Alanoud Alhashmi CEO of The Futurist Company discusses her vision for solving some of humanity’s biggest problems.

Alanoud Alhashmi is a member of the Young Arab Leaders and CEO of The Futurist Company, which aims to contribute to the UAE’s advancement as a hub of the latest technologies. Her work has been inspired by His Highness Sheikh Zayed’s efforts to promote agriculture in the UAE’s early years. The company aims to work on issues for which the world is not yet prepared. Be it climate change, food security, renewable energy or virtual reality. Alanoud is working hard with her team to always be one step ahead at solving some of the greatest issues the world will face in the coming years. Here, we find out more about her vision and her mindset which is set to inspire a whole generation of women.

Tell us about The Futurist Company and what you aim to achieve with it?

The Futurist Company’s work has been inspired by His Highness Sheikh Zayed’s efforts to promote agriculture in the UAE’s early years. It was at a time when agriculture was an expensive and tiring task as people had to fight the harsh climate, but still, His Highness made it possible even though the first advisors told him it could not be done. The ultimate goals for my company are driven by the human need for a greener tomorrow, food security, and better techniques and tools to fulfil the growing demand, not only in the UAE but globally too. We are working on future-facing projects, as part of a country that always tries to enhance and develop for the future. We are playing a role in contributing to this economy of innovation and technology.

You launched your company in the middle of the pandemic – that must have thrown up some challenges?

Having launched The Futurist Company during the COVID-19 pandemic, I was faced with a lot of challenges, but the crisis has also helped to reinforce the company’s value proposition. It made us realise that the issues we’re facing today are minor compared to the issues we will face in a couple of years. When you realise there are so many problems, sitting and doing nothing about them is not going to get us anywhere. We weren’t afraid or threatened by the timing, instead, we just got on with it. We did our research and development and we had solutions that were ready. A lot of countries struggled because of issues such as food security, not having logistics, import and export of goods, etc. and it made us realise how important the project was so we launched it immediately.

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

My first challenge is being a woman in an industry that is dominated by men. Although I have received a lot of support from men, so as much as it is a challenge, there is actually potential and there is recognition of what women are trying to achieve in the UAE and support when it is required.

But the biggest challenge I face is that my company is developing things that are future-facing, meaning they don’t really exist yet. It is therefore difficult to convey the overall project or solution that we are trying to produce. Even with a detailed explanation and a demonstration, working in a very niche sector in technology and innovation and developing solutions for problems that utilise different technologies, it is no surprise that people don’t immediately understand how complicated and sophisticated the solution is and its impact.

Tell us about what it means to you to be part of the Bentley Extraordinary Women Initiative?

This initiative sheds light on women’s roles in society and what they have achieved so far. It is a powerful tool to help inspire the next generation of women and give them the support system they need to believe in themselves as well as equip them with the knowledge they need as they further advance in their careers.

What are you hoping to achieve by being part of this programme, and what do you think you can offer young aspiring entrepreneurs through your knowledge and experience? 

Like Bentley’s goal as a brand by launching such an initiative, I believe it is essential to champion female empowerment in the region. I hope to join forces with Bentley Motors to use our knowledge and combined experiences, learnings, and passion for inspiring the next generation of female professionals. I am honoured and excited to be considered as a founding pioneer for this initiative and to take part in the mentoring programme Bentley Motors has put together by mentoring and teaching one of the selected students.

Why do you think initiatives such as this are helpful in helping to empower women in the UAE?

The Extraordinary Women initiative is so important as it will help to encourage a new generation of women who might be struggling at the start of their careers. It teaches women that it is okay to reach out and ask for help, and that it is essential to find a mentor to help you through any potential setbacks and offer insightful feedback.

What are some of the common codes you share with a brand like Bentley? 

I believe that Bentley and I share the same code of accuracy, meaning when you do something, do it properly from A to Z.

Tell us about some of your upcoming work for 2022?

We are launching GAIA, our food security agriculture technology aggrotech solutions, to tackle this and climate change. The project addresses 13 out of 17 of the United Nations’ SDG sustainable developments goals. We are also using renewable energy to achieve the UAE strategy for a carbon natural 2050; as well as being involved in ‘Operation 300 billion’ strategies for the development of the manufacturing sector in the UAE. Another sustainable energy project of ours includes battery solutions for storage and integrated renewable energy solutions.

What advice would you give to young aspiring entrepreneurs hoping to follow their dreams? 

The important elements for success are having the right, positive people around you, and getting mentors that can build you up and help you to achieve what you want to achieve. Overall, positive energy and mentorship are needed to build up the next generation of women. My biggest advice is don’t wait, do your research, do your work and start! Don’t wait for someone to tell you it’s a great idea. If you believe it’s a great idea then go ahead and do it. Waiting sometimes can actually hurt you, so go for it, get advice, do some surveys and get more feedback. A lot of people wait and the timing becomes hard or the idea dies or competition increases.

The UAE recently celebrated 50 years – what did this moment mean to you?

As an Emirati woman, I am extremely proud of the UAE’s 50 years of success and prosperity. I draw my inspiration in both my career and my personal life from the UAE because it offers me a strong grounding and gives me peace. My family, the women that I have in my family and the women in senior governmental leadership roles, along with the rich history of this country are all aspects that genuinely inspire me to be the woman I am today. My country provided me with an unparalleled environment for personal growth and development. I received an excellent education and received the support I needed to gain wide-ranging experience in business across diverse sectors.

The UAE gives me a love of challenge and the desire to achieve greatness. The consistently positive action that the government is taking is an inspiration not only for me as an Emirati, but everyone living in this country. We have that mentality because we live it every day; and when we see what our government is achieving and the UAE coming is number one, the environment encourages you to thrive. It’s a very beautiful country to be in to achieve your dreams and a place to make dreams happen.

In terms of women’s empowerment, how would you sum up where we are in the UAE now?

The UAE has definitely created ample opportunities for women, especially for Emirati women like me, to go out there and explore their talents, practice their passion, and pursue their dreams through great initiatives and programmes set in place in the past couple of years.

Furthermore, our leadership and the history of this country reflects an essential message to all its citizens of how it offers endless possibilities, and this is a continuous inspiration of what we can achieve as human beings but most importantly, what women can achieve in this country.

What is something you would still like to see happen?

I would like us to fight to see the climate crisis end. I would like to see cooperation at every level and people working together across the globe to solve a problem that affects us all. This requires cooperation between governments, companies and individuals to be able to achieve the necessary results.

What is the professional motto that you live by? 

I believe that nothing great happens without sacrifice and nothing great happens easily. If greatness is easy then everyone would achieve it, so if you go through hard times in your journey, you need to know, it’s normal, that’s the only way it will happen.

Revamp your home with new elements, colours and styles to add a fresh look to your living environment.

1. Wooden Elements

Crate And Barrel

Adding wooden accents to your home can completely change its look and feel. Simple pieces such as tables or sideboards will add a vintage-chic touch to your living or dining area.

BOTECO at Minotti

Wood featuring lighter tones will create an airy, open and sophisticated sense, while darker woods will generate a more formal appearance, exuding masculinity. You can also add small wooden elements in the form of accessories to elevate any room.

2. The Grass is Greener

Aura Living

We all love to be outside in the open but for some of us, that’s not always possible. Whether it’s due to living in an apartment or simply not having time to relax in your garden. One of the best ways to bring the feeling of nature to your interior is by adding green elements.

Fendi Casa

From green walls to soft furnishings to hanging art and accessories. Adding a little of nature’s tone to any room will immediately offer a sense of relaxation and calm.

3. Dreamy Bedroom

Al Huzaifa

This season is all about making your bedroom an absolute haven. We are talking super-soft pillows, luxurious sheets, and the ultimate in comfort. Decorate your bedroom with natural tones or pastel shades and opt for light, floaty fabrics that are soft to the touch to create a sense of dreaminess.

Finish with a candle or your favourite air diffuser. With all of these elements, you’re guaranteed to have an incredible night’s sleep.

4. Touch of Gold

Al Huzaifa

Adding gold accents to your home isn’t as easy as you may think. If you add too much you can run the risk of appearing tacky, but too little and it will go unnoticed. So this trend is all about balance. Gold décor on the walls is a great way to add a regal and the same goes for lighting.

Aura Living

Beauty is all in the details, so whether it’s a gold accessory on a sideboard or metallic elements within key pieces of furniture, concentrate on a number of small things to offer and an overall elegant overall finish.

The latest edition of Desert X AlUla begins on 11^th February with contemporary artworks from Saudi and international artists being placed in the impressive landscape of AlUIa.

This year’s exhibition theme “Sarab” explores the concepts of mirage and oasis and how they are both intrinsic to desert history and culture, that have taken on complex worldwide significance over time. Invited to consider these ancient concepts, participating artists have responded with new works that address dreams, camouflage, fiction, dis/appearance, extraction, illusion and myth, while also examining the dichotomy between the natural and man-made worlds.

Under the curatorial vision of Reem Fadda, Raneem Farsi and Neville Wakefield, 15 artists have been commissioned to bring their works to the beautiful destination for the event sharing their vision and voices from around the world.

The exhibition will run until 30^th March 2022. For more information please visit livingmuseum.co

The full list of this year’s exhibiting artists is below:

• Shadia Alem, Saudi Arabia, based in Paris.
  • Dana Awartani, Saudi Arabia, based in Jeddah.
  • Serge Attukwei Clottey, Ghana, based in Accra.
  • Claudia Comte, Switzerland, based in Basel.
  • Shezad Dawood, United Kingdom, based in London.
  • Jim Denevan, United States, based in Santa Cruz.
  • Stephanie Deumer, Canada, based in Los Angeles.
  • Sultan bin Fahad, Saudi Arabia, based in Los Angeles.
  • Zeinab Alhashemi, United Arab Emirates, based in Dubai.
  • Alicja Kwade, Poland, based in Berlin.
  • Shaikha Al Mazrou, United Arab Emirates, based in Dubai.
  • Abdullah AlOthman, Saudi Arabia, based in Riyadh.
  • Khalil Rabah, Palestine, based in Ramallah.
  • Monika Sosnowska, Poland, based in Warsaw.
  • Ayman Zedani, Saudi Arabia, based in Riyadh.

This year Sisley continues the story of its Phyto-Rouge collection with the new Phyto-Rouge Shine: a vibrant tinted lipstick with a glossy finish that moisturises and cares for the lips as well as offering long-lasting colour.

The new Phyto-Rouge Shine combines the benefits of skincare with the allure of makeup taking care of your lips but also making sure you look and feel great all day long. For the first time, the tube is also refillable after use.

Twelve shades are designed to melt into your lips and offer a colour that’s radiant and fresh. The colours have been split into two families: shine and iridescent.

The new product’s lip care qualities come from its key ingredient: Padina Pavonica extract. This essential moisturising ingredient promotes the synthesis of hyaluronic acid* and reinforces the hydric layer for an instant plumping effect. The lips are smoother, bouncier and beautifully defined.

Then the Hydrobooster complex – already found in Le Phyto-Rouge – infuses the lips with nourishing and moisturising active ingredients to care for them like a lip balm.

Microspheres containing Konjac Glucomannans (a fibre that can absorb water and swell up to 200 times its own volume) and Hyaluronic Acid (which can absorb up to 1,000 times its weight in water) absorb moisture from the dermis, expand, and maintain the lips’ water content.

And finally, a cocktail of natural Jojoba and Moringa oils provides comfort, nutrition and softness. The anti-free radical properties of Vitamin E Acetate means the formula of Phyto-Rouge Shine protects lips from dryness to leave them softer and more comfortable, day after day.

Now available to buy at Sisley stores and online across the region.

Van Cleef & Arpels is celebrating the start of Spring with its iconic Two Butterfly collection that captivates the beauty of flora and fauna.

The Two Butterfly collection has become an icon of the brand with its butterfly motif reappearing this year in a myriad of colours, appearing as though they are taking flight.

For the first time, the butterflies are adorned with the intense blue of turquoise, combined with the warmth of yellow gold and sparkling diamonds to create bold contrasts.

The collection, consisting of a Pendant, a Between the Finger ring, and Earrings create light-hearted springtime pairings.

Reflecting the Maison’s meticulous expertise, the butterfly design displays beautiful openwork, expertly set stones, and carefully designed shapes to ensure the light passes through the pieces, revealing their true radiance.

The creations flutter on the body thanks to their delicate designs and unique craftsmanship. The ring, with its iconic open band, brings together two butterflies across the finger as though they are dancing around the hand.

The earrings play with bold contrasts as each is different meaning each side of the face is illuminated by either shimmering diamonds or the brilliant colour of turquoise.

On the pendant, a butterfly seems to be taking flight in pursuit of a sparkling diamond. The creature’s tilted position gives the piece a sense of movement, enhanced by the motif’s subtle raised design.

The Van Cleef & Arpels Two Butterfly collection is now available globally.

Julien Tornare, Zenith CEO presents the latest novelties during LVMH Watch Week and discusses the future of the brand in the Middle East.

“In 2019 Zenith celebrated the 50th anniversary of El Primero movement, then in 2020 it was the big comeback of the Chronomaster line, this year we are talking about DEFY. We are continuing to evolve the Defy collection and we have kept the spirit of Defy and the spirit of Zenith in a very contemporary way. That’s what DEFY is all about.” Explains Julien Tornare, Zenith CEO as he invites us to discover the brand’s latest novelties through a virtual presentation. As he shares the newest timepieces from the brand we are invited into the ever-evolving world of DEFY.

DEFY Skyline

DEFY SKYLINE

We begin with the new DEFY Skyline, which Tornare is wearing as he shares it with us. “It’s an evolution of the Defy in a way that’s very elegant on one side but also very dynamic. You can feel the energy of the watch and it’s super easy to wear.” He says. Recalling the night sky above a bustling city that never sleeps, the DEFY Skyline is dedicated to those who follow their light and forge their own path on their journey towards their star. The star-studded dial with a sunburst finish is embellished with a perfectly aligned pattern consisting of engraved four-pointed stars, which are a modern interpretation of the Zenith “double Z” logo of the 1960s. “We wanted to give a bit of warmth and depth on the dial, so we worked with our star – the type of star that we used in the sixties and seventies – we worked on its design and we created this pattern which gives a great result. The rendering of the dial is quite stunning.” Explains Tornare.

DEFY SKYLINE

With its unique bezel, the watch draws inspiration from the unique octagonal geometry of the early DEFY models including the recently revived Defy A3642 without attempting to merely recreate the past. The watch also features the brand’s iconic El Primero movement; the new El Primero 3620. And finally, it has an interchangeable strap. “This is a very important feature in today’s world as I think people are looking for something that can be easily changed It can completely change the look of the watch.” Said Tornare.

