Boucheron has unveiled a new capsule collection; Holographique. This daring and modern offering is the most experimental collection from the jewellery house yet and builds on the success of the latest Carte Blanche High Jewelry collection.

Designed by Claire Choisne, Boucheron’s Creative Director, Holographique uses innovative techniques to create pieces that are bold modern and daring.

While her first experimentation in this area combined gold and denim in the Quatre collection to make a unique product, this second innovation builds on the work initiated with Holographique but focuses more on the House’s iconic jewellery pieces.

The same innovative technique is applied, but this time in ceramic, to the Maison’s icons, Quatre and Jack de Boucheron, with five unique creations featuring the new avant-garde coating.

The Maison’s new showpiece, the Jack de Boucheron motif, has been given a new high-tech look. Complementing the existing single and triple wrap models, this double wrap bracelet now comes in three versions; yellow, white and pink gold. The central ceramic Jack motif has been given new, hypnotic shades of green, red and blue.

The Quatre collection has a brand new look in a holographic version. With the exception of the diamond line, the codes in this ring are made of holographic ceramic to create a contrast with the classic design.

The collection is available for a limited time at Boucheron boutiques.

We explore the rise of natural and vegan hair products and the positive changes they can make to ourselves and the planet.

The demand for natural, organic or vegan hair products has rapidly increased over the past decade as consumers have become more aware and conscious of the ingredients they are putting onto and into their bodies. COVID-19 had a severe impact on the beauty and personal care industry. Stores and hair salons were closed, and women were forced to take care of their hair at home. This led to an increase in women reassessing the ingredients in the products they use and choosing more wisely and a tendency to turn towards healthier, more natural ingredients has become a fast-growing trend around the world, especially for those with, dry, damaged or textured hair. In 2019, the global natural hair care product market was valued at USD 8.74 billion and is expected to reach USD14.5 billion by 2026, it’s one of the fastest-growing markets in the world and it is reacting directly to customer demand.

“Vegan hair products are free from harmful chemicals and derived usually from plant-based ingredients and therefore can support in your general health without the nastiness of well-known chemicals such as sulphates, parabens and silicones which found in many products.” Explains Celebrity Hairstylist Jamilla Paul. She believes vegan hair products are something we should all be considering. “Whether you eat vegan or not, there are still huge benefits of using vegan haircare products. If we omit sulphates, parabens and silicones from our haircare regime our locks will feel so much healthier. These chemicals can weigh down your hair and coat it with nasty chemicals that prevent moisture from penetrating the hair shaft which is what will support in keeping your hair at its optimum condition and prevent dryness in the long term.”

Most natural hair care products use antioxidants that contain Vitamin E, which provides nourishment to the scalp and promotes hair growth. Consumers have become ingredient savvy and they avoid picking products with sulfates, parabens, mineral oil, and alcohol, thus boosting the demand. Naturally found ingredients, such as avocado oil, aloe vera, and apple cider vinegar, coconut, honey and peppermint are all preferred by natural beauty buyers thanks to their kinder approach to hair and their visible results without causing damage to hair. “Plant-derived ingredients contain more vitamins, minerals and antioxidants so vegan products on your skin and hair can be a huge support if you have skin allergies or a sensitive scalp. They are also safe to use on your children as they generally do not have harsh ingredients.” Says Jamilla.

According to the Asia Cosmetics report, in 2017, globally, close to 56% of millennials and Gen X actively bought natural beauty and grooming products owing to growing consciousness regarding chemical-free products. Growing concerns, such as hair fall, dull hair, lack of hair volume, and thinning hair can be treated with natural products that are kinder and cleaner on our hair. We discover some of the latest brands to look out for.

Authentic Beauty Concept

Authentic Beauty Concept is a holistic, vegan brand that’s become a must-have for hairstylists and women around the world and now it’s available here in the Middle East. The vegan haircare brand was developed in response to the real needs of women today. The need for carefully selected, pure ingredients in their products, and a wish to treat their hair with the greatest of care and use products that are honest, transparent and that offer real results. Authentic Beauty Concept is a range of simple and natural products that use pure, carefully selected ingredients. All of the products are free from silicones sulphates and parabens, so are more gentle and kinder to your hair.

The Authentic Beauty Concept believes that what you leave out is as important as what you put in. That’s why all of the products are pure, natural and simple. With a carefully curated selection of ingredients that are all vegan. Authentic Beauty Concept also supports the Sustainable Guar Initiative (SGI); a program launched by the company Solvay to enhance the livelihoods of thousands of smallholder guar bean farmers in India and responsibly source the ingredient Guar (Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride), a caring ingredient. The mindset behind the “Authentic Beauty Movement” is “be yourself”. It’s about being real, direct and open. Their styling products with a ‘no styling’ approach invisibly enhance authentic hair and gives a natural, yet beautiful look. It’s about building on the natural beauty that is already there.

Join the #AUTHENTICBEAUTYMOVEMENT via www.authenticbeautyconcept.com and @authenticbeautyconcept.gcc on Instagram and Facebook.

Sukin

Born in Melbourne, Australia, Sukin was created in 2007 to offer consumers high-quality, environmentally friendly, personal care products. Using all naturally derived ingredients their products are cruelty-free and 100 per cent vegan. They contain no sulphates, parabens, no artificial colouring, no synthetic fragrances and much more. Their latest product Hydrating product line is infused with Shea Butter and Coconut Extract to nourish and condition the scalp. The ingredient duo repairs dry and damaged hair, while naturally added Olive Oil helps to strengthen the hair, reduce frizz and add shine.

The Sukin Hydrating Replenishing Masque is a deeply hydrating treatment that conditions and manages dry and frizzy hair. A nourishing blend of Shea and Cocoa Butters, Coconut Oil & Vitamin E will give hydration to thirsty hair, leaving it soft and manageable. While the new Hydrating Treatment Oil is a nourishing leave-in treatment, perfect for revitalizing dull and frizzy hair. A hydrating concentration of Argan, Olive & Jojoba Oils will restore natural shine while promoting strength and moisture levels within the hair. Use these with the full range of hydrating products for a real change in your hair.

Sukin is available at LIFE Pharmacy, Lifestyle and Watson’s retail outlets throughout the UAE, in Holland & Barrett, Saudi Arabia and Boutiqaat in Kuwait.

Olew Hair

Natural hair care brand Olew is specifically designed for women with curly hair. Curly hair strands are much more fragile than straight ones so they take a lot of looking after in order to keep them strong, defined and frizz-free. Founded by Welsh-born entrepreneur Elinor Davies-Farn in 2018, Olew is inspired by her own curly hair journey after years of straightening her locks due to the pressure to conform, and not liking the way her curls looked naturally. In 2012, Elinor decided to ditch hair straighteners and begin embracing her natural curls. This involved extensive research into the haircare market, in which she learned about the harmful chemicals and preservatives that are a mainstay of many of the products available on the market. It also incorporated experimenting with products, each failing to produce the results she was looking for.

So Elinor embarked on a journey to create her own products that met the needs of her hair. She named the brand – Olew – the Welsh word for oil, to pay homage to her curly roots and Welsh roots too, and she decided to keep the product range completely natural to maximise the results. Olew products are packed full of hydrating ingredients that will nourish and protect your hair. Some of the highlights of the range include the Cleansing Shampoo and Clarifying conditioner as well as the Curl Cream which smooths curls and minimises frizz, as well as adding moisture back into your hair.

Olew is currently available for purchase online at projectcurls.com and shopcurls.com.

Aesop

Established in Melbourne in 1987 Aesop’s vision has always been to formulate products of the finest quality that offer real results, using safe ingredients. This includes skin, body, and hair care and fragrance. They research widely to source plant-based and laboratory-made ingredients, using only those with a proven record of safety and efficacy. Their formulations bring together natural and manmade ingredients, blending the two to create products that have a minimum impact on the environment. Their full range is botanical, cruelty-free and developed by scientists in an in-house laboratory in Australia. The latest hair products to join the family are the Sculpt Hair Polish and the Tame Hair Serum.

The Polish is an alternative to regular styling gels and contains an uplifting blend of essential oils—including Lime, Bergamot Rind and Clove Bud—along with Hydrolyzed Oats and Panthenol to help hydrate and nurture the hair. It shampoos out readily, without long-term build-up. While the serum is a botanically based formulation to keep flyaways and frizzy hair under gentle but sure control. Non-sticky and lightweight, it is suitable for most hair types and lengths, smoothing the strands and imparting a soft feel and finish while also conferring subtle texture and definition. All Aesop packaging is recyclable and all products are vegan and cruelty-free, and no ingredient is tested on animals.

Harklinikken

Born in Denmark, Harklinikken was built upon a Scandinavian heritage that relies on a sincere appreciation for immaculate nature, beautiful minimalism, and quality of design. The journey began in the early ’90s when Founder and Lead Researcher, Lars Skjoeth, made a discovery that made it possible to effectively counteract hair thinning in both women and men. With products that are based on nature’s raw materials and blended to nourish hair growth from the roots of the scalp, Harklinikken embraces nature and has a conscious approach to healthy chemistry and science.

All of the products are perfume-free, silicone-free, petrochemical free, paraben-free and colour free, making them completely clean and kinder to your hair. Before deciding on which products to use Harklinikken invites its potential customers to visit for a consultation so their products can be specifically chosen by a team of experts, depending on their needs. The consultation will determine whether you will benefit from the Extract. If we deem you a good candidate for the Harklinikken Hair Extract; a hand-blended which is customised for each individual. The team will hand-blend and Extract that is unique to your hair and scalp. The brand’s shampoos have been carefully developed to encourage hair growth, and focus on taking care of not just your hair, but your scalp as well.

Find out more at harkilinikken.ae

Davines

Italian-born haircare brand Davines made it their mission to improve the environment by creating eco-friendly, conscious products. The brainchild of the Bollati family, Davines was founded in 1983 with a core aim of achieving sustainability without compromising on the highest level of performance. Davines was one of the first to take an overall approach to sustainability and make it a priority in all areas, including product composition, production and transportation. The company has constantly strived to reach the perfect balance between Beauty and Good: “Sustainable Beauty” has always been a driver of innovation and improvement. Its products contain only natural, fully sustainable ingredients that are kinder to your hair and kinder to the environment.

