Chiara Ferragni has been announced as the new global ambassador of Bvlgari.

The Italian personality and entrepreneur who is already a long-time client of the House will use her new role to support the brand in communicating its core values to a cross-generational, international audience.

Chiara shares the same values as the Roman jeweller and her independent, bold and authentic approach resonates with the brand.

We are honored to welcome Chiara Ferragni to the Bvlgari family as new Global ambassador,” says Bvlgari chief executive officer Jean- Christophe Babin. “I think that Chiara perfectly embodies the most authentic spirit of our company, which is rooted in highly positive values, including joy, creativity, beauty, magnificence, quality, but also grace and generosity. In her new role, Chiara will be an incredible alley to make our messages resonate across also the young generations. She is also for me as CEO an extraordinary sparring partner on fashion and luxury trends” concluded Babin.

Chiara adds; “I’m so proud to be part of the Bvlgari family because there is a strong bond not only with the brand, but also with Jean-Christophe Babin and Lucia Silvestri. The Bvlgari legacy is about audacity, boldness and iconic Italian design famous all over the world, all values that we share since ever. This is the reason why we are joining forces to focus on having a social impact with our future activities.”

To mark the announcement Chiara appears in a new set of images shot by photographer Giulio Rustichelli. She poses wearing some of Bvlgari’s most iconic jewellery styles, spanning from the signature B.Zero1 collection and the Serpenti and Serpenti Viper range to a stunning Monete high jewelry necklace.

Rami Al Ali Presents his Bridal Couture 2021 collection in a dreamy fairytale setting.

The Dubai-based Syrian designer unveiled the collection for 2021 which consists of six standout gowns.

The collection illustrates a graceful designer medley that brings together two contrasting themes of traditional grandeur and modern-day refinement.

Classic, princess-style ball gowns cater to the theatrical bride who dreams of ultra-romantic full skirts and a structured bodice. While sleek, fit-to-form gowns with elaborate waterfall ruffles offer a modern but timeless appeal that is beautifully distinguished.

Attention to detail is placed on intricate embroidery and artisanal craftsmanship with the addition of new techniques that have been employed to create unmatched detail using 3D beadwork and abstract handwork, appearing almost pixelated in appearance.

The Maison masterfully incorporates a blend of rich textiles such as Chantilly and Guipure lace, organza, gauze and tulle in innovative ways, offering a majestic touch synonymous with the brand.

A show of dazzling crystals, elaborate beading, and floral applique maintain the feminine codes of the house and depict an exquisite display of elegance and finesse. While modern asymmetrical silhouettes and architectural shapes present a nod to the contemporary vernacular of the collection. The line-up is yet another example of the couturier’s expertise in sophisticated refinement and luxury.

So prepare for your dream wedding now with these beautiful pieces, guaranteed to make any bride feel like a true princess.

Chloé has partnered with the World Fair Trade Organization to present the first fair trade-verified luxury bag collection.

Ethically produced and environmentally responsible, the project launches with four Woody panier styles that have been hand-woven by 700 women in Kenya.

Chloé has collaborated with Mifuko, a WFTO guaranteed member. Meaning ‘pocket’ in Swahili, the social enterprise secures fair pay and safe conditions for its network of more than 700 artisan producers – mostly women in rural areas – who become less dependent on farming as their principal income source.

Each unique basket is signed by the artisan who made it to signify the empowerment of these women and the acknowledgement of the Kenyan handicrafts that were used to bring this collection to life.

The four styles include two sizes – a roomy tote and compact cross-body bucket – and are proposed in solid and striped paper. Their natural look is complemented by Woody logo ribbon detailing and leather straps, both carried out by a Chloé manufacturer in Spain.

The Woody panier collection marks once again marks the Maison’s shift towards sustainable and responsible design and production, with considerations towards environmental and social impact. With each basket, a renewed commitment to a fair and greater good, and a testament to the brand’s mission; “Women forward. For a fairer future.”

Available in stores and online on www.chloe.com.

Whether you’re heading out for iftar or staying at home with the family over the holiday period, add some glamour to your wardrobe with bold colours and statement dresses. As we approach the Eid-Al-Fitr celebrations add a touch of sparkle, heels and jewellery for styles to celebrate in.

Valentino

Zuhair Murad

Elie Saab

Marchesa

Lanvin

Giambattista Valli

Zimmermann

Giorgio Armani

Carolina Herrera

Alberta Ferretti

Mesmerising prints, strong hues and eye-catching accessories have a sporty touch that knows no bounds, with Fendi’s vertigo capsule collection.