DEFY Revival A3642

ZENITH DEFY REVIVAL A3642

The DEFY Revival A3642 further continues Zenith mission to give a second life to some of its iconic watches following the success of the reproductions of El Primero models from the 1960s and 1970s. First produced in 1960 the new DEFY Revival A3642 is a re-edition of a classic piece, perfect for avid watch collectors. It features a bold, octagonal case with a fourteen-side bezel (the same one that inspired the new DEFY Skyline), as well as a steel ladder bracelet. It has a warm grey dial with a striking gradient effect that darkens towards the edges.

ZENITH DEFY REVIVAL A3642

The watch has been reproduced in accurate detail using the original production plans from 1969 but there is one main difference. Unlike the original the DEFY Revival A3642 features a sapphire display back showing the automatic Elite 670 manufacture movement, operating at a frequency of 4 Hz (28’800 VpH) and delivering a power reserve of 50 hours when fully wound. “This is very much a collector’s watch.” Explains Tornare.

DEFY Midnight

ZENITH DEFY MIDNIGHT

Two new iterations of the DEFY Midnight collection add to the brand’s ladies offering. “We wanted to bring a new expression of what the sky can be – it’s not always blue or grey – sometimes it can be multicoloured and that’s what the new design is referring to.” Said Tornare. Housed in a 36mm stainless steel case embellished with brilliant-cut white diamonds on the bezel, these two vibrant versions reinterpret traditional craftsmanship in new and unprecedented form.

ZENITH DEFY MIDNIGHT

The first watch, DEFY Midnight Borealis is inspired by the northern lights phenomenon witnessed around the arctic circle. It features a midnight blue dial that gradually shifts to a bright emerald green towards to bottom. And the second, DEFY Midnight Sunset, features a dial that seamlessly transitions from warm red to a deep yellow tone in a perfect gradient of colours that recalls the moment the sun hits the horizon at the end of the day. “These watches also have the interchangeable strap system. You buy the watch on a metal bracelet and you get two straps.” Tornare explained.

NONA SOURCE

These new watches also introduce a new partnership for the brand, working with startup company Nona Source. Incubated by LVMH Nona Source transforms cast away pieces of material from the group’s fashion brands and upcycles them to become high fashion watch straps. “It’s quite amazing because we are talking about recycling and upcycling but you have the magic of these beautiful fashion brands from within the LVMH fashion group and we now have the ability to them into watch straps.” Said Tornare of the project. “It’s a super-exclusive offering and now two straps can be exactly the same”. Positioned as a high-end watch strap that reinforces the brand’s values around sustainability, the Nona Source pieces will be available initially only on the brand’s website but are expected to roll out across stores in the future.

DEFY Extreme Carbon

ZENITH DEFY EXTREME CARBON

“We launched the first Defy Extreme watch last year and this year we are presenting a new material of carbon and micro-blasted titanium, which gives a very sporty look to the watch and is linked to our partnership with Extreme E.” Said Tornare. Built to withstand the elements and equipped with the world’s fastest and most precise automatic chronograph movement, the new DEFY Extreme features an incredibly light carbon case, pushers and crown. Within the monolithic case, the open multi-layered dial features a mix of colours inspired by the EXTREME E’s “X Prix” colour schemes adapted for each race.

ZENITH DEFY EXTREME CARBON

The 1/100th of a second chronograph scale features bright yellow markers, while the tinted sapphire crystal dial’s chronograph counters are in bright blue, green and white, with matching-coloured small hands. Partially visible through the dial as well as the case back is the fastest automatic high-frequency chronograph calibre, offering1/100th of a second-time measurements, with two escapements beating at 5Hz (36’000 VpH) for the timekeeping part and 50Hz (360’000 VpH) for the chronograph.

DEFY 21 Chroma

ZENITH DEFY 21 CHROMA

“The last watch we are presenting is the new Defy 21 Chroma in white ceramic. It’s a watch that people know well, but this time it comes in white ceramic and with colours on the indexes as well as in some parts of the movement.” Said Tornare. Zenith has become known for its use of colours over the last few years and now for the first time, the Manufacture has developed a new method of placing colour within the movement itself. It is framed in a white ceramic case with an all-over matte finish to provide a perfect contrast to the colours within. The sapphire crystal gives way to a refracted rainbow spread evenly across the open dial and movement, with a perfectly transitioning gradient of colours spanning the entire colour spectrum. It is limited to 200 pieces and is available at Zenith boutiques and authorized retailers around the world.

Zenith in the Middle East

As Zenith launches these exciting new novelties what better time to talk about the brand in the region and its ever-growing presence here? “The Middle East is an incredible region for Zenith and we want it to be part of the top four regions next to the Americas, Asia and Europe. We are gaining more and more clients from the region which makes it a super important region for us.” Said Tornare. “We opened The Dubai Mall boutique a year ago and it became the number one boutique in the world. We know that The Dubai Mall is a key mall in the world, but for us to develop our business there so fast is fantastic news because it shows the potential of the brand in the region which is huge. Last year we doubled our business in the Middle East from 2019, despite the pandemic.”

And the next steps are clear as Zenith prepares to open its first boutique in Saudi Arabia this month at Kingdom Mall in Riyadh. “It is a big step for us as it will be the first time we are entering Saudi Arabia and in a big way. We have a key location in a key mall. So that’s a fantastic step.” Tornare will be joining some of the region’s watch enthusiasts in The Kingdom next month for the Extreme E race in Neom and there are many other exciting happenings to come over the next year. “We only have good signs coming from the region!” he says.

Brand Partnerships

Partnerships and brand ambassadors are key to Zenith who are looking for something very specific when aligning with a new partner or representative. Tornare explains: “Zenith has a long history of 157 years and we are very much known for being a super authentic brand. One of the reasons for this is that 100 per cent of our watches have a Zenith movement. Secondly, we communicate only on true stories. So we are all about transparency and authenticity. When we select an ambassador or friend of the brand, we first want someone who is true. Someone who will fit in with our values and will share his or her life experience and it has to be in line with our “Time to reach your star” philosophy. That’s what we are looking for. We don’t want the easy option of the “red carpet effect”. Of course, that brings awareness and makes noise, but customers are looking more and more for a true brand and this is what Zenith is all about.”

The Vision For Zenith in 2022

To conclude, Tornare summarises his vision for the brand in the coming year: “It’s quite simple. 2021 was a record year, we literally took the brand into a new league. And 2022 is about continuing this momentum in a different way. Defy is now coming back very strongly and later in the year we are going to have a few other launches and animations. The brand is here to be very active. Over the last couple of years, we have announced or launched something more or less every month and it is super important for us to continue this and to keep the brand alive, bringing a more dynamic approach to the industry.”

The 2022 Pantone colour of the year is Very Peri, a hue of purple. When applying it to colour psychology, it represents spirituality. It stands for a new landscape of opportunities with a new vision to rewrite our lives.

Humans have realised their strengths during the global pandemic and have begun living an authentic life with a sense of contentment. We are living through a global transformation with new realities and restructured priorities. The key to surviving this transformation can be found in the simple practice of colour psychology.

The Power of Colour

Colour plays a crucial role in our mood and behaviour, and when we are going through turbulent times, the use of colour is a natural remedy. When I say remedy, I mean a harmonious balance of our emotions through the use of colour science. As a colour Psychologist and consultant, I often get asked what colour to wear to achieve a certain goal from a style perspective more than an emotional perspective. My suggestion is always the same; colour plays a major role in your emotions and your emotions will reflect on your expressions. For overall better wellbeing, the key is to use the right colours to achieve a positive visual impact and communicate your message.

Before we move on to how to use colour in a positive manner during this transforming year, I would like to share some notes on what colour is:

Colour is a wavelength of light. Our eye filters through rods and cones the colour we are exposed to. Our brain then interprets the emotion we have when we are exposed to that particular colour. We are exposed to 16 million hues, each with its own wavelengths and we are perceiving these unconsciously every day. Most of the time, we don’t even know why we feel a certain way when we are wearing particular colours, but these feelings, emotions and moods are the pioneers of colour science research. Sounds complicated, however, it’s really quite simple! As a colour consultant, I specialise in colour psychology from the Colour Affects Theory, which highlights a link between colours and human behaviour and how to recognise and define them.

The power of colour

KEY PRINCIPALES ARE: 

• We are all affected by an individual colour.
• This may be personal, but there are a lot of aspects that are objective, unaffected by culture, gender or age, meaning, they are predictable.
• There are four groups of colours that affect us differently.

The principles state that no matter who we are or where we come from, there are certain colours that will evoke similar feelings or behaviours among us all. These hues are divided into four colour groups. Once an individual knows which group they belong to, creating harmony and balance in life is simple. The right use of your colour palette can have game-changing results in your personal and professional life, and this can be identified through an Individual Colour Session. There are also colour sessions for your interior space or self-development and these will also have a positive impact on your day-to-day life.

The above are some ways of identifying and using colour to your advantage, but today I would like to share some basic tips on how colour can play a positive role in your day to day lives.

INDIVIDUAL 

The 16 million hues of colour created from four primary colours, and did you know that using primary colours on a daily basis can balance your energy?

The Power of Colour

HOW TO USE PRIMARY COLOURS 

Red: Physical energy.

Blue: Intellectual and communication.

Green: Balance and peace.

Yellow: Emotional strength and creativity.

INTERIOR: 

Insomnia and sleep patterns have become even more of an issue during the pandemic, stimulated by the anxiety of not knowing what the future holds. There are particular colours that help you reduce anxiety and enhance your sleep cycle. One example would be the use of calming, light hues of colours on your bedroom wall.

PERSONAL BRANDING: 

We are in a new era where many of our conversations take place virtually through computer screens. By using certain colours while you communicate with your audience will keep them more engaged and proactive. Blue is the colour of communication for example. If used during presentations both in person or online it will open interaction and increase attention from your listeners. There are also other specific colours you can use when approaching different topics for presentations.

STYLING TIPS 

Many of us believe the colour black has a slimming and defining effect. Well, I hate to break it to you but the overuse of black leads to exhaustion, as it is not a colour, but rather a shade that takes from your energy, and can make you feel drained when it’s overused.

These are some of the basics of colour science, that we can all use on a daily basis to create a positive and balanced impact on our lives. The positive influence of colour science can enhance communication and business in ways we couldn’t even imagine. Why? The signals of colour to our brain are subconscious, therefore identifying and applying their benefits is a cheat to life!

Find out more about Fatima Al Shirawi and The Gracious F at thegraciousf.com

Chanel revealed today that it will present its upcoming Cruise 2022/23 collection in Monaco, a destination close to the brand.

1929 Gabrielle Chanel had her villa La Pausa built in the heights of Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, just a few kilometres from Monaco, while the late Karl Lagerfeld made La Vigie his summer residence from the end of the 1980s to the beginning of the 2000s.

Virginie Viard reaffirms the brand’s relationship with the Principality with the announcement of the latest Cruise show in the city, as well as the close relationship the brand shares with Charlotte Casiraghi, ambassador and spokesperson for the House.

The Cruise 2022/23 show will be held on May 5^th 2022. More details to follow as they are revealed.

We reveal some of the best dressed stars at the 2022 Brit Awards.

Adele brought Hollywood glamour to the red carpet in London on February 8th as she attended the 2022 Brit Awards wearing a custom-made Armani Privé gown.

Adele

The superstar wore a black silk velvet dress with a tulle neckline which she paired with diamond jewellery including what looks like a HUGE diamond ring. The star later changed into a Valentino gown for a performance of her latest single.

Ed Sheeran

Elsewhere, Ed Sheeran made a fashion statement in a blue velvet suit by Etro while Olivia Rodrigo chose a sparkling silver gown to accept her award.

Olivia Rodrigo

Dubai’s contemporary Asian fusion restaurant 3 Fils scooped the top prize last night at the Middle East and North Africa’s 50 Best Restaurants Awards.

The first awards event of its kind took place in Abu Dhabi yesterday evening, giving recognition to some of the region’s world-class culinary destinations.

3 Fils which can be found in the idyllic location of Dubai Fishing Harbour was awarded for its relaxed yet welcoming setting and exceptional food as it took the top prizes of Best Restaurant in the Middle East & North Africa 2022, sponsored by S.Pellegrino & Acqua Panna, and The Best Restaurant in the UAE.

3 Fils

Winners came from 11 different countries across the MENA region and highlighted a range of cuisines and dining styles.

Other notable winners include Dubai’s infamous Japanese restaurant Zuma which claimed the number 2 spot, and OCD Restaurant in Tel Aviv which took the third prize. The Sustainable Restaurant Award went to Dubai’s Lowe, a casual dining destination that has set a new standard for exquisite food that goes hand-in-hand with sustainability.

19 of the winning 50 restaurants are located in the UAE including Trèsind Studio which took the number 4 spot, Orfali Bros Bistro at number 5, LPM at number 8, Gaia at number 10 and Il Borro Tuscan Bistro at number 11.

Female Emirati chef Sahar Parham Al Awadhi, formerly Head Pastry Chef at the esteemed Burj Al Arab in UAE, takes home the MENA’s Best Pastry Chef Award, sponsored by Valrhona. Sahar began her culinary career in 2014 and has worked at La Serre Bistro & Boulangerie in Dubai with Izu Ani and Le Saint Georges in Paris. As an Emirati, she believes in showcasing the origins of her ingredients and supporting local producers.

Winners

William Drew, Director of Content for the Middle East & North Africa’s 50 Best Restaurants, said: “It’s a great honour to announce that 3 Fils has made it to the top of the rankings at the inaugural Middle East & North Africa’s 50 Best Restaurants awards. It is a brilliantly executed home-grown restaurant, loved by local residents and visitors alike. There is no doubt that it sets new standards in creativity, sourcing and food presentation, coupled with a personable service style, and we are delighted to announce that it has been voted No.1. Additionally, we are excited to see that 11 countries from the region are represented on the Middle East & North Africa’s 50 Best Restaurants list, demonstrating the extraordinary diversity of cuisine in this region.”

See all the winners at www.theworlds50best.com

Laurent Duffier, Managing Director of L’Oreal Middle East discusses sustainability a the international Group as well as the latest developments in the region taking L’Oreal’s brands one step closer to a sustainable future.

What can you tell us about the Garnier One Green Step report and the awareness you are trying to raise with it?

One Green Step is an annual report conducted by Garnier which takes in the opinions of 29,000 people across 9 different countries aged 6-60+ to reveal the geographical and generational differences in sustainable behaviours.

In the second annual One Green Step report, the data revealed that 83% of people want to be more sustainable, only 5% consider themselves as already acting sustainably and only 30% are ready to take action for the planet now.

In response to the report, Garnier is expanding its industry-leading Green Beauty initiative with the launch of a new digital campaign to encourage people around the world to voice their commitment by taking One Green Step and revealing their own green changes in behaviour. The campaign aims to create a snowball effect of environmental action. Each share triggers further funding to the brand’s long-term partner, NGO Plastics for Change, with up to 2 million additional plastic bottles set to be recycled.

How can our readers get involved with the project?