Their newest treatment line Heart of Glass has been specifically designed to satisfy the main needs of blonde, treated and natural hair performing a synergistic and complete action in terms of cosmetic, protection and repair of the hair fibre while controlling colour. Extremely gentle, it can be used every time you shampoo the hair. The Davines formulas of Momo, Dede, Love and Volu shampoos are now available in a solid version in 100% paper packaging. They are made with silicon, sulphate and preservative-free formulas, can be transported easily and offer numerous sustainable benefits. Perfect for travel, the shampoo bars dry after use and can be used numerous times with only a small amount required per wash.

Davines’ product ranges can be purchased at www.eideal.com, as well as in the region’s premium salons.

izil

Established in the UAE in 2012, izil’s inspiration comes from the founder, Mouna Abassy’s own country, Morocco. It continues the legacy of unique beauty rituals that Moroccan women perfected throughout generations, rituals that use natural products made from the finest ingredients provided by the nature around them. izil brings together natural products and advanced technology that offer effective results and allow for a unique moment of indulgence, opulence and pampering. Their latest collection pays homage to the traditional Moroccan use of Argan Oil with a new Argan Oil based haircare range. Made with carefully selected ingredients that are rich in vitamins, antioxidants, protein and natural oils, the shampoo and conditioner duo restores the natural balance of hair without stripping them of moisture or weighing them down with product build-up.

The gentle yet advanced formula contains hydrolyzed wheat protein and Argan Oil, the low molecular size of which allows for deep penetration into each hair cuticle, resulting in each strand being well-nourished, hydrated and strong. This new range promises to tackle all common hair problems from breakage to hair full to dryness. the conditioners are available in 3 different formulations for different hair needs – Argan Nourishing Conditioner for all hair types, Argan Balancing Conditioner for oily hair and 3 Oils Rehydrating Conditioner for dry hair. izil has also recently launched the izil beauty spa at Dubai Mall, which offers an unparalleled deluxe spa experience.

izil is available online at izilbeauty.com with worldwide delivery and now at the newly launched boutique in The Dubai Mall.

Burberry has launched a new fragrance for men with a campaign starring Adam Driver.

Burberry’s new fragrance Hero has been launched in stores around the world with a new. The first by Riccardo Tisci, Burberry Chief Creative Officer this fragrance represents the duality between strength and sensibility.

It is brightened with sparkling bergamot and invigorated with juniper and black pepper. This vibrant scent is deepened with a heart of warm cedarwood of three distinct origins – Virginia, the Atlas Mountains and the Himalayas.

“A scent that represents the timelessness of Burberry and, at the same time, the sense of modernity. A blend of universality and uniqueness. The scent expresses the animality that is inside each man alongside a true humanity.” Said  Aurélien Guichard, Perfumer.

‘Creating a fragrance is such a personal and intimate process, and I especially felt this for Burberry Hero – my first fragrance for the brand.” Says Riccardo Tisci, Burberry Chief Creative Officer.

“I wanted Burberry Hero to encapsulate modern masculinity, to play on the essence of primal human and animal instincts, channelling the duality between strength and sensitivity. I am so thrilled to have worked with the amazing Adam Driver to embody Burberry Hero for the house.

He has this incredible depth in articulating what masculinity means today – how strength can be subtle, and emotions can empower. Our founder Thomas Burberry was a man who also celebrated that balance, using a powerful but romantic horse as the iconic emblem for his brand, inspiring many of the house codes we continue today.”

Burberry Hero is now available in Burberry stores, on Burberry.com and at select retailers.

It’s no secret the temperature and humidity in the UAE has become somewhat unbearable in recent weeks and merely stepping outside to your car has become a chore. The good news is, temperatures are due to lowers from August 26^th, but the bad news is, that’s still almost a month away! So we discover some of the tips and tricks that can help you stay cool and healthy over the coming weeks.

Drink plenty of water

It may seem obvious but drinking water is more important than ever when living in hot climates. Around 60% of our body weight is made of water and it therefore needs to constantly be replenished for body function.  It flushes toxins from your organs, carries nutrients to your cells, cushions your joints, and helps you digest the food you eat. For men, the Institute of Medicine (IOM) recommends a total of 13 cups (about 3 litres) of fluid each day, while for women, they suggest 9 cups (a little over 2 litres) of fluid each day. Upping this intake during hotter climates when you’re sweating a lot can help to keep you hydrated.

Use SPF

Even if you’re not expecting to be out in full sunshine for long it’s important to wear SPF every day, especially on your face. For women, choosing makeup with SPF already included is a perfect way to ensure you don’t forget to apply it or make it part of your morning skincare routine.

Wear Sunglasses

It is often overlooked but wearing sunglasses is an essential way of protecting our eyes from ultraviolet (UV) rays. Choosing sunglasses that have 100% UV protection will help your eyes in the long run. Most optical specialists can advise on the best sunglasses for your eyes and most luxury brands take this into consideration but do seek advice from an expert when purchasing new eyewear.

Cool You Veins

A large vein flows through our wrists. Placing your wrists under a cold tap for five seconds will immediately cool your blood and consequently lower your overall body temperature. It’s a simple yet effective tip that will really help. If you don’t have access to cold running water holding ice cubes on the area for a short time will have a similar effect.

Eat Spicy Food

Yes you read correctly! While it may seem contradictory, eating spicy food actually helps to cool your body temperature. How does it work? Well, eating spicy foods increases circulation and causes sweating, which cools the body.

Head to the Pool

While the sea around the UAE somewhat resembles a warm bath these days, spending the day relaxing a chilled pool is sure to be a perfect way to spend your weekend AND be in the sunshine without feeling the heat. Try to avoid the midday sun and make sure to wear high factor SPF and don’t forget your hat and sunglasses!

Go Out Early

The best time to be outside in the UAE during summer is early morning. So set your alarm for a much earlier than usual time (6am is ideal) and venture out for a cool, relaxing walk or trip to the beach. Just remember to carry water with you because as the temperatures heat up you’ll surely need it!

Dior’s ‘Christian Dior: Designer of Dreams’  Exhibition which has travelled around the world will open its doors in the Middle East for the first time in a partnership between Dior and Qatar Museums.

The retrospective exhibition which is dedicated to the heritage of the house of Dior will take place in Doha at M7, the design and innovation hub located in Msheireb Downtown Doha, from November 2021 to March 2022. The exhibition will be adapted specifically for Qatar, with a selection of pieces making their public début.

following its success at the Musée des Arts Décoratifs in Paris and several prestigious museums around the world, from London to New York, the ‘Christian Dior: Designer of Dreams’ exhibition will be making its journey to the region for the first time and will feature a new scenographic narrative.

This reinvented retrospective curated by Olivier Gabet – Director of the Musée des Arts Décoratifs – celebrates more than seventy years of creative passion, punctuated by stunning discoveries, from the emblematic 30 Avenue Montaigne address to the sumptuousness of Versailles and enchantment of the founding couturier’s beloved gardens.

The exhibition features haute couture designs past and present, from Christian Dior – including the famous Bar suit that launched the New Look in 1947. 

There are also designs from the Creative Directors who succeeded the House’s founder including Yves Saint Laurent, Marc Bohan, Gianfranco Ferré, John Galliano, Raf Simons and most recently, Maria Grazia Chiuri. 

The exhibition will also feature a selection of works and decorative objects from the collections of the Musée des Arts Décoratifs itself. Perpetuating the visionary spirit of Christian Dior, several Dior icons will also be on display, including versions of the Lady Dior bag reinterpreted for the Dior Lady Art project, representing singular reflections of the House’s history.

OZEN LIFE Maahdoo offers a personalised experience to each of its guests, making it a perfect family destination. We discovered more when we visited this modern and vibrant property in the Indian Ocean paradise

Access via a 45-minute speedboat ride from the airport, OZEN LIFE Maahdoo is easily accessible and convenient for couples, groups of friends and most importantly families who are looking for an easy yet luxurious escape from city life. The first of two resorts in The OZEN collection this tranquil oasis is based around a unique Indulgence Plan that offers guests everything they need without the worry of how much they are spending or coming across any hidden costs throughout their stay. The elevated all-inclusive concept includes premium food, beverage and experiences packaged in your stay, so once you reach the island all you have to worry about is how many hours you spend at the beach!

Upon arriving you’ll be greeted with a typical warm Maldivian welcome. Surrounded by lush blue seas (seriously you couldn’t get any bluer if you tried), the resort team will be there from the first time you step foot on the island to meet your every need. After arriving you will immediately feel relaxed and at home. As with most islands in the Maldives, the only modes of transport here are bicycles, buggies or walking so you can immediately say goodbye to the hectic lifestyle of the city. With an easy check-in process, you’ll be straight to your room to enjoy some well-earned rest.

Villas & Suites

OZEN LIFE MAADHOO – THE OZEN RESIDENCE

OZEN LIFE Maadhoo features 94 villas and suites situated over an expansive area. Choose from beachside living or overwater luxury, there is something for every taste. Tucked into lush tropical gardens, the beachfront Earth Villas are designed to bring the outdoors in with warm colours, open-air spaces, and plush furnishing create that an earthy, sand-under-the-feet feel. Many of the villas come equipped with pools and the two-bedroom options are perfect for families with the addition of a second bedroom and living area. With even the minibar included in your Indulgence Plan, you can relax in your room with everything you need on hand. During the day, explore the beach in just a few steps or go for a swim in your own private pool. In the evening, relax on the terrace as you listen to the sound of the waves surrounding you and instilling a complete sense of calm.

If you are looking for pure privacy, the opulent Wind Villas, stretching across the turquoise lagoon, offer a sense of dreaminess and serenity. Surrounded by nothing except the ocean, these elevated rooms feature modern, nature-inspired architecture and vibrant highlights create a sophisticated private sanctuary. The interiors are modern yet still with a touch of authentic Maldivian design. Many of the rooms also come with their own private infinity pool with endless views across the blue seas. Step off your pavilion straight into the ocean for a swim, or go snorkelling and watch the stingrays and blacktip reef shark swimming below while sunbathing on your private deck.

OZEN LIFE MAADHOO – Wind Villa with Pool

For large groups or families, the OZEN Residence is pure bliss. Featuring a master suite, junior master suite, kids room, private gym, bar, maid’s room with separate access, kitchenette and large central living room which opens out onto an ocean view terrace and private pool. It really is a home away from home, offering everything you need for a long relaxing stay in paradise. Made to measure services can be arranged within the Residence including private dining.

Food & Dining

OZEN LIFE MAADHOO – M6m

Dining is one of the most important parts of any vacation in the Maldives and it’s a topic that can be very difficult to get right, but we have to say OZEN has it spot on. At first, we were a little surprised by the “all-inclusive” idea, it’s not a concept that would usually be associated with luxury, so we were very intrigued to understand how it works. What we discovered however is that OZEN has its own way of doing things. Yes, everything is included, by there is no compromise on variety or quality – in fact, they go one step further to offer a huge array of options. Where do we begin?

The Palms is no ordinary all-day-dining restaurant. Situated just next to the beach and the ocean you can enjoy breakfast lunch and dinner listening to the sounds of the sea. Every day the menu is rotated so you won’t get bored of the same dishes on the menu – in fact, if you stay for ten days, you could eat a different meal every day! The restaurant menu features daily specials and a la carte dishes with Mediterranean influences, made to order. There are also several live cooking stations and a salad and dessert area. Every Friday you can enjoy a Grand Indian Ocean Gala Dinner featuring live cooking stations and cuisines from all around the world. If the weather allows this will take place outside and it’s truly a beautiful setting.

Across the bay, the Traditions restaurant is a two-in-one concept featuring Chinese and Sri Lankan cuisine. The restaurant is split into two with one side offering each cuisine cooked to order. Traditions IndoCeylon features traditional Sri Lankan and Indian dishes while Traditions Peking showcases authentic Chinese cuisine with handpicked recipes from the Peking Sichuan and Hunan regions, all of which are given a unique contemporary twist by the native Chinese chef.

For a truly special experience visit underwater restaurant M6m or “Minus Six Metres.” Here you will quite literally go six metres underwater and enter a hidden jewel in the middle of the ocean. Indulge in fine dining cuisine as you are surrounded by a variety of sea life which can be viewed through the windows in front of your table. This once in a lifetime experience is even included in the Indulgence plan so we highly recommend a visit. In the day time, it’s a great place for families and kids will be amazing by the abundance of fish and underwater wildlife (they might even see some sharks.) By night it becomes dreamy and romantic and is perfect for honeymooners or those looking for some romance. Leave the kids at the in-house kids club Kids Zone so you can be rest assured they are keeping busy while you enjoy your evening!

Elsewhere enjoy a light lunch at R.A.W which offers freshly prepared sushi and sashimi, or head to Joie De Vivre the poolside restaurant and bar (and our favourite spot on the island) where you can relax with light bites and mocktails while you soak up the sun.

Leisure & Wellness

While this resort is all about relaxation, there’s plenty of activities to keep you busy during your stay. From snorkelling to non-motorised watersports, sunset fishing and more there is something for every generation and taste. Most of the activities are also included in the Indulgence plan so you can let the kids run free as you relax. When it comes to “me time” what better place to spend some time to yourself than the resort’s spa. Situated inside overwater treatment rooms the stunning setting guarantees relaxation. The Spa offers treatments based on a holistic method that incorporates the five natural elements wind, water, fire, earth, and wood and we highly recommend trying a traditional Maldivian massage.

A Final Note

There are dozens of resorts scattered across the Maldives, all with the excellence and attention to detail you expect from the Indian Ocean paradise. However, what truly sets OZEN LIFE Maadhoo apart is its people. Their genuine approach to keeping the guests happy and truly meeting your every need doesn’t go unnoticed and it ensures you can completely relax and enjoy your vacation. For kids, this resort is perfect and you can feel at ease knowing they are safe and secure. If you’re thinking of travelling to the Maldives this Eid-Al-Fitr, this is truly the perfect family getaway.

Find out more at ozenlife-maadhoo.com

Reviewed by Lindsay Judge and Lara Mansour Sawaya

The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, Jumeira has launched a new Refresh Day Spa package.

The Refresh Day Spa package invites guests to embark on a revitalising full-day journey including access to the resort’s Fitness Centre and facilities, The Spa, and the property’s iconic pool and beach for the ultimate holistic day escape this summer. So if you can’t travel this summer, allow yourself some well-needed “me time” a little closer to home.

Guests booking the Refresh Spa Day package can enjoy a one-hour private fitness session with one of the resort’s highly qualified personal trainers, followed by an invigorating one-hour Deep Relief Massage at The Spa. Guests can complete the day relaxing by the pool or basking beneath shady palm trees with complimentary pool and beach access, which includes a sun lounger, towel, and water.

The Refresh Spa Day Package will be available throughout August 2021 and costs AED925 per person.

For more information and reservations, please call +971 4 777 2243.

Miley Cyrus stars as the face of Gucci Beauty’s newest fragrance for women with Gucci Flora Gorgeous Gardenia.

Relaunching this August the new, refined Eau de Parfum is floral yet delicately sweet and represents a world of infinite possibilities. This highly concentrated formula is a joyful floral scent built around the Gardenia flower, an ingredient admired for its splendour. This White Gardenia note is blended with solar Jasmine Grandiflorum Absolute and introduced by a cheerful Pear Blossom accord which encourages wearers to burst with joy, while a touch of Brown Sugar accord adds a delicate sweetness to its sillage.

“Fragrances are explorations and flowers, in particular, represent a world of infinite possibilities. Just as you can delight in drawing out different notes from a bouquet—in this case, the Gardenia, whose scent is unusual, sensual and intense—for the campaign, I had fun building a surreal and enchanting world around Miley Cyrus, creating a playful contrast between this artist with a rock ‘n’ roll spirit and a flowery universe.” Says Alessandro Michele, Creative Director at Gucci.

The launch of the fragrance is accompanied by a campaign starring pop icon Miley Cyrus. Directed and shot by artist Petra Collins, the #FloraFantasy campaign is a journey through a candy pink world, inspired by Japanese anime and filled with pop references. Miley Cyrus is surrounded by a world of candy pink props inspired by Japanese anime and filled with pop references.

“The Flora Gorgeous Gardenia campaign is a challenge to reinterpret the world of flowers in an unexpected way. The inspiration comes from Miley Cyrus, an artist with a spirit that is both rock ‘n’ roll and eclectic at the same time… Because who says that someone with a rock ‘n’ roll attitude can’t live in a world of flowers and embody the Flora universe?” Said Michele.

This fragrance is now available at outlets across the region.

Sisley’s Cream 230 uses innovative thermoactive technology that infuses restorative active ingredients into the heart of the hair fibre to protect and enhance it at high temperatures.

When activated by heat, the 230 Complex Cream forms an adhesive micro-gel and repairs the hair in two essential steps: the damaged parts are sealed and breakage is repaired. The hair fibre is left glossy and, for the first time, enhanced by heat: the hair is repaired and reflects light once more.

As many women use hair styling tools now on a daily basis, the effects of high temperatures on our hair weakens hair fibres and deteriorates its vitality. The hair becomes damaged in a number of ways including: “Flash Drying” on the surface which compromises the natural protective film around the hair. The scales of the cuticle lift up causing breakage, leaving the hair dry, dull and rough to the touch. Deep down, the hair suffers “thermal trauma”, where the heat causes the keratin to deteriorate, leading the fibre to weaken and lose its natural moisture reserves. The hair is left fragile, brittle and split ends start to form.

While applying heat to your hair is clearly bad for it, understandably millions of women continue to use the products that help them to achieve a look they love. Taking this into consideration Sisley developed a product that embraces the use of heated styling tools and allows them to protect their hair while still achieving their desired style.

Cream 230 not only defends the hair’s fibre against the repeated effects of heat up to 230°C by surrounding the hair in an undetectable, ultralight protective barrier, it also limits the degradation of keratin. This results in a significant decrease in issues related to breakage (2 times less breakage when straightening), as well as reduced occurrence of split ends and the hair begins to regain its original softness.

The Cream 230 is applied to the lengths and ends of damp or dry hair before using heat-styling tools such as hairdryers, straighteners or curling irons.

It is enriched with precious botanical oils of Camellia and Moringa, which nourish and soften the hair, as well as Cotton proteins that strengthen its protein structure.
Its texture melts into the hair fibre upon application.

As temperatures continue to rise we discover some of the ways you can add vibrancy to your home over the summer months.

As summer arrives it’s the perfect time to transition your home from spring to summer and add some bright, fresh touches to your living area. Aseel Abdullah Sarieh, Senior Design Consultant at Ethan Allen Abu Dhabi shares some of the ways you can liven up your home this summer.

1. Freshen up your room decoration

You can brighten your home and give it a summery feel by adding throw pillows, area rugs, and other accents pieces such as trays, decorative bowls and baskets.

2. Swap to linen bedding

Swap out your heavier bedding with linen sheets and pillowcases for a breezier look and feel with lighter fabrics that are soft to the touch. Linen sheets will have you feeling as though you’re on vacation in no time!

3. Introduce florals and add a pop of colour

When choosing colours and prints opt for energising tones such as yellows, greens, and oranges.                                Incorporate a mix of patterns and don’t be afraid to mix and match. Adding flowers is a nice touch to make the living room brighter and fresher.

4. Spotlight Coral Decor

Add tropical colours and materials such as lime green and pale coral as accents in your living room or bedroom. This will immediately add a summer feel to any room.

5. Add statement furniture pieces

Statement furniture is great all year round, but for summer choose lighter materials and pieces that remind you of vacation such as love seats, ottomans and benches. Reposition the furniture in your home to create more of a welcoming, laidback atmosphere.

6. Bring in summer scents

Clean scents such as lemon, orange, and lime will remind you of summers gone by. Or, if you’re more of a floral person, choose spring-ready fragrances like fresh rose for more of a feminine touch.

7. Bring the Outdoors In

Introducing plants and other natural elements to a room — whether potted plants, fresh leaves, or flowers will instantly make the space feel more summery

8. Hang mirrors adjacent to windows and doorways

The mirrors will reflect the incoming light and make the room brighter. Mirrors can also make the room look larger or have the appearance of another window to give a room summer vibes.

For more visit ethanallen.com or stores across the UAE.

Piaget has partnered with Lebanon-based non-profit NGO arcenciel for its NOUR initiative which will help to rebuild and support Beirut following the blast that occurred on 4th August 2020, devastating the city and causing catastrophic damage. A series of limited edition Piaget Possession Pendants in Rose Gold and White Gold will. go on sale with all proceeds going towards helping the victims of the blast.

The thirty limited edition pieces will be available until September 15th in Piaget boutiques across the Middle East. Clients will have the opportunity to engrave the word ‘Nour’, meaning ‘Light’, in Arabic, onto these limited edition pendants.

The proceeds from the NOUR initiative will serve 1,000 families by providing devices for solar energy or education support on the ground in Beirut including portable solar lights, home system solar power and refurbished laptops.

Caroline Welch-Ballentine, Piaget International Human Resources and Sustainability Director said; “At Piaget, we harness the power of the sun. The partnership between Piaget and arcenciel is a natural fit, with the shared values of equality, diversity, and sustainability of each organisation complementing the other, and is representative of Piaget’s meaningful dedication to giving back to the region. Piaget is proud of this collaboration with arcenciel that helped co-create a positive impact.”

Robin Richa, General Manager at arcenciel said; “It is thanks to friends like Piaget that arcenciel can further develop its mission in education with young people and the community by taking care of the environment like solar panel even in difficult conditions. We are all called today to work increasingly hand in hand to better serve the person and the community”.

Piaget has also partnered with Lebanese Director Elie Fahed to create a video that gives voice to the partnership, highlighting the impressive work and impact of arcenciel on the ground in Beirut. The video, shot and produced in Beirut, showcases the spirit of the Lebanese people, and the essential recovery work and community support being carried out by arcenciel.

Watch the video here:

Celine presented its CELINE Homme Summer 2022 collection ‘Cosmic Cruiser’ via a virtual presentation on July 27th.

Filmed on the Grand Gaou Island (Archipel des Embiez) in the Mediterranean Sea the film showcased Freestyle Motocross riders from various teams wearing biker-inspired looks designed by Hedi Slimane.

Bold and daring, the menswear looks designed by Hedi Slimane reflected the mood of motorbiking and captured a sense of a man who is independent and bold in his choices.

The soundtrack “Up N Down” was an original soundtrack for Celine by Izzy Camina, co-produced by Hedi Slimane for Cosmic Cruiser.

This season again, Celine has partnered with 14 artists who have included some of their artworks in the collection.

See more of the collection below:

#CELINEHOMME #COSMICCRUISER #CELINEBYHEDISLIMANE

Dutch-Persian influencer Negin Mirsalehi’s all-natural haircare range Gisou recently launched in the Middle East. The honey-infused line was inspired by Negin’s heritage, growing up in a family of beekeepers.

Gisou features only sustainably sourced ingredients with the hero ingredient being honey, sourced from Negin’s family bee garden in Holland. The Instagram star who has over 6 million followers decided to launch her haircare range after receiving thousands of enquiries about her own luscious locks.

Negin decided to share her homemade haircare secret with the world, now famously known as Gisou’s iconic hero product: The Honey Infused Hair Oil.

From growing up in her family’s Mirsalehi Bee Garden to working with ingredients from her father’s hives, Negin Mirsalehi’s knowledge of beekeeping and honey-based haircare stems from a passion deeply rooted in her Middle Eastern heritage.

Inspired by Persian self-care practices, it was Negin’s mother, a hairdresser by trade, who introduced her daughter to the honey-infused formulas she still values today. Her mother’s kitchen was the birthplace of the highly sought-after haircare secret that sparked Negin’s journey from influencer to beauty industry entrepreneur.

The range of hair products incorporates natural bee products acquired from the family’s bee garden, all of which are sourced ethically and sustainably.

By harnessing the power of bee-sourced ingredients known for their conditioning and restorative properties, Negin proudly continues the six-generation family legacy as an active beekeeper and founder of Gisou – sharing the powers of honey and propolis from the Mirsalehi Bee Garden through her range of eponymous haircare.

“My family heritage, and that of Gisou, is deeply rooted in the Middle East which makes this launch particularly special. I’m incredibly happy to finally share Gisou and our honey-infused haircare with our new community members” says Negin Mirsalehi.

Gisou is available exclusively at Sephora in the Middle East. 

Oscar-nominated actor Adam Driver has been announced as the face of Burberry’s upcoming fragrance which will launch this August.

The new scent will be Creative Director Riccardo Tisci’s first fragrance for the house since he joined in 2017.

The fragrance will launch this summer with a brand new campaign starring the actor. ‘I’m very happy to be working with Burberry on this campaign, and with Riccardo Tisci in representing his first fragrance for the brand.’ Said Adam Driver.

The Oscar-nominated actor wore Burberry to the premiere of Annette at the opening night of the Cannes Film Festival earlier this month. His outfit included a black English-fit mohair-wool tuxedo with silk-satin peak lapels and side stripes, a white cotton-poplin shirt, black silk-satin bow tie, black silk-satin cummerbund, black leather belt, palladium-plated personalised letter motif cufflinks, and black leather Derby shoes.

Alberta Ferretti’s Pre Fall 2021 collection is a summer mood. Delicate bohemian prints on chiffon and silk creponne create ultra-feminine yet elegant dresses and blouses enriched with ruffles and lace inserts.

The delicate prints and ultra-feminine relaxed styles are perfect for a day lounging by the pool or a warm breezy summer’s evening.

The Pre Fall prints have been developed in two colours by the Italian house: the floral print is featured in shades of orange, as well as pink and grey. While the trompe d’oeil print, instead, can be seen in grey and sand or pink and grey.

This special selection of printed blouses and dresses by Alberta Ferretti is available for purchase on albertaferretti.com, Alberta Ferretti boutiques and at an exclusive selection of Italian and international multi-brand stores.

See more below:

This summer Boucheron introduces Serpent Bohème Aquaprase as a vibrant addition to the Serpent Bohème collection.

First founded in 1968 this collection has become a classic in the Boucheron repertoire, showcasing the craftsmanship of the Maison’s workshops.

The new Aquaprase offering incorporates, for the first time, this beautiful stone on rings, necklaces, earrings and bangles. First discovered in 2015 in Zimbabwe, this translucent natural stone was named after its blue-green colour, bestowing every piece with a gentle vibration.

With panache and style, Serpent Bohème has never been so free. The collection offers a hint of freshness with light, feminine pieces that catch the light.

Combining aquaphrase with diamonds the collection is both elegant and understated and perfect to wear from day to night.

In a recent interview with a&e H.E. Shamsa Saleh, CEO of Dubai Women Establishment and Secretary-General of the UAE Gender Balance Council discussed how the UAE is going beyond women’s empowerment to achieve gender balance for all.

She revealed how her own struggles as a mother highlighted the many challenges women face in the workplace and this was the driving force behind the implementation of many policies over the past decade.

Watch below:

To read the interview in full click here.

Team A&E gets the royal treatment for all the family at Abu Dhabi’s most iconic hotel.

As the most recognisable landmark on Abu Dhabi’s skyline, Emirates Palace embodies the opulence and tradition of Arabic hospitality and the renowned excellence of Mandarin Oriental in a one-of-a-kind resort experience. A symbol of the UAE’s rich heritage this spectacular palatial property is sculpted from rich marble in desert hues, reflecting the sunshine and blue skies of the surrounding landscape. Located in a natural bay along the Arabian coastline the property offers panoramic views of both the ocean and city.

Driving up the long driveway to the hotel lobby you will truly be overwhelmed by the size and detailing of this iconic property. When you step inside the vast entrance you truly feel like you have entered a real-life palace. Don’t be surprised if your kids gasp as though they just arrived at Disneyland, and you will instantly feel the grandeur and relaxation that this property has to offer. The unique interiors, which resemble that of a real palace, are undeniably extravagant, guaranteed to make anyone feel like a prince or princess, whatever their age!

Rooms & Suites

The rooms and suites follow the same traditional décor of the public areas, with many of them offering unrivalled views across the ocean. If you are bringing the little ones with you, there are several larger suites perfect for the whole family to relax and enjoy the experience and also perfect for a longer stay.

The most luxurious of all are the Palace suites, which come complete with an expansive terrace, majlis, formal dining room, living area and bedrooms as well as an oversized bathtub and jacuzzi. Other touches include crystal chandeliers, gold-thread bedding, plush soft furnishings and state-of-the-art technology. A regal colour palette of blue and gold resembles the Arabian palaces of years gone by. Each room has its own private butler who will be on hand to meet your every need.

Food & Dining

The resort features thirteen award-winning restaurants, cafés and lounges offering cuisines from around the world.

Emirates Palace – Mezlai

For families with a range of tastes, you can’t go wrong with the all-day dining restaurant; Le Vendôme. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, food is now served à la carte to adhere to COVID-19 restrictions. Combining traditional continental recipes with refined Middle Eastern preparations, it caters for a range of tastes using seasonal and carefully sourced produce. Aiming to elevate itself from what is usually expected of all-day dining eateries, each dish at Le Vendôme is precisely fashioned by a team of talented chefs. choose from healthy salads, soups and sandwiches, as well as hearty curries, grills and more including a number of options for kids.