The Vertigo collection will be available at a pop-up store at NAMMOS Beach Club from May 13^th to May 22^nd.  The pop-up will have a super cool FF Vertigo camper parked outside of NAMMOS as well as a takeover in select areas.

See more of the collection below from our recent editorial shoot:

Denim jacket with FF Vertigo Motif Mini Knit dress with FF Vertigo motif Sunshine shopper, All Fendi

Sleeveless denim mini dress with nylon Patch pockets Peekaboo ISEEU Small Selleria, All Fendi

Sleeveless denim mini dress with nylon Patch pockets Peekaboo ISEEU Small Selleria, All Fendi 

Denim jumpsuit with laser-engraved FF Vertigo motif BAGUETTE 1997 Blue glazed canvas bag with FF Vertigo motif Fendi Flow Sneakers, All Fendi

Oversized shirt & shorts with Italian-style collar with FF Vertigo Motif Horizontal box with FF Vertigo Motif, All Fendi

Oversized lace shirt dress. with yellow FF Vertigo motif. Baguette 1997 with all-over delicate sequinned embroidery FENDI Shades, FENDI Flex Sneaker, All Fendi

Organza silk trench coat with FF Vertigo Motif Wide leg trousers with FF Vertigo Motif, All Fendi

Black FF Fish-Eye motif body Nano Peekaboo
Reversible mink gilet-jacket mink with a brown FF Vertigo, All Fendi

Denim jacket with FF Vertigo Motif Mini Knit dress with FF Vertigo motifFF Vertigo Socks Sunshine shopper Flow sneakers, All Fendi

Oversized shirt & shorts with Italian-style collar with FF Vertigo Motif
Horizontal box with FF Vertigo Motif, Fendi Flex sneakers, All Fendi

Oversized shirt & shorts with Italian-style collar with FF Vertigo Motif
Horizontal box with FF Vertigo Motif, Fendi Flex sneakers, All Fendi

Guerlain has unveiled a new collaboration with artist Tarek Benaoum who has put his own twist on the iconic Absolus D’Orient Collection.

Inspired by Guerlain’s emblematic double G Benaoum has created designs that cast a light on the woody scents of the collation: Santal Royal, Oud Essentiel and Patchouli Ardent.

Tarek Benaoum

His golden arabesque patterns are to be displayed at all points of sale across the Middle East, as well as on special event boxes, making them the perfect Eid gifts.

The collaboration marks the second in partnership with artist Tarek Benaoum as he first partnered with the brand in 2019 for the fifth anniversary of the Santal Royal fragrance.

The Absolus D’Orient Collection first debuted in 2014 and has become an icon since its first launch, growing with new fragrances being added across the years. Devised Thierry Wasser, Guerlain’s Master Perfumer, the fragrances elevate woody notes and rich scents that resonate perfectly with the region.

Before designing each composition, the Wasser dives into each raw essence to explore its scent and soak in every nuance. Thanks to this complete understanding of the raw material he can then amplify its quintessential nature and highlight the richness of its texture as well as the beauty of its wood grains.

With this collaboration, Tarek Benaoum also enhances the noble woods that have inspired Thierry Wasser with this collection. With an enchanting dance, his brushstrokes outline a calligraphic motif across each wood. Gold-coloured pigments radiate with pure light to reveal wood’s sombre shades. Through its exquisite elegance and sophistication, the artist’s creation reveals contrasts and brings out the raw beauty of the natural materials.

See more at the Guerlain, pop-up boutique at The Dubai Mall and online at Guerlain.com

At Hublot sapphire has been the material that has enhanced the brand’s Art of Fusion to its maximum over the years.

This year the Big Bang Integral Tourbillon Full Sapphire takes things to the next level with a new integral bracelet and case custom-made entirely from sapphire. With this piece, Hublot is pushing the boundaries further than ever before with a technological masterpiece. The case of this new Big Bang Integral Tourbillon Full Sapphire has been reconstructed in its entirety to house the Automatic Tourbillon movement with almost all visible screws removed and a complete overhaul of the geometry of the case to integrate the sapphire bracelet as well as reworking the bridges and main plates to give them the illusion of being suspended in space. The case is thus composed of no fewer than 37 components, five of which are made solely from sapphire. The bracelet was also a complex challenge: it alone comprises 165 components, 22 of which are made from sapphire. The watch features the HUB6035 automatic manufacture calibre, entirely designed and manufactured in-house. This watch is limited to 30 pieces.

Hublot Big Bang Integral Tourbillon Full Sapphire

The new Big Bang Unico Yellow Magic invites you to enjoy the sunny side of life thanks to its bold yellow ceramic. The innovation involved in producing this patented ceramic in bold yellow took The Hublot Manufacture’s expertise to the next level. It took four years of developments to find the perfect balance of temperature and pressure enabling the ceramic to be sintered without burning the pigments. The yellow magic watch features a 42mm case and the Unico HUB1280 manufacture movement. The brightness continues right down to its lined and structured yellow rubber strap. This watch is available in a limited edition of 250 pieces.

Hublot Big Bang Unico Yellow Magic

Continuing the collaboration between Hublot and London-based tattoo studio Sang Bleu the brand unveils a trio of timepieces in ceramic – three limited-edition Big Bang watches that explore new territories of colour. Now available in blue, grey and white these three watches add to the technical achievement of having successfully created perfectly and evenly coloured ceramic. Designed by Maxime Plescia-Buchi and Hublot the three new watches feature a complex design that reflects that of a tattoo. Each watch comes in a 45mm case made entirely from high-tech ceramic housing the UNICO Manufacture self-winding chronograph. Each watch will be available in a limited edition of 200 pieces.

Hublot Big Bang Sang Bleu II

The Big Bang Integral Tourbillon High Jewellery is a unique piece made entirely from diamond. This piece marks the 30th unique piece of High Jewellery from the Maison. The goal was to surpass all limits and create a piece that goes beyond the initial expertise of watchmaking. Its automatic tourbillon calibre was fully designed and manufactured in-house; is set with 484 baguette-cut diamonds, totalling 31 carats. It features fully integrated aesthetics from the case to the strap, and 100% visible mechanics on the dial side thanks to the sapphire. This watch is a one-of-a-kind piece.

Huda Beauty has added a new member to the cult-classic Power Bullet family, with the launch of Power Bullet Cream Glow.

The new hydrating lipstick has a juicy, creamy finish that offers a healthy, glowing shine, that’s hydrating but not heavy on the lips. Huda decided to formulate the Power Bullet Cream Glow with medium, buildable coverage and a subtle shine finish for beauty lovers wanting to enhance their natural colour for the perfect everyday makeup look.

A lip colour and balm in one, it leaves your lips feeling soft and smooth while upgrading your makeup look. Alongside the Power Bullet Cream Glow, the brand has unveiled the OG Lip Contour to mark the 5th anniversary of the original lip liner’s launch. The new and improved Lip Contour 2.0 gives the same fuller and defined pout, plus new nourishing benefits and a longer-lasting finish.

The new 2021 edition is customized with a nourishing and plumping complex of soybean and liquorice to further enhance your perfect pout for nine hours, keeping your lips creamy, comfortable, and colour-beautiful all day long even if you’re wearing a mask.

Celebrate special moments with your loved ones with the perfect gift from Tiffany & Co.

This Eid-Al-Fitr give the gift of luxury with Tiffany & Co.’s latest jewellery collection. Surprise your loved ones with a little blue box that they can cherish forever.

A specially curated selection of jewellery pieces for the Holy Month features the new Atlas X collection as well as the iconic Tiffany T1, Tiffany HardWear and Tiffany Victoria collections. Elegant pieces can be stacked together for a contemporary way of wearing jewellery.

So whether it’s for yourself or for those dearest to you, celebrate in style this Eid-Al-Fitr. The collections are available at Tiffany & Co. stores throughout the Middle East.

On 3rd April 2021 people from all around the world were glued to their TV screens as an impressive historic procession of ancient Egyptian rulers took place through the country’s capital, Cairo.

The multi-million dollar parade saw 22 ancient mummies – 18 kings and 4 queens – being transported from the Egyptian Museum to the new National Museum of Egyptian Civilisation. The mummies will be kept within The Pharaohs’ Golden Parade located within the new museum. The transportation of the mummies took place with a spectacular procession witnessed by millions throughout the world. The mummies were transported in chronological order of their reigns. From the 17th Dynasty ruler, Seqenenre Taa II, to Ramses IX, who reigned in the 12th Century BC.

The ancient ruler’s bodies being transported inside the mummies included King Ramses II, the most famous pharaoh of the New Kingdom and Queen Hatshepsut, who became ruler even though the customs of her time were that women did not become pharaohs. Each mummy was carried on a decorated vehicle fitted with special shock absorbers and surrounded by a motorcade, including replica horse-drawn war chariots.

While ancient mummification techniques originally preserved the pharaohs, for the move the mummies were placed within special nitrogen-filled boxes to help protect them against external conditions. The roads along the route were also been repaved to keep the journey smooth and ensure no disruption to the precious cargo.

The mummies were discovered in 1881 and 1898 in the ruins of Thebes, Egypt’s ancient capital – modern-day Luxor in Upper Egypt and were housed in the iconic Egyptian Museum and visited by tourists. The new museum is set to increase tourism to the country’s capital offer visitors and 360 experience of the history of the country. The new exhibits will now be housed in the Royal Hall of Mummies and will go on display to the general public from 18 April. The hall has been designed so that visitors will experience the illusion of being in the Valley of the Kings in Luxor.

Luxury Spanish fashion house Loewe has opened its first store in Kuwait City.

Loewe has opened its first ever store in Kuwait, located in the Avenues Mall in Kuwait City. Opening in the country’s largest shopping centre the new store will offer the full men’s and women’s ready-to-wear and accessories collections. Designed under the direction of the brand’s Creative Director Jonathan Anderson the new 240 square metre store will embody the brand’s retail design philosophy which can already be seen in stores throughout the world.

A spacious yet intimate environment, the new store will present LOEWE’s products alongside works from the brand’s art collection. The intention is to echo the relaxed atmosphere one might experience at an art collector’s home. The interiors feature high quality materials including campaspero stone, marmorino and smooth concrete on the walls, floors and podiums. Hand braided maple wood and crafted pink and white ceramic walls give a touch of modernity.

Traditional ceramic bowls known as Lebrillos are hung on the concrete internal walls. Historically used for cooking these large dishes have become decorative objects and were featured in the brand’s Salone de Mobile presentation in 2019. In keeping with the character of LOEWE’s retail design, specially-selected pieces will furnish the space including a natural jute rug and handmade wool carpets from Spain depicting the Derbyshire Landscape, Day and Pink House Cumbria by British graphic artist John Allen. Suspended above the podiums there is a Mercury Ball chandelier by Lutyens Furniture and Lighting.

The artworks exhibited in-store represent the brand’s deep commitment to the arts and feature artists who, in many cases, have a long-standing relationship with the brand. On show at the LOEWE Avenues Mall will be Hatate 11 (2015), a sculpture by Japanese glass artist Yoshiaki Kojiro whose work earned a special mention at the 2017 LOEWE Craft Prize thanks to his innovative use of the material.

Chanel’s Rouge Coco Bloom is the latest lipstick launch by Chanel.

Bold and vibrant with an intense glow the new line offers a flawless application and a smooth and comfortable texture. A unique rotating twist application system has been specifically designed to ensure the product glides onto the lips, leaving a flawless finish of intense, luminous colour.

Rouge Coco Bloom combines the richness of lipstick and the shine of a gloss and is both long-lasting and pumping on the lips. The unique formula was created by the Chanel Research Laboratory in Paris and required years of testing and planning. Over 140 tests later Chanel Research came up with an exclusive, two-phase technology. The first phase secures the colour and the second products an ultra-shiny plumping effect.

As tests evolved the formula was perfected until a texture was found that melts on the lips while retaining its shine and long-lasting properties. Thanks to a high concentration of micronized pigments and a naturally-sourced, film-forming agent included in the coloured phase you will be left with a glowing colour for eight hours.

Micro-droplets of high refractive index oil form on the surface to naturally enhance your lip shape. Added benefits of the formula include comfort and hydration.

The collection features twenty-two vibrant shades developed by the Chanel Makeup Creation Studio.

Bvlgari presented its latest watches for men and women at the recent Watches & Wonders 2021 virtual event.

On the men’s side the Maison’s Octo Finissimo took centre stage with the unveiling of Octo Finissimo Tadao Ando; a 160-piece limited series in collaboration with Japanese architect Tadao Ando. Tadao Ando’s architectural creations reveal clear affinities with the Octo Finissimo collection. Impressed by its pure shape, the Japanese construction specialist wanted to express his vision of time based on the Mikazuki concept. Mikazuki represents the crescent moon. The Tadao Ando limited edition takes a minimalist approach to the theme of time expressed on a deep blue lacquered dial with an essential graphic element, the gold crescent moon positioned at 5 o’clock. The architect’s signature is engraved on the transparent caseback.

OCTO FINISSIMO PERPETUAL CALENDAR

Meanwhile, the Octo Finissimo Perpetual Calendar features a record-breaking design, as the slimmest Perpetual Calendar in the world. This new watch is available in both titanium and platinum versions. The development of the 2.75 mm calibre required the movement design engineers of the Bvlgari Manufacture to devise new solutions, such as the use of a micro-rotor and the optimal use of the space between the components without reducing their dimensions. This complication is the most accomplished in the Octo Finissimo family, merging watchmaking excellence and Italian aesthetic sensitivity.

ALLEGRA DIVISSIMA COCKTAIL WATCHES

In women’s novelties, four new vibrant cocktail watches celebrate the joy of colour and combine watchmaking with fine jewellery making. The new Divissima and Allegra watches use brilliant gemstones to bring the watches to life and embark on a new chapter of colour that captures the spirit of la Dolce Vita. The Divissima cocktail watches come in two new smaller models size. The all-diamond and diamond and emerald timepieces open up a new segment of high jewellery watches. While the redesigned Allegra features a bold selection of gemstones of different cuts and shapes – citrines, amethysts, peridot, blue topaz and rhodolite – and is set to orbit around the mother of pearl dial, creating a stunning display of brightness. Available in either white or rose gold, both versions come with an alligator strap.

SERPENTI MISTERIOSI CLEOPATRA

The latest chapter of Bvlgari’s Serpenti story comes in the form of the Serpenti Misteriosi Cleopatra. This high jewellery, one-of-a-kind cuff highlights the jewellery house’s expertise in gemstones. It features a stunning diamond-set dial, hidden behind a faceted hexagonal see-through rubellite of over 5 carats. The contemporary style of the cuff-watch focuses on the snake’s scales set with smooth-surfaced and striking coloured gemstones. The bold combination of rainbow-coloured vivid gemstones surrounded by snow-set diamonds offers a unique high jewellery watch. Each of the three-dimensional scales is unique in shape and size to ensure the conical-shaped cuff comfortable to wear. Setting the eight gemstones are pairs of faceted hexagonal are amethysts, citrines, an aquamarine, a rubellite, a Chrome tourmaline, a tanzanite and a peridot. With a total weight of over 50 carats, accompanied by close to 4,000 snow-set diamonds it took more than 470 hours of meticulous work. Custom-cut to fit the design, each of the six-sided gems sacrificed up to two-thirds of their volume to achieve the perfect clarity, brilliance and saturation of colour.

Carolina Herrera is celebrating Eid al Fitr with a collaboration with Lebanese artist Nourie Flayan, who has translated the celebration of the end of Ramadan into the brand universe with an illustration rich in symbology.

The luxury brand has released a series of illustrations with the aim of bringing together friends and families during the Holy Month and highlighting the strong family values that are at the core of the Carolina Herrera brand heritage, and that are celebrated during the month of Ramadan.

The works created by Nourie Flayhan unite the sacred and the contemporary, the traditional and the digital. The illustrations that she has created for Carolina Herrera evoke a modern Ramadan atmosphere where each element plays a specific role such as the traditional prints such as the Mashrabiya, an architectural element that is characteristic of traditional architecture in the Islamic world.

Weaved into the story she has created is symbols of the Carolina Herrera universe, like the jasmine flower which is a tribute to the iconic flower of Carolina Herrera’s couture inspiration: the imperial jasmine.

The 5th edition of Dubai Watch Week is set to take place in November 2021 with a physical event.

This year’s event will take place from 24th to 28th November at The Gate, Dubai International Financial Centre.

Founded by Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons, Dubai Watch Week has been a platform that unites members of the watch industry, media and watch collectors in the region as a source of education, awareness and a chance to discover the latest novelties from international watchmakers.

The 5th edition this year will continue this tradition as well as its goal to position Dubai as a cultural and horological hub for the industry, whilst engaging with a wide audience in the UAE.

This year’s theme of Connecting, Creating and Celebrating will tap into activations and programmes that intersect the world of luxury and horology with other key industries. A core event objective is to create an experiential event with the support of participating brands and partners on ground.

“This is a milestone year for the U.A.E and Dubai Watch Week, with U.A.E celebrating its 50th anniversary and this being the 5th edition of DWW. Our goal this year is to continue to expand on the unique platform we have built and champion innovative concepts & experiences that appeal to a wider audience. We are delighted to reunite soon with our partners, exhibiting brands, members of the press and enthusiasts on ground to celebrate the industry and the aforementioned milestones” Said Hind Seddiqi, Director General, Dubai Watch Week.

More information on the schedule will be revealed over the coming months.

For her Miu Miu Spring/Summer 2021 collection, Miuccia Prada brings together the worlds of sport and fashion through her choices of fabric, silhouettes and cuts which are inspired by the athletic world with a touch of Miu Miu glamour.

Technical fabric pants Lux Jersey Intarsia Blouson Jacket
Voile top
Sassy Matelassé Nappa Leather Handbag
All Miu Miu

Jersey turtleneck Duchesse embroidered skirt Slip-on mid-heel sneakers Belle nappa leather bag All Miu Miu

Jersey turtleneck Duchesse embroidered skirt Slip-on mid-heel sneakers Belle nappa leather bag All Miu Miu

Techno jersey dress Matelassé bag
Shoes
All Miu Miu

Techno jersey dress Matelassé bag
All Miu Miu

Satin and Metallic technical fabric Mules By Miu Miu

Nappa coat with Embellishments Jersey turtleneck Jersey short Leather belt Lady leather handbag
All Miu Miu

Nylon turtleneck blouson jacket Lamé skirt
All Miu Miu

Nylon turtleneck blouson jacket Lamé skirt Satin Sandals All Miu Miu

Miu Belle nappa leather bag
By Miu Miu

Voile top technical fabric pants Matelassé Nappa Leather shoulder bag
All Miu Miu

Miu Sassy Embellished Satin handbag
By Miu Miu

Miu Miu Satin Mules with jewel detail By Miu Miu

This edition of Watches & Wonders showcases Cartier’s work with three iconic models being presented as design objects.

The iconic Tank Must inspired by the Tank Louis Cartier is presented in an innovative piece that integrates a photovoltaic movement and a material strap created using responsible and sustainable production practices.

Cartier Tank Must

The Pasha de Cartier collection is now available in a women’s and a chronograph version. Cloche de Cartier, a rare and uniquely shaped model introduced back in 1920, now enters the Cartier Privé collection, dedicated to connoisseurs who celebrate and explore the Maison’s mythical aesthetic through numbered, limited edition watches.

Pasha de Cartier

In the Cartier Libre collection, signature watches are combined with creatures from the menagerie. Fine Watchmaking timepieces unveil an interaction between iconic complications such as the mysterious, the skeleton and the tourbillon. The panther makes numerous appearances. Multi-faceted, diverse, and complementary creations that reflect the Maison’s creativity. All different yet all connected in some way: a clean, precise line like that of a designer, the realisation of a vision, an intention that elevates design to the point of culture.

The region’s first 24K certified gold facial is now available at Sisters Beauty Lounge.

Gold has long been associated with anti-ageing and the preserving of beauty. The use of hold can be traced as far back as the Ancient Egyptians who swore by “gold-water” as an anti-aging remedy.

WATCH HERE…

And now you can experience the power of gold with the new 24K Gold Facial at Sisters Beauty Lounge locations across the UAE.

The 24K certified gold facial is already a hit with celebrities and models with Bella Hadid, Winnie Harlow, Kaia Gerber and Nicky Hilton all having tried it and now you can get the celebrity experience too.

Devised by a Korean Beauty company the 24K Gold Facial is a four in one experience. The experiences begins with deep cleaning to remove dirt from your face and neck. Next steaming and detoxing will remove the deep toxin from your face. This is followed by a Lymphatic drainage massage that will lift and reduce excess liquid and swelling in the facial area.

Finally, the grand finale is the gold facial. The process consists of gold leaf being lightly massaged into the skin. This ensures it reaches deep into your layers of skin and penetrates deeply. Next, a jelly mask is applied and left to work its magic while your therapist treats you to a well-deserved neck and shoulder massage. You will leave the experience feeling truly relaxed and your skin will be silky smooth. It’s recommended not to use any products on your face that evening and use only water to wash, this will allow the products to continue working long after your treatment.

This facial targets all skin types and includes a number of benefits including stimulating collagen, anti-ageing, detoxifying, tightening skin, improving elasticity, and offers a bright, glowing result.