A&E readers can be part of One Green Step by sharing the video Onegreenstep campaign on their social media channels. The more videos shared, the greater awareness spread and will enable additional funding which will result in recycling more plastic bottles.

Garnier No Rinse Conditioner

As a global company, what responsibility do you think L’Oreal has on the future of global sustainability and what impact do you believe you can have with initiatives such as this?

At L’OREAL we want to be one of the companies that lead the movement towards a more sustainable world. In 2020, the Group launched the “L’Oréal for the Future” program revealing our set of sustainability ambitions for 2030 to accelerate our transformation to a model that respects planetary boundaries across the entire lifecycle of our products.

This isn’t new for us. Over the last 12 years, we have undertaken an in-depth transformation to reduce our impact across the entire value chain and we greatly surpassed our objectives demonstrating that decoupling growth and impact is possible. Yet, with the increased environmental and social concerns with one decade to act, we decided to take a more radical transformation to tackle this emergency and maintain an operating space for humanity.

Therefore, and as a global leader, it is our obligation to take into account our impact beyond L’Oréal by reinventing the way we design and make our products to help 1.5 billion consumers limit their impact when they use our products as well as encourage them to make sustainable choices through keeping them informed.

What can you tell us about the new sustainable innovations including the no-rinse conditioner?

The No Rinse Conditioner is estimated to save 100 litres of water per tube which is part of our strategy to reduce the environmental impact of our products during the consumer use phase. The conditioner is produced in one of Garnier’s carbon neutral and state of the art Waterloop factories, which make up 18% of Garnier’s production footprint; with the aim of 100% Carbon Neutral industrial sites by 2025 and 100% Waterloop by 2030.

What about the packaging and the use of refillable and recyclable packaging what is the future here in your opinion?
As part of the “L’Oréal for the future” set of ambitions, 100% of the plastic used in our packaging will be either from recycled or biobased sources by 2030 and the intensity of the quantity will be reduced by 20% in our products, compared to 2019.

By 2025, 100% of our plastic packaging will be refillable, reusable, recyclable or compostable. Additionally, 100% of our new displays will be eco-designed, taking into account circular economy principles for end-of-life management, and 100% of our new Free-Standing Stores will be designed and built following our sustainability principles.

We also revealed several sustainable initiatives during Expo 2020 Dubai for brands such as Kiehl’s with their new ‘Refillery’ concept. For the first time, Kiehls’ customers can refill their own aluminium ‘Refill-a-bottle’ to support Kiehls’ pursuit of sustainable consumption with a decrease in packaging production; and a Recycle & Be Rewarded activation area. We have also launched the “Hairstylists for the Future by L’Oréal” a sustainable development programme to engage hairstylists and help them reduce their sustainable footprint.

What is your opinion on the future of the industry in the region and how it will continue to develop?

Women in the region are passionate about beauty and more and more are joining the workforce every day so we are confident that the market will continue to grow.

In terms of categories, we expect Skincare to be a strong growth driver in the years to come as health and active ingredients have become increasingly important for women after the pandemic.

In terms of channels, we anticipate a dynamic growth of e-commerce in the beauty industry with an increase in personalised digital experiences, such as virtual try-ons, augmented reality or e-advice which will play a huge part in the consumer journey and their decision to purchase products. We have for example recently launched the ‘Online Concierge’ service on our luxury brand’s website which allows consumers to engage with our beauty advisors, get personalised recommendations on products, as well as learn more about their key features. This service continues to be crucial as more and more people are accustomed to online shopping even after the pandemic.

Finally, sustainability is now non-negotiable for all consumers and they will increasingly integrate these criteria when choosing their favourite brand.

Garnier Micellar Cleansing Water

As a company L’Oreal is always ahead of the game with its initiatives supporting women – tell us a little about this in the region and what else is in the pipeline?

Women’s empowerment has and will continue to be a cause that we are in invested globally and locally. Our efforts to support this cause in the Middle East started a long time ago with the launch of several initiatives to support women. As the pandemic has impacted women in disproportionate ways in the region, further underscoring the inequalities that exist between genders and increasing the cases of domestic abuse, the Group has launched in 2020 ‘L’Oréal Fund For Women’, under “L’Oréal For the Future” program, and allocated a €50m endowment fund to address this urgent issue and to alleviate the challenges that Covid-19 brought to many women across the world.

In the region, we have partnered with two prominent local non-profit organization NGOs – Shamsaha and the Dubai Foundation for Women and Children (DFWAC) – to help mitigate this social crisis to protect female victims of abuse and domestic violence. Through our partnership with DFWAC, we supported the organisation’s overarching mission in protecting women and providing them with a safe and healthy environment during turbulent times. As such, we launched the “Isolation Building” project, to protect the beneficiaries and faculty to ensure the continuity of DFWAC’s service with high safety measures.

As for our partnership with Shamsaha, the only organisation of its kind in the region that provides 24/7 crisis support for victims of abuse and domestic violence, we have helped the expand its crisis program’s on-ground and virtual operations into the UAE and the GCC to offer victims with medical, therapeutic, and legal support as well as food, supplies and transportation. The expansion also includes the further development of Shamsaha’s mobile application which will make virtual services available for women in the region.

In 2021, we held the largest L’Oréal Paris Stand Up Against Street Harassment training at Expo 2020 Dubai which was broadcast live across the world, which saw 25,000 people and 10,000 people globally were trained on the day. The aim was to create a space that supports women to empower and encourage one another as well as take charge in fighting for their place in this world.

This month, in celebration of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science at Expo 2020 Dubai, we will host the first-ever L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science MENA awards ceremony at the Dubai Exhibition Centre to recognize and award 14 exceptional Arab female scientists from the GCC, Levant and Egypt for their revolutionary research in the field of STEM.

The program started in the region in 2014 and has awarded to date, 105 phenomenal Arab female scientists. The program has become one of the most highly regarded initiatives in the region as it doesn’t only recognise and promote exceptional women scientists but also funds their research and work towards improving the representation of women in science to further enhance their careers.

How do you think new technologies will be crucial in the development of the company moving forward?

New technologies are crucial to limit the impact of our products and transform consumer behaviour as well as the shopping experience. As a digital-first company, we leverage the power of technology to launch new innovative products as well as to introduce bespoke beauty services across our portfolio of brands to meet the needs and aspirations of our consumers.

For instance, knowing that 80% of a shampoo’s carbon footprint comes from being used at home, Garnier has launched the solid shampoo which saves up to one bottle of water per wash due to its fast-rinse technology.

In the GCC for example, 53% of consumers have spent more time browsing and shopping online during the pandemic and they expressed that they would continue to shop online well after the pandemic. Therefore, we have launched digital try-ons across our beauty brand websites such as Yves Saint Laurent Beauty, Lancôme and Essie, where consumers can try makeup and nail polish virtually before they purchase the products.

What is something you would still like to achieve that you haven’t done yet?
Impact positively the lives of every woman in the region thanks to our high-quality products, great beauty experiences while pushing social responsibility and environmental actions. As a Beauty Leader, that aims at “Creating the Beauty that moves the World” in the Region we have achieved a lot already, however, there is so much more to be done.

What is the professional motto that you live by?
Dream BIG and enjoy the ride!

Thinking of a change to your hairstyle this Spring? We reveal the latest trends straight for the runways to try out this season.

Coloured Hair

Marni

Etro

Valentino

Loewe

Middle Parting 

Fendi

Carolina Herrera

Prada

Burberry

Slick Hair

Chanel

Lanvin

Giorgio Armani

Hair accessories

Simone Rocha

Tom Ford

Salvatore Ferragamo

Braids 

Valentino

Etro

Salvatore Ferragamo

Givenchy

Blunt Bob 

Dolce&Gabbana

Max Mara

Sportmax

Tod’s reconfirms its mission to support young creative talent with the new “Re-Generation” project for Tod’s Academy students, focused on sustainability.

Tod’s Academy has partnered with Istituto Marangoni in Milan and Florence on a new project aimed to interpret the brand’s historic codes in a more sustainable way.

The students who excel in the advanced training in art, fashion and design, have developed a series of projects that reinterpret Tod’s codes in a green and environmentally friendly way.

A number of internationally renowned mentors have worked closely with the students, providing their knowledge and experience to guide them on their creative journey. The students have had the opportunity to deepen their understanding of the world of design and production by becoming more familiar with Tod’s and the skills of its craftsmen.

With this collaboration, Tod’s is strengthening its commitment to the younger generation and the preservation of traditional crafts combined with innovation. It highlights the importance of giving young talents the chance to realise concrete projects during their design path. Sustainability has long been a central element of all the initiatives developed by the company, with a view to looking to the future with respect for the environment and a strong work ethic.

Tod’s Academy is a laboratory of ideas based at the brand’s headquarters in the Marche region of Italy, a place where innovative concepts meet the know-how of Tod’s, and where artisans accompany and help young people develop their skills. This collaboration with Istituto Marangoni subsequently follows the previous cooperation with Central Saint Martins, University of the Arts London, the Academy’s first success story.

See more of the project across Tod’s social media channels.

We discover the latest timepieces by Bulgari, new for 2022.

Serpenti Misteriosi High Jewellery Secret Watches

Serpenti Misteriosi High Jewellery Secret

Bulgari is introducing four new Serpenti secret watches, revisiting the iconic design from the 1950s. Each of the exquisite designs is equipped with the new Piccolissimo mechanical movement, one of the smallest in the world, entirely conceived and produced within the Bulgari Manufacture. True to the spirit of the Maison the new Serpenti Misteriosi watches are opulent and colourful, bridging the gap between watchmaking and jewellery design. Particular attention has been paid to the goldsmithing practices and the precious metal structure forming the bracelet and the head to ensure that it is comfortable and light to wear.

Each timepiece is designed to be worn on either wrist: the container hidden within the snake’s head – housing the diamond-encrusted dial and the underlying movement – can be easily removed and turned in the other direction to be easily visible on the left or right arm. Pressing the snake’s tongue on the Serpenti Misteriosi opens the head to reveal the watch.  Each watch features the new mechanical calibre, measuring 12.30mm in diameter and 2.50mm thick. This compact movement weighs just 1.30 grams.

Serpenti Seduttori and Serpenti Tubogas

Serpenti Seduttori

This year three new models complete the Serpenti Seduttori collection. A new bracelet is introduced based on an architecture composed of hexagonal motifs. Its fluid design flows over the wrist like a second skin. Available in steel, rose gold and steel or full rose gold, this new configuration offers elegance and modernity. Diamonds are set around the edge of the bezel forming two arcs of a circle to recall the jewellery ancestry of the creations; as well as the characteristic cabochon-cut rubellite: adding to the luminosity of these models.

Serpenti Tubogas

Furthermore, the single-tour Serpenti Tubogas wristwatch is now available in a bimetallic combination of yellow gold and steel, or exclusively in yellow gold set with diamonds on either side of the reptile’s head, embellished with a white opaline guilloché dial. This watch is crafted with jewellery expertise and the finest in watchmaking and is unapologetically Italian.

Octo Roma Masterpieces of Sound

Octo Roma Emerald Grande Sonnerie

Two grand masterpieces; the Octo Roma Emerald Grande Sonnerie and the Octo Roma Carillon Tourbillon blue edition highlight the finest in watchmaking and the most complicated in savoir-faire and innovation. The Octo Roma Emerald Grande Sonnerie is a mechanical masterpiece of sound that harmoniously brings together the marvel of sound and precious gemstones in a thoroughly modern style. Not only does the Grande Sonnerie four-gong mechanism represent a pinnacle of horological prowess, but the dial and case are now set with shimmering baguette-cut emeralds and diamonds. This is Bulgari at its very best, elegantly fusing Haute Horlogerie and Haute Joaillerie in its iconic Roman style. As a chiming watch, the new bejewelled Grande Sonnerie joins the orchestra of the Sinfonia della Meccanica, along with other masterpieces that allow the wearer to experience the wonder of the mechanical heart of the watch through the pure and primordial emotion of sound.

Octo Roma Carillon Tourbillon blue edition

The second piece; the Octo Roma Carillon Tourbillon blue edition combines two classic complications and redefines watchmaking tradition in a resolutely modernist approach. This watch features a highly graphic skeletonised movement with blue bridges. The platinum case is encircled by a blued titanium caseband. It has been designed to amplify the sound rendition and clarity. It features the Octo Roma Carillon Tourbillon movement with three hammers, hand-wound calibre BVL428, and measuring 35mm in diameter ad 8.35mm thick. It comprises a total of 432 components and is entirely manufactured in-house. The generous proportions of the case are designed to maximise sound propagation. Available in a 30-piece limited edition the watch has a transparent sapphire crystal caseback, is water-resistant to three atmospheres, and comes with a blue alligator leather strap secured by a platinum triple-blade folding clasp.

Lucea Intarsio Sculptures of Light

Lucea Intarsio Sculptures of Light

The new Lucea Intarsio watches are designed to translate the characteristic luminescence of the distinctive Roman sky and its blue and pink pearlescence. The new 2022 models add new colours to the palette, with their three-dimensional architectural dials crafted in materials that capture and enhance the light. Pink mother-of-pearl and aventurine compose the two new Lucea shades ensuring maximum chromatic effect and infusing the collection with an additional jewellery touch. Furthering a classic métiers d’art technique applied to the mother-of-pearl, each of the dials is assembled using the marquetry technique in a pattern called Intarsio. In both cases, each of the 37 mother-of-pearl and blue aventurine micro-elements are cut and then faceted by hand before being assembled according to a precise and regular geometry to form the three-dimensional surface of the dial. This complex and refined handcrafted construction captures all the variations in light, like the skies of the Eternal City.

Thinking of heading on a ski vacation this month? We round up our favourite destinations across the globe.

1. St Moritz, Switzerland

St Moritz

A favourite with celebrities from Kim Kardashian to Kate Moss, St Moritz is probably one of the most well-known ski resorts in Europe. With as much happening off the slopes as on them, there is no end to the experiences you can have in this luxury destination. The Corviglia mountain in St Moritz was in fact the birthplace of Alpine winter sports around 150 years ago and has played host to two Winter Olympic Games. Off the slopes, you’ll find regional delicacies in the finest restaurants and luxury accommodation is in abundance. There are beautiful spas and even the world’s first yoga slope for fitness enthusiasts. And if you’re looking for a little retail therapy, the local shopping street; Via Serlas is home to the finest luxury brands including Cartier, Versace, Gucci, Giorgio Armani and more.

2. Courmayeur, Italy

Courmayeur

Situated in North-West Italy Courmayeur is located at the foot of the iconic Mont Blanc. It is known for its iconic SkyWay MonteBianco cable car, offering stunning views of the surrounding peaks including Matterhorn and Mente Rosa. This medieval town offers a charming Italian mood and some of the cutest ski chalet’s you’ll find in Europe. It’s a great choice for families and there are many ski routes for beginners as well as plenty to do off the slopes. The medieval town centre is the perfect spot for discovery, with meandering narrow streets featuring glamorous restaurants, boutique shops and some of your favourite luxury brands.