Emirates Palace – Martabaan

Arabic flavours come to life at Mezlai whose menu offers dishes with ingredients derived from the sea, mountains, oases and the desert associated with the region. Arabic staples such as hot and cold mezze, Arabic grills and delicious deserts. If you have guests in town and want to show them the best of Arabic cuisine in a traditional setting, there is no better place to come. The interiors mirror those of an airy Bedouin tent with stunning views of the Palace grounds.

Hakkasan

Travelling across the world to India, Martabaan offers contemporary classic Indian cuisine, designed by Hemant Oberoi; celebrated master chef and the first Indian chef nominated to the World Gourmet Club. He is internationally recognised for his innovative approach to Indian cuisine and his contemporary play on traditional dishes. This is a unique dining experience, taking guests on a culinary journey with delights such as Temple Cuisine, Iron Cuisine and the Naza. Much like the rest of the hotel, the interior of Martabaan is opulent and splendid, fusing traditional Arabic décor with a touch of contemporary Indian design. When it comes to the menu there are several traditional dishes on offer, all with a new modern twist, providing a taste experience like no other. Highly recommended dishes include the Varqui Crab, Dum ki Nalli and the Masala Chai Creme Brulee.

Emirates Palace – BBQ Al Qasr

Inspired by Greece, casual dining restaurant Cascades provides a family-friendly alternative for those looking for a lazy lunch by the pool. Providing Mediterranean cuisine for all the family, guests can dine on the terrace while overlooking the sparkling waters of the Arabian Gulf. With the Kids’ Club, Park and Pool nearby, there is no shortage of activities to keep children of all ages busy whilst the parents linger over a long meal.

Emirates Palace is also home to award-winning Asian restaurant Hakkasan, which has become a must-visit dining destination in the city, as well as several casual dining options.

Spa & Wellness

The resort also features a spacious luxury spa and hammam, professional barbers for gents and expert stylists for ladies, tennis courts, two outdoor temperature-controlled swimming pools, 6km of running paths, a modern marina, free bicycles and two 24-hour fitness centres – so there really is no excuse not to relax and take good care of yourself!

Emirates Palace Spa Reception

The Emirates Palace Spa Abu Dhabi will instantly transport you to another realm, inspired by the ancient traditions of the region. It features a traditional Moroccan Hammam that is well-appointed with two Jacuzzis, two steam rooms, heated marble and an ice cave. As with all Mandarin Oriental properties many of the spa’s treatments are inspired by the local surroundings. For the ultimate in luxury try “A Day of Gold;” a rejuvenating treatment that begins with a Hammam, followed by the Signature Palace massage, followed by lunch and finished with a 24-carat gold Radiance facial and pedicure. Meanwhile, the Palace Rose & Oudh Hammam blends traditional Hammam with ingredients that the region is known for. Your skin will be softened by the touch of rose ghassoul clay and rose shea butter to brighten your complexion, increase blood circulation and promote healthy skin tone and texture. Finish by experiencing the in-house Jacuzzi and ice cave that will help to cool the body down and eliminate toxins.

Fun For All The Family

If you’re looking for a family escape from the city there is no better destination than Emirates Palace. Children are considered in all aspects of the hotel experience from dining, to safety to the facilities and activities on offer. And this summer there’s no excuse for parents to relax too as the Emirates Palace Kids Camp returns.

In collaboration with The Pro Kids Sport, the summer kids camp offers activities for children from 3 to 14 years old including swimming, kickboxing, wakeboarding, Zumba and more. An ideal way to keep the children entertained during the long school break, the camp will run from 4 July to 26 August, Sunday to Thursday, and will be divided into various age groups with the 10 to 14-year-old team segregated by gender. There is the option to sign up for individual days or weekly packages. For younger children, the Little Prince and Princess program will run in collaboration with The Bright Minds Institute which will offer 45-minute original Whole Brain training classes, for toddlers aged 6 months to 5 years old, including various activities that promote right and left-brain stimulation such as music and singing.

This summer families can take advantage of special packages and rates specially curated to ensure everyone enjoys a family holiday in the luxurious surrounds of the hotel. Find out more at www.mandarinoriental.com/abu-dhabi.

Nisrine El Lababidi Moghraby, Design Alchemist at Harf Noon Design Studio gives her top tips and advice on purchasing a vintage rug

Whether you’re starting your interior design plan or looking for personalized ways to upgrade your home, vintage pieces are guaranteed to add a one-of-a-kind sparkle to any room. Vintage in particular are rich in character, charm, colour and pattern and are can be celebrated as a statement piece that can bring life to any space. Vintage rugs can become an element in your home that’s unique and tells a story – one that was made with care and designed with a purpose.

Every home could benefit from a beautiful antique rug, but shopping for one can feel a little daunting. How do you know what to look for and which ones are well-made? How do you pursue buying vintage and make sure it lasts a lifetime? Enough for it to perhaps become an heirloom one day! Allow me to guide you through.

One of the factors to consider when choosing a vintage rug for your space is to first decide on the size of the area you are trying to cover. Vintage rugs are usually handmade, and unlike today, they were made in non-conforming rug sizes. So measure up your area very carefully! The rug should act as a frame for your furniture pieces – I like to have them sitting on the carpet about 15cm in or 15cm out  – placing masking tape on the floor will help you better visualise the area.

The next step is to do a bit of research on the style that you are attracted to and what works for your interior – it could be tribal, traditional or geometric. Doing some research on Pinterest is great for this and simply narrowing down the colours, tones and size is a solid starting step. Next, you need to decide on the type of rug you are looking for. You may opt for a Turkish Anatolian, Avanos, Herki, or Oushak rug – each or come from different regions and periods and have colour different colour variations. All are hand-dyed and filled with symbols signifying eternity, family, love and even harvest seasons! Persian rugs are much more intricate in finish compared to their Turkish counterparts. Take for example the narrow Ardabil rugs and Hamedan (which are great for corridors and tighter spaces), as well as the rare Heriz rugs with their centre motif and geometric designs. If you are looking for something more floral, the Malayer rug might be for you with its flowers, birds and sprouting seed designs. You might also opt for the simpler Shiraz designs, depicting nightingales shown as angular birds and symbolising contentment and happiness.

Once you have decided what style and size you are opting for – set the budget that you are willing to invest in your rug. Then only are you ready to begin your search for that perfect piece. One thing I recommend is to keep an open mind, remember the reference you may have found is unique so you might find something similar in a different size and you may want to layer it on top of a sisal rug for example to fill the space.

Once you have found the rug, whether online, at a shop, or even while travelling to regions in Turkey or Iran, you will want to speak to the seller and understand the history of where the rug came from. Remember these vintage carpets come with their own history, they are passed down throughout the years, so it is interesting to discover who owned them in the past and find out their lifestyle and what the rug may have been through. Inspect it very well and check how much wear it has – although they are many years old, due to their durable fabric and the care that was put into their creation, more often than not, vintage rugs are in very good condition and will last many more years to come. If you are purchasing online, ask for images of the rug from all angles, including close-up shots. Ask about any imperfections, curved edges etc.

Once the rug has become your prized possession, make sure you care for it properly. Try to keep it away from direct sun exposure as that can fade the natural die with time. Also flip it every few months, so that the areas wear equally all around. When cleaning it, try a low suction hoover or a normal brush. Wool is a natural material and it can break down with extreme suction. Have it professionally cleaned when needed, usually around every five years, and don’t attempt this yourself! Final tip, never put a plant pot on top of it, or you will end up creating a circle of mildew over the years which will ruin your rug.

Shop vintage rugs in the UAE from Tamam vintage: www.tamamvintage.com

See more at www.harfnoondesignstudio.com

Haute Couture House Schiaparelli has launched a version of the iconic brooch worn by Lady Gaga when she performed the United States National Anthem at the Inauguration of President Joe Biden on January 20^th of this year.

The brooch which features a dove holding an olive branch made headlines at the time and is known as the Schiaparelli Dove; a symbol of peace and hope.

All proceeds of the brooch will be donated to Lady Gaga’s Born This Way Foundation, a charitable organization which she co-founded with her mother Cynthia Germanotta with the mission to support youth mental health and work with young people to build a kinder and braver world.

“My daughter and I, along with the young people we work with every day, believe kindness is the way forward from the overlapping, ongoing crises of the last year and a half. We couldn’t be more grateful to have the proceeds from the Schiaparelli Dove, a beautiful symbol of hope and new beginnings, benefit our work and mission to build a kinder, braver world,” says Cynthia Germanotta, Co-founder and President of Born This Way Foundation.

“With the support of Schiaparelli, we will continue to follow the lead of this aspirational, hopeful generation to build movements that address youth mental health and connect them to the resources they need to not only survive their lives, but thrive.”

The dove has long been a symbol used by the house. Influenced by the artists of the dada and cubism movements, Elsa Schiaparelli used surrealist imagery of the masters of her time in her designs such as the Dove. She owned Oiseaux en cage, “Caged Birds” by Picasso, an oil on canvas from 1937 that shows a dove and a crow in a cage. Her friends saw the dove and black raven as symbols of her dual personality.

When Elsa left for the U.S. to escape World War II, her favourite brooch in the shape of a dove was pinned to the suit she wore as she arrived in New York. The Dove would stay with Schiaparelli for a long time, and can be found throughout her designs in the form of prints on gowns or as accessories.

When the Schiaparelli Dove made a return this time designed by Creative Director Daniel Roseberry, it was designed as a symbol of a renewed sense of peace and hope marked by Gaga’s performance.

Daniel Roseberry, Creative Director at Schiaparelli, states, “Like so many of us, I have been inspired by Lady Gaga and her Born This Way Foundation for years. Her inauguration performance, and the symbolic Dove Brooch, is a milestone in the history of this Maison and in my life. It is with great pride that we are able to contribute to Gaga’s foundation and the remarkable work it has done in the lives of young people everywhere, moving them towards more freedom, kindness, and love.”