The 24K Gold facial is AED1,000 per treatment and can also be paid in four instalments. The treatment can be booked via the Sisters app which is available on Android and iPhone.

Locations: Available in all Dubai locations (Dubai Mall, Mall of Emirates, JBR, Village Mall, Mirdif City Centre)

Abu Dhabi: Available in Al Bateen Villa only.

The world’s most beloved tenor, Maestro Andrea Bocelli, gave a stunning performance within the surrounds of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hegra in Saudi Arabia’s Al Ula this April.

This one of a kind event saw Andrea Bocelli share the stage with both his 9-year-old daughter Virginia and his son Matteo for the first time, showing the true talent of this musical family. Andrea sang Hallelujah alongside Virginia in a mesmerising performance that saw the crowd give a standing ovation.

Other songs performed included favourites from Puccini, hits from the artist most recent album, Believe, as well as songs from the Greatest Showman and Carousel. No Bocelli performance would be complete without an encore of Time to Say Goodbye and fans both at the event and millions watching live on MBC1 in MENA and the artist’s YouTube channel globally were not disappointed.

The musical genius is said to be able to play any instrument he puts his hands on and proved this on arrival at AlUla International Airport by playing a rendition of O sole mio on a Qanoun, or Zither. Andrea was also joined by musicians from the Arabian Philharmonic and special guests Loren Allred, soprano Francesca Maionchi, with Eugene Kohn at the piano.

Bocelli says the concert was about a celebration of life and music, “Our planet is beautiful and music is the world’s great unifier so this moment for us has been about spreading a little joy as we all see the light at the end of the tunnel and look forward to enjoying music together again soon.”

It marks the third successive year that Bocelli has performed in AlUla having delighted audiences at the previous two Winter at Tantora festivals. However, this is the first time that the ancient city of Hegra was the setting for a music event of this calibre. Hegra, built in the first century BCE by the Nabataean Kingdom, is an ancient desert city home to thousands of tombs cut into sandstone mountains. At least 100 tombs have elaborately carved facades, a signature of the skilled Nabataean craftsmen.

Bocelli said performing in such as setting was a very special moment for the family and for all the musicians on stage: “To be here creating a piece of history in such an inspirational setting so rich in human ingenuity, heritage and culture is truly a moment we will never forget.”

For more information, please visit: www.experiencealula.com

When Didier Guillon visit Switzerland for the first time he fell in love with the country and he fell in love with luxury cosmetic company Valmont.

After discovering more about the brand Guillon decided to purchase the brand and since 1990 he has led the company as President and Artistic Director, alongside his wife Sophie who is CEO. With a background in art, Guillon sees Valmont as more than just a beauty company, he believes that the worlds of art and beauty can be combined to create a unique experience for customers. Over the last two decades he has put this theory into practice at Valmont, collaborating with artists, bringing artworks into the brand’s boutiques and stores, and even founding Foundation Valmont; an institution that is dedicated to the promotion of contemporary art by supporting young artists.

But now Guillon is focusing on the next generation and wondering what the next steps are to ensure that Valmont stays relevant and appealing to young customers, both through its beauty products and its connection with the art world. A father of three, Guillon plans to extend the family business to his children, beginning with his son Maxence who will join Valmont to take over the Foundation in 2022. A new generation of family means a new chapter for the brand and this is only just the beginning. Here we discover more about the future of Valmont and its plans to expand further in the Middle East.

Didier Guillon

Tell us about the world of Valmont currently and your vision for it moving forward. 

The cosmetic industry can be separated into two sections. You have customers who want products with full efficiency no matter the ingredients, and you have people who are looking for more products with specific components. Valmont can be categorised under the first as our objective is to bring to the market the most efficient products. To convince and gain the loyalty of our customers we first need to have a good presence in department stores. Then we need to have a beautiful spa where we offer treatments and ensure we provide the best service so that our customers will come back. We will soon be opening a spa in The Dorchester Residences in Dubai when it opens in 2022. The next step will be to open a standalone boutique in the region as we have a great collection of assets. With our boutiques, it’s important that when our customers come they are not bothered by having too many new products each week or month. We need to offer consistency so they don’t lose interest. When you have a boutique and a spa you have the perfect recipe and it’s very interesting to communicate with your clients to understand their needs and to share experiences with them and touch their emotions. We are sure that if we do this, our customers will be loyal.

What made you decide to purchase the company and what first attracted your attention to it?

In 1989 I visited Switzerland for the first time. When I arrived I saw this beautiful lake and the weather was incredible and I instantly knew it was a nice country. Then I discovered all the information about the brand and I visited the Valmont Clinic, and all the potential parts of Switzerland from where we could bring elements to the products and for me it was perfect. In Switzerland, you have all the elements you need for a cosmetic company. The water comes directly from the mountains. You have nature, you have plants. We started to grow our own plants. We have glaciers, so we are collecting the water from there and it’s very rich in minerals so it’s great for the skin. We are completely crazy because we do things that a multi-national company would never do because it costs a lot. For me, Switzerland is the most sustainable country in Europe. Swiss people love walking, going to the mountains, it’s all about nature for them. When we invite people to visit Switzerland we take them to each of these places to show them where we grow the plants and where we source the ingredients. People don’t always see what is behind the brand and we want to welcome them to discover what the brand is all about. I would say our strategy is closer to that of a watchmaker as we want a very selective distribution. Why? Because it’s more interesting to invest in your customers if you understand what they need and to keep them returning for a long time it’s not about constantly promoting new products.

Didier Guillon and his son Maxence

How is Valmont appealing to a new generation of customers?

That is exactly why we are investing in art and exhibitions everywhere in the world. From New York to Tokyo. This is the best way to capture the interest of a new generation of customers who are very fascinated by art. For us, it’s a very nice tool. My son will join in January 2022 as the new President of the Foundation and he has like myself, a passion for art. We are visiting exhibitions together and discovering ways that we can bring these two worlds together. I am very happy to have him on board because he will bring me his new, fresh vision and help me to see the world in terms of art, differently.

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

We have three objectives. The first is to have a good distribution in department stores. The second is to open a beautiful spa in a beautiful location. We have spas in five Dorchester hotels around the world so it makes sense for us to be there when it opens in Dubai. And at the same time, we want to find a place where we can collaborate. It can be a gallery, a shopping mall, somewhere where we can exhibit. Why? Because we need to do here what we are doing in other parts of the world and use art as a tool to bring an emotional experience to our customers. Apart from this, we are a family business which I hope will continue for many generations and I hope will resonate with people in the Middle East.

How important is it for you to keep the company in the family? 

As a family company, we have several missions. The first one is that we need to focus on the quality of the product. The second is that our mission is not only to profit through what we sell but we want to connect with clients through art. We don’t charge people to come to our exhibition in Venice. When we sell an artwork, we donate 100 per cent of the funds to charities that are important to us throughout the world. So the focus is firstly on the product, secondly on the art and thirdly on charity because it’s also a connection to family and the idea of generosity is very important and this is a message we want to transmit to future generations.

Sophie Guillon

What would you say is the biggest challenge that you face currently? 

The mission moving forward is the biggest challenge. My son will take the lead on the art side of things, but my oldest daughter is supposed to take the lead on the products. These are two very different categories. My daughter will not join the company for seven or eight years as she will need to work elsewhere first. So it’s not easy, there is a lot of planning involved. A lot of companies fail at transmitting to the new generations and we want to get it right. So for my wife Sophie and me, this is the biggest challenge because we need passion and we know it’s going to take time to manage this process. If one day we realise that one of our children is not interested, we are not going to force them. But so far they are so we are hopeful that we can keep it in the family.

We know you are very passionate about art – how do you think the worlds of art and beauty are closely intertwined? 

When I bought the company I was faced with a difficult question: how can we differentiate the communication of Valmont from its competitors? Was I going to pay a model or a famous actress to be the face of the brand? No, because after five years I would have to change her for someone else. That’s not logical. If you have a very efficient anti-ageing product, you should keep the same model throughout the life of the brand. Similarly, art is eternal. You see a Picasso today, in 100 years the next generation will see the same piece of art. It’s timeless. Secondly, art doesn’t create tension between people, instead, it brings harmony. Our boutiques around the world will feature a unique concept that brings together the worlds of cosmetics and art. It is a whole 360 experience.

PALAZZO NOBILE

Tell us about the Valmont Foundation and what you are currently working on there? 

The Foundation was created five years ago when we celebrated the 25th anniversary of Valmont. The marketing team asked me to design a collection of artworks to be displayed in hotels and malls around the world. So I asked nine artists to create pieces specifically for