3. Verbier, Switzerland

Verbier

Known for its celebrity clientele and its party lifestyle off the slopes, Verbier is also the largest ski area in Switzerland, with 410 kilometres of runs. It’s a great location for beginners and seasoned skiers alike. There are dozens of slopes for every experience level and some of the best scenery in the country. The highlight is the iconic Mont-For run which has been a regular for athletes for generations. It is one of the steepest slopes in the world. Off the slopes, there is something for everyone from luxury shopping to nightclubs to relaxing restaurants. The ideal destination for a girls trip or a group vacation.

4. Zermatt, Switzerland

Zermatt

Situated in Southern Switzerland’s Valais canton, Zermatt is located at an elevation of around 4,000m it is the highest winter sports area in the alps and consequently offers almost year-round skiing conditions at its highest points. Off the slope, its main street Bahnhofstrasse is lined with boutique shops, hotels and gourmet restaurants, and also has a lively après-ski scene. For those who are not so into skiing the scenery is absolutely breathtaking making this the perfect destination for discovery and soaking up the atmosphere. There are many public outdoor rinks for ice-skating and curling. Close to the border of Italy Zermatt attracts a cosmopolitan range of travellers and is buzzing with international flair.

5. Gstaad

Gstaad

Another celebrity hotspot Gstaad first became well-known in the seventies when it was a favourite destination of Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton. Today it still attracts celebrity attention with the likes of Madonna, Anne Hathaway and even Elton John being huge fans of the area. This upscale resort town in the Bernese Oberland region of the Swiss Alps is surrounded by soaring mountains and some of the world’s most beautiful properties and resorts. Cable cars connect the surrounding ski area with hundreds of kilometres of all-level pistes and cross country trails. The pace of life is slow here and it’s the perfect destination to relax, unwind and be at one with nature.

6. Gudauri, Georgia

Gudauri

A little closer to home Gudauri, Georgia is fast becoming one of the most popular ski destinations with UAE-based travellers. Located around 2,200 metres above sea level it is around a two-hour drive from the country’s capital Tbilisi. The ski season here ranges from December to April and the weather is absolutely beautiful with bright blue skies on most days when it’s not snowing. With helicopters granted almost unrestricted access to local mountains, skiers can experience some of the most sublime runs in Europe – at altitudes between 1,500 and 4,200 meters above sea level. The helicopters drop clients off on mountain tops, glaciers, fabulous ridges, and in the hands of highly experienced guides. While you’re visiting be sure to discover local Georgian culture and food which is in abundance!

7. Mzaar, Lebanon

Mzaar

Mzaar is the Middle East’s largest ski resort with over 100km of ski runs. It is located just a 45-minute drive from Beirut and easily accessible by road. As well as being a great destination for seasoned skiers, there is plenty to discover off the slopes too with a full calendar of events and activities for all the family. From a kids ski park, zipline experience and even a snowmobile, you’ll be able to discover the beauty of Lebanon in so many new ways. There are several hotels and chalets to stay in in the area all in perfect proximity to the slopes.

8. Whistler, British Colombia, Canada

Whistler

For those looking to travel further afield Whistler in Vancouver, British Colombia is home to one of the largest and perhaps most iconic ski resorts in North America. Besides skiing and snowboarding, the area offers snowshoeing, tobogganing and ski jumping at the Olympic Park which was home to the 2010 Vancouver Olympics. The main ski resort Whistler Blackcomb benefits from impressive snowfall every year. The snow often comes early in the season offering a sold snow base and a long season. When the sun goes down there is so much to do including cross-country skiing, ice skating, evening shows, restaurants, bars and even festive light walks. You’ll never want to leave this idyllic destination!

9. Niseko, Japan

Niseko

Unbeknown to many, Japan offers some of the world’s best skiing conditions. Niseko, located on the southwestern coast of Hokkaido is renowned for its powdery snow and perfect ski conditions. Niseko consists of four main resorts that can all be accessed with one universal ski pass. There are incredible spots to be discovered with vast mountain ranges offering breathtaking views of Mount Yotei. There are plenty of fun activities to discover too including snow rafting, snow tubing, horse riding, snowmobiling, luxury dining experiences and more.

Dolce&Gabbana has revealed its decision to discontinue the use of animal fur in all its Collections starting in 2022.

The Italian brand will continue to work with its close partners of master furriers to create eco-fur garments and accessories and a sustainable faux fur alternative that uses recycled and recyclable materials.

The new policy is supported by the Humane Society of the United States and Humane Society International, in accordance with the guidelines of the Fur Free Alliance.

“Dolce&Gabbana is working towards a more sustainable future that can’t contemplate the use of animal fur. The entire fashion system has a significant social responsibility role that must be promoted and encouraged: we will integrate innovative materials into our Collections and develop environmentally friendly production processes, while at the same time preserve artisans’ jobs and know-how otherwise in danger of fading”. Said Fedele Usai, Group Communication & Marketing Officer at Dolce&Gabbana

“We applaud Dolce&Gabbana’s decision to stop using animal fur. Ending the use of fur creates a higher standard for what is acceptable in fashion, and we’re so excited to have Dolce&Gabbana, and so many others, embrace a better, more innovative path forward”. Said PJ Smith, Fashion Policy Director at Humane Society of the United States and Humane Society International.

Hublot presented its latest novelties at the recent LVMH Watch Week. We discover more.

Big Bang Unico Golf Carbon Orange

Hublot Big Bang Unico Golf Orange Carbon

The first key novelty from Hublot introduces the brands Big Bang Unico Golf in a new standout orange carbon edition. As a brand known for its coloured carbon materials this orange hue marries perfectly with the design of this watch, created with golf players and enthusiasts in mind. Featuring a mechanical Unico movement this men’s timepiece was created in partnership with golfer Dustin Johnson. It is the first watch of its kind, designed to keep track of your golf score over an 18-hole round. This specialist 45mm watch features a lightweight zesty orange carbon material and skeleton dial, showcasing the inner mechanism. Weighing less than 100 grams it has a power reserve of 72 hours and comes on a high-tech orange fabric strap. It is limited to 100 pieces.

Time Only

Hublot Big Bang Integral Time Only

This year the brand is introducing its Big Bang Integral in a 40mm design for the first time. Offered in three new configurations in yellow gold, titanium and “All Black” ceramic, the “Time Only” collection refocuses on the essence of watchmaking: hours, minutes, seconds and the date, without losing any of the power of the watchmaker’s codes. The iconic integrated bracelet offers powerful architecture and a striking finish. A sapphire crystal on the face and back houses the watch’s oscillating weight. The ‘Time Only’ Big Bang Integral in titanium and yellow gold join the main collection. The ‘All Black’ version is limited to 250 pieces.

Big Bang One Click 33, 39 and 42mm

Big Bang One Click

The stylish Big Bang One Click is being introduced in three new sizes with a fashionable twist. Featuring a collection of twelve silky bracelets cut from “soft touch” grained calf leather, this classic design is instantly transformed at the click of a button. Available in King Gold or steel, partially or fully set with diamonds, the cases feature black or white polished dials, around which the precious hours are arranged. Twelve stylish coloured leather straps can be attached to the watch depending on your mood, time of day or occasion.

Yellow Gold Collection

Hublot Yellow Gold Collection

Introducing six new models in yellow gold is a key moment for the brand, marking the first time Hublot has used this colour gold in 40 years. Each of the pieces represents a moment in the Manufacture’s history and the way in which it is moving forward. The six new watches in yellow gold are: the Big Bang Integral, designed from a single block of solid gold. It is also available fully set with diamonds, alongside the ultimate Haute Joaillerie version. Then we have the Big Bang Unico and the sculptural Spirit of Big Bang. The Big Bang is the first to feature a 42mm case entirely in yellow gold with a rubber strap and Unico movement. It is the ultimate embodiment of Hublot’s 100% manufacture ethos, and features a calibre with a 3-day power reserve and an exterior that fuses yellow gold, deep black, skeleton work, performance and power. And finally, the Spirit of Big Bang, which takes the form of an exquisite tonneau with alternating straight lines and curves, featuring polished and satin-finished surfaces of brilliant yellow gold which create a spectacular dance of light. It comes in a 42mm version with skeleton movement,

Hublot X Sang Bleu

Hublot Big Bang Unico Sang Bleu

The Hublot X Sang Bleu story continues with three new iterations of the Big Bang Sang Bleu II to mark the 7th year of the collaboration. Tattoo artist Maxime Plescia-Buchi chose to apply his ink to two iconic materials born from the Hublot Art of Fusion: Magic Gold and ceramic. Hublot used the strongest materials onto which the master tattoo artist’s designs alternate and are superimposed on the case and bezel and extending to the rubber strap. This geometry reveals that of the HUB1240 manufacture self-winding Unico chronograph movement, which is visible beneath a skeleton dial and a transparent case back. Limited to 100 pieces for the Magic Gold version, 250 for the Black Magic in full black ceramic and 200 for the Green Ceramic.

Zegna’s values have always been deeply rooted in quality, craftsmanship and sustainability. The Italian menswear house has since the beginning, found solace in providing something different that considers the elements that men are truly looking for from their wardrobe at any given time.

So as the world around us is changing so drastically, it goes without saying that Zegna needed to adapt in order to fulfil the ever-evolving needs of men today. The brand has very recently undergone a re-branding and re-focus of its vision to do just that. It has taken on one single identity renaming itself “Zegna” and dropping the “Ermenegildo” name of the House’s founder. It has developed a new logo and ethos around its collections. This ethos, while still keeping in mind all the elements of heritage, quality and craftsmanship, is also about comfort. Fulfilling the new needs of men today and what they are looking for from fashion. Under the new vision, Alessandro Sartori, Zegna’s Artistic Director recently presented his Fall 2022 collection with a new look and a new way of expressing masculinity through fashion.

The Spring/Summer 2022 collection and the recently launched Outdoor capsule also share this vision of comfort and adapting style to be more wearable, less formal and not bound by rules. Here we find out more about the vision of the company moving forward and the creative process behind the latest collections.

Spring/Summer 2022

Can you share with us your vision and direction for Zegna in 2022? 

Let’s start with the rebranding that the company has recently undergone as we now have a completely different vision. With the new direction, we are now trying to convey the image through one brand: Zegna; with one logo and one story. We developed the Fall/Winter 22 show to be part of the journey. The show itself conveyed the new Zegna branding and image to the world for the first time. We wanted to share the idea of this new wardrobe where outdoor and indoor collide, where “the new set” style is taking the lead. We are matching different styles of tops, bottoms and jackets but in the same colour, together, we are working more with this idea of a uniform that you can compose and decompose to create new looks, where the construction is made from fabrics that don’t have any lining or reinforcement inside. It is about fabric, human work and design. Craft and modernity are colliding into something new: this is the new Zegna brand image.

Can you tell us a little about the importance and relevance of the new Zegna logo?

The logo is arising from an interesting story. When the company first began in 1910 its name was simply “Zegna”. It then split into two companies because there were two different visions of the Zegna brothers. Ermenegildo Zegna then took the reins of the company and brought it to what it is today and we have now decided to go back to what the brand was at the beginning and to reinforce the message. The logo itself is also very similar to the initial logo. When we designed it we wanted it to be modern with a link to our heritage but in a very fresh way. It also features the symbol of the Zegna road. This is the road that goes through the Oasi Zegna, built by our founder Ermenegildo Zegna over 110 years ago, before planting half a million trees in the area. This is the vision the brand started with and with our new vision, we wanted to think about new signifiers from our symbolism and that’s how we got to this logo.

Spring/Summer 2022

We just recently saw the launch of the Fall 22 collection – can you share a few words on this collection and the creative process behind it?

The collection itself is closely linked to the DNA and the craftsmanship of the brand. There is also a historical element with the interesting link between the history of Zegna and the modern images of our modern studio in Milan. Mixing the organic elements of nature with the beautiful clean design of our studio highlights exactly what the collection stands for. Modernity and craft, human work and minimalism, neutral and organic colours with bright colours. It’s a very specific point of view that we like to push since it’s our new image, but it’s also closely linked to our DNA.

Can you share with us a little on the Spring/Summer 22 collection – the creative process behind it, the silhouettes, the colour palette etc.?

The summer collection is focused on fresh, organic summer fibres and creating this idea of a new uniform that we discussed. I call it “the new set” and it is about the new ways of wearing pieces together. Short coats, over shirts and jersey jackets, are worn with workwear pants in the finest Italian materials to create this image that we have in mind. There are many contrasts that are part of our way of working towards a new world and our new image. The collection is very fluid, there are a lot of silk fabrics, linen, a lot of beautiful shapes and this lightness or weightlessness which I have never done before.

Has the impact of the global pandemic influenced or changed anything about the way you work?

A lot has changed as we are spending more time working in the studio and less time travelling. We have a lot more time to brainstorm to style, to design, to discuss new ideas and concepts etc. There have been a lot of interesting sessions coming out of this time and we have had a lot more focus on the shapes and the construction of the collections. So yes, it has changed because we now spend our time differently.

Fall/Winter 2022

Who is the Zegna man today? 

The Zegna man is a tribe of different men with different characteristics. He is stylish, but he doesn’t show off, he is devoted to quality and creativity, he loves little secrets and qualitative construction. He loves being part of a community and he loves to share his personal opinion and point of view. The Zegna man is more about embodying these topics or DNA rather than a specific age or geographical location. He could be 25 or 65, he could be from the UK or Japan, but it’s more about his mindset than his physical characteristics.

What changes have you seen in the way men dress over the last few years?

There have been many changes. Due to the pandemic, the new vision of men and people, in general, has a lot to do with comfort. Comfort was not previously at the centre of our lives, but today it is the most important thing, together with quality. So yes, the way men dress has totally changed. Everything we do now at Zegna is related to comfort. We don’t have any garment that isn’t comfortable. Even a tuxedo has this point of view!

We love the recent outdoor collection – tell us about that and how it fits into Zegna Man’s wardrobe?

This collection represents a chapter in our man’s life. When the Zegna man is buying technical products he is looking for the same quality, but for a different function. So this collection features the same quality but with new constructions, new technical style and new materials. They are pieces that can also complement the pieces he already has in his wardrobe. You don’t necessarily need to dress head-to-toe in an Outdoor collection outfit. Maybe you borrow pieces that you wear in your everyday life and pair them together. This collection is for when it’s raining, snowing when you’re travelling, or you’re walking, anytime you’re going to be in more open-air situations. This is what we thought we were missing from our offering and we are very happy to have worked on this collection.

Fall/Winter 2022

We know the #UseTheExisting concept is very important to you – can you share a little on where you are at with that currently and the importance of sustainability at the brand in general? 

We started with the #UseTheExisting concept in 2018 with our show in the Central Station of Milan. At that point, we felt we needed to take a strong step forward in recycling with the goal of reducing our waste. Today we have a lot of layers of sustainable practices at the company through our design and creativity. We are talking a lot about the #UseTheExisting fabrics; fabrics that are derived from the waste from previous materials. We are talking about the traceable cashmere that we work with, we are using natural colourants in some of our materials. We are talking about the ACHILLFARM™ wool, which is a selection of wool arriving from our farm in Australia. It comes from sheep that are living in an open air, totally free environment. We are talking about Italian fibres, even some of the fibres we use are from sheep living here in Italy and we create local fabrics with local wool. So there are a lot of layers to sustainability at Zegna, but more than that, we have a very sustainable mindset in our design approach. This is exactly what we like.

How important is it to you to keep the concept of “Made in Italy” alive? 

It’s very important. Made in Italy is one of the most interesting concepts in the world, but more than that, at Zegna, we have a unique relationship with our workers, our artisans and our employees. We have a lot of factories and workshops in Italy, and we have partnerships with many others that are not owned by Zegna but with whom we work very closely. It’s an interesting relationship that we build on year after year. Made in Italy is not only the best place to be made in the world, it’s our DNA, our story and history, and it’s also an investment for the future because we work with artisans who are devoted to what they do and see it as a passion.

What about the younger generations today, do they want to know more about where their products come from?

I think it’s very important them but more than that I think they want to feel the value of a product through more than just its cost. The quality of what they are buying is something that’s becoming more and more important. Made in Italy will become even more important to the younger generations moving forward.

ZEGNA OUTDOOR CAPSULE COLLECTION

We always love to have you in the Middle East – and we know you recently opened up a pop-up store here in Dubai – what can you tell us about that and how it has been received so far?

First of all, the pop-up boutique in The Dubai Mall has a very beautiful story because it highlights our partnership with Maserati. It is in a fantastic location and it is doing extremely well. It is enabling us to reach a strong clientele including a lot of people that we have never been in touch with before. It’s working extremely well, almost surprisingly well, because of the number of people, the number of new customers and also the revenue. And it is also creating a unique relationship with the final customers because so many people are stopping there to see what we have and to check what we are doing. So it allows us to create a stronger story with a demographic of people we never thought we would.

Secondly, Dubai is one of the cities I love the most in the world, and I’m not just saying that! I am particularly attracted to the new metropolis of the world of which Dubai is one. I am a person who feels better in a big city and I like the feeling of having everything at my disposal, getting from one side to the other very easily and also to be able to drive one hour out of the city and be with nature. Dubai offers all that. Dubai has strong energy and to me, it is very inspiring.

What inspires you the most or puts you in a creative state of mind?

Reading, thinking, brainstorming with others, looking at a lot of images and pictures. I look at thousands of images from magazines and books – I am a crazy collector of books! These are the things that I like to do in order to be creative. Of course travelling as well, not so much recently, but it will be back.

ZEGNA OUTDOOR CAPSULE COLLECTION

What is a message you would send to your customers in the region?

When you build your silhouette remember this sentence of mine: “Try to not only look beautiful and stylish but also to capture the emotion of wearing something for the first time each time you wear it.” There is a strong joy in wearing something for the first time and it is an emotion it is a magical moment. So when you dress yourself remember to touch this magical point that makes you special.

2022 requires us to ask much deeper questions of who we are because we have to evolve into new versions of ourselves in order to come into this new world that we are entering. The world that we are going into is incredibly complex and complexity has within it two elements: sad and strange.

Right now on this level of complexity we are seeing many structures around us that we once implicitly trusted, fall away and this requires us to evolve. Because if the old us wants to move into the new world, we will complain and we’ll be upset and frustrated that the world is not speaking back to us in a language that we understand. And so, we have to now take on this responsibility to engage with strangeness and sadness in a more mature way. The reason I say sadness is that every time a transformation is happening, we have to go through a process in which we say goodbye to our familiar world. In that process, there is always sadness because everything we’ve worked for pre-COVID is becoming less and less relevant. And that’s sad. It’s also sad that everything we once implicitly trusted we no longer can. The dollar, the patriarchy, education, you name it – every touchpoint of our lives we are losing grip of. So first we must become clear in our ability to mourn the old self. Then we need to embrace the strangeness that we’re going into, with a focus point of engaging with it rather than saying, “it’s not for me” or “I just don’t understand it” or “it’s far too complex”. Yes, that’s the whole point of us evolving, it is going to be complex.

So we need to simplify our lives, our emotional states and who and what we are so that we can start building a new us for the new world. If you arrive in this new world trauma from the past, it’s going to be very difficult to engage in any information and it’s difficult to optimistically engage with newness and strangeness. So for me, it’s a process of emotional healing the traumatic patterning that we have gathered from our families and experiences thus far. I’ve been using something called family constellations, there are many modalities for us to use, but I think on an emotional level, for us to break old patterns, we need to take responsibility for breaking them so that we can simplify and then be able to educate ourselves into what’s coming.

Breathing Empires

The second point that is important for us to think about is the “breathing empires” that we have around us. We must consider every country or city and where they are in the process of their empire. If you think about Italy for example, it’s the most magnificent country, but it peaked 2,000 years ago. You don’t think about the future, you think about the history of Italy. So that empire has already peaked. Then you have The United Kingdom whose empire peaked 150 years ago. The Dutch empire peaked 400 years ago, and the American empire is disintegrating right in front of our eyes. So we have to start taking into account where we want to position ourselves in the process of empires growing or dying.

For me, the UAE is a wonderful example of an empire that’s breathing in and focusing on developing for the future. It’s fascinating to watch Dubai “breathe in”, and over the next ten years, it will be a world capital as that’s the way the city is applying itself to the future. Another place we see growing very quickly is Saudi Arabia, which is also breathing in and trying to create something new. China and Singapore are also doing some amazing things. So when we think about 2022 and moving forward, we need to ask ourselves: Do I want to be living or doing business and engaging with a city or a country that’s breathing in, or breathing out?

A New Chapter

We need to understand the patterns that we are now in and how we are evolving into a new chapter and consciousness, and in this new consciousness, we have to realise that new skillsets are required from us. 400 years ago everyone worked in farming and agriculture. And in those times the most important tool we had were our own bodies. Our bodies and our strength allowed us to do manual work to feed our families and take something to the market and trade. But then, 200 years ago the industrial revolution began and with that, one key thing happened; our bodies were replaced by factories and we had to start learning new skills and develop our IQ. So education systems were set up to help us develop our intelligence which was left-brain process-driven, repetition. But now we are moving from industrial to quantum. In this leap, we must realise that AI is replacing IQ. We can’t compete against AI, just like our bodies couldn’t compete against the factories. The jobs that are being taken away are the ones that are pattern repeating, left-brain, process-driven thinking. Why? Because automation is all about pattern recognition. And the minute something can recognise a pattern, it can do it a lot faster and cheaper than any of us can. So we have to start developing something new called intuition.

Intuition

Intuition in this sense is not about doing meditation and being intuitive, it’s about really understanding intuition as a new skill set that we need to start applying. Because every rudimentary service and product that we need or want will be taken care of around us for almost free. Look at Google Maps, for example, memorising a phone number, worrying about finding music, all these things have been simplified and are available for free and you don’t even have to think about it. Once things around us become digitised the logic and the process that we have to keep all those things alive will start to get taken away from us and all we will be left with is an emotional intuition.

John Sanei

Intuition in my world is made up of four elements: The first is wisdom. Wisdom is best described by Alan Watts who said: “the knowledgeable man has to learn something new every day, but the wise man has to unlearn something new every day.” So we can’t come into this new world carrying old stories and expectations and patterns within us because we won’t be able to be intuitive. Because in this case, our gut feeling would be damaged by traumatic memories. You carry past trauma with you and so you apply it in your life moving forward. Essentially your gut feeling or intuition is broken from past happenings, so we need to let go of these past happenings to move forward subjectively.

The second part is curiosity. When you’re doing something you love, time disappears. You do it just for the sake of doing what you’re doing because that’s where your genius lies. So we need to let go of our past, lead with curiosity, switch on imagination and then experiment. Why do we need imagination? Because the society we come from has gotten us addicted to certainty and absolute outcomes, and because of this, our imagination has switched off. So we have to re-engage our imagination on what’s possible and then we need to experiment and play. While we experiment and play we have this feedback loop that starts to happen which gives us a sixth sense or an intuitive process that makes us lead the process forward based on intuition, not IQ and not logic.

So to recap, this year requires a brand new version of you. It requires us to simplify our lives emotionally and mentally to re-educate ourselves and catalyse ourselves into this new future. We need to understand which empire we want to be living in: one that’s breathing in or one that’s breathing out. And then we need to start understanding intuition: what it is, what it means and how we start developing it as a muscle.

And lastly, I would highlight recommend committing yourself to spending ten minutes in the future every day. That’s the only way you can become comfortable with what’s going to happen.

Whether it’s through reading, listening to podcasts, watching YouTube or through study groups with friends and colleagues to unpack the information in a discussion and workshop format. I commit myself to listen to podcasts every day while I’m walking and at that moment I put my brain into an alpha state so it relaxes and can take in more information. You could also do it while driving for example.

Be very clear that the future is happening so we need to give ourselves the tools to prepare for the strange world that we’re moving into. And the more we delay it the more petrified and frustrated we will become, but once you decide to do this it will become much easier.

John Sanei is a globally renowned keynote speaker, futures strategist, lecturer and author. He is on the faculty at Singularity University and Duke CE. His work focuses on understanding the perspective required to thrive in tomorrow’s rapidly changing, hyperconnected world. He is the author of four bestselling books. 

Dubai-based womenswear designer Shatha Essa recently collaborated with the Malaysian Pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai to create a custom art installation that celebrates the heritage and craftsmanship of the UAE and Malaysia.

The Emirati designer transferred her skills in fashion design and her fascination with arts and crafts from around the world to partner with Malaysian artisans on this exclusive art piece.

The installation depicts the sand dunes of the UAE enhanced by Malaysian craftsmanship. The story is expressed through 50 cones representing the sand dunes of the UAE which are weaved using Malaysian crafts and materials. The structure was presented to Her Excellency Reem Al Hashimi, the Emirati Minister of State for International Cooperation, and the Managing Director for Expo 2020 before being showcased in the Malaysian Pavilion this January.

Art Installation at Expo 2020 Dubai

Shatha Essa’s namesake clothing brand launched in 2016 with the vision of helping charitable causes through fashion. Essa found her passion for helping others after volunteering for several different causes from the age of 18. She wanted to find a way to help and support talented peopled combining this with her love for fashion. Since starting her own label Essa has been supporting artisans and craftsmen across a diverse range of cultures and nationalities. Here we find out more about her passion for art, design and supporting the talents of others through her business.

Tell us about your project with Expo2020 Dubai and why did you decide to embark on this journey?

I was approached to create an art piece in collaboration with some amazing artisans to be presented in the Malaysian Pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai. In my work as a fashion designer, I highly value the importance of the artisan’s craftsmanship and include it in all my collections. It has become part of my brand’s DNA. I strive to communicate the universal language of design across borders and industries.

Art Installation at Expo 2020 Dubai

What was the vision behind your creation and how does it celebrate the history of the UAE?

The UAE Golden Jubilee Sand Dunes is inspired by the past, present and future of the UAE. Each element acts as an ode to the country’s journey over the past fifty years. Displayed through 50 cones, these cones represent the sand dunes of the Emirates, which are weaved using Malaysian crafts and materials.

Tell us about the process of working with the Malaysian artists and how did you come together to create something that celebrates the heritage of both countries?

The desert is such a beautiful and serene place, so I wanted to find a way to represent this. Malaysia is renowned for its pandanus weaving so I envisioned creating sand dunes out of the pandanus leaves. It was a humbling experience to work with the artisans, learning their craft and seeing how they could create my vision with their techniques.

Last year the UAE celebrated 50 years – what would you like to see happen in the 50 years to come?

I would hope for the UAE to continue to inspire its people and its future generations.

What inspires you most about your country?

Its people. The UAE is home to over 200 nationalities making it a melting pot of different cultures and backgrounds. This diversity allows us to learn so much from each other and become stronger as a nation.

How do you think Expo 2020 has raised Dubai’s profile on a global scale?

Expo 2020 Dubai has shown the world what Dubai is capable of and that it’s a city of the future. 

As a fashion designer, how do you translate your skills into the art world?

Being able to sketch and get my ideas down on paper is a skill that is incredibly useful in the art world.

Tell us about the inspirations behind your brand and how would you describe your style of work?

My inspiration comes from everything around me including nature, art, interiors, and inspiring women. My style of work is feminine, elegant, and timeless.

What is your goal and vision for 2022?

To grow my brand internationally and to continue to make a difference to communities around the world.

What can you tell us about your fashion line?

SHATHA ESSA emerged out of my love for design intertwined with my passion to support different causes. Challenging the social norms, my label not only acts as a platform for my creativity but serves communities in need. This is achieved through supporting artisans across a diverse range of cultures and nationalities. Creating garments with a story, each collection fuses the traditional crafts and embroideries from these artisans, which in turn allows us to create employment opportunities.

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

I would hope for my collections to be available in all the major department stores around the world.

What is the biggest challenge you are facing right now?

Due to the global pandemic, we are still facing supply chain challenges. I source all my fabrics from countries such as Japan, Italy, and France so it has been challenging to meet deadlines due to lockdowns or delays from the suppliers.

What is the professional motto you live by?

Believe in yourself and don’t take no for an answer.

When are you in your most creative state of mind?

Early in the morning before my family wakes up. This is when I have time to myself to journal and plan the day ahead. It gives me a chance to set the tone for the day and get my creativity flowing.

What else is in the pipeline for 2022?

We have some exciting collaborations coming up that I’m not yet able to talk about so stay tuned!

Ahlam Bolooki’s passion for reading goes far deeper than a career choice. As Director of Emirates Festival of Literature, she is responsible for bringing international and regional authors together for a dialogue that helps to highlight the importance of literacy in today’s society and particularly in the region.

After a break from a physical event last year, Emirates Festival of Literature is back this month and it’s bigger than ever. With a new location and an incredible line-up of authors there’s plenty to see and discover. Under the theme “Here Comes the Sun” this year edition will see big names presenting and hosting interactive sessions throughout the week. Attending speakers and authors include Gary Vaynerchuk, Nadiya Hussain, David Walliams, Iman Mersal, Indra Nooyi, Azza Fahmy and HE Omar Saif Ghobash. There will also be a highlight on Emirati talent on day one of the festival and throughout the programme. Here we find out more about what to expect with Festival Director Ahlam Bolooki.

What can you tell us about this year’s edition of Emirates Festival of Literature – what can we expect?

The festival begins on 3^rd February so not long to go now! Throughout the ten days we will have very special events happening around town, as well as the main event over the weekend. For the first time in thirteen years our venue has changed, and this edition will be at Habtoor City, on Sheikh Zayed Road. It’s a great convenient location with lots of possibilities.

What are some of the precautions you have taken in relation to COVID-19?

We are very excited to have many authors flying in this year as last year we had to take the decision to not let any international authors attend. This year, so far, everything is going to plan which is very exciting and the authors are still very much interested in coming to Dubai. I think now that we have familiarised ourselves a little more with the virus and how to protect ourselves, people are a lot more confident to travel. At the festival we will have certain measures in place to ensure everyone stays safe. All the authors will be COVID-tested before speaking at the festival, as well as everyone in the team. We will monitor the situation closely and follow the government guidelines.

What are some of the highlights and visiting authors to look out for this year and is there anything new to discover?

We chose this year’s theme “Here Comes The Sun” because we wanted the event to be a ray of positivity after the difficult two years the world has faced and we’ve got exciting sessions covering a range of topics. A few highlights include a session with Indra Nooyi, the former President of Pepsico. I am moderating the discussion between her and Her Excellency Reem Al Hashimi at Expo 2020 Dubai on the last day of the festival, so that will be really exciting.

We have a session with Toshikazu Kawaguchi who is the author “Before the Coffee Gets Cold” which is a fictional novel translated from its original Japanese. The book is about time and travel and it’s really fun and quirky so that will be exciting. We have a session with Selma Dabbagh author of “We Wrote in Symbols”. She put together this anthology of love and lust in Arab literature written by women and it’s a really interesting book that has had a lot of attention.

We’ve got some amazing fiction award-winning authors including Brit Bennett, author of “The Vanishing Half”, we have C Pam Zhang, author of “How Much of These Hills Are Gold”.  And we are going back into the desert for our signature poetry event. We have Charles Dickens great, great, great granddaughter Lucinda Dickens Hawksley coming. She will be hosting a special event with a talk about the women in Dickens’ novels on February 7th which marks Charles Dickens’ two-hundred and tenth birthday.

Can you share a little on some of the Emirati authors taking part?

Day one of the festival is completely dedicated to Emirati literature and it’s free for all to attend. We will have a session on short story novels which will see a group of Emirati writers reading exerts out of their short stories. We’ve got a lovely poetry event hosted by Emirati poets, we’ve got a session on the cultural economy in the UAE, where we will have different speakers from various industries talking about the new cultural economy, whether that’s streaming or NFT’s or all sorts of different aspects of cultural economy. We’ve got a panel on women in unconventional roles. It’s a nice mix of fiction and non-fiction related events. We also have scriptwriters; we have Mohammed Saeed Harib, Creator of the Region’s First 3D Cartoon Series ‘Freej’. He will be speaking as part of a session on stigma in the arts in Emirati culture. There will be so many exciting sessions.

How has the festival grown and developed since the beginning and what do you think is the impact it has on the region?

I think it’s had an incredible impact. First of all, it is a homegrown festival that was established here in the UAE and was started by the creator of one of the oldest book shops in the country. So it was built on the knowledge of what people here in the UAE are reading and are interested in. Over the years it has become so much easier to attract prominent figures and writers from all over the world. The festival has established such a solid reputation amongst the global literary communities, and we deal with publishers everywhere in the world.

We have strong relationships with book agents, with thousands of authors who have been with us over the years. They know us well; they trust us, and they actually see us as the go-to place to discover new authors and fresh voices. They come to us to ask about collaborations in the region and we act as a catalyst for dialogue between the East and West. And we always have Arab authors sitting on panels alongside authors from all over the world, discussing their literature and various social topics. It’s quite unique and accessible and it allows attendees to see some of the greatest minds in the world come together and talk about topics that are important today.

How is the platform helping to foster talent within the UAE?

It plays a huge role. We now have an entire day dedicated to Emirati literature and fifty per cent of our programme is now in Arabic. Many local authors are timing their book launches to be in time with the festival. They see it as a milestone to work towards. It also allows them to be in great company as the festival has great writers from all over the world. We’ve had Emirati writers who through the festival, have been invited to other festivals around the world. Three years ago, we established the Association of Literature Festival Directors and they come to our festival with the purpose of discovering local talent which can then be exported. So yes, we play a huge role in creating opportunities for local writers.

What advice would you give to aspiring authors in the region?

The UAE is still a young country, and we are developing in many industries. We’re not as advanced as a lot of nations, but we are making real progress and there are programmes now that can support aspiring writers. We’ve been running the Lit Fest Writing Prize for the last ten years and through that we’ve had eight or nine internationally published writers who applied through the festival. Some of these now have multi-book deals with publishers around the world.

This year we’ve also launched the first chapter of the ELF Seddiqi Writers Fellowship. We closed the submissions on 2^nd January and I’m very optimistic after seeing them. I really feel that we are in possession of applications from some of the greatest writers in our region that will emerge in the next five years. The successful candidates will be paired with global writers who will take them under their wing with a structured 40 hours of learning from and we are very excited to see where it leads.

In a world where everything is digital – how important do you still think it is for people to read?

In this world, where there’s an over-stimulation of multimedia and short-form content, there is so much noise for our senses to take in. Most of what we take in is on the surface and we never stay with one idea for longer than a few seconds before moving onto the next. What that does to us as human beings is a dangerous thing because we lose touch with who we truly are in our essence. I think taking time to read books firstly gives us an in-depth experience. There are certain books that I’ve read where I truly felt like I knew the characters. It’s like they were people that I met at a certain time of my life, and I’ve moved on, but I still have a connection to them. Through reading, you get exposure to so many lives and experiences that are outside of your own and it’s a form of meditation. You are interacting intimately with the thoughts, lives and private conversations of the characters in the book, and I think the level of empathy that cultivates in us as human beings is incredible. And then of course there is just so much pleasure in it! It’s a joy that I hope everyone gets to find in their lifetime.

Tell us about your passion for books – where did it stem from, and did you always want to work in this industry?

I didn’t read very much as a little girl; I know it’s something that my mother certainly tried very hard to get me interested in but as children, I guess we are occupied with other things. The first book that got me interested in literature was “Shame” by Jasvinder Sanghera which I read when I was 18. It tells the story of the struggle of a woman escaping an arranged marriage situation. It’s non-fiction and it got me into reading a series of books all related to the struggles of women and how they got themselves out of those situations. That was the first time that I really got into books.

My career has been disconnected from any of this – I studied hotel management, then hospitality, I worked in the tourism sector. I worked in marketing and my writing skills were something I found through that. That got me into exploring creative writing courses and then discovering the festival. At first, I was volunteering and moderating at the festival while I worked elsewhere and then it just happened that when I left my previous job there was an opportunity with the foundation for a part time project and then six months later that turned into this job. So, my stars have aligned!

What for you makes a good book?

I’m personally very interested in domestic fiction which is focused on family or individual stories related to complications in relationships, whether that’s in a family, friend or societal setting. I’m very interested in interactions between characters and psycho-analysing their relationships and different personalities. A good book always has honest, open and raw characters and I think the thoughts need to be quite tightly connected to each other, so you are hooked on the story.

Is there anything you would still like to do with the festival that you haven’t done yet?

I think we’re building on what we do every year. This year for example we will have two formal debates. This is something that I’ve always wanted to do, and it will be exciting to expose our audience to debates where either side could be right and this idea that you could debate two sides to one argument as strongly as each other. That’s something that I think is important for students and young people in the region to learn. I’m very excited about exploring that and doing more of it in the future.

We always try to do something fun and new, so we’ve got a Fright Night this year dedicated to crime fiction and horror stories which is something we’ve never done before. Of course, we have the Fellowship Writers Initiative that I already mentioned. So every year we try to introduce new elements and it’s a natural, organic growth that happens bit by bit.

What are some books you would recommend readers to go out and read now?

Most of my reading this year has been the festival author’s books so I would recommend you read some of the books by the authors that will be taking part. Britt Bennett’s books are amazing, I would really recommend those. Elizabeth Acevedo is someone that I’m really excited about in the prose and poetry category. Avni Doshi has some fantastic books. Fadi Zaghmout is an Arab author who’s had a couple of his books translated into English, he has a unique and interesting voice. Iman Mersal is a great poet who I would really recommend. There are so many exciting books to read!

Emirates Festival of Literature will run from 3^rd to 13^th February 2022. For more information visit their website at emirateslitfest.com

Emirati entrepreneur Salama Mohamed launched her own skincare line through the need of wanting to find products that are kinder to our skin and also cater for all skin types.

After living with vitiligo from a young age, she found it difficult to buy products that aided her sensitive skin in the way she needed them to. Peacefull was born as a range designed to help men and women be at peace with themselves and to embrace their skin for all its qualities. Created for all skin types and using the best ingredients from Korea, Peacefull offers quality, innovation and inclusivity with a range of products that are an everyday solution for men and women.

Known for her entertaining social media content, which is posted alongside her husband Khalid Al Ameri, Salama has gained a following of over one million on Instagram and she continues to entertain with innovative and in many cases, hilarious content. On a mission to find skincare that truly helps, Salama decided to use her social following to her advantage and talk about her own skin issues and how she addresses them. As a result, Peacefull was born as a homegrown beauty brand and it’s going from strength to strength. As Peacefull launches its latest products, we find out what makes this line unique as well as Salama’s secrets to being at peace with yourself.

Tell us a little about your skincare line Peacefull – what is the goal and vision?

Peacefull coming to fruition was a monumental moment for me. The message is centred around self-love and highlights the importance of openness, tolerance, inclusivity, and hospitality. We want women and men to embrace themselves for who they truly are, and our campaign is a testament to this. Our brand is as inclusive as this region is and we aim to represent everyone and bring them into a Peacefull space every single day. It’s not just about launching a brand, it’s about a movement to bring skincare to the forefront of all our lives. A human movement to spread the message of being comfortable in your own skin and coming together to show love and be proud of each other, and more importantly, be proud of who we truly are.

Tell us about your own skincare struggles and how this has helped you develop your line of skin products? 

I’ve been blessed with vitiligo and sensitive skin from early on, so I have always been on the hunt for skincare products that would provide my skin with what it needed, but I always came up short, especially given the climate we live in. Eventually, I stumbled on Korean skincare, and I haven’t looked back since. Through this journey, I discovered the healing powers of Korean active ingredients, and that ultimately led to me creating Peacefull.

After discovering Korean skincare and its active ingredients, I wanted to share the formulas that work with my community because I truly believe we all deserve good skin! I have realized over time that the first step to self-love and being at peace is about perspective. I switched my outlook, began accepting my unique qualities and ultimately learned to make it my superpower. I surround myself with love and positivity.

How do you think your products differ from anything else on the market?

We are unique in the way that we are for everyone who lives in the region or is exposed to similar climates. We are an inclusive brand from the region for the region, made for all genders, all nationalities, and all skin types. Our products were tested within a 50-degree chamber for three months to ensure they could endure the sun-baked conditions of The Middle East. Especially as the formulas are made from scratch, we needed to ensure they didn’t split, and the scent didn’t change.

Tell us about some of the ingredients you use in your products and how do you go about sourcing them? 

Each product was created uniquely with hybrid formulas (you won’t find anything like them in the market,) and brings with it a special benefit and its place in the skincare routine. For this range, we have the following active ingredients:

• Mugwort, which is a natural source of vitamin E and numerous antioxidants that help prevent acne outbreaks with its soothing and healing properties, can be a perfect addition to your routine, as it can help calm irritated skin.

• Centella Asiatica (CICA), nicknamed ‘the wound healer’ comes with plenty of antioxidant potent properties, as well as being a rich source in amino acids that helps to hydrate, soothe and revitalize the skin’s protective barrier.

• Sodium Hyaluronate is a lightweight acid excellent for hydration and helping to restore the skin’s moisture whilst being gentle on acne-prone skin. It also contains elastic fibres such as collagen and elastin that reduce the appearance of wrinkles and ageing.

• Peptides in our eye cream help to improve the skin barrier under the eye, reduce the appearance of wrinkles and ease inflammation.

By using these ingredients, we aim for the best results for your skin, pure and simple.

What is it about Korean beauty that fascinates you?

I’m most intrigued by the formulas. Active ingredients have always been at the heart of Korean beauty and it’s so fascinating to see the way ingredients are mixed and put together to bring forth products that show results. Therefore I launched Peacefull – to bring products to the region that had the same level of quality and efficiency.

Would you like to expand the company globally?

Absolutely! Global expansion is at the forefront for Peacefull. Entering new markets always comes with its challenges however as each country must be given individual attention to its strategy. Our products are research-based for each market and its needs and, of course, are dermatologically tested for all skin types, including sensitive skin and approved by ESMA.

Tell us about the latest product launches? 

Our latest launch is the Peptide Eye Cream which is the fourth addition to our jade inspired Hya! Centella range. At Peacefull, we are all about products that make you glow from within and although often overlooked, using an eye cream is such an essential step in any skincare routine. The Peptide Eye Cream helps combat early signs of ageing, wrinkles and dark circles, so we felt it was the perfect addition to the range.

What is the biggest challenge you face when it comes to your skin?

I have very sensitive skin, coupled with a combination skin type, which means that some days, I wake up with an oily T-zone or enlarged pores, hence why I have to be mindful of what ingredients and formulas I use on my skin.

Who is someone you look to for advice on how to look after your skin?

I often spend my time researching and then based on my findings, along with my skin’s needs, I create my routine. With skincare, no one-size-fits-all. We all have different skin types and concerns, and not all products will work the same way for any two people. I do consult my dermatologist for any questions that I may have or those I couldn’t answer whilst doing my research.

Tell us your morning skincare routine?

Currently, my morning skincare routine usually goes like this:

• I start with the mugwort clay mask to cleanse my face. It is a face wash that gives you the benefits of wearing a clay mask but with hydration, so you are not stripping your natural skin moisture. If I have makeup on, then I’ll double cleanse, otherwise, I move on to the next step. I do this in the morning and evening.
• Then I love using my hands to apply the Endless Purifying Toner. I love this step as it’s an essence enriched toner, so I’m getting maximum hydration on the deepest level.
• Next, I use the Peptide Eye Cream. With its sherbet formulation, it is quickly absorbed, leaving my skin feeling silky and buttery whilst still leaving me with advanced moisturising benefits and instant brightening, lifting and cooling.
• On days when I have more time, or I want to pamper myself a little more, I’ll use a sheet mask.
• Then I apply our Ever Glow Moisturizer. What I love about this is that it doesn’t leave you feeling like a glazed doughnut! There is no stickiness, oiliness or greasiness and yet it plumps your skin and gives you the natural, healthy glow that you deserve, especially during summer, when it’s so hot and humid.
• And finally, I’ll put on some SPF, a very important step so should never be missed.

What is the one product you can’t live without?

Peacefull’s Mugwort Clay Mask Cleanser is my go-to!

What would you like to see from global beauty brands when it comes to looking after their clients in the Middle East?

The beauty industry is experiencing a shift and I’m so glad. Now we see that innovative, inclusive, and diversity-driven brands are non-negotiable. Beauty for all is a must, it is time to champion a new era of inclusion, and these are necessary conversations we all must have. For me, inclusion and being considered is paramount and should encompass representation, accessibility, and affordability.

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

The words “enough” and “done” don’t exist in my vocabulary! I want to continue working towards my mission of seeing people be at peace in their own skin. In the coming years, I want to see Peacefull go global. I want to ensure that when it comes to skincare, people don’t find themselves settling for the bare minimum and have products that cater to their needs.

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

So far, I’ve had such a great and supportive community. It’s where I found like-minded individuals with whom I could be open and honest about my journey. It has helped me create a space where I can be my authentic self. As with anything, there will always be negative aspects here and there, but the positivity throughout has outweighed the negative. The key is to not dwell on any negativity. All in all, my experience has been positive.

Of course, we love your Instagram posts – how do you think social media has influenced the way you do business?

I always naturally gravitated towards skits and educational videos, this was the type of content I consumed and ultimately, I, or should I say we, knew we could carve a name out for ourselves in this space on social media. However, as my community began to grow, I started receiving questions about my skin and confidence, which led me to open up about my journey, living with vitiligo and acceptance. I realised I had a much bigger purpose and passion in this space.

What else can we expect to see from you in 2022?

There are a lot of exciting things on the horizon for Peacefull this year. Much of it is under wraps but what I can say is that I can’t wait to introduce more life-changing skincare products into the market. Nothing makes me happier than knowing that we could make a difference in people’s lives and as their relationship with their skin grows stronger, to know we played a part in that. This is the reason Peacefull exists, and we will continue to work hard to spread this message far and wide.

What is the motto that you’re living by this year? 

To be at peace with yourself.

American superstar Alicia Keys will perform at the impressive mirrored event venue Maraya in AlUla, Saudi Arabia for a special “ONE NIGHT ONLY” performance in support of her new album release KEYS on February 11^th.

Keys will perform an intimate concert in this beautiful venue, presented by Good Intentions. This is the first time she will perform in this beautiful historical location.

Good Intentions is the global creative agency owned by Keys’ husband Kasseem “Swizz Beatz” Dean and Partner, native Noor Taher. Much like this event, Good Intentions creates meaningful cultural experiences that spark dialogue, invoke positive feelings and nurture creative cultural exchanges.

Keys is no stranger to the city after visiting last year when she was captivated by the desert and the ancient civilizations who’ve resided there. “There is no denying the beauty and enchantment of AlUla, I have always been an explorer and I adore discovering ancient places and what has been left behind of times long gone. But there is something more. I met women business owners here that had a powerful sense of creating meaningful experiences.”

“I visited a women’s art school in the old town and got to see firsthand the continuation of the timeless artisan traditions here.  I feel the future emerging in a way I was never aware of before. And as an artist, I feel a sense of belonging and connection – with nature, with humanity, with the magic of this special place. I have been really enjoying doing these “One Night Only” shows all over the world in special once-in-a-lifetime locations.  I’m excited to add AlUla to the very exclusive and special list.” said Keys.

Keys’ set at Maraya will be a tribute to the magic of the people and the ancient city she has come to appreciate. The “One Night Only” show will bring like-minded people together under one roof to celebrate creativity as part of the Good Intentions initiative. The concert will be broadcast on MBC and YouTube (AlUla Moments).

On February 12th, Keys will host a Town Hall event entitled “Women to Women,” an exclusive dialogue with the first female Saudi Ambassador to the US, HRH Princess Reema bint Bandar Al Saud. “Women to Women” will be a conversation with other female entrepreneurs, business owners, creatives, artists, and the beautiful array of women in AlUla and beyond about power, purpose, and progression.  This companion event intends to spark meaningful dialogue and provide an open and honest venue for women to share world visions, dreams, and support for each other.

Keys performance will be part of AlUla Moments season of events which continues in February with two more inspiring female artists, rising international popstar Naika will be performing alongside regional sensation Rahma Riyadh on the 24th of February.

Other events on the same weekend as the ‘One Night Only” Alicia Keys performance is the public opening of site-responsive art exhibition, Desert X AlUla, and the AlUla Desert Polo – both on February 11th.

Tickets for the concert are now on sale at Ticketmaster.

Assouline publishes a new book celebrating Louis Vuitton’s exceptional craftsmanship and its talented ateliers

This month Assouline will publish a new coffee table book “Louis Vuitton Manufactures”, showcasing the ateliers of Louis Vuitton and the artisans who create the Maison’s exceptional pieces. The House’s ateliers span the length and breadth of France and beyond, from Geneva (Switzerland) to Fiesso d’Artico (Italy) and even Texas (USA) in a pursuit to find the finest in expertise and excellence.

Louis Vuitton Manufactures

In a quest to produce the highest quality products the brand works with only experts in their field and works to foster and nurture talent that has been passed down through generations. This new publication celebrates the excellence of savoir-faire at the brand and its workshops across the globe.

Abbaye Vendome – Olivier Pilcher

Featuring photographs that have been commissioned exclusively for this project Louis Vuitton Manufactures showcases the extraordinary locations and buildings of Louis Vuitton’s ateliers and the equally extraordinary artisans who express their talent through Louis Vuitton’s creations and the incredible techniques that they use.

Place Vendome – Olivier Pilcher

“Fundamentally, it’s not about luggage, it’s about innovation.” Explains Michael Burke, Louis Vuitton Chairman and CEO.

The book which is part of the Assouline Spring 2022 Classics Collection is dedicated to these inspiring ateliers that work and have worked at the Louis Vuitton workshops for generations.

A classic version available in French and English from February 2022 in bookstores. A large-format collector’s edition is available in French: in a limited edition of 500 numbered copies presented in a poplar wood presentation box. Available at Louis Vuitton stores and online.  

Today marks the beginning of the Chinese New year of the Tiger. Characterised as a strong independent animal the Tiger represents strength and agility.

To help you dress in style we round up some of the fashion collections inspired but the occasion.

Gucci

Gucci

Gucci presents the Gucci Tiger collection, a range of ready-to-wear and accessories for men and women celebrating the Chinese Year of the Tiger and offering various interpretations of the animal. A new print inspired by a print from the late 1960s depicts the tiger against a colourful backdrop of greenery and flowers in a pastel colour palette.

Gucci

The print is presented in an all-over variation across the ready-to-wear assortment from outerwear and denim to shirts and dresses among other items. In a more subtle inclusion, it appears in the lining of a trench coat. A tiger and ‘Gucci Tiger’ wording are seen in patch form on pieces and prints, patches and embroidery can be seen on accessories.

Valentino Tiger 1967

Valentino

Valentino represents its iconic animal print which first came to life in 1967. The print was first brought to life by Veruschka, who donned the tiger coat for Vogue USA (October 1967) in an image shot by Franco Rubartelli.

Valentino

This new capsule collection sees the print reimagined on contemporary items including shorts, hoodies and accessories as well as Valentino Garavani Roman stud bags.

Dolce&Gabbana

Dolce&Gabbana

Dolce&Gabbana pays homage to the Year of the Tiger with a selection of new prints with a contemporary and dynamic flavour, enhanced with a colour palette recalling the vivid colours of wild nature.

Dolce&Gabbana

The iconic Dolce&Gabbana leopard print intertwines with the tiger pattern in different colours, enriched by an exquisite drawing of tigers with their noble and fierce look.

Salvatore Ferragamo

Salvatore Ferragamo

Tiger in Wonderland is a project by Salvatore Ferragamo inviting Chinese artists Sun Yuan and Peng Yu to create a unique print inspired by the 2022 Zodiac Tiger.

Salvatore Ferragamo

The print will be integrated into iconic accessories, launching a brand-new 2022 Chinese New Year Special Capsule Collection, paying homage to the brand’s long history of uniting the worlds art and culture with fashion.

Michael Kors

Michael Kors

Michael Kors honours the Chinee New Year with its 2022 Lunar New Year campaign, celebrating the Year of the Tiger in bold fashion. A new selection of accessories features a are picture in front of a special tiger motif designed exclusively for Michael Kors by Chinese illustrator Ji WeiRan. Featuring striking brushstrokes and rich colours, the tiger is seen throughout the campaign as the backdrop for specially curated Lunar New Year products.

Moschino

Moschino

Moschino was inspired by none other than the iconic cereal box character Tony the Tiger for an exclusive Lunar year capsule collection.

Moschino

The collection for men and women features bold cartoon-style prints and embroidered renditions of Tony the Tiger donning the classic Moschino logo gold chain and peace sign pendant.

See the latest skiwear looks for men and women in our latest editorial shoot.

Watch the video here…

Louis Vuitton

Christian Dior

Louis Vuitton

Christian Dior

Christian Dior

HE WEARS:
Dolce&Gabbana
SHE WEARS:
Moncler Grenoble at Net-A-Porter

Christian Dior

HE WEARS:
Loro Piana
SHE WEARS:
Chloé X Fusalp

Loro Piana
Goggles: Stylist’s Own

Balmain at Net-A-Porter

Balmain at Net-A-Porter

Dolce&Gabbana

Chloé X Fusalp

HE WEARS:
Zegna
SHE WEARS:
Loro Piana

HE WEARS:
Zegna
SHE WEARS:
Loro Piana

Bulgari is one of the few uber-luxury brands that has successfully diversified into the hospitality sector thanks to its impressive portfolio of hotels around the world.

The latest addition to Bulgari Hotels & Resort’s offering opened its doors in Paris in December 2021 Located at the heart of the city on Avenue George V, this modern property combines sophisticated French design with Italian lifestyle. A coming together of Roman glamour with Parisian sophistication, this luxury destination is set to become the must-visit address in the City of Love. As The Bulgari Hotel Paris opens, we find out more about the future of the brand’s hospitality portfolio with CEO Jean-Christophe Babin.

Congratulations on The Bulgari Hotel Paris tell us a little about this project and its location?

We wanted this hotel to be within the Golden Triangle, but we also wanted to offer a product that’s very different to the existing hotels in this area. It has the same level of high-end hospitality but it’s more special in terms of offering a lifestyle, and the warmth of the Italian Dolce Vita. We also offer something that hasn’t been seen before in terms of space: most of our rooms are suites and they are very large, especially in Paris. We have a huge 1,000 square-metre penthouse. Clients want not only more space but to discover the interior design that perhaps has features and uses unexpected materials. We wanted to be contemporary but also in fitting with the style of the Parisian apartments. There is a chandelier for example that a few clients have already wanted to buy!

BVLGARI Hotel Paris

It is immersive, contemporary, and sophisticated, but at the same time, it embodies the informal, friendly Italian way of life. We want clients who want to feel at home or even better than at home, so our rooms are more like apartments than hotel suites. We have paid utmost attention to details, using very beautiful, precious materials, some of those featuring Italian or French craftsmanship, as we like the idea of blending the two cultures. So, we’ve tried to involve our craftsmen and women in this project and showcase the best of French decoration. This hotel is a piece of modern art.

What can you share with us on the hospitality portfolio at Bulgari so far?

It has been seventeen years since we opened our first hotel in Milan and we have seven properties now. On one hand, it has developed very fast but on the other, it has been slow because we have never been driven by the goal of having too many hotels. We believe that our concept is strong, and we will have a few more in the future but we want to choose our locations carefully. Our clients are nomadic people that like to travel, and they want to roam the world and stay in places they cherish, and they want to experience the best from a hotel. Therefore, as of now, we have identified 25 locations in total that could be fitting with their desire and be consistent with the style that we are after. So far, we have seven, five more properties are now under construction: Moscow and Tokyo will open at the end of 2022 or early 2023. Then in 2024, we will open Miami, and then LA in 2025 and we are actively working on developing our profile across the world.

BH Paris-Lobby

You were one of the first luxury brands to diversify and introduce a hotel sector of the business – while others have followed in your footsteps what sets you apart and what does a client get from staying at a Bulgari hotel?

Yes, there are many other brands, but it is extremely difficult if you don’t do it properly. A hotel is a big investment, so it must be done right. I think what has made us successful is that the concept is unique. From the beginning, we positioned our hotels as uber-luxury, and we have been the most expensive hotel in each city that we opened. We have kept a very strict pricing policy and this is very important image-wise. It’s like in our jewellery stores, we want clients to feel special, exclusive, and well-treated. We want our staff to know them personally, so we always limit the number of rooms we have. This way they feel very cocooned in a very friendly way. There is no dress code, it’s a very relaxed environment and this is really the spirit of Bulgari. We want our guests to enjoy themselves in a unique atmosphere that combines the best of the best with a friendly approach.

Being a jeweller, we must maintain our excellence and one of the missions of our hotels is to further reinforce us as a brand and to get our clients even more involved in the experience of the hotels that are a very strong contributor to the image of our brand. Then there is the aspect of finding new clients who can discover Bulgari jewellery through our hotels, so it opens us up to new prospective customers. At the end of the day when you leave a hotel all you have is a memory, it’s not like when you buy a piece of high jewellery and you keep it forever, and this is the ultimate challenge for us: to ensure that memory is worth the price.

BH Paris Penthouse Dining Room Terrace

After COVID-19 the immersive experience has become very important to clients…

Yes, it’s a journey they take, they want to live life to its fullest. Fewer people are spending than before but when they do spend, they want the best and they want something extraordinary.

What are the challenges you face today in keeping this excellence across all of Bulgari’s properties? 

Firstly, we are always learning and improving, and each hotel is adding a new layer of experience that we then use for the next project. We are always trying to take things to the next level with each property through the materials we use, the size of our facilities, our offerings within our food and beverage etc. We are responsible for bringing together Italian culture and the culture of the city we are in and we want to surprise our clients and exceed their expectations. That’s why we take our time.

With this hotel in Paris, we have a unique, large spa. We have a beautiful garden which for six months of the year will add a very special twist to the property. Post-COVID a hotel with a garden is something that people appreciate. And then obviously we have the penthouse, which is a unique offering in Paris, especially because of its size. It’s can also be rented for parties or events, and it has the only garden of its size in Paris with a 360 view of the city, it’s really special. And last but not least, it is a way to showcase Italian culture in Paris and it is an alternative to more traditional hospitality.

BH Paris Il Bar View Restaurant

Moving onto the jewellery sector of the business, we recently had the launch of the Jannah fine jewellery collection in Dubai, tell us about the Jannah project?

When we first started working on the Jannah high jewellery collection, Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan insisted that the project should evolve into a line that is affordable so more people can discover it. So, step one was the high jewellery collection and positioning Jannah where it should be. Then step two with the fine jewellery is very precious because it continues the story.

Will you consider rolling the line out on a broader scale outside the Middle East?

We started as you know in the UAE, and we have already sold many pieces. Then we are planning to roll out across the GCC and obviously, upon success, which seems to have had a good start, we are considering having the collection in around 30 flagships worldwide. We are choosing locations where we have a combination of Arabic and local customers. We have found so far that 45 per cent of customers of the collections are not local UAE customers so we know that it’s not just appealing to our Arabic clients. People may not necessarily know the story about the mosque in Abu Dhabi, but they see them as beautifully crafted pieces and this is what they buy into. So, I think Jannah has potential and we have been caught by surprise with the fast reaction. Now we need to increase the creation and craftsmanship during a period where we have a very large demand. This is a good problem to have but it also slows down a rollout that we would also love to see happen quicker, but we need to have the manpower to make these beautiful pieces.

After the success of Jannah, are you planning to look into different markets around the world to offer localised collections?

I think Jannah is extraordinary and it’s just the beginning of the story. The first step was highly successful, the second is also a success so far. We have invented many things as a brand that others have followed and at the end of the day, there is a lot of growth potential for everyone in this industry. So, we do it in our way and for sure it’s in our DNA to dare, to explore and we are open to doing more collaborations, but not necessarily always with a royal family. We did something previously with Zaha Hadid, it could be a designer, an architect, a creative, we are very open to any kind of fresh ideas coming from the outside that can enrich our creativity in all sectors of the business.

BH Paris Spa Pool

It’s been a tough period over the past two years, what’s your direction for Bulgari for the coming year and moving forward into the future?

I think there is room to further enhance the desirability of Bulgari to really become an iconic name that is a mandatory must-have for many people. I think it comes not only from our jewellery but also by artfully playing with the hotels, the high jewellery, the watches, and the accessories and using all these aspects to our advantage. Also not only playing on the fact that we are Italian but also the fact that we are the only high jewellery brand that offers this 360-lifestyle approach with our seven categories and ensuring they complement each other. Our core is high jewellery, and we don’t want to lose the history of the brand as this has been the thread where everything started. This is something unique as I don’t think our competitors use their codes as systematically and we want to continue to share our fascinating history, as I think we are the only ones who can claim their roots started more than 2,000 years ago.

We recently saw the collaboration with MB&F at Dubai Watch Week, tell us about this and what can we expect from the watches sector in 2022? 

This project was a coming together of talents and it’s very interesting to see quite a big brand working with a niche brand that’s very visionary. Maximilian Büsser, founder of MB&F is an extraordinary person and working with him allowed us to give birth to something different, something that combines innovation and creativity with the femininity of Bulgari. All the watches have been sold by the way!

BH Paris Bulgari Suite Living Room

Can you tell us anything about the coming year at Bulgari?

This year we had good growth compared to 2019. In 2019 we launched the Seduttori watch and therefore it was challenging to follow up on this. But next year we will initially be focused on ladies’ watches where we want to push the jewellery dimension of our watches. Then in April, during Watches and Wonders, we will have our own showroom in Geneva where we will be presenting more masculine pieces. And then we’ll be back at the end of August for the third edition of Geneva Watch Days. So, we have planned to sequence the year into three different moments so that we can pay attention to three batches of novelties. And then the high jewellery will be revealed in Paris in May and the pieces will be introduced around the world in the year.

For Fendi’s Spring/Summer 2022 collection Artistic Director Kim Jones took the brand back to its roots taking inspiration from the eternal city of Rome.

Combining fantasy and reality this beautiful collection celebrates the historic codes of the city and the beauty of old-age Italian craftsmanship techniques.

Kim Jones

When you walk down the street in Rome, you are constantly moving back and forth in time,” explains Kim Jones. “Where we work feels very modern, but you pass monuments on the way there. There’s a total timelessness to the city: a historic vein which runs through it, but also a movement that is projecting forwards.”

Combining old and new Jones applies lavish craftsmanship to futuristic silhouettes, while ceremonial asceticism overlaid with astral fantasy.

Fluid fabrics are draped over shimmering bodies, while hand-embroidered tights appear as a second skin. Luminous, glistening fabrics offer an otherworldly feel and create magical energy.

“Rome has a certain spirituality as a city,” notes Jones. “Not necessarily just something religious, but something present in the layers of its history.”

The designer draws upon time-honoured techniques that perfectly complement modern craftsmanship to create a collection that connects history and the future.

The ghostly shadows of opulent fabrics, photographed and distorted, are printed atop Duchesse silk and organza and illuminated with traditional beading and mother of pearl, while the classical statues located outside of FENDI’s Palazzo della Civiltà Italiana are hand-painted in dramatic chiaroscuro onto sheared mink and velvet.

Heat-moulded leathers, embroidered with micro sequins, mink and pearls, echo Corinthian reliefs; exposed underpinnings reveal the very essence of couture: its construction.

The archaeological remnants of ancient civilizations are unearthed: volcanic stone and hematite inset into bags; natural crystal geodes and amethyst shooting from jewellery.

The visual language of power is embedded throughout, from warrior-like armour, now crafted in Persian lamb and leather, to the imperial majesty of floor-sweeping trains. After all, says Jones, “that’s what my vision for FENDI is all about: celebrating the power of women.”

See more of the collection below:

Self-made entrepreneur, public speaker and social media sensation Gary Vaynerchuk has spent the last twenty-five years going against the norm and setting his own trends in order to be a successful businessman.

He’s a serial entrepreneur with dozens of businesses in his portfolio including Vaynermedia and VaynerX and his most recent business venture VeeFriends which sees him entering the universe of NFTs. Gary is also a sought after public speaker and a five-time New York Times best-selling author. He is admired by his millions of followers (ten million and counting) for his out-of-the-box, pioneering way of thinking and his ability to turn the traditional mindset on its head and encourage a new outlook on life business and culture.

Gary is considered one of the leading global minds on what’s next in culture, relevance the internet and most recently, the Metaverse. He is always one step ahead of the game, constantly moving keeping up with what’s new and what’s next predicting what the future will hold when it comes to technological investments. He specialises in accurately recognising trends and patterns early to help others understand shifts in the market and predict the next course of action. He understands how to bring brand relevance to the forefront and how to become successful in business at moments where others would get left behind. His early investments over the years have included businesses such as Facebook Twitter, Tumblr, Snapchat, Coinbas and Uber and his savvy-minded approach rarely seems to fail him. His latest business venture VeeFriends sees Gary entering the world of NFTs something that he feels very passionately will be an essential element of the future of business. He has created his own business to bring to life his ambitions of building a community around his creative and business passions using NFT technology and their smart contract capabilities.

This month Gary will be in Dubai to promote his new book “Twelve and a Half” at the Emirates Festival of Literature. He will be holding a session based on the theories in his book and understanding how emotional intelligence can accelerate business success. Here we find out more about what his newest book has to offer and why we should be living in the future now.

We look forward to having you in the Middle East for the upcoming edition of the Emirates Festival of Literature – why did you decide to take part in this festival and what can we expect from your session?

I decided to take part in the festival because I’ve desperately been trying to get back to Dubai and COVID has not been allowing me to do that! I want to be in the region and Dubai specifically as often as possible, so when there are high-quality events that I feel are worth my time and they can work with the calendar, they will always be highly considered. When it comes to what can be expected, I think it’s what you can always expect from me; plenty of passion and energy and always a strong pulse on the current: what is happening right now and what does it mean for entrepreneurs, businesses, culture and so on.

Tell us more about your love for Dubai?

I find it very entrepreneurial and I’m an entrepreneur, so it works for me. In a way,  Dubai has a very “yes” culture and I think people in Dubai are ambitious and on fire. It’s gorgeous – there’s a lot to like!

What can you tell us about your newest book “Twelve and a Half”?

The book is focused on an idea that’s been in the back of my mind for a while and the COVID-19 pandemic gave me the time to sit down and extract it. That is how the combination of positive human virtues and attributes are the singular most effective ingredients to be successful in business. And what has historically been considered the “soft skills”, I believe are the hard skills. I believe that empathy and patience are very hard skills and when deployed properly in business, can give outlandishly successful results. I think that people consider being nice is something that’s just nice to have, but it is quite the opposite it is a fundamental aspect of success in business. I don’t understand why anyone thinks yelling at someone in a business meeting is a good idea. I really don’t. Especially if they are doing it in front of others. What is the benefit of that? I think too many leaders have for too long thought that fear is an effective motivator to business results, and I believe it’s the reverse – so I wrote a book about it!

I cover 13 different ingredients including tenacity, ambition and more – it’s not a book about just being nice or a spiritual ideology that isn’t practical. It’s incredibly practical but it does have a very poignant point of view on the opportunities of doing things differently. Whether it’s as an entrepreneur, a manager, an employee, a CEO, a parent, or as a human being in general. It applies in all aspects of life.

What can you tell us about your mindset for 2022 and what should we all be considering as we enter this new year? 

I think there is so much opportunity. Consumer blockchain is now here, and that creates radical opportunities for people. I think people have the potential to be dramatically more grateful if they put into context what happened during COVID-19. However, I do feel like a lot of people are also equally choosing to see the negative. I’m very aware that many are in tough spots, but I think that’s an opportunity to have the right conversations about perspective. In general, I’m quite optimistic about what’s going on in the world. Yes, there is a lot of tension and conflict, but there’s always been tension and conflict, it’s the human truth. I think if you look deeper, the opportunity and optimism are extraordinary and if people lean into those opportunities and take on accountability, that’s where the real opportunities are.

How do you manage your time and how do you keep up to date with the latest in technology and innovation when trying to run multiple businesses? 

My secret is simplicity. I think I’m incredibly driven by gratitude not taking things too seriously is part of that. Obviously, I’m very proud and thoughtful about my profession and my life in general, but when I think about the simple things like knowing that the people I love the most are healthy, what else could I really ask for? I think with a lot of ambitious entrepreneurial go-getters, we don’t see that part of them but many of them have it. I’m wildly simple. I don’t take things too seriously. Of course, I don’t want things to fail or go off the rails, but I’m incapable of making them so serious that they need to become a huge negative, and in that simplicity, I guess it becomes much easier for me to operate at the speed in which I operate. If you’re not scared of some things breaking along the way, then you’re going faster and doing more so you will only gain.

Who has been your biggest inspiration or mentor over the years?

My mum is always the first person I go to when I’m asked this question and that’s really because it’s true. Going back to my book, so much of my success comes from my emotional intelligence which not only did my mum pass on to me, but she also cultivated as a parent. My father’s work ethic also inspires me. And then finally, believe it or not, the market is a great source of inspiration. I feel that my true mentor is the rest of society. I’m a very big observer and listener of behaviour and so, I’d rather watch what everyone is interested in and doing as a source of inspiration or guidance, more so than asking someone who did it in the past. I value the current state of the market too much and I feel like I have a tremendous grasp of the principles that matter in providing value to others and customers, so I don’t need mentorship from a wisdom standpoint. And then after that, mentors often speak about how they did things, but the problem is, it’s not 1990 or 2006 anymore and things are constantly evolving. So, in the macro, emotion is timeless, but in the micro, I need to know what’s going on right this second.

What is the biggest lesson you have learnt throughout your career? 

Something that I was very vulnerable about in this new book and I’ve struggled with historically is candour. I’m very good as it as a public figure when I’m talking to the masses, but as an individual, not so much. So, I think the biggest lesson I’ve learned is that trying to navigate around the issue can only take you so far. Early on in my career, I thought I could find a way to make things better with a person without having to tell them things that might upset them and at the end of the day, a lot of the time that does work, but it doesn’t work enough to not lead to resentment and severed relationships, and I don’t want that to be the case. So, I think the biggest thing I’ve learned is the value of kind candour and I’m building on that.

What is something we can all be doing every day to keep ourselves moving forward with the world?

Have curiosity. There’s too much happening in the world and so people need to lean into curiosity and to say yes or even maybe – I think too many people are in love with the word no. For example, they hear “NFTs” and they immediately say “no that’s a scam”. Instead of what I do which is to say “this is probably something,” then I try to talk myself out of it and find the reasons why it’s not something and then I move on. But if that probably turns into a yes, that’s when it becomes something that I put a lot of my time and effort into. So I think that is probably the single biggest piece of advice I could give: build a level of curiosity and a level of “yes” and focus on that.

Speaking of NFTs can you give us a crash course on them and why they are so important in business and on a personal level today and moving forward? 

First of all, let me tell you why people struggle with them: everyone tries to deploy internet logic to the blockchain world. So when people say; why would you want to own it? Can’t you just click on it download it and save it? Etc. They are deploying internet logic: you can’t own digital items on the internet because of the way the servers are structured. Whereas on the blockchain you can, because nobody owns the servers. So if nobody owns the servers and it’s just a global network where servers are talking to each other, actual validation works.

The second important thing is that people need to communicate through the things they buy. If you believe in Mercedes Benz or Louis Vuitton for example, then you already believe in NFTs. Because you would not be buying these things for the prices they are unless you were using them to communicate and be part of a tribe. The same logic applies to NFTs. However, with NFTs, the scale of digital is so much greater. It’s the same as why social media took off. People always took photos of themselves on nice vacations, but they could only have four of their girlfriends come over for tea and show them the photos. With social media, they could show everybody and that’s why it got so big. Most people want to communicate through their photos or their purchasing behaviour, which is why NFTs will become so popular.

And the third point is that NFTs are contracts and utilities. Memberships, tickets to events, receipts etc. can all now become NFTs and have value. Your traditional receipt is the thing that you throw away immediately. But what about when you buy a Louis Vuitton bag at Dubai Mall and they give you an NFT as your receipt and the artist is an emerging artist who goes on to become famous and that receipt is now valuable? What if you sell that receipt for a thousand dollars and Louis Vuitton makes ten per cent commission on it? When I fell in love with the internet, it was because I believed it worked for both parties. I think the same thing is going to happen today. That is why the blockchain is valuable for both parties. It’s valuable for Louis Vuitton because they have royalty on it, and it’s valuable to you because you have an extra asset that you got when you bought your bag.

What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs who might be afraid to take the leap they have been thinking about? 

I would tell them that regret is poison. That as scary as it is, it will be much scarier when you’re 77 or 86 or 91 and you will regret not trying. The only reason you’re scared is because of the judgement of people around you. But you need to understand that it’s your failure, not someone else’s, and if you fail, then you fail, but you tried. People just worry about what others think of them and that’s what scares them.

What is a message you would send to our readers on why they should visit your session in Dubai or read your book or invest in what you have to say?

Well, I think that there is a 25-year track record of a whole lot of innovation that has become true and a lot of happiness and success along my path. There’s a reason all this stuff is happening to me and the people in my communities and I think it would be fantastic if people took a glimpse at why this is the case. But I don’t love convincing people, I’m not interested in that, I’m more interested in having conviction and executing it and letting it come to me. Like I said to my brother the other day, at the end of the day, they’re all going to end up here anyway, whether they believe me today or not, one day it will all play out. There is a saying that says, “measure twice, cut once”, I think I move so fast and so hard and loud that people judge that as chaos and lack of thoughtfulness. I would argue that I measure 100 times and cut once. Because I’m petrified of being historically incorrect. And so much of my confidence comes from that, even though it’s incredibly difficult to see.