The Dove brooch is available for purchase in three different sizes, from Schiaparelli, Bergdorf Goodman and Dover Street Markets starting July 22nd. All proceeds will be donated to the Born This Way Foundation.

With its QC line Mercedes-Benz has laid out the future of driving. An electric concept that combines the best of Mercedes-Benz know-how with the design and performance of the future.

Launched exclusively with Gargash Enterprises in Dubai, Sharjah and the Northern Emirates, the EQC is the first vehicle to hit the road under the EQ brand, marking a huge moment for the future of the industry. We took the opportunity to test-drive this full-electric vehicle and get a glimpse into the future of driving.

From the outside, this car resembles any other Mercedes design with its smooth seamless shape and elegant design. But as the first Mercedes-Benz model to be launched under the new product and technology brand EQ, the EQC features an all-new drive system development with compact electric drivetrains at each axle. These give the EQC the driving characteristics of an all-wheel drive.

To reduce power consumption and increase dynamism, the electric drivetrains are configured differently: the front electric motor is optimised for the best possible efficiency in the low to medium load range, while the rear one determines dynamism. Together, they generate an output of 300 kW and a maximum torque of 765 Nm. A sophisticated operating strategy enables an electric range of more than 450km so you can embark on long journeys without having to stop and charge the engine.

When you do have to charge, there are several different methods making it simple and convenient. There are several charge points around the UAE now so just plug in and head to the mall and leave your car charging while you shop!

The overall aesthetic revolves around a conscious clash of digital and analogue elements as well as the seamless merging of intuitive and physical design bringing together the modern and traditional and highlighting the innovation of the brand. The interior features a ribbed edge along the instrument panel, which resembles the cooling ribs of a hi-fi amplifier. The instrument panel is designed as a driver-oriented cockpit.

The car is almost silent when the engine is running – to the point that we had to double-check several times before moving! Mercedes-Benz engineers have enhanced noise comfort with a number of measures. In the EQC the powerpacks are isolated by rubber mounts at two points: where the powerpack connects to its subframe and where the subframe connects to the body. This effective isolation is supplemented with insulation measures. As a result, the interior of the EQC is extremely quiet.

The EQC features an innovative multimedia system. The MBUX – Mercedes-Benz User Experience has a number of EQ-specific functions to enhance your experience including the display of range, charge status and energy flow. EQ-optimized navigation, driving modes, charging current and departure time can also be controlled and set via MBUX. There is a special EQ menu that assists with all elements related to the operations of the car.

The EQC comes complete with comprehensives services to assist with the electromobility of today and tomorrow. Some of the most important new services and functions of the EQC including the Pre-entry climate control system. This ensures that the vehicle interior is already at the desired temperature on departure. It can be programmed directly via MBUX or via the Mercedes me phone app. A sophisticated system with a heat pump and electric heater boosters pre-climatises the interior.

Safety 

Intense safety tests have been applied to the battery and all component parts carrying electrical current. These standards exceed legal requirements. The vehicle structure of the EQC has been adapted to suit the special requirements of the electrical components and battery and is configured to achieve the usual high safety level. The high-safety design begins with the installation position of the high-voltage battery beneath the vehicle floor. The energy storage unit is surrounded by a stable frame that can absorb energy. Deformation elements are installed between the frame and the battery, and these are able to absorb additional forces in the event of a severe side impact. A battery guard in the front area of the battery is able to prevent the energy storage unit from being pierced by foreign objects. The extensive experience of Mercedes-Benz with high-voltage drive systems has led to a multi-stage safety concept that deploys in the event of an accident. The high-voltage system automatically shuts down, reversibly or irreversibly, according to the severity of the accident. There are also shutdown points where emergency teams can deactivate the high-voltage system manually.

Sustainable Driving

One of the biggest positives of owning an electric can in the UAE is the many benefits offered to those embracing a more sustainable lifestyle. Committed to working towards a better tomorrow and reducing its impact on the environment, the UAE has rolled out a series of regulations and exemptions that further encourage its residents to make the switch to an electric vehicle. This include:

• Free public charging:EQC owners enjoy free charging until the end of 2021 through the DEWA charging network. A charging card can be applied for through the DEWA online platform.
• Free public parking across all RTA parking spaces until June 2022
• Exemption of ‘Salik’ tag: EQC owners are excepted from the fee to purchase the ‘Salik’ (toll) tag
• Exception from registration and renewal fees: All electric vehicles are exempted from the additional registration and renewal fees.

Battery Power

The car is powered by a lithium-ion battery, with an energy content of 80 kWh (NEDC). The power consumption and range of electric vehicles depend very much on the driving style. The EQC supports its driver with five driving programs, each with different characteristics: COMFORT, ECO, MAX RANGE, SPORT and an individually adaptable program. In the more economical driving modes, the haptic accelerator pedal that prompts the driver to conserve power plays an important role. The driver is also able to influence the recuperation level using so-called paddles behind the steering wheel.

The ECO Assist system gives the driver comprehensive support when driving predictively: by prompting the driver when it is appropriate to come off the accelerator. Navigation data, traffic sign recognition and information from the intelligent safety assistants (radar and stereo camera) are linked and processed.

As standard, the EQC is equipped with a water-cooled onboard charger (OBC) with a capacity of 7.4 kW, making it suitable for AC charging at home or at public charging stations which are located across the UAE at public places Charging at a Mercedes-Benz Wallbox takes approximately 10.5 hours for a full charge, up to three times faster than the standard household AC charging. It is faster still with DC charging – which is standard for the EQC, with an output of up to 110 kW at an appropriate charging station, the EQC battery can be charged from 10-80%, within approximately 40 minutes.

the EQC requires a DEWA ‘green charger card’, that would enable users to find their nearest charging station using DEWA’s green charger location map. Alternatively, customers can use the Plugshare website and smartphone application to understand the available type of charging stations and plugs around the area.

Elie Saab’s Pre-Fall 2021 collection “The Feminine Mystique is inspired by quintessential Lebanese architecture, especially the three-tiered high-arch window frames.

The collection combines the feminine strength of the 1970s with the contemporary woman today. It is a nod to the courage of the past for allowing the present to playfully pave a way forward. From tailored suits featuring oversized jackets and flared pants to bold leopard print to tulle fitted gowns and extravagant sequins, this collection is an expression of whatever persona a woman chooses to become.

The collection evokes the essence of the feminine mystique from the 1970s when women embraced their fierce individuality. It is a play between structure and fluidity to accentuate the feminine form with pronounced shoulders, plunging necklines, crepe form-fitting jumpsuits, draping sleeves and hooded capes.

When wanting to test the boundaries of her soft femininity, the woman who wears this collection adventurously wraps herself in black feathers, white flowing overwear, warm wool camel tone and supple jersey in cherry and green accentuated by the Elie Saab monogram and metallic details.

In accessories, we saw a subtle logo-clad clutch, a statement top-handle purse and a gold-chained crossbody.

Silk scarves were added as accessories for a dramatic effect and looks were finished with thick-framed mod-inspired sunglasses and thigh-high boots.

For the Pre-Fall 2021 collection Louis Vuitton’s Artistic Director Nicolas Ghesquière draws upon his three main design angles since arriving at the House.

These three pillars represent the Louis Vuitton woman today. The first “Tech Romanticism” is an opulence in which the softness of materials and the delicacy of embroideries mix with an urban attitude, recalling personal memories.

The second pillar; “energetic sportswear” sees colours clash and chronomantic duos reinvented. Blue is paired with Bordeaux, red with violet and lemon with lime.

While the third angle “rediscovering essentials”, does exactly what it says. An update of House icons, reinventing great classics.

The collection was photographed by Nicolas Ghesquière who chose English-French actress Stacy Martin as the ambassador of the latest offering. He said; “Stacy has innate elegance and an inspiring personality. I have a lot of respect for her career path, her bold choices and the roles she takes on. I very much enjoyed photographing Stacy. So cool and laid back, I love the way she wears my collections.”

Pomellato’s new Catene collection is a modern interpretation of the timeless chain.

These contemporary designs pay tribute to Pomellato’s passion for the classic, timeless chain and draw on the brand’s rich heritage of craftsmanship. It’s a young, fresh take on a house classic that can be worn from day to night with a sense of understated glamour.

At the heart of Catene is the house’s famous flexible ‘gourmette’ chain link, now combined with rigid elements in easy-to-wear proportions. This new interpretation of the simple link embodies the duality of female strength and is perfectly in sync with Pomellato’s commitment to female empowerment and self-determination.

“The new 2021 Catene collection is a contemporary interpretation in a minimalist style of the archetypal gourmette chain link. It is designed to appeal to women who wish to enjoy the pleasure of wearing a chain every day in true Pomellato style.” Vincenzo Castaldo, Pomellato Creative Director.

The collection is composed of bracelets, rings and earrings featuring link which are fully mobile, much like a real chain. They are offered in rose gold, with or without diamonds, or in white gold with diamonds.

All of the gold is 100% responsible, sourced from certified mines that comply with international laws on the transparency and traceability of raw materials (RJC certification), or from production chains engaged in important projects for the improvement of environmental sustainability.

After the launch of its first Extraordinary Women campaign in 2020, Piaget returns to present “Extraordinary Encounters”; a series of episodes that celebrates extraordinary women who use their voices for good.

The Piaget Extraordinary Women concept brings together women from all walks of life who are using their experience and successes to mentor the next generation of Extraordinary Women and these moments are captured in the series.

The stories feature women from all around the world. Clémence Poésy, Wendy Yu, Balqees Fathi, Katherine Pooley, Noella Coursaris Musunka, Momoko Ando and Yeol Eum Son all discuss the idea of women empowering women and what it means. The different episodes narrate the encounters that shape the relationship between the mentor and their mentee, but also about their connection and mutual support.

Balqees Fathi

One of the chosen ladies for the series is Emirati singer Balqees Fathi. She has had three re- cord-breaking albums and is a member of the UAE NSO Symphony Orchestra and a leading figure in women’s rights in the music industry. She also holds the title of United Nations Champion for Women’s Rights in the Middle East and became the first-ever Arabic singer to perform at a concert for women only and mix gender in Saudi Arabia. A mother and beauty entrepreneur, Balqees is dedicated to helping the progression of female empowerment.

Clémence Poésy

Aside from Balqees, the chosen ladies come from many walks of life. Clémence Poésy is a French actress and model.

Wendy Yu is an award-winning Chinese investor, entrepreneur, and philanthropist who is dedicated to using her influence to support the arts, shape the cultural landscape and accelerate positive change.

Wendy Yu

Katharine Pooley is one of the world’s most famous interior designers.

Katherine Pooley

Noëlla Coursaris Musunka is a philanthropist and international fashion model from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

Noella Coursaris Musunka

Momoko Ando is a Japanese film director who is recognised for her visionary work exploring youth.

And finally, Yeol Eum Son is a German-based, South Korean classical pianist.

These ladies share their stories and more in this extraordinary series.

Bentley is marking the 75^th anniversary of its production of cars in Crewe, England.

Since the first car came off the Crewe production line in 1946, 197,086 cars have been handcrafted in that very same factory.

The Bentley Mk VI was the first model to roll off the Crewe production line and to mark this landmark anniversary the Mk VI’s predecessor, the Mk V, the last pre-Crewe model, stands proudly on display at Bentley’s famous Pyms Lane factory.

Bentley Mark V

Commenting on the occasion, Peter Bosch, Bentley’s Member of the Board for Manufacturing, said: “For 75 years Crewe has been synonymous with luxury car manufacturing – a global showcase of craftsmanship and quality.  In that time, our colleagues have produced some of the world’s most iconic and desirable products, including cars for global royalty and unique personal commissions.

He continued; “beyond bricks and mortar, this milestone pays homage to the colleagues who have built our brand in Crewe, and I’d like to express my thanks and admiration for their dedication over three-quarters of a century.”

Bentley’s manufacturer is the worlds only carbon-neutral luxury car factory and the brand has ambitious plans to target targeting sustainable luxury mobility leadership, and to be end-to-end carbon neutral by 2030 with its entire model range switched to battery electric vehicles by that year.

Bentley Continental GT Speed

The Bentley Mark VI became the first car to be built entirely at Bentley’s Crewe works and the first to be offered with a pressed-steel body shell as standard. The 4.3-litre straight-six engine used at launch was upgraded to a more powerful 4.6-litre unit in 1951. Coachbuilt cars were still available, but the Mark VI signalled the dawn of a new era in Bentley car production and became one of the marque’s biggest selling cars in history.

Pyms Lane has remained the focal point for Bentley’s headquarters in Crewe since the company arrived in 1938. What stands today are industry-leading facilities that are fully carbon neutral, the first luxury car brand to achieve such a feat.

The ambitious plans Bentley has for car production were outlined as part of its ground-breaking Beyond100 strategy. The company aims to be end-to-end carbon neutral by 2030, with the Crewe factory climate positive thereafter.

Salvatore Ferragamo has introduced a new logo to its family in the form of the “SF Logo.”

This new addition to the family features the letters “S” and “F” to represent the essence of the fashion house and pay tribute to its founder, Salvatore Ferragamo.

The SF logo makes its debut as part of the Pre-Fall 2021 collection for men where it appears on several product categories including ready-to-wear and key accessories.

On footwear it features on three of the brand’s key styles: the loafer, driver and sneaker. The logo is presented in various ways. As a small side buckle logo on the band of the shoe upper, or a central decorative logo set within a metal frame and with the two initials either varnished to match the colour of the leather or decorated with elegant rhinestones.

The sneaker has a side buckle logo in light metal-effect resin or a printed, maxi, colour-contrast logo. It also features on a selection of large and small leather goods and belts.

The large leather goods also feature an ECONYL® nylon (a fibre that has been entirely regenerated from fishing nets and from other nylon waste), sewn with thread that is made from 100% post-consumer certified recycled PET and finished with a zip tape made with regenerated polyester yarn made from recycled plastic bottles.

The logo features as a bold rubber version on wallets and credit card holders in the Small Leather Goods range. Belts come in two models, with an SF logo buckle and a metal frame or with the SF initials set within Ferragamo’s iconic Gancini hook.

The SF Logo line is part of a digital campaign shot in the Galleria Memphis Post Design of Milan.

Sheikha Amal Al Maktoum has revealed the latest collection from her brand Azzalia.

The Resort 2021 Capsule Collection “Hot Jungle” has been designed to offer women a stylish solution for beach dressing and summer travel. The collection is introduced as part of the brand’s Daisy line and combines bold colours with intricate details.

“We can all use a bit of colour in our lives and the capsule collection reflects that. With their vibrance and versatility, these pieces are sure to be a stylish addition to your summer staples,” says Sheikha Amal Al Maktoum, Founder and Creative Director of Azzalia.

The collection draws inspiration from the flora and fauna of the jungle with its bright and bold colour choices and statement styles. Kaftans, dresses and jumpsuits come in lightweight floaty fabrics including silk crepes while cover-ups are offered in crushed linen and voile.

“Among the highlights is the breathable voile dress in apple green and red with printed leaves, which perfectly complements the capsule collection’s jungle mood,” Sheikha Amal states.

Expect pieces with accents such as cowl necklines, asymmetric cuts, drapes, gathers and drawstring ruching as nods to some of this season’s trends. Tropical patterns and colour-block pieces feature gathered-shoulders drawstrings, twisted-waists and cross-strap dresses in georgette and crepe with flashes of tomato, hot pink, dazzling blue and amazon green.

Azzalia Resort 2021 Capsule Collection is now available at www.azzalia.ae and will be available soon in Galeries Lafayette Dubai, Ounass, Miray Mano Thouqi.com, Boksha.com.

This year Chopard celebrates 25 years of its watch Manufacture and will see celebrations and launches reflecting the incredible capabilities of the house happening throughout the year.

The iconic L.U.C watch is being introduced in a number of new variations this year that celebrate the expertise of the house, and there is a clear focus on honouring the incredible capabilities of Chopard as a watchmaker and also its ability to combine watchmaking with high jewellery design.

Leading the men’s watch segment of the business is Co-President Karl-Friedrich Scheufele, alongside his sister Caroline who is also Co-President, looking after the women’s offering. Karl has been closely involved in the company his whole life. At the age of 22, he designed the House’s first sports watch and has since built the watchmaking side of the business taking it to the next level. Since creating the Chopard Manufacture 25 years ago, Karl has been pushing the boundaries by working with new ground-breaking materials and continuing to further develop the sustainability capabilities of the company. This year Chopard presented a number of new novelties as part of Watches & Wonders 2021 and here we discover more as well as a first look at what’s to come for the rest of this year.

What are some of the highlights from the recent edition of Watches & Wonders that you can share with us?

To celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Chopard Manufacture, we developed a new complication and presented our first jumping-hour timepiece, the L.U.C Quattro Spirit 25 with a dial entirely handcrafted by our enamelling artisan. It is a classic must-have masterpiece combining Haute Horlogerie and Métiers d’Art, featuring an ethical 18-carat gold case inspired by the pocket watches of Louis-Ulysse Chopard. With a generous power reserve of up to eight days, enabled by the exclusive Chopard Quattro technology, it is one of the rare jumping-hour watches with such a degree of autonomy. It is a 100-piece limited series.

We also introduced the first Chopard Qualité Fleurier certified piece in stainless steel, the L.U.C QF Jubilee. This timepiece sums up the three core values of the L.U.C collection, namely technical performance, aesthetic refinement and an enduring attachment to certified watchmaking. The exclusive 25-piece limited series embodies this triptych of excellence and is the first L.U.C stainless steel timepiece with Quality Fleurier Foundation certification. It was very well received especially amongst the younger generation. We also unveiled the L.U.C Perpetual Chrono, a rare perpetual

calendar Chronograph combination in titanium; the ideal watch for collectors who are not willing to buy gold or platinum but still wish for a precious material on the wrist. It is limited to 20 pieces. In addition, we introduced the Chopard iconic Traveller watches, the L.U.C GMT One Black and the L.U.C Time Traveller One black, the world’s first GMT and Worldtime watches in ceramised titanium; a creative material in Haute Horlogerie obtained by oxidising titanium through electro-plasma technology. The L.U.C GMT One Black and the L.U.C Time Traveller One Black, dedicated to Millennials, are dressed in a powerful black theme that offers a strong presence on the wrist.

Tell us about this important year for the L.U.C watches and what can we expect to see from the celebrations throughout the year?

It is indeed an important year for the L.U.C watches. As you can see, we are celebrating the 25th anniversary of the Chopard Manufacture with an array of timepieces that reaffirm the innovation, creativity, and independence of Chopard. In 1996, when I embarked on the Manufacture journey, my ambition was to create movements of unrivalled technical innovation with sublime aesthetic quality respecting watchmaking tradition, to receive both COSC and Poinçon de Geneve certifications. Since then, we have achieved a lot including numerous industry awards, such as the Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Geneve (GPHG) that we won for the L.U.C Full strike in 2017 and of which we are very proud. Throughout the year we will unveil new exceptional L.U.C pieces and are hoping that the sanitary conditions will get better soon so that we can organize a physical celebration in Geneva next year.

Tell us about the current strategy of the watches division at Chopard and have you changed anything since the global pandemic?

Our strategy consists of preserving our independence and pursuing verticalization in terms of production. We intend to continue improving the quality of our movements by focusing on the size, precision, and traditional aesthetics. We will always seek technical innovation and advanced materials. With the global pandemic, we transformed almost overnight into a digital company with regards to distribution and communication – to an extent we never expected! We had to rethink our sales approach and get onboard with the digital world as we witnessed e-commerce thriving. However, online retailing still represents only a relatively small percentage of the Chopard Group’s business and there is potential for growth in some parts of the world, which we are working on developing.

As you said digital expansion has been crucial this year – tell us more about how Chopard has developed its digital strategy and what is still to be done?

Digital is nowadays crucial for communicating with customers. We value online communication as an important sales tool and as a leading luxury brand, Chopard needs to have a strong presence online. So far, we operate four Chopard e-boutiques in the USA, UK, France and Germany and we are evaluating further opportunities. Chopard is present with selected creations on Farfetch, T-Mall and NET-A-PORTER, marking an important partnership for our Maison with a global luxury online retailer. It is true that many clients search for information and then shop online. Our website and e-commerce platforms are always evolving. Last year, we also developed a digital way of doing business; our boutique staff could reach out to clients at home so they could connect with the Chopard boutique nearby. This way we managed to stay close to our customers. However, I would like to highlight that most of our clients still prefer to purchase in a traditional boutique environment to enjoy a “physical” shopping experience.

What is in the pipeline for the second half of the year?

One of the highlights of this year is, of course, our new global Happy Diamonds campaign with Julia Roberts and we are very excited about it. Another key moment this year is the 25th anniversary of the Chopard Manufacture. We will keep on revealing some very special L.U.C timepieces to complete the collection during the second half of the year. Soon, we will also have our yearly rendezvous with the Mille Miglia race in June and the Cannes Film Festival in July.

We know how important ethical production is to the House – tell us how this is adapted in the watch division?

Ethics has always been an important part of our family philosophy. In 2013, we embarked on the Journey to Sustainable Luxury, an ambitious long-term commitment dedicated to making a positive difference in the luxury business. The year 2018 was a special milestone as it was then that we committed to using 100% Ethical gold for the creation of all our watches and jewellery. This is a bold endeavour, but one that we must pursue if we are to make a difference in the lives of the people who make our business possible. As you can see from our novelties presented this year, all the gold watches are made, without exception, from ethical gold. Our ethical gold is sourced through two transparent and traceable schemes: Through RJC-certified refineries or artisanal and small-scale mines which represent today 40% of our fine gold sourcing.

I believe that the future of watchmaking will continuously push noble materials to the limits in terms of precision and scale. If you remember in 2019, with the launch of our Alpine Eagle Collection, we introduced a completely new type of steel: the Lucent steel A223. Produced with an ethical approach, this unique and precious alloy was the product of four years of research. Chopard Lucent Steel A223 is made from 70% recycled metals in a state-of-the-art workshop located in Austria. The process minimizes the carbon footprint of shipping materials to Chopard’s Swiss workshops and it is 50% harder than other steels. It is also anti-allergenic, making it comparable in quality to surgical steel.

Over the last eight years, we have achieved several landmark steps and we are continuously aiming to increase our sustainability approach regarding every aspect of the business. In these challenging times, it is capital that the luxury industry leads the way for more transparency.

We succeeded because, more than 40 years ago, we developed vertically integrated in-house production, and invested in mastering all crafts internally; from creating a rare in-house gold foundry as early as 1978 to the integration of the skills of High Jewellery artisans and expert watchmakers. There is still a lot to be done on our Journey to Sustainable Luxury and we hope to continue leading the way in this regard while remaining extremely humble.

We know you are working with some exciting new materials this year- what can you tell us about that?

We have introduced two models in ceramised titanium. The use of ceramised grade 5 titanium for the L.U.C Time Traveler One Black and the L.U.C GMT one black marks a world first for GMT and world time watches and reflects Chopard’s ongoing commitment to harnessing the most innovative materials in the advancement of Fine Watchmaking. Used in areas such as aerospace, automotive and medical component manufacturing, ceramised titanium is obtained by oxidizing surface layers of titanium at extreme temperatures using electroplasma technology. This process improves the metal’s hardness – 700 Vickers (Hv) – along with its friction coefficient as well its wear and corrosion resistance and it is also highly biocompatible.

What in your opinion, is the recipe to successfully blending the worlds of Watchmaking and High Jewellery?

It requires exceptional skill for High Jewellery traditions to meet watchmaking expertise. Chopard brings together its twofold expertise as a watchmaker and a jeweller in the L’Heure du

L.U.C Perpetual Chrono

Diamant collection. When all the codes of aesthetic excellence converge, perfection gives way to pure emotion. It is in this spirit that the L’Heure du Diamant collection sums up the wealth of artistic crafts cultivated within Chopard, by artisans ranging from master watchmakers to gem-setters. The collection is reinvented this year in a new cushion-shaped watch made of ethical 18-carat white gold with a mother-of-pearl dial and rimmed with diamonds. This creation features the emblematic tree bark-textured gold bracelet sculpted using a proprietary technique and beats to the rhythm of the Chopard 09.01-C self-winding movement.

The fields of watchmaking and jewelry overlap and share the power to create emotion through outstanding craftsmanship; today we have reached the highest levels of excellence in both industries. The story of my family and Chopard is built on the legacies of watches and jewelry. A distinctive characteristic of our creations is that they are all the fruit of an artisan’s skill and of our desire to pass down these ancestral crafts from one generation to the next.

How do you think Chopard watches stand out from others in the market?

Chopard has mastered the combination of mechanics and arts to present exceptional timepieces made of 100% ethical gold, with innovative designs, highest quality, and precision.

The business has been in the family for many years now what is your vision for the future and how is Chopard appealing to the younger generations?

Being a family-owned, independent company is one of our main strengths and this is an advantage and something we want to remain. As one of the last family Maisons in the Haute Horlogerie and Haute Joaillerie field, we can pursue long-term visions and projects without having to please investors seeking short-term profit. While we put a lot of emphasis on innovation and creativity, we strongly believe that tradition, respect of heritage and exceptional artisanship contribute to our success. We develop collections with passion. When entering a Chopard boutique, customers can feel the family dimension. This enables us to provide a privileged contact and added “customer experience”, which is also the case inside our Manufacture, where our staff members appreciate the “family atmosphere”.

We also want to continue to innovate in every aspect of our business. It is not about producing as many watches as we can, but rather about ever-increasing our quality and customer satisfaction. As for the younger generations, nowadays they are more conscious of the environmental and social impact of their purchase decisions and are more likely to buy from a brand that resonates with their own personal values. At Chopard, we always have them in mind not only through our communication approach but also via our designs, innovative recycled materials, and use of ethical gold.

What is the biggest challenge you face today?

We want to make sure that the younger generation, is also watch and jewellery conscious and appreciates mechanical timepieces and the skills and crafts that are behind all our products. Foresight is the key to success in a world of innovation. We always keep an eye on the horizon. We have enabled a link between the past and the future; between Louis-Ulysse Chopard and the next generation of watchmakers and artisans. It has always been our desire to connect the heritage, traditions, and savoir-faire of our history with a spirit of technical innovation and modern design to make the Chopard name even more meaningful and relevant for the next generation. Our focus has never been on the short-term but on long-term stability, independence and the authenticity needed to create a singular watchmaking voice for the next 25 years and beyond.

What is a major challenge you have faced throughout your career and how did you overcome it?

I believe a recent major and surprising challenge was facing an unprecedented pandemic and not knowing where the world is going. This uncertainty was a real trial for everyone, our teams around the world and indeed my family.

Establishing the Chopard Manufacture was an important undertaking as well. In 1994, we launched a project to become once again a fully integrated movement manufacturer – and in 1996 Chopard Manufacture was founded. Today we control every step of the process from research and development, production of components, movement assembly and setting all the way to movement encasing. All our L.U.C timepieces receive a certification such as Poinçon de Genève (Geneva Seal), COSC or Qualité Fleurier. Now, 25 years later, we are proud of the results achieved and, of course, we are not done yet! In the beginning, it was a bold decision that was not necessarily financially viable from a short-term perspective, but this project meant a lot to me, and at Chopard, we are working on a long-term vision. Later on, the independence aspect, which prompted me to work on vertical integration, became important. Indeed, independence is priceless. And remaining independent is always a challenge in the world we live in today.

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

Developing and sustaining a company is an ongoing process, a long-term journey, and achievements along the way are welcome milestones. They are like summits that you reach and behind there are new ones appearing. One of those is to make sure Chopard remains a relevant brand for the future!

The Dioriviera collection returns this summer with inspiration from dream destinations.

Each year Dior reinvents its Dioriviera summer capsule collection and this year the collection is an invitation to escape – something we all need! Designed by Maria Grazia Chiuri, the Dioriviera collection plays on the House codes including the toile de Jouy and the Dior Oblique motif. These key motifs illuminate women’s ready-to-wear pieces as well as leather goods, shoes and accessories with punchy chartreuse and raspberry, Pop punctuations as seen in the Fall 2021 collection.

Accessories come in the form of the Lady D-Lite, Dior Caro and Dior Book Tote bags as well as D-Connect sneakers, Dior Granville espadrilles, Dway mules. Small clutches and vanity bags that are made to be worn layered, with interchangeable shoulder straps, complete this sunny wardrobe. DiorClub ponchos, scarves, jewellery and visors rub shoulders with new sailor tops bearing the names of dream destinations.

The collection also features Matching summery Dior Maison essentials, including a surfboard adorned with the “Christian Dior” signature and a toile de Jouy motif revisited by Maria Grazia Chiuri, a parasol, a hammock, beach games and fans.

The fun and fabulous pieces complement this celebration of the art of living alongside a series of decorative objects, stationery, cushions and placemats.

An exclusive emblem of the dolce vita lifestyle, a customisable scooter – the Vespa 946 Christian Dior – designed by the House in collaboration with the Italian brand is also being unveiled, in a limited edition, along with a helmet and a top case embellished with the Dior Oblique motif.

The capsule will be available from the end of May in seven Dior boutiques – in Saint-Tropez, Cannes, Monaco, Portofino, Capri, Marbella and Porto Cervo – as well as in nine pop-up stores worldwide and nine resort destinations, in Mykonos Village, Mykonos Nammos, Forte Dei Marmi, Cortina d’Ampezzo, Il Riccio, Ibiza, Bodrum, Montecito and Montenegro, which for the first time is hosting an ephemeral showcase dedicated to luxury in the heart of the Portonovi Marina.