackets, and lacy detail skirts.

The icon of this collection is Capitana, the name given to Carmen Amaya, a now-iconic Spanish flamenco dancer. Her elegance and grace were the starting point for the pieces. Amaya was the first dancer to express freedom of movement through this type of dance with her revolutionary moves and as well as being the first female dancer to dress in outfits that had previously only been worn by men.

With that in mind, Chiuri combines playful feminine creations with structured masculine pieces for a juxtaposition of genders, creating a modern collection that is reflective of the times.

Spain has been a strong influence on the House of Dior beginning with the 1956 Spring/Summer haute couture collection for which Christian Dior designed the Bal à Séville dress; an ode to Spanish tradition.

Among other references, the looks evoke the Duchess of Alba, a legendary character who rode horses with Jackie Kennedy in a short jacket, high-waisted pants and a wide-brimmed hat worn on an angle. But also, red, black, and mantillas. Elsewhere, the abundance of embroidery that adorns the venerated Madonna della Macarena’s gowns takes on the role of a sacred ritual in a choreography that suspends the body into an iconic image.

Androgenous styles combined with the essences of femininity. Men’s pinstripe suits, pants worn with suspenders, silk-lined waistcoats; white shirts; all gave a nod to the region’s iconic clothing, while Andalusian horsemen’s pants and short jackets adorned with brandebourg closures.

Trimmed boleros made the silhouette even more slender; while sleeves flared out like capes. Shimmering taffeta – in red, yellow, ochre, and black – was sculpted into exuberant skirts that symbolize both Dior and Spain.

Carefully considered volumes elevate the contrasts; while lace appears in multiple forms.

The iconic Bar jacket is reinvented once again, this time in black velvet embroidered with various gold threads.

As usual for the House’s on-location presentations Maria Grazia Chiuri has spent a lot of time getting to know the local artisans and traditional handicrafts of the region, offering up the opportunity for these old-age traditions to be showcased to the world.

The Mohammed bin Rashid Library, the region’s largest library opens its doors to visitors this week.

The seven-story building located in the Jadaf area of Dubai is home to over one million books and over six million research papers. It cost a staggering Dhs1 billion to build.

Shaped like the pages of an open book this new cultural destination marks a key moment in the UAE’s cultural history and adds a new landmark to the city’s skyline.

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, personally inaugurated the library and was given a private tour of the extensive facility.

The library includes nine specialised libraries: the General Library; the Emirates Library; the Young Adults Library; the Children’s Library; the Special Collection Library; the Maps and Atlases Library; the Media and Arts Library; the Business Library and the Periodical Library.

Within the libraries are more than one million books, six million research articles, 75,000 videos, 73,000 music scores, almost 13,000 articles, 35,000 print and digital newspapers and 5,000 historical print and digital journals.

The instantly recognisable building has been designed in the form of a “rahl” a wooden stand on which the Holy Quran is often placed. This meaningful design adds a new iconic landmark to the city’s skyline.

“Today we launch a cultural and intellectual edifice for our new generations, through which we aim to promote reading, spread knowledge and support researchers and scientists,” His Highness Sheikh Mohammed wrote on Twitter.

“The economy needs knowledge, politics needs wisdom, and nations need knowledge, and all of that can be found in books.” He continued.

This new hub of information, culture and education is expected to attract thousands of visitors when it officially opens its doors to the public on Thursday 16^th June.

Hermès has been crafting leather goods since 1837, and quite surprisingly began its watch business as far back as 1928 when their watches would be defined by the House’s fashion codes.

In 1978, Hermès started to take watchmaking seriously with the establishment of La Montre Hermès in Biel, Switzerland. It began by producing Quartz watches closely inspired by the icons of the fashion house. Today Hermès Horloger is becoming a key player in the watch industry. It has moved away from light, fashion style watches to use mechanical complications and push the boundaries of watchmaking as it combines technicality with the creative universe of the brand. This year the brand returns with new designs that will further push the boundaries and carve out a new story for the Parisian house when it comes to watchmaking. To find out more about the latest novelties we met with Laurent Dordet CEO of Hermès Horloger.

The Kelly

What can you tell us about this year’s novelties?

In the jewellery segment, we have relaunched the Kelly watch. This watch was named after the Hermès Kelly bag which was invented in the 1930s. At that point however it was not called the Kelly bag, it became iconic when Grace Kelly adopted it in the 1950s. In 1956 she was captured by photographers with her Hermès bag placed in front of her to hide her pregnancy and that’s where the name “Kelly Bag” came from. The clasp of the Kelly bag has been used throughout many Hermès products over the years, and it entered our watch collections in 1975, three years before Hermès watches were being created in Switzerland, so it’s our oldest existing collection. Up until now, we haven’t changed the design of this watch for 47 years. It began as an entry price, fashion accessory watch and that is how it has remained. We have now decided to upgrade it to have more of a jewellery piece. We have reduced the size of the clasp, made it waterproof and consistent with modern standards, changed the bracelet to be in gold and steel and it comes with another object that allows you to wear it on your neck. So, when you buy the watch, you also get a leather link that becomes a necklace and it’s very versatile and modern.

The Kelly with diamonds

In your opinion what makes an iconic design stay relevant for today’s customer?

It really depends on the icon! Our main quest for decades when it comes to our watches has been to have legitimacy and credibility as a watchmaker. Hermès is well known as a bag-maker, but as a watchmaker, we have frequently been opposed to us being a fashion brand, so we used to be less credible as a watchmaker. So, now, we have achieved the legitimacy of Hermès as a watchmaker. One of our challenges was to reinterpret the Cape Cod which is an icon for us. In 2016 when we relaunched this watch, we knew we had a great

watch, but we wanted to relaunch it in a “watchmaking way”. So, we introduced technical dials, technical cases etc. so that we could match the watchmaking know-how of other Maisons. We were able to redesign an icon and make it on one side a nice jewel, and on the other, have a great mechanical complication that would stand its ground amongst watchmakers. For Kelly, which is also an icon, we will not have a mechanical movement so it will be simply a jewel. With all our icons we can play with the size, shape, the identity. I think every line has its own playground and flexibility to explore. Cape Cod is more casual and versatile, Kelly is more of a jewel.

Arceau Le temps voyageur

And what other novelties would you like to talk to us about today?

The main novelty we are presenting at Watches and Wonders in terms of complication is the Arceau Le temps voyageur or “travelling time” watch. This is a watch for travellers. We started working on this watch three years ago. The brief was simple. First of all, we wanted a simple, practical, functional watch for people that travel from one time zone to another. The second part of the brief was to make people dream and invite them to discover the imaginary world of Hermès. So our Artistic Director, Philippe Delhotal imagined this special design with a GMT function but with an aesthetic of universal time. The red point on the watch indicates where you are in the world, and you can see the time according to that location. If you travel and you want to change the time to somewhere that is two time zones away, for example, you press the button at 9 o’clock twice and it changes the time zone. And your home time will always stay there at 12 o’clock. There are 24 time zones indicated around 24 key cities including some locations that are special to Hermès including the address of our store in Paris. It’s a module that has two satellites that were plugged into the centre of the piece and are hidden, so it’s a floating satellite. The dial has a beautiful engraving that represents the imaginary world of Hermès. It was one of the most difficult dials we have ever created, made from four pieces to create the depth. This piece will launch in November. There will also be an additional colour of this watch when it launches.

Hermes H08

What is in the pipeline for Hermès for the rest of this year?

Since the COVID-19 pandemic, we have experienced our highest growth ever at Hermès Horloger. In fact, we more than doubled in two years! There are several reasons for this, especially in the Middle East and America which are the two fastest-growing markets in the world. I think we are in the phase of taking off with our watches, not only for ladies but also for men and for all styles, not just jewellery watches. We used to be well-known for jewel-like ladies watches but now we are also recognized for creating complicated mechanical watches with high-end complications. So this is the main focus which is reinforced by our recent launches which have been super successful so far.

Arceau Le temps voyageur

What is a message that you would send to our readers in the Middle East?

More and more we are getting feedback that the young generation is looking for something special when buying a high-end watch. Just being Swiss-made and centuries-old is no longer enough. They want something more, and I think that the creativity of Hermès is an asset for us moving forward. Whereas five years ago someone may have not purchased an Hermès watch because we are a fashion brand, is now a situation where we are seen not only as a fashion brand but as a creative brand that is technically credible and on top of that, brings something more because we are not only Swiss made and centuries-old – we bring the French creativity and the personality of Hermès. We are not above anyone else, of course, we are small players, but we are different. Some like us, some dislike us, but we are different and that’s important.

We reveal the world’s most exclusive private island destinations to visit this summer.

Tagomago Private Island, Ibiza, Spain

This summer Mandarin Oriental has opened an exclusive private retreat in the Mediterranean Sea, just off the coast of Ibiza. This 148-acre private island will allow guests to create their own experience, in complete privacy. Tagomago Private Island is just five minutes by boat from the idyllic bay of Pou des Lleo. Featuring stunning scenery and panoramic views this exclusive destination has secluded private beaches and lush green meadows. The five-bedroom resort features a saltwater pool, jacuzzi, fitness area and water sports centre.

Depending on each guest’s needs boat charters can be arranged in the surrounding areas. The island is home to picturesque walking routes that criss-cross the island, leading the way to hidden beaches and coves. Those looking for a more relaxed retreat can try sunset or sunrise yoga or sound healing, as well as bespoke wellness treatments from Mandarin Oriental-approved therapists. Guests can also expect a dedicated concierge service and butler who will be on hand 24/7 to assist with requests including prior to arrival. Your butler will also be able to arrange local experiences. A chef is also included and will be overseen by Mandarin Oriental’s culinary experts, who will design bespoke menus based on guest preferences and local seasonal produce. More information is available at mandarinoriental.com

Bawah Reserve, Indonesia

Located within the Bawah Reserve remote island resort in Indonesia, The Elang Private Residence offers complete privacy and seclusion for up to 14 guests. This private island resort was Originally designed to be the owner’s holiday home but opened for guests bookings earlier this year. With a commitment to preserving the reserve as an ecological utopia, the island resort is a designated conservation area to protect the waters. The eco-friendly resort was designed by Singaporean architect Sim Boon Yang and features a holistic design, that was deliberately intended not to cause damage and erosion or destruct the surrounding wildlife.

It was created using sustainable sources of bamboo and recycled wood. Elang Island features five one-bedroom lodges, a two-bedroom lodge, club house, dining room and bar, Beach House restaurant, spa, saltwater infinity pool activities lawn and private beach. Covered in lush greenery a stay at ultra-exclusive destination also includes a personal butler service, daily housekeeping laundry services and all the amenities of the luxury resort. In the on-island restaurant world-class chefs will prepare your meals inspired by the elements and the local surroundings. Ingredients are harvested locally and offer a taste of Indonesian cuisine. Guests will arrive at the resort by seaplane and will then be escorted on the three-minute boat ride to Elang Island from Bawah Island’s jetty. Visit bawahreserve.com to find out more.

Thanda Island Tanzania

Located within the azure blue Indian Ocean surrounding Tanzania, Thanda Island is an exclusive tropical island offering private getaways for up to groups of ten people. This secluded destination features a single luxurious villa and two traditional beach chalets for families or groups to experience the complete isolation and relaxation. Situated within its own marine reserve, the island is surrounded by incredible marine life and tropical greenery covers its shores.

A pristine white beach surrounds the entire island and can be walked and explored fully by guests. When arriving by helicopter or boat guests will be guided to the Thanda Island villa which features five bedroom suites leading directly onto the beach. On the other side of the island the two Bandas or Beach chalets offer a traditional taste of Tanzanian life. Experiences on the island can range from diving boat trips, spa treatments or a traditional feast prepared by the in-house team. Find out more at thandaisland.com

Owners Villa, Cheval Blanc Randheli, Maldives

The idyllic resort of Cheval Blanc Randheli located in the blue seas of the Maldives is home to one of the world’s most exclusive destinations. The Private Island Owner’s Villa is designed for those who want complete privacy and a chance to escape from the outside world. The 1,000 square-metre island features a four-bedroom villa and a dedicated team who are on hand to meet your each and every need. No request is too big or too small and every stay is tailored to each guest’s personal needs. In the main house, you’ll find a 25-metre-long swimming pool, lounge area, bedroom and private bar. A separate guest villa boasts spacious indoor and outdoor spaces, two bedrooms, grand bathrooms and dressing rooms.

The island also has a private spa treatment room, screening room, fitness centre, meditation pavilion, tropical gardens and private beach. When it comes to dining, a memorable experience will be created for guests from the moment they arrive with a tailor-made menu created by a dedicated team of around 30 staff. Of course, if you want to venture over to the main resort, just a short ride away your fine exclusive dining destinations that will offer a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Find out more at Chevalblanc.com.

The newly opened Canary Club combines Californian cuisine with Mexican flair

The new super-cool eatery Canary Club is the latest brainchild of Dubai-based entrepreneur Joey Ghazal. A blend of a Californian diner, Mexicatessen, Robata and a hint of a Polynesian tiki bar Canary Club features unique stylish interiors and a colourful array of dishes.

The two-floor destination is located at Hillside JLT within the Banyan Tree Residences complex but has a private, dedicated entrance. Later this year a rooftop bar will also open its doors, with stunning views across the Marina skyline.

The décor combines the style of West Coast destinations such as Malibu, Palm Springs and Cabo with its stylish, seventies-inspired interiors. Designed by Joey and Eddie Ghazal, of Fighterbrands you’ll find rattan furniture, wicker and macramé accessories and sandstone details. Pops of canary yellow against the neutral tones, give this uber-cool destination its name.

The unique menu offers a number of completely unique dishes. We recommend beginning with the Summer Corn salad and Tropicola Seabass to Start, followed by the Taco-Makis (a sushi-style twist on tacos), as well as the Plancha skewers which come in a variety of offerings.

For mains, we highly recommend the Whole Thai Baked Seabass that comes wrapped in lemongrass, with a Falangal marinade, and for the meat lovers; the Bone In Short Rib will melt in your mouth! For those who prefer something fish-orientated, the sushi rolls offer a tropical twist on classics including spicy tuna with avocado and cucumber and Unagi which includes BBQ eel, mango, avocado and cucumber.

Make sure you save room for dessert as the Churro Tarte Tatin and Banana Foster Flambe are simply divine!

“We are very excited to launch Canary Club in one of the great communities of Dubai and a short distance from Jumeirah Lakes, Emirates Hills, Greens, Marina and the Palm. As a show of our gratitude for all of the support we have received over the years, we are offering this amazing deal for the whole month.” says Gastropeneur Joey Ghazal.

Joey Ghazal, Founder of The Maine & the Canary Club

Located at Banyan Tree Residences, JLT. For reservations contact: 04 584 5999 Website: www.canaryclub.com

Simon Dunn, Co-Founder of Lighthouse Retreat discusses wellness in the UAE and why we can all benefit from taking time to work on ourselves. 

The Lighthouse Retreat is an exclusive UAE-based wellness destination that encourages guests to focus on nourishing their mind, body and soul and taking time to reset and escape from their busy lives. Situated in Ras Al Khaimah this waterfront destination offers an all-round wellness experience from holistic treatments to delicious healthy meals, healing therapies, coaching, meditation, yoga and more. The Lighthouse Retreat was founded by couple Simon and Laura Dunn after they experienced wellness destinations around the world and decided to bring something similar to the UAE. We find out more about what to expect from a visit and why we should all take time out to work on ourselves.

Simon Dunn

Tell us a little about why you decided to launch Lighthouse Retreat and what is your goal and vision? 

About 5 years ago my wife and I were both very stressed and struggling with hectic work schedules and overall burnout. We had several health concerns and had taken time away from work on several occasions in an attempt to escape it all without success. My wife Laura went to a detox retreat in Thailand as a very last-minute decision to work on herself and I visited the same retreat a month or so later. In the next 18 months, we both visited retreats three times. It was an amazing transformation and helped us course correct. We worked on ourselves physically, mentally and emotionally. I managed to reduce a lot of my medication and lose around 15kgs as well as becoming a fully qualified yoga instructor. Laura discovered Reiki and completely transformed her outlook on life in the process, as well as also completing her yoga qualification.

Our wellness journey and experience at these retreats were amazing and gave us a new outlook; it helped us find balance in the chaos that is modern life. Our thought process from there led us to see if we could bring our favourite elements from our wellness experiences together into a singular retreat and make it more accessible for people in the UAE and the Middle East in general. Our goal is to create a safehaven and sanctuary for healing and growth. Our mission and vision statement is: “We create a safe and supportive environment that empowers guests to develop awareness and sustain a healthy mind, body and soul connection”.

Who are the kinds of people that visit the retreat and what can guests expect?

The majority of our guests are women in professional roles however, we have had a variety of guests visiting the retreat. Guests come for a minimum of two days upwards and we highly recommend three to five days where possible to get the most out of the experience. We are fully welcoming and accepting to all but our policy is adults only at the moment.

The programme runs seven days a week, from 7am to 6pm. Every day is different and we have seasonal variations such as hiking in the mountains and desert walks in the winter. We have higher intensity activities in the morning and more restorative healing sessions later in the day. The activities and sessions are designed to give a well-rounded retreat experience that includes yoga, reiki, sound healing, fitness, experiences in nature, fire and ice (sauna and ice immersion) plus many more. The programme is supported by either a raw vegan food menu or juicing, depending on the goals and experience of the guest. Guests can begin their retreat on any day that fits their schedules. We have an amazing waterfront location that offers lots of chill out or sun areas to find your perfect relaxation and healing space.

Why is it important for us all to take time out and think about our wellness?

We are all on our own personal journeys in life. Some are more hectic than others. Modern life versus life one hundred years ago has changed beyond expectation. The last 20-30 years especially so. The evolution of communication and technological devices gives everyone access to digital content and to be contactable 24/7. The home/work/family divide is now so blurred that people don’t know if they are really living in the matrix or just bumping from one pillar of life to the next! Somewhere within this “blur”, people need to find balance and work on themselves to best serve their own body, mind and soul. Sometimes you need to get off the “wheel” to understand that you are actually on a “wheel” in the first place. Give yourself the space and opportunity to grow and find that balance in whatever you can.

How do you think the perception of wellness and looking after our wellbeing has changed in the last few years?

The COVID-19 pandemic has changed things for everyone. The home/work balance is now more misunderstood than ever and twisted for most, as some who worked from home during the lockdown don’t want to return to work and others can’t wait to. It has highlighted everyone’s vulnerability to something that was or wasn’t within their control. People have been prompted to start taking care of themselves and to be healthier for sure. Whether they accept that challenge though and do something about it is up to them. 

Can you share with us some of the latest programmes and experiences the Lighthouse Retreat is offering?

We provided a well-designed set of activities that inspires the body, mind and soul. It includes our well-noted sound healing and fork tuning sessions, reiki healing and experiences in nature such as the popular “Fire and Ice” treatment (sauna and ice immersion), along with yoga and hiking activities. 

How do you believe we can benefit from being in nature?

Being in nature and “grounding” ourselves (literally grounding our bare feet on the earth) is something we try and do as much as possible of at the retreat. It is very important for the soul but also for allowing us to discharge bad energies away from the body and soak up the goodness nature has to offer such as vitamin D among others. There is a reason why we feel so good being outside and in natural environments versus artificial. 

What is something we can all do every day to focus on our wellbeing?

Where possible, it is great to work on and find your own morning routine that offers the basis to start your day in the best possible way and work on your wellness journey. Find something that resonates with you and that you enjoy. This could be yoga, meditation or something fitness-based. Find a way to create time and space for yourself to complete this every day or most days to make it part of your habits and behaviours.

How important is food when it comes to our wellbeing?

Food is extremely important. There is a generally accepted rule in fitness and health that the majority of one’s health and wellbeing is down to food habits. Some even say that this can be up to 80%, regardless of your physical exercise habits. We use a mostly raw vegan food regime at the retreat to kickstart guests’ wellness journeys but we are not promoting raw vegan food as a must. Where possible we would always recommend eating the best quality produce that has a short “farm to fork” transportation time and be conscious of additives, sugars and processed foods. A well-balanced food regime is wildly regarded as the healthiest versus narrow short term food habits.

What would you say to those who believe a focus on wellness is not for them?

That is absolutely fine. We are all on our journeys in life and the universe. There is no grand plan that we all need to follow or focus on. As long as everyone is happy and healthy in life, that is what we are all really after.

What is something you would still like to achieve?

I have a lot of personal goals that keep me motivated to strive towards. For the retreat, we are working on The Lighthouse Retreat 2 and 3 in new international locations. Nothing is confirmed yet but we hope to have news towards the middle of 2023 with the amazing new locations and exciting opportunities for guests to follow the evolution of our retreat experiences.

In general in the UAE what are some of the trends you have noticed around wellness and what still needs to be done?

I think things in the UAE towards wellness are extremely positive both from an individual and corporate perspective. More and more organisations are realising the importance of active and pro-active wellness programmes and the wellbeing of their employees, especially with the emergence of things like the great resignation and changes within the working dynamics, such as remote work etc. Corporate wellness programs are generally more focused on traditional medical wellness but we are starting to see a shift and increasing acceptance and adoption of a more holistic approach. Looking at alternative and restorative options that empower employees and individuals and their habits into yoga, meditation, mindfulness and the like. Not just talking about height, weight, BMI and diet.  

Can you tell us a little about your own journey to where you are now?

I am still working on improving my own physical practice which includes yoga and cardio. I try to do a personal retreat overseas once a year to reset and have a mental getaway. I still have some weight I want to lose, as most of us do. As long as the overall trend is positive, I am happy. I caught COVID-19 in February this year and I struggled with fatigue and my body was not as responsive to my usual routines so I had to make a few changes along the way.

What is the motto you live by?

I try and recommend the 80/20 rule. Try to be good and work on yourself 80% of the time in terms of food habits and physical activity. Then enjoy yourself 20% of the time and enjoy the fruits of your hard work and job. Unfortunately, most of us do it the other way around! Enjoy ourselves 80% of the time and then try and recover during the 20% 🙂

What is a message you would send to our readers on why they should visit Lighthouse Retreat?

We offer a great sanctuary away from the hustle and bustle of the city and everyday life to help you find some balance and work on yourself. We are here and ready to support you at any time, whether it is your first visit to a retreat or as a seasoned retreater. Whatever the reason you are joining us, our team has been where you are. Enjoy the positive journey towards a better and healthier you. 

Mary Alice Malone, Founder and Creative Director of Malone Souliers, joins the Fashion Trust Arabia advisory board, helping to highlight and foster new talent in the region.

Accessories brand Malone Souliers burst onto the scene and instantly gained attention thanks to its elegant, instantly recognisable, high-quality designs. This cult brand was founded by American-born designer Mary Alice Malone in 2014 and its rapid growth has seen it become a must-have for fashion-conscious women, especially those who are in the know when it comes to the latest brands and designs. Mary Alice has a distinctive design style and approach to heading up a brand that has gone unchanged since the early days, and she is very much a part of all aspects of the company and continues to do things her way.

This year Mary Alice Malone has been chosen as one of the members of Fashion trust Arabia’s advisory board for the 2022 Annual Prize. Taking place in Doha, Qatar on 26th October 2022, the event awards winners in four categories who have shown inspiring design and business talent. Focusing on young and upcoming designers in the region the annual prize offers winners a financial grant towards funding their brands as well as a one-year partnership with British luxury retailer Matchesfashion, which includes a mentorship programme and the opportunity to showcase their collections across all Matchesfashion channels. In addition, they will receive guidance on sustainability from ethical fashion retailer Maison de Monde.

Mary Alice will join the likes of Erdem Moralioglu, Olivier Theyskens, Gaia Repossi, Pierre M’Pelé and Piergiorgio Del Moro on this year’s board as these experts work to showcase and highlight exceptional design talent in the Middle East. We find out more about Mary Alice’s participation as well as what we can expect to see from her own brand over the coming months.

Congratulations on becoming part of the FTA’s advisory award – what does it mean to you to be part of this platform?

I am incredibly grateful and thrilled to be part of the advisory board. Helping upcoming talents to emerge in the industry is something I’m very passionate about, and I can’t wait to start.

How do you think Fashion Trust Arabia is helping to foster talent in the Middle East and what do you see as the benefits of the organisation?

I have always believed that talent needs to be supported, no matter what someone’s background is. Fashion Trust Arabia is giving this opportunity to young creatives in the MENA region, and that is why I am so honoured to be part of their board. Supporting Fashion Trust Arabia is a natural step for me and Malone Souliers, considering the amazing support we have had from the region.

What will you be looking for from the chosen designers and what are your thoughts on the industry and the talent here in the Middle East?

I am always so fascinated by the originality and creativity that these young talented designers have and that is definitely what I will be looking for. At the same time, as I am actively part of the business side of Malone Souliers, so I want to see a sense of commercial understanding from them.

It is very refreshing to see some unique concepts and visions, I live quite far away from the Middle East but seeing such energy makes me feel so close and connected.

How do you like to use your experience and knowledge to help foster upcoming talent?

I am always open to opportunities where I can talk about my experience and discuss what I have learnt throughout my journey in the industry. I have been part of a few talks, presentations, and discussions in the past, where I was able to offer advice to young women on how to start their own brands.

What is one piece of advice you would give to aspiring designers?

Trust your feelings. This is something I continue to tell myself every day.

What is the biggest challenge you have faced throughout your career and how did you overcome it?

Launching your own brand in itself is a challenge. Surrounding yourself with trusted, passionate, and skilled people is what leads you to overcome difficult situations. The journey will always have its ups and downs but having the right team supporting you is what makes the difference.

What is a challenge you are yet to overcome?

How to be everywhere at once!

Who is a mentor or someone that has inspired or helped you on your journey?

My mentor is actually a member of my team. I am so incredibly lucky and grateful that I get to work alongside her every day. The learnings and the guidance have been invaluable, especially in the early years of the brand, and being able to sit right next to her in the office and continuously learn has been truly so beneficial. When it is your own company and your own brand, my honest suggestion is to be bold and humble enough to hire people who are more qualified and knowledgeable than you are.

What is the best piece of advice you have ever been given?

Hire around your strengths and weaknesses.

What is the professional motto that you live by?

Work hard, be focused, be open to good advice, be adaptable and never stop dreaming.

Tell us a little about your own brand in the Middle East and what can we can expect to see moving forward?

The Middle East is a key market for Malone Souliers. We have a very trusted following and long-term partnerships with some of the best retailers and we are definitely looking to expand our presence in the region. Doha is home to our first ever boutique in the region, a milestone I am very proud of.

Can you share a little about your latest collections?

My collections take inspiration from different elements each season. For Spring/Summer 22 for example, I wanted to express the optimistic energy of summer, meanwhile, for Autumn/Winter 22 I explored the symbolism of Surrealist art. Despite the different inspirations, with all of my collections, I try to be as conscious as possible when it comes to waste, by finding new ways to use past stock and giving new life to archival materials. We also always ensure we are true to the Malone Souliers ethos.

What can we expect to see from you for the rest of the year?

We have a lot of exciting projects taking form as we speak. We are planning some new collaborations, which I’m sure you will hear about soon, and I’m particularly thrilled to present our upcoming Spring/Summer 23 collection to buyers in both New York and Paris this summer. This is going to be the first in-person key activity since before lockdown.

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

I don’t really have a bucket list for the brand. There is a constant evolution of goals and achievement that is always adjusting to this world.

What is a message you would send to our readers and your fans in the Middle East?

The Middle East holds a dear place in my heart. Every time I visit it’s so incredible to be greeted with such positivity, and I will never forget visiting our Middle Eastern customers for the first time.

Whether you’re braving the heat in the UAE or heading abroad this summer, we round up the must-have accessories to invest in this season.

Caro Bag, Dior

Bag, Valentino
Loafers, Valentino
Bag, Tod’s
Bag, Alexander McQueen Sandals, Hermès

Bag, Louis Vuitton

Sandals, Dior

Triomphe Bag, Celine; Bag, Dolce&Gabbana

Bag, Loewe Paula’s Ibiza

Bag, ‘Magic Mandala’ by ETRO Men’s Bag, Louis Vuitton

Miu Wander Bag, Miu Miu Bag, Casablanca X Bulgari. Sunglasses, Prada

Bag, Giorgio Armani

Chanel 22 bag

Men’s sandals and bag, Salvatore Ferragamo

Venezia Pasticcino bag, Weekend Max Mara Sandals, Salvatore Ferragamo

Symbole jacquard fabric handbag, Prada

As one of the oldest luxury brands in the world Piaget has successfully engaged global audiences on its history and heritage but also on its current position as a timeless yet somehow modern watch and jewellery maker.

As one of the few brands that are strong in both jewellery and watches, the challenge is to successfully balance these two segments and build on them moving forward. This year at Watches and Wonders Piaget launched the latest interpretation of its Limelight Gala. A timepiece that transcends the worlds of watches and jewellery. The new Limelight Gala High Jewellery watch and Limelight Gala Precious, are two new exception additions to this iconic line and further connect the brand’s watch and jewellery segments.

Benjamin Comar joined Piaget as CEO in 2021 and has been tasked with preserving and promoting the brand’s long history and aligning on a clear message moving forward. With a vast background in the luxury industry, Comar is just the man for the job. In one of the first face-to-face events since the beginning of the pandemic, we find out more about the current vision for the Maison and the challenges that are yet to be overcome.

Limelight Gala Tsavorite

What is your vision and direction for Piaget moving forward?

Piaget is a magnificent brand. What I want to do is to adjust things to be back to what I think is the true DNA of the brand. For me this DNA is focused around two great periods: firstly, the birth of the company in 1874 when we were making watch movements, and fighting to create quality, elegant watches. This priority to always have a fighting spirit to be the best is what I want to bring back. Then the second period that I think was a key moment for the company worldwide was the fifties, sixties, and seventies. At that point Piaget had guts as it was creating watches with colourful dials, hard stones, necklaces with watches, and all this in Geneva; a city that was very conservative at the time. And this is I think, why we have been so successful around the world where people are looking for something creative and new. We have this combination of elegance and extravagance and that’s what we must focus all our direction and communication on moving forward.

Limelight Gala High Jewellery

When a Maison is creating both jewellery and watches, sometimes the message can get confusing – how do you balance maintaining both in their own spheres and continue to move forward strongly and ensure you are relevant for today’s consumer? 

Yes, I agree the message can be confusing sometimes. But there are a lot of brands today that do multiple products. I think it offers an opportunity to showcase what we do and highlight our creativity and diversity. We have created jewellery since 1959, it’s not something new for us and I think it offers us a chance. We are a watchmaker but we offer an entire universe and we are very proud of that. What I think was probably confusing was that some of our communication may have been too diverse and there was a big variation between the two worlds. Our watches are jewels with watch movements which is fantastic for a watchmaker and this is what I want to highlight in terms of our communication moving forward.

What can you tell us about the latest Limelight Gala watch you have launched this year?

For me, the Limelight Gala is the quintessence of jewellery watches. Next year it will celebrate its fiftieth anniversary and it doesn’t look a day over 20! It’s a timeless watch. The new editions represent a lot of things around the image of Piaget – the elegance and the extravagance – it possesses both characteristics. It is instantly recognisable because of its unique shape and the range of stones is a very special point for us. We have a great gemmology team who find the stones as it is very difficult to find the same grading of gems. Then the dial is a tribute to some of the watches in our archives. And then we have the savoir-faire of this which I think is magical in this watch and highlights the skills of our artisans. Everything is done by hand and that is the magic of this watch.

What is the biggest challenge that you face today?

There are always challenges, that’s why we are in the luxury business and that’s why we love it! I have the challenge to give a clear, consistent, and long-term image for the brand and try to focus on our strategy and not variate from that. I think in the Middle East we are already doing that very well. Piaget is doing great in the region and the level of savviness of the customers there is incredible. Our customers stay with us for a long time, and they are very loyal.

Speaking of the Middle East what is in the pipeline for Piaget in the region? 

Obviously, we have increased our footprint in the region a lot in the past year. We have opened new boutiques in Saudi Arabia, we are opening a new boutique in Doha and then we have many projects to increase growing our footprint there as we have had great success so far. We have a great retail network in the region we want to further develop this moving forward.

What is in the pipeline for the brand in all categories? 

I would like to introduce more bridges between our categories – in aesthetics but also in pricing and communication. I like the Polo watch as it is the first time, we have combined men, ladies, steel, gold, watches, and jewellery into one product. And what we need to do is make bridges between the positioning of our products so that people understand our offering better, and they can jump from one to the other more easily. Most importantly, every product must express the brand and our creativity and know-how. That’s our challenge.

What is something you would change at Piaget?

It would be the communication and the way we share the message of Piaget. We have great products that are very successful, but the focus now should be to communicate the overall message of Piaget in everything that we do.

What can you tell us about the upcoming high jewellery collection?

We are revisiting the Sunny Side of Life concept but moving forward we do need to look at other areas too. It’s a happy, shining brand so it wasn’t a mistake to have a collection based around the sun, but I think we have to come back to our routes and our DNA and this is the long term plan. The development of a jewellery collection can take between two to three years, so we have plenty of time. We want to reiterate Piaget’s signature in high jewellery and ensure that the message is constant and that we focus on the route of Piaget rather than a marketing concept. We are in an emotional business and that’s what I love.

What is a message you would send our readers and your fans in the Middle East?

I hope you continue to like Piaget, that is the best gift you can give us. It is great for us to see you liking the brand and challenging the brand to make it better. So please continue so we can always do better.

As one of the few high jewellery Maisons to still have the founding family at the heart of everything they do Repossi has a unique outlook. The story of the brand began in 1957, when Costantino Repossi opened his first boutique in Turin.

He was fascinated by Art Deco design and incorporated these recognisable elements into his jewellery pieces. After his death, his son Alberto decided to take the brand further than just one physical location. He added an international dimension by moving to Monte-Carlo in the late seventies, where he became the official jewellery for the Royal family of Monaco. This took the brand to a new level of glamour and attracted the attention of celebrities and VIPs around the world. In 1986 the house found its home at Place Vendôme in Paris and has been there ever since. Repossi became known for its modern designs with timeless appeal that attracted the attention of women of all ages.

In 2007 Gaia Repossi became Creative Director of the brand. Since taking on the role she has regenerated the vision of the house by reinventing the traditional codes of jewellery in a unique way. She combines traditional jewellery design with art and architectural influences to create bold pieces intended to be worn as a second skin or “Art à Porter.” The brand is renowned for its creations that play with traditional and modern techniques, its “floating diamonds” design characterises many of the pieces and makes them instantly recognisable.

This year Repossi participated in the Doha Watches and Jewellery Exhibition; an event that it holds in high regard each year. At the 2022 edition of the annual event, the brand unveiled some exclusive designs inspired by the region. Here we find out more about the exclusive collection with CEO Anne de Vergeron, as well as the plans for further expansion in the Middle East.

What can you tell us about Repossi’s participation in the Doha Jewellery and Watches Exhibition?

Repossi has had a long-established presence at the Doha Jewellery and Watches Exhibition thanks to Alberto Repossi. It is an event we prepare for all year long and we look forward to it. We are so enthusiastic to present our latest exclusive designs to our Qatari customers. It is a major moment in the year for us.

Why is this an important market for the brand?

Although I believe that Repossi’s power of attraction is international, the brand’s values resonate particularly in the Middle East. The combination of Place Vendôme’s excellence, Italian and French craftsmanship, stone selection, family heritage and modern attractivity, reminds me of Middle Eastern women today.

What can we expect to see from Repossi in the Middle East moving forward?

Currently, Repossi is present in Europe, The United States, Japan and the Middle East, however, we still have quite a limited presence in the region. We would like to reinforce this presence over the coming years. We recently reopened our local flagship store at The Dubai Mall and in the near future, we would love to organise high profile exhibitions in the Middle East.

Can you share a little about the new collections that were being showcased at the exhibition in Doha?

We are very proud to showcase the worldwide premiere of Repossi’s Brevis expended set from our High Jewellery Collection. Brevis illustrates Repossi’s constant capacity to challenge traditional iconic jewellery pieces.

What do you think makes Repossi unique as a brand today?

I love the consistent blend of ethnic jewellery infused with modern artistic inspirations while preserving the best craftmanship (French and Italian) techniques. The strength of Repossi is to make exceptional pieces feel extremely simple, such as the Berbere or Blast rings. Timeless ethnic styles combined with modern art inspiration create the ultimate blend we strive for.

Tell us about high jewellery at Repossi – what are the values, who is the customer and what is the vision around this collection?

High jewellery has always been at the heart of Repossi. It has been the true expression of our style since the early days of the Maison: Alberto Repossi set a 100-carat diamond necklace for Donatella Versace in the nineties. Gaia’s creation process always starts with high jewellery design and all of our key collections today derive from high jewellery lines.

As one of the few jewellery houses with the original family still closely involved, how does the family heritage and legacy of Repossi shine through in everything the brand does today?

I have a huge admiration for Gaia and her creative universe. She has succeeded, over the last 15 years, to question traditional jewellery codes and to push the boundaries of this extremely codified sector while always respecting the Place Vendome heritage. As a perfect illustration, Serti Sur Vide and Brevis are the Repossi reinterpretation of the traditional iconic jewellery standards: respectively “Solitaire” and “Toi & Moi”.

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

Many things, I believe there is a strong appeal to the brand and there is lots to be done, there are, many stores to be opened for instance.

What else is in the pipeline for Repossi for the remaining part of 2022? 

We have many activations this year around our core collections (Antifer and Berbere) as well as some exciting exhibitions coming up! Our tribute collection with the Robert Mapplethorpe Foundation, it is currently exhibited at the Gagosian Gallery in New York, and will be exhibited in Selfridges in October during Frieze and in Dubai at the end of the year.

What is the professional motto that you live by?

Always learn.

How would you describe the brand in one word? 

Blend.

What is your favourite piece of jewellery to wear?

My favourite piece is the Berbere Chromatic Dubai. I am a great admirer of the Berbere Collection in general and I never leave my Dubai edition at home. I love the lacquered dark green, it always comes with me!

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

Repossi is a 65-year-old Maison originating from the Place Vendôme with strong savoir-faire in High Jewellery: a major heritage passed down to Gaia Repossi, the Creative Director and Granddaughter of the founder. The brand succeeds in giving an extremely modern and timeless vision of jewellery. I believe it’s one of the only brands from the Place Vendôme that perfectly connects tradition, heritage, modernity and avant-gardism.

Caroline Scheufele, Chopard’s Co-President and Artistic Director discusses the Maison’s long-standing partnership with the Cannes Film Festival and the new Red Carpet Collection.

For 25 years, Caroline Scheufele has nurtured and developed a partnership between Chopard and the Cannes Film Festival after personally securing it over 25 years ago. Each year Chopard’s Red Carpet High Jewellery collection is unveiled during the festival with actresses, actors, models, and other members of the film industry wearing the latest collections on the red carpet throughout the event. This star-studded festival has grown year on year and today it is the biggest, most glamourous, and most popular event of its kind in the world. But despite the growth and success, Caroline has remained humble and grateful throughout the past 25 years. Her passion for creating jewellery has never wavered and her love for what she does is truly felt with every meeting, interview, or conversation.

This year, Caroline looked to the very subject at the heart of this partnership: Cinema, for the inspiration for her latest high jewellery collection. In celebration of the 75th anniversary of the festival, she has created a unique and special collection of 75 pieces, inspired by her personal film repertoire. Entirely crafted by the ‘Mains d’Art’ of the workshops, these masterpieces were worn by the actresses and actors who have come to support their films throughout the week.

Each of the beautiful pieces was designed with an iconic movie in mind. From the early black and white films to childhood fairy tales, to some of the grand movies of recent years. The collection, which was unveiled at the festival, expresses Scheufele’s zest for life and eclectic tastes driving her prolific inventiveness, along with her dazzling capacity to evoke emotions around her jewellery creations. Much like a film director, Scheufele has devised a high jewellery collection freely inspired by films that have had a lasting impact on her and of which the fabled scenes have been inducted into cinema’s hall of fame. This remarkable collection was brought to life by the combined talents and expertise of a team of jewellers such as only Chopard is capable of assembling. Here we discover more about the inspiration and the importance of this long-lasting partnership.

Red Carpet High Jewellery Collection

Can you tell us the story behind the new red-carpet collection? 

This year the festival is celebrating 75 years and we are celebrating 25 years of Chopard being part of the Cannes Film Festival. It is 25 years since I redesigned the Palme d’Or so it’s a very special moment for me personally. As you know, I come up with a special theme every year to inspire the Red-Carpet collection and this year I was inspired by the world of cinema. Last year, I went to the closing ceremony in Cannes, and I met a very charming actor; William Abadie, who was in the TV series “Emily in Paris”. William asked me what I was planning to do for the Red-Carpet collection the following year, and at that point, I didn’t know. Then that night as I stepped out on the red carpet and saw all of the photographers and the guests, I realised it was staring at me right in the face: cinema is what should inspire me for the following year. And that’s how it began!

So, I decided to take 75 iconic international well-known movies that might remind you of your childhood or a place in the world or a moment in history. We started with Charlie Chaplin, who is one of my favourites and for me an icon, then we have movies such as “Gone with the Wind”, “Titanic”, “Avatar”, “Mickey Mouse” and many more.

What is a piece that you spent the most time thinking about or was the biggest challenge? 

Some pieces for sure were trickier than others. “The Godfather” piece for example was challenging. In the film, the main character wore a rose on his tuxedo so that would have been an obvious inspiration for the jewel related to this film, but I already had a rose for Charlie Chaplin because in the movie “The City Light” Charlie gave a rose to a blind woman, so I could not take away from this. So eventually I decided to work on a men’s watch for “The Godfather” inspired piece.

We had something for “Pretty Woman” which seems straightforward, as she had the iconic necklace in the movie, but I did not want to create the same necklace because it would not be me.

Red Carpet High Jewellery Collection

What was your state of mind when you were thinking about designing this collection?

Well enjoying movies is one of my passions. I love the world of cinema, so I was in a state of mind that I enjoy. In that respect, it wasn’t difficult. I had a book that featured the best 1,000 movies, I started with this, and it evolved from there.

Tell us about some more of the pieces of the collection: the one inspired by the Bridges of Venice is very beautiful…

This is in relation to a movie called “Death in Venice” and I am a big fan of Venice so it was one of the first movies on my list. Venice is filled with bridges, and I had to think about how to integrate the architecture into jewellery but I think it’s a nice synergy and of course, the blue Aquamarine represents the water.

Red Carpet High Jewellery Collection

And everyone was talking about the rose that we saw being worn on the red carpet

This is the piece I mentioned that is inspired by Charlie Chaplin. The idea is that you wear this piece on a tuxedo, but you can also take it off and put the rose on a silk scarf around the neck. It’s super light and it’s inspired by a fantastic scene in the film. The whole collection started with Charlie Chaplin, and you see a little bit of him everywhere around our activations at Cannes. I am a big fan of his, for me, he is an idol in the film industry, I feel he was somehow supernatural. He was one of the first actors in movies and his first movies were silent and all black and white. I went to see his museum in Switzerland, it’s breathtaking. This is where he used to live with his family, he had eight kids, and everything is still intact. There is also a room where he used to cut movies. He wrote them, directed them, acted in them, and then cut them himself. And he created the music – he did everything! And of course, one of the most iconic moments in his movie “City Life” is when he handed over the rose to a blind lady, and that is the inspiration behind this piece.

Red Carpet High Jewellery Collection

Tell us about the process of creating this collection

It was a lot of fun actually. Members of my team came up with their own ideas and reminded me of movies I had forgotten about, and it was really interesting! In the beginning, it felt impossible to connect some of these movies to pieces of jewellery, for a lot of them, we had to go deeply into the story of the film to find the right concept and the right stones.

In your opinion how would you describe the evolution of the film festival?

I feel that I have somehow grown up with the Festival. 25 years ago it was much smaller, it wasn’t what you see now. When I arrived, I didn’t really know what I was going to do. I knew I liked cinema and we were opening a boutique on The Promenade de la Croisette and that was the reason for us joining the festival initially. I met with the president of the festival at that time, and we planned to have one dinner celebrating the opening of the store. He suggested I met with their partners L’Oreal and Canal Plus and he told me they didn’t have any watches or jewellery partners. That’s when my little brain started to work and I said “maybe we can do something on a longer basis?” I told him “You know diamonds belong on the red carpet and on beautiful actresses” and he thought about it and said, “why not?”

At his office behind him was the old Palme D’Or which was made by a small atelier in Paris. I asked him if it was the real one and if I could make a proposition of how it could be more elegant, more prestigious, and glamorous. He was silent for two minutes and then he said “yes, why not?” And then I literally left Paris with the Palme d’Or that day! I went back to Geneva and I stormed into my brother’s office and told him the news and he thought I was crazy! That’s how it all started!

When we came to the first festival, we had a tiny room in the Majestic Hotel. On one side was my bedroom and on the other side was the showroom. The safe was in my room and I came with boxes of our chocolates which I put into everyone’s rooms. I had a couple of meetings with stylists and then I met Salma Hayek who was one of the first to wear our jewellery at the event. She said, “Ah you’re the one who makes chocolate!” And I said no “we make watches and jewellery!” And she said, “but these chocolates are really good!”

And that’s how it began!

Red Carpet High Jewellery Collection

25 years later, how would you assess the partnership today?

25 years later you see what Cannes has become and I think we have grown up with each other. It’s a love story over time. But things have changed. Back then there were no mobile phones, no internet, and no Instagram. It was classical press, some TV, and magazines, but now the communication is completely different.

Which phase do you like more? 

I think the festival still tries to keep its focus on cinema and I am still doing everything I can to get the message across. There are a lot of people that like to participate in the festival and to have this feeling and emotion of walking on the red carpet. I think it’s different today, but I wouldn’t say it was better or worse, just different.

Is there anything you would change from this 25-year collaboration? 

The festival has L’Oreal as an official partner and then they have all the other sponsors. If I was sitting in the chair of the festival organisers, I would be stricter with the others coming in. I’m also referring to ourselves because there is no need for everyone to be here, but everyone thinks they have to go to Cannes!

Red Carpet High Jewellery Collection

What else is in the pipeline this year for Chopard? 

The Mille Miglia is coming up which is another event that is always on our calendar. We have a big boutique opening in New York coming up as we move from Madison Avenue to Fifth Avenue. We have the opening of the Paris hotel and the boutique at the end of the year or the beginning of next year. We have exciting projects in Dubai in the pipeline! And apart from that, we are celebrating 25 years of the watch Manufacture; my brother’s baby! So, the calendar is full.

You have achieved so much so far – what is a challenge you face still being one of the few independent brands ruling in this sector? 

It’s a challenge because there are many big groups and then there is us and we are very small in comparison! These big groups often have a portfolio of brands and when for example they want to have a good store location, they can demand the stores they want next to them. They have a stronger negotiation power. On the other hand, I believe that there is nothing that can replace family. And nothing can also replace the freedom we have to be creative and to develop new techniques of production, to be spontaneous, to do something in the moment and I think that is a big plus. And, when our clients come to us, they can meet the family and truly know the people behind the company.

How challenging has it been for you to remain so humble despite the success?

I think it comes from my education and childhood. My parents always taught us to be grounded. I also think it’s maybe to do with the area that I come from in Germany as the people there are very much like this. And I don’t like arrogant people and people who are not nice for no reason. So, since I don’t like these traits, I do everything that I can to not be like that.

What is a message that you would send to our readers in the Middle East?

I am very grateful, proud, and humbled that there are so many fans of Chopard in the Middle East and so many beautiful women are wearing our creations and I’ll try to be as creative as possible so that this continues.

Jean-Marc Loubier, CEO of Delvaux discusses the brand’s arrival in the Middle East and the future development of the company.

Delvaux is the oldest fine leather luxury goods house in the world. The Belgium brand began creating products in 1829 and has had continuous manufacture ever since. In 1908 it was the first house to file a patent for the design of the modern handbag as we know it today.

With a rich and fascinating history, the Belgium brand has stayed very humble, quietly developing itself under the radar for almost 200 years. After being acquired by the Richemont group in 2021, Delvaux has accelerated its growth globally, recently arriving in the Middle East for the first time with the opening of a store in Dubai. Driving this growth is CEO Jean-Marc Loubier. Loubier has vast experience in the luxury industry, having previously held executive leadership positions within the LVMH Group before becoming CEO of Delvaux in 2021.

He is credited for his innovative and strategic insights, and his ability to drive change and sustainable development with successful execution and a strong team spirit bringing value to the brand and company. Now with the world of Delvaux at his fingertips, Loubier is spreading the message and values of the brand to the rest of the world. We discover more about its arrival in the Middle East and its continued development.

The Dubai Mall boutique

Welcome to Dubai – why did you choose now to launch Delvaux here in the region and what are your plans moving forward in the Middle East?

Development is always a question of timing and something that needs to be done step by step and we have reached the point where we can share what we do with The Middle East. Dubai is the leading point for luxury in the region so if we are going to start somewhere this is the most important city. The boutique is very striking without being too ego-centric, It will be followed later on by new stores in Saudi Arabia and in the other Emirates in the UAE but for now, this is the start and so far it’s proved to be quite positive.

What is your core focus in the region and how do you hope to develop the relationship with clients here?

We want to target the local community and I feel it is a mark of respect for us to come to them and open our stores in the Middle East. Whenever we arrive somewhere in the world we always come very uniquely in the sense that we only sell our products in our own stores and the strategy for our retail network is very specific. The concept of our stores is that there is no set concept. Each one is a new experience and we don’t duplicate our stores across the world, we always invent a new way. So each is very different from the other.

I hope we will see a lot of Emirati people visiting as well as other Middle Eastern nationalities as we want to reach out to the population of this part of the world. Of course, there is also interest from international tourists, as Dubai is such a cosmopolitan city, so we have a great balance. But the core focus of our store is to be dedicated to the customer from the region.

Our retail network covers all the best spots in the world. In New York we’re on Fifth Avenue, in London we’re on New Bond Street, we are always in the centre of every city that our stores are located in, and with an outstanding location, we must have outstanding stores. All of our stores are very different as I mentioned so I’m sure that we will attract more interest and I’m sure that we’ll learn that these people travel and they will like to see what’s going on with all our stores around the world so we can add values to their experience.

The Dubai Mall Boutique

With a brand that has so much history, how do you go about translating it for the present day and ensuring that you also stay relevant?

Before history we have moments. We are a company that designs, manufactures and sells so we have a complete 360 offering. And on top of that, we are a very historical company. But we are not a museum. We need to be current and relevant and we need to invite clients to develop an interest in where we come from but also understand who we are today. To do this we have to be current but also classic. This balance is about always moving forward and that’s what we do. We have a lot to share because we are the eldest luxury bag company in the world. But if you just base yourself on your past, it’s like reading a history book. So the secret for a company like ours is to always balance these historical elements with being current and relevant today. We must always have an element of teasing. That’s why the stores are all different because we want our clients to understand who we are and where we come from. If you visit our stores you will find some of the tools that we use in our factory for example. So visitors can discover the story of how the products are made. This is a way of instilling a dialogue. It’s about creating a lifestyle experience for our clients so they can discover all elements of our universe

What is the biggest challenge that you face?

Ten years ago the company was very small but I was very conscious of the potential of the brand. I have a lot of experience in the luxury industry and when you take on a new task you use that experience as expertise, but you don’t do the same thing again. You always develop and build on what you did before. So for me, bringing the brand to Richemont was a way to be surrounded by very respectful people who understand long-term what the brand is about. We are on a trial for long-term success but we cannot just keep repeating the same things, we need to develop. The way I treat Delvaux is to see it as a diamond, with many facets. For us, the key is being about to speak about those different facets, and they all come together as this diamond.

The Dubai Mall boutique

What opportunities or challenges does being part of the Richemont Group offer?

For me being part of the group is a great opportunity and it has enabled us to come to the Middle East more quickly. Ten years ago the sales outside of Belgium for the company were less than three per cent and today sales of Delvaux outside of Belgium are around 90 per cent. So the company has changed tremendously. Not only have we been investing in the stores and the team but we have also invested heavily in the workshops. We now have three workshops; one in Belgium and two in France where we create all our products in-house.

Can you tell us a little about the craftsmanship at Delvaux and the importance of preserving these skills?

More than preserve we want to develop these skills. Craftsmanship is something that you have to develop over time because people can come to us and have been trained somewhere else, but it takes time to learn the Delvaux way and to understand our spirit. When people come to our company they move step by step to learn everything they need to learn, one stage at a time. It’s a long process. We have around 400 people working in our workshops and they have to develop their skills and take on new challenges. When we launch new collections or new variations on existing bags, we play with our creation and design so they need to develop with this. We are not about being in fashion, we play with creativity that is supposed to be long-lasting. We are a very modern company in a way because now everyone is talking about doing this and we have always been doing it!

As you are expanding as a brand, how do you keep up with the demand and ensure you have the expertise to make new products to meet customer demand?

We are always recruiting people and training and it is an endless process. We are continuously increasing the capacity of what we can do.

The Dubai Mall boutique

What can we expect from the latest collections and the upcoming collections from Delvaux?

We develop long-lasting products so our collections are more than just new collections. We build on our success by taking our classics and continuously developing them. For example, we launched a bag; the “Brillant”, in 1958 at the World Expo in Brussels. This bag is until today our top-selling product. Our original designs are decades old but we continuously build on them and that makes our products long-lasting but also appealing to clients today. Of course, you expect a bag to be functional, but we are also fulfilling desire. We tease that desire and then people crave it and feel the need to have it. But most importantly, once they have it, they keep it and they know it will last and can be passed down through generations. Our bags are companions for life. We want to create a community with our clients and welcome them to the world of Delvaux.

How do you keep in touch with clients once they have purchased your products?

This is why we have our own stores so we can welcome our clients at any time. They can contact us through our digital platforms and we have events and digital activities for them. We want to welcome them to our world and feel that it’s interesting to understand what we do. We don’t just sell products, we offer a service. We value our clients and we are not arrogant as a company.

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

To me, this brand is a beautiful living brand, beyond bags. We stand for a philosophy of life and a certain culture that we share and care for to transmit to others. We are against massification, we try to have a kind of friendly sharpness and we do that with care and with wit. When people think about us, we want them to have a little smile on their faces. Of course, I want to see more Delvaux stores but with a very strong identity. I want to ensure that this uniqueness comes through in everything we do and I want people to understand the difference between our brand and others. We want them to be interested to discover what we do and we want to offer a unique experience for customers every time they come to us.

How would you describe Delvaux in one word?

I can’t describe it in just one word because it is much more complex than that!

What is the message of the brand that you would like to share with our readers and your fans here in the Middle East?

When you come to the store you will have the impression that it was designed just for you. It will be a very unique experience and it’s designed to attract you to a world where you are the most important person. Once you come to us you will be interested in what we propose and you will want to own it for yourself but with the idea that later on, you will pass it on to someone else.

The raffia bag trend is returning for summer, but this year it’s back with a courageous colourful twist.

As we enter a new season and prepare for summer vacations, it’s time to think about staple accessories, for both function and fashion. Choosing the perfect holiday bag is essential, you’ll want something that is sturdy and stylish but compliments both day and night outfits. This season it’s all about bright and bold raffia bags, taking this popular accessory trend to a new level with the addition of a rainbow colour palette. In honour of the return of raffia, we discover more about the history of this bag and style and find out why it has made such a daring comeback.

Loewe

Originally, this style of woven bag was created using husks of corn, standard straw grass and even crocheted paper. They were often used for practical purposes, due to the availability and strength of the material, people would use them for carrying food, water or even children! It wasn’t until the 1950’s that the real straw bag breakout began. Ladies wanted something strong to hold their cosmetics in, and so over time, straw bags became smaller and more lightweight. They were not high on the luxury list or classed as sophisticated, they were more of a street style chic accessory to wear with jeans. The bags appeared more like picnic baskets, which were rounded at the bottom with a loose lid that would sit on the top with a chunky handle.

Givenchy

But in the 1970s raffia first had its big moment when actress and musician, Jane Birkin brought the wicker bag up through the rankings and into the luxury world. Jane was recognised for her stunning beauty and hippy sense of style and was often seen carrying her raffia-style bag on outings to the local market. It was Jane’s famous wicker bag that was responsible for the iconic Hermès bag we know today as the Birkin. On a flight between Paris and London, as if by fate Jane Birkin met Jean-Louis Dumas, the executive director of Hermès at the time. After placing her bag into the overhead compartment, the contents spilt out onto the floor as a result of the unattached lid. It was then that the pair began their discussion on a more practical bag, scribbling down ideas for the Hermès Birkin. Since Jane’s famous wicker bag, this natural material design has developed over time, with Raffia taking its place as a more delicate, functional, and luxurious style.

Raffia fibre is produced from the membrane on the underside of a leaf found on the Raphia Farinifera (or Raffia Palm) which is found in parts of South East Asia, Central and South America and Madagascar. Collectors travel deep into the forest to harvest the grassy fibre from the leaves. The fibres are then dried in the sun, turning them into a recognisable neutral beige colour. Raffia can be made into twine and rope and is used for many different craftworks by being tightly woven into different patterns and shapes.

Isabel Marant

We have seen Raffia dip in and out of luxury collections over the years, appearing on white woven bags for Balenciaga’s 2016 Spring/Summer collection, and as dresses and hats in Oscar de la Renta’s 2020 Spring/Summer offering. Mostly, raffia remains in its original state with the natural brown tones of the material, however, this year, designers are adding their own twist to meet the desires of the modern fashionistas and create a fresh bold look. Colourful pops of Raffia are now appearing woven in different patterns and blended with other materials such as leather, canvas and metal.

Prada has released a new season Raffia Tote, perfect for shopping sprees and beach excursions. The unlined raffia gives a rustic look with their signature logo branding for a luxe finish. Available in a range of bright colours, this bag can be worn with a trendy maxi dress for those boho beachy vibes. The Paula’s Ibiza collection by Loewe also features a large selection of brightly coloured and ruffled raffia bags, the two-toned Anagram Basket bags were literally made for this Spanish destination. In contrast to these, more for an evening than the beach, the Tod’s T Timeless collection features a brown leather mini shoulder bag with a rainbow of raffia inserts and their iconic metal T. Many other luxury brands are also claiming their place in the raffia market, some of these include Marni, Chloe, Jacquemus, Stella McCartney, Valentino and Burberry. Raffia is the splash of colour we all need on our handbags, and we for one, a super glad it’s here for summer!

Sara Prentice, Creative Director at Garrard discusses the brand’s latest collection and honouring Queen Elizabeth II for the 70th Platinum Jubilee celebrations.

As one of the oldest jewellers in the world, Garrard has become a global name thanks to its affiliation with the British Monarchy. Founded in 1735, the house has created some of the most iconic pieces of jewellery worn by royalty since being appointed the first official Crown Jeweller in 1843. Garrard has designed some of the most recognisable pieces worn by the Royal British Royal family to date, including the iconic sapphire engagement ring worn by Princess Diana and now The Duchess of Cambridge, as well as many tiaras and crowns worn by Queen Elizabeth II. And those same pieces continue to inspire the brand today. As Creative Director of Garrard, Sara Prentice is continually looking back through the jeweller’s archives to inspire her new designs as she gives classic pieces a modern twist to make them relevant for today. This year the brand is launching Blaze; its most modern collection yet, as well as limited edition pieces to mark Queen Elizabeth II’s platinum jubilee this month. On a recent visit to Dubai, Prentice shares more on the latest pieces and the expansion of the brand in the Middle East.

Sara Prentice

What can you tell us about the new Blaze collection?

When I started to come up with the idea for the Blaze collection during the lockdown I wanted to do something that shouted vibrancy and colour. It had to be different but also, as with all of our collections, I needed it to have some kind of relevance to our past. I wanted it to be fresh and out of the box, and to push our boundaries. So we took the 1735 collection, which is inspired by Princess Diana’s engagement ring which has a sapphire cluster as the centre stone with diamonds around the outside. It’s a very beautiful classic design that represents what Garrard is known for. But I wanted to flip this idea on its head so I created what I would describe as an inverted cluster. We have eliminated the centre stone, then created that same oval shape which we really wanted to keep, with a cluster around the edge. We have used quite an eclectic mix of stones but they were very carefully considered. When I started to draw the designs I actually drew the outer edge over the inner edge and then we carefully placed the stones. I wanted the juxtaposition between the angles of a baguette and then the soft cabochon and then you have angled facets and they all work together. It’s an explosion of colour. This is the first time that we have used coloured stones without diamonds as I wanted it to be about pure colour. The green stones are set in yellow gold, the blue are set in white gold, the pink are set in rose gold and the white, which is the only one that does have diamonds, are set in white gold.

This is a very fresh, modern collection, are you targeting a new customer with these designs?

Absolutely. We don’t want to alienate our existing customers, but we do want to hone in on a younger audience and I think these pieces are probably more fashion-orientated than perhaps we’ve ever done before. Hopefully, they are still classic and they will stand the test of time, but I felt it was an opportunity to have a little bit of fun, yet still have a link to our heritage. We have eight styles in total, many of which can be worn in different ways so they are very versatile.

Why did you choose Princess Diana’s engagement ring as the inspiration for this collection?

Coming out of lockdown I do think my mind was drawn to Diana and what she represented as a person. Her strength, vibrancy and joy are something we were all looking for at that time. She actually chose her Garrard engagement ring herself, which at that time was quite unusual and I think that represents girl power! So I wanted to use this strong, confident muse for the collection. She was a strong woman who knew her own mind and she made such an impact and I believe this is the type of woman that will wear the blaze collection.

You are working with British actress Olivia Cooke as the face of this collection – why did you choose her and how do you think she epitomises the Garrard woman? 

Olivia is the first ambassador of the brand. When we considered her we felt that she represents where we are in our journey: bursting onto the scene with a new product – so there was a real mirroring of moments. We loved her vibrancy and it just seemed right. We worked with two photographers who are known for their use of colour and movement and it created this whole modern concept.

What is your vision and direction for the brand today? 

I never want to alienate our existing clients they are always really important for us in everything we design and I always keep them in mind. We are an all-female design team and it’s really important that the jewellery not only works within our brand DNA but that it also works for the ladies who are wearing them. Fanfare and Wings are two of the best-selling collections, they have a vast colour choice and all of the pieces are equally as popular. So there is something for everyone, and giving our customers a choice is really important at Garrad. Not only the choice of colours but giving them the choice of how to wear the pieces too. The Blaze pedants for example now come on a bigger link chain which allows customers to wear them at any length. This gives flexibility and also means they can be worn for many different occasions. So yes, we want our clients to keep coming back and to keep enjoying our new styles, but we are absolutely looking at targeting a new audience with other designs. But whoever we are designing for, the client is at the core of everything we do.

Garrard flagship store after Refurbishment

This month marks Queen Elizabeth II’s 70th Jubilee – can you share anything special that the brand will be doing to celebrate this landmark occasion?

Yes, the Garrard flagship boutique in London has turned Royal Blue for the duration of the Jubilee celebrations, we also have beautiful visual merchandising in the windows, celebrating the Queen and showing her wearing Garrard jewellery throughout the decades.

We have also created a limited edition Aloria pendant. The pendant was inspired by the sovereign sceptre that the queen held on the day of her Coronation. For the Jubilee, we have created a special version that’s royal blue on one side and diamonds on the other.

We also designed a one-of-a-kind hat pin which has been sold to an individual client. It can be worn in several ways; as a hat pin, brooch, hair slide etc. It sold almost immediately and we are now thinking about making a similar collection of brooches as there seems to be a demand for it.

And we know some of the Garrard pieces are also being exhibited at the Historic Royal Palaces in London…

Yes, we have a partnership with the Historic Royal Palaces in London. Last year they had the “Royal Style in the Making” exhibition which showcases Princess Diana’s wedding dress, as well as a lot of pieces worn by members of the Royal family. Now they have one called “Life Through a Royal Lens” which is all about photographs of the Royal family throughout their lives. There are some wonderful images including those of Princess Margaret taken by Lord Snowden where she is wearing an iconic Garrard tiara. This is the only place you can see this very special photograph. And for the first time for a brand, Garrard has some pieces of its current collections on display within the exhibition.

We know you launched your digital platforms during lockdown – how is that serving the brand so far? 

It’s been great. I think for Garrard it’s interesting because we are very much a trusted brand, so customers expect a certain level of quality which they know they will get whether they are buying products in person or online, but it is very interesting to see how well pieces are selling online. Of course, we offer a level of service with every sale, there is a lot of communication between the sales team and the clients and it becomes more of a personal shopping experience rather than a simple transaction. But it is convenient and we have had a positive reaction to it so far.

Can you tell us a little about Garrard in the Middle East – can we expect further expansion? 

We have our regular trunk shows here in the UAE where we meet with clients and share the latest collections with them. And then we are also opening a standalone store in Saudi Arabia in Kingdom Mall within the next month. We will start with a soft launch and then by September, we will be fully operational. This will be our first store in Saudi Arabia and we also have stores in Qatar and Kuwait.

What can we expect to see from Garrard throughout the rest of the year?

We will have the second part of the Blaze campaign coming out in August and we have Olivia Cooke contracted for a year so there may be something more happening with her later in the year, so watch this space! And we will add a few more pieces to the existing collections. We also have some new high jewellery pieces. This time we are using more colour in our high jewellery and mixing again the types of stones. We are trying to offer more modern designs and different ways of making something that’s so traditional look a little different.

Sunday Riley launches her latest skincare product 5 stars, we find out more from the Founder herself.

Cult skincare brand Sunday Riley has fast become known for its result-driven skincare products that really provide an instant improvement on your skin’s appearance. With each product in the range targeting a specific skin problem, they are formed on years of research and innovation to ensure they truly work and provide in many cases, instant, visible results for each man or woman who uses them. All of Sunday Riley’s products are based on the “powered by science, balanced by botanicals” ethos that she has instilled throughout every aspect of the company. Using the best in scientific knowledge combined with the finest ingredients, green technology and multi-tasking formulas, Sunday has been successfully able to convince even the biggest cynics that there really are results to be seen from using skincare products.

Sunday’s products are founded around key ingredients such as AHAs, Vitamin C and Retinol. The latest addition to the family; “5 Stars”, is the brand’s first retinoid and niacinamide eye serum, designed to plump the skin around the eye area and reduce the appearance of wrinkles and crow’s feet. Combining a 6% retinoid blend (5% retinoid ester and 1% liposome encapsulated retinol complexes) and the bioactive components of Centella Asiatica to support natural collagen production, this serum works to plump the look of lines and prevent the signs of premature skin ageing. Here we found out from Sunday Riley more about the innovation behind this product.

Sunday Riley

What are three main points our readers should know about the new 5 Stars product?

There is so much to share about this exciting new innovation. But the top three points would be:

1. 5 Stars is a hydrating gel-serum that uses a retinoid blend to support natural collagen production to plump the look of lines and prevent the signs of premature skin ageing.
2. It is clinically proven to be gentle to the eye area.
3. Niacinamide, a B3 derivative, supports ceramide production and brightens the look of discolourations.

5 Stars

Why did you think it was important to launch this product now and how does it complement the rest of the offering at Sunday Riley? 

I believe in the power of three and incorporating three key ingredients into your skincare routine for transformative results: AHAs, Vitamin C and of course, Retinol. It was of the utmost importance for me to create a retinoid eye serum for our line-up; to complete the evening routine. With the increase in mask-wearing due to COVID-19, I felt there was a larger focus on the eye area so now seemed like the right time to innovate in the eye category and extend our retinol range.

For women who might be nervous about the concept of using a retinoid cream, what would you tell them?

Always start slowly. We recommend two nights on and two nights off when you first start using our retinol products and slowly increase from there. If your skin is super sensitive, you can also apply a hydrating oil or moisturiser before using our retinol.

With 5 Stars, we recommend applying a pearl-sized amount to the bone area around your eye (not too close) and massaging it outwards and upwards with the ceramic tip – it feels so beautiful and cooling. Build it in 2-3 times a week and go up from there. Retinol is so transformative for the skin so if you can be sensitive just go easy and maybe apply a moisturiser first, then 5 Stars.

Ceramic Slip

In your opinion, at what point in life should women and men start using anti-ageing products?

Retinoids are great at many ages and I believe products should be chosen by skin concerns as opposed to age. If your concerns are fine lines and wrinkles, then start incorporating a retinoid product when you first see signs of ageing. Retinol is a miracle ingredient and can be beneficial to so many different skin types. Known for anti-ageing, retinol is also great for treating acne and redness. We have so many clinicals and before and afters for our A+ High Dose Retinoid Serum which has helped transform and treat acne-prone skin, which goes to show it can be useful at a variety of ages.

What is the biggest challenge you face when it comes to developing new products today?

It’s incredibly important that as a brand we’re constantly evolving and offering the absolute best products available to our customers. It takes a long time to get a formula right and this is often a huge challenge along the way. If I know there is something that can be changed or improved, I’ll do it. If something isn’t selling, I’ll often remove it from the line completely. You have to remove all ego from your work, especially when we’re constantly trying to innovate, think outside the box and show up against new competitors.

C.E.O Glow

How do you ensure that Sunday Riley continues to stand out from competitors?

Our results-driven skincare is what, I believe, ensures we stand out from competitors. We don’t follow trends, we always formulate for instant, long-lasting results without the downtime. It differs from product to product, but I always start with the skin and a problem to solve. We have great relationships with our suppliers and we always make sure we’re sourcing the absolute highest quality ingredients. That’s our point of difference – I don’t even look at the price when I’m formulating, it’s about the quality of the ingredients. I’m a big believer that all our products have to be a blend of biotechnology, science and botanicals. I take a 360-degree approach when looking at skin health and I think the performance of the products speaks for itself.

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

There is so much – I’m always creating, formulating and working on something. We have so much innovation to come so stay tuned.

C.E.O Moisturizer

Can you talk us through your daily skincare regime? 

I often change it depending on what we’re working on or developing at the time because I’m always trying out our newest products. However, my core routine is fairly consistent. I wake up and wash my face with Ceramic Slip then I’ll spritz with Pink Drink, which helps to support the microbiome. I take my probiotics every morning but I also incorporate Pink Drink! Then I mix around 2-3 pumps of CEO 15% Vitamin C Serum, with about 2-3 drops of CEO Glow (yes I double up on my Vitamin C – I love it!) I mix them together in my hand and then apply. I’m pretty diligent about the application; I’ll apply it all over my face, under the eye, and over the eye, and I make sure I apply it around the mouth, face, and decolletage.

From here, I might listen to a podcast, make a coffee, do some emails – do my thing around the house for a bit. I’ll come back and put some Good Genes on – But only if I didn’t do it in the evening. If I need a moisturiser, I’ll use ICE Ceramide Moisturising Cream.

Finally, I’ll apply Auto Correct Eye Contour Cream around my eyes. I also reapply Auto Correct throughout the day because I have to look awake as I don’t really sleep. Plus, I always have products at my desk throughout the day, I’ll generally reapply CEO Serum and ICE Ceramide Moisturising Cream throughout the day at least once. I like to keep my skin dewy all day long. AND you should know, I apply a lot of sunscreen – even if I’m indoors I apply it every day with reapplication throughout the day.

Pink Drink Essence

What is one other product our readers should try?

I would have to say Good Genes! Good Genes is the one product that has remained with us throughout our evolution. It embodies our philosophy of ‘powered by science, balanced by botanicals’. It’s a great product that gives instant results, which is what Sunday Riley is all about. This product is a one-stop-shop – it smooths texture, brightens the appearance of dark spots, targets fine lines and instantly plumps the skin. It’s a multi-tasking, targeted lactic acid treatment that rapidly exfoliates and boosts natural youthful radiance. It pairs perfectly with retinol as well – it’s our power couple!

What is the professional motto that you live by?

There is a quote by Walt Disney that I love, it says: “Keep moving forward”. I live by the rule of being in the now: living in the present and walking towards the future. It’s easy to overanalyse but people are counting on me and I just have to keep moving.

Good Genes

What else is in the pipeline for Sunday Riley this year?

We have so many exciting innovations to come and I’m always working on something new! Vitamin C is a huge focus for us and we’ll be extending our CEO category in the Middle East this year with a new face cream to come. We can’t wait to share it with you!

This summer, discover Dior’s Dioriviera summer capsule collection designed by Maria Grazia Chiuri.

For this bright offering some of the house’s key motifs and codes –  toile de Jouy to bayadère stripes – are given a new bold look.

A timeless symbol the toile de Jouy is featured on skirts, dresses, shorts, swimwear, and on the House’s iconic accessories. Leather goods and shoes are illuminated with fluorescent shades of blue, orange and pink – a palette inspired by the Fall 2022 creations.

Bags including the Lady D-Lite, Dior Book Tote, and Diorcamp bags, as well as the Dior Travel clutch are adorned with the classic pattern. To complement this sunny wardrobe Dior unveils a selection of summer essentials including a surfboard emblazoned with the “Christian Dior” signature, a skateboard, a pool mattress, a parasol, beach games and fans.

Now available at select Dior boutiques globally.

Bell & Ross has launched a new diving watch, specifically designed for cold and icy waters and equipped with the latest in innovation and technology.

The new BR 03-92 Diver White is a bold white timepiece that’s immaculate in design and equipped to withstand the most extreme elements.

In 1997 Bell & Ross designed its first diving watch the HYDROMAX®. This rounded case watch was waterproof up to 11,100m which at the time was a new record. In 2007 a new diving watch joined the collection, this time housed in the barrel-shaped BR 02 case, and in 2017 the original Diver was launched with its squared case.

This year the BR 03-92 Diver White joins the athletic line. It features a steel case and white dial and comes with two strap options. It borrows the iconic rounded square case from the BR 01, making it an unusual design for an underwater watch. The case has been reinforced to withstand the underwater world, while the crown is screwed down to withstand the pressure of deep seas, and has a rubber insert for better sealing. The anti-reflective sapphire crystal on this diving watch is very thick, and the back is reinforced. The timepiece is delivered in the brand’s famous indestructible waterproof Pelican Box.

The white dial is inspired by icy oceans. This bright unmissable tone is a rare shade from the brand whose dials usually appear in darker tones. This particular white is an opalescent silver in subtle tones, and the dial’s matte surface has been metallised, creating iridescent reflections across the piece. “The refined finish gives the watch a sense of nobility. It reflects our top-of-the-range quality and finesse of the work,” said Bruno Belamich, Creative Director and co-founder of Bell & Ross.

The watch was created through a combined effort of watchmakers and expert divers. The specialists in their field joined forward to meet the requirements of expert divers, particularly those who dive in ice waters where time becomes a vital dimension and the watch also becomes a safety tool.

The BR 03-92 Diver White’s self-winding BR-CAL 302 calibre can withstand very low temperatures. Waterproof and robust, this watch meets the demanding specifications of the Swiss diving watch, complying with the ISO 6425 standard. The case is waterproof up to depths of 300m and the unidirectional rotating bezel is graduated over 60 minutes, with a luminescent dot at 12 o’clock.

What’s more, the metal hands and indices are coated with a photo-luminescent Super-LumiNova® coating, allowing them to glow in the dark and ensure that readability remains optimal, including deep underwater, where you otherwise might not be able to see your hand in front of your face.

The BR 03-92 Diver White is now available at Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons stores across the UAE.

On 25th May 2022, Chopard hosted an exclusive dinner in Cannes to celebrate 25 years of its partnership with the Cannes Film Festival.

The celebratory evening also marked the official launch of the brand’s new Red Carpet High Jewellery collection which this year is inspired by the world of cinema.

Bella Hadid and Caroline Scheufele

Hosted by Caroline Scheufele, Chopard’s Co-President and Artistic Director, The “Chopard Loves Cinema” dinner paid tribute to the incredible partnership between the jeweller and the global event which has grown and developed over the past 25 years.

Fashion Show with Chopard Haute Joaillerie and Elie Saab dresses

The new Red Carpet collection consisting of 75 pieces was unveiled via a runway show and guests including Bella Hadid were entertained with an exclusive concert by Seal and a special performance by burlesque artist Dita von Tesse.

Dita von Teese Performance

Also in attendance were Hollywood celebrities including Maggie Gyllenhaal and Peter Sarsgaard, Eva Longoria, Emmanuelle Béart, Charlbi Dean, Camille Razat, Mads Mikkelsen, Michele Morron and  Maye Musk, all of whom were invited to discover the story and history of cinema from the original black and white days until now.

Find out more about the red carpet collection in the upcoming issue of A&E.

Breitling reinvents the original “first Swiss wristwatch in space” to mark the anniversary of this iconic piece

On May 24th, 1962 American astronaut Scott Carpenter made a historic mission to Space on board the Aurora 7 spacecraft. At that time the world’s attention was rapidly advancing beyond air travel and into space exploration, and this journey was a landmark moment in the development of travel into the universe.

Scott Carpenter dons the Project Mercury suit he will wear on his MA-7 orbital flight. @GettyImages

Since the beginning Breitling had been the go-to watch manufacturer for pilots, who required a reliable instrument when in the skies. But as space travel advanced watchmakers were exploring new concepts and designs that could accompany astronauts on these new journeys. Breitling’s experience in aviation put the brand a step ahead, but it wasn’t until Scott Carpenter contacted Willy Breitling, asking for a custom-made watch that could accompany him on his mission. Unlike the regularly 12-hour watch, Carpenter requested a 24-hour watch, that would allow him to know what time of day it was when there was no regular day or night.

Navitimer Cosmonaute advertisement from ca. 1963 for the first Swiss wrist chronograph to travel in space in 1962

And so, Carpenter embarked on his journey with the Navitimer Cosmonaute on his wrist. A variation on the iconic aviator’s watch he’d encountered in his flight days, but with a 24-hour dial to tell day from night in space. This one-of-a-kind timepiece officially claimed the title “first Swiss wristwatch in space” as Carpenter orbited the Earth three times while wearing it during his Mercury-Atlas 7 mission. The watch landed back on earth with Carpenter and has been kept as a sacred piece by Breitling ever since.

That is until now…

On the 60th anniversary of this iconic moment, Breitling not only unveiled Carpenter’s original Navitimer Cosmonaute but also launched a modern tribute to it. This special release is limited to 362 pieces that recognise both the spacecraft’s circumnavigations of the Earth and the year the mission made history, marking a crucial step in manned spaceflight.

With a design based on the original, the new Cosmonaute features a timeless all-black dial and black alligator strap or a seven-row stainless-steel bracelet. It also comes packed with new features offering a modern upgrade of this iconic piece. A new platinum bezel offers a premium touch to the watch that makes this edition a special collector’s piece. While its open sapphire crystal caseback provides a window to the B02 movement with its special bridge engravings to mark the occasion: the words “Carpenter,” “Aurora 7,” and “3 orbits around the Earth,” along with the name of the original group of seven astronauts chosen for NASA’s first human-crewed spaceflights, Mercury 7.

Georges Kern, CEO of Breitling, said in a statement on the day of the launch; “When we introduced the redesigned Navitimer earlier this year, a question on everybody’s lips was, ‘What about the Cosmonaute?’ Today, I’m thrilled to finally announce two Cosmonaute reveals: the first-ever public viewing of the watch Scott Carpenter wore into space, and a 60th-anniversary limited-edition timepiece that pays tribute to its history-making forerunner.” 

Historical Navitimer Cosmonaute from 1962 & the first Swiss wristwatch in space worn by Scott Carpenter during his MA 7 mission

Today’s Cosmonaute takes us back to the origins of space travel, when the race was on, stakes were high, and every mission was a triumph of human ingenuity. This new watch honours the aesthetics of the original Cosmonaute, with subtle updates that work almost imperceptibly to give it its modern-retro appeal. As a final tribute, the caseback is engraved with the date of Carpenter’s mission, “ONE OF 362,” and the phrase “First Swiss wristwatch in space.”

Balenciaga took over the New York Stock Exchange to present its Spring 23 collection.

Models presenting the latest designs by Demna were kept anonymous thanks to a selection of risqué latex bodysuits that concealed their identity.

The bold show featured a mix of ready-to-wear pieces, as well as the new Garde-Robe line, Eveningwear and a new collaboration between Balenciaga and adidas.

The show began with a selection of almost all-black looks featuring wardrobe staples in elevated looks. While all eyes were focused on the controversial latex bodysuits, many of the looks themselves had a strong sense of elegance. Pieces for men and w0omen were designed in luxe materials such as wool, silk, gabardine and artisanal denim.

Suiting separates and outerwear are pared down and refined with simple silhouettes using minimalist construction techniques.

Eveningwear follows the same patterns of the brand’s recent looks with bodycon gowns covering head-to-toe as well as reconstructed tuxedos, and floor-length silk trenches with trains.

In accessories, a classic pump is reimagined as the oversized, padded XL Pump. Steroid boots and derbies are thick in volume but lightweight, made from a single mould using super-exaggerated proportions. The Stage Shoe suspends a heel-less sock pump on a flat platform connected only to its toe, creating an optical illusion using negative space and balance.

The Money Bag line consists of top handle bags that open from underneath and lock with a twist clasp.

The second part of the showed debuted a collaboration between Balenciaga and adidas. This new partnership gives new life to retro-inspired sportswear designed as it recontextualizes adidas’ designs with elements that have been present in Balenciaga’s collections over the years.

The line of ready-to-wear, shoes, bags, jewellery and accessories are marked with a badge of sport or trefoil logo over the name Balenciaga in the lowercase adidas typeface. An exclusive release of selected signature pieces are available to purchase only on balenciaga.com and at the Madison Avenue, New York Balenciaga for a limited time.

Dior presented a Spring 2023 Men’s Capsule collection on 20^th May 2022.

The collection was designed in a partnership between Kim Jones and Russel Linnetz, Creative Director of ERL.

Ahead of the show models were fitted for their looks which consisted of updated classics and bold colourful pieces interpreting Jones’ vision of “Californian Couture.

We take an exclusive look behind the scenes ahead of the show. Scroll down for more…

Dior presented a Spring 2023 Men’s Capsule collection in the seaside destination of Venice Beach, California on 20^th May 2022.

A stylishly dressed crowd of celebrity guests, VIPs and clients discovered a creative dialogue between Kim Jones and Russel Linnetz, Creative Director of Los-Angeles based streetwear brand ERL and finalist of the LVMH Prize.

DIOR MEN SPRING 2023 

Set in the iconic destination of Windward Avenue, a place where the words of film, art, life and fashion come together, the two designers presented a colourful offering, donned “Californian Couture”, bringing together the key codes of the House of Dior and the laidback attitude of Californian style.

DIOR MEN SPRING 2023 

Linnetz who is a favourite of US-based celebrities including A$AP Rocky became a guest designer for this capsule which subtly blends the savoir-faire of Parisian Haute Couture with Californian culture.

Relaxed tailoring, slouchy fits and laidback styles combine bright colours and oversized logos.

DIOR MEN SPRING 2023 

The House’s classics have been reinvented in new ways. The Dior Cannage is transformed into quilting in satin and leather as it appears on skate sneakers and crystal-encrusted trousers.

DIOR MEN SPRING 2023 

Varying textures are juxtaposed creating a sensory overload while colours clash in a way that makes perfect sense. Soft pastel tones reflect the Californian sunset.

DIOR MEN SPRING 2023 

The iconic Bar jacket is revisited as are classic accessories which are given a new look with a bold, playful style.

DIOR MEN SPRING 2023 

Jones is no stranger to collaborations and has previously invited the likes of Kenny Scharf and Ambush on limited edition offerings.

DIOR MEN SPRING 2023

Linnetz’s own brand ERL is influenced by the nineties skate scene, an element that is again reflected in the men’s capsule collection. The location for the show was in the heart of the skating community.

Could this be the most glamorous Cannes Film festival yet? As the historical event celebrates its 75th year, celebrities are upping the style stakes on the red carpet. See some of our favourite looks from day four of the event.

Anne Hathaway wearing Giorgio Armani and jewellery by Bulgari

Julia Roberts wearing Louis Vuitton and jeweller by Chopard

Aishwarya Rai Bachchan wearing Gaurav Gupta

Deepika Padukone wearing Louis Vuitton and jewellery by Cartier

Alessandra Ambrosio wearing Stéphane Rolland couture and jewellery by Boucheron

Rebecca Hall wearing Gucci

Cindy Bruna wearing Giambattista Valli

Whether it’s for an Eid escape or summer getaway The Oberoi Beach Resort, Al Zorah is the perfect destination for all the family.

If you’re looking for a relaxing vacation but don’t want the hassle or worry of faraway travel, The Oberoi Beach Resort, Al Zorah will feel like a million miles away from your hectic life, yet is only around a 40-minute drive from Dubai. Located in the picturesque coastal area of Al Zorah, Ajman this luxury architectural marvel is nestled among 247 acres of rich ecological wetland, known as the Al Zorah mangrove forests. This unique destination offers the relaxation of a beach destination, the curiosity of an adventure holiday and the excitement of a family getaway all at your fingertips.

Spread along white sandy beaches and surrounded by lush green mangroves and royal blue waters the resort boasts exceptional biodiversity and is home to almost sixty species of birds and marine life.

While its surroundings are timeless its modern design is contemporary and innovative. A unique aesthetic, designed by Italian architect Piero Lissoni combined with an abundance of natural light and ocean views offers a completely unique experience. Guests can choose from a selection of secluded accommodation offerings featuring the ultimate in privacy and tranquillity with two and three-bedroom villas as well as rooms, suites and villas with private terraces and swimming pools.

Once you’ve arrived there’s plenty for all the family to explore. The Oberoi Spa invites guests to curate personalised experiences to treat the body, mind and soul with therapists offering a range of treatments blending Eastern and Western methodology set to revive, relax and rejuvenate. While for the active travellers, explore the nearby 18-hole golf course, cycle around the impressive resort, take on watersports, or try kayaking as you discover a wealth of bird and marine life.

When you’ve finished exploring try the hotel’s restaurants which include the all-day dining destination Vinesse which boasts views across the ocean. Or you can relax and eat in the comfort of your luxury room or villa.

With this year’s special summer offer, guests can relax in the resort’s spacious accommodation and benefit from 15% savings on the sophisticated premier room with a private garden or a premier room with a private terrace, offering views of the ocean. Included in the summer special is a la carte breakfast including signature Indian dishes as well as a range of international options and healthy alternatives.

Louis Vuitton presented its Cruise 2023 Women’s collection against the stunning backdrop of the Salk Institute for Biological Studies.

The impressive location features remarkable brutalist architecture and sweeping views over the Pacific Ocean. Designed by Estonian-born American architect Louis Kahn, in collaboration with founder Dr Jonas Salk, The Salk Institute is considered one of the most significant architectural sites in the United States. It is an independent non-profit research institute where internationally renowned scientists make life-changing discoveries in the fields of ageing, cancer, neuroscience, immunology, climate change and other areas to benefit global health and wellbeing.

“Having spent a lot of time in California, I was drawn to the idea of showing there again. The Salk Institute has been a place of wonder for me over the years and Louis Kahn’s stunning Brutalist architecture against this extraordinary setting of the Pacific Ocean and the California sunset provides me with endless inspiration. It also celebrates intelligence, knowledge and the belief in the power of science,” Said Nicolas Ghesquière, Artistic Director of Women’s collections at Louis Vuitton ahead of the show on 12th May.

The collection was illuminated by the sun setting in the distance, as warm hues brought life to the iconic location. This was a strategically planned addition to the evening from Ghesquière who saw the sun as a “guest of honour” to this collection. “The heat plays an active part in the evolution of this wardrobe where changes in temperature set a stylistic tempo,” the show notes read. “The unique light of the West Coast creates prisms on clothes full of reflections.”

Materials including linen, silk, jacquard, leather and tweed were lit up by the sun’s rays. Offering the illusion of a metallic palette, shimmering under the light. Exaggerated shapes and silhouettes were brought to life as the light touched them and gave them depth. This collection highlighted the beauty of nature and while the clothes alone, were beautiful, it was the natural elements that brought them to life in a way that was almost magical.

See more of the collection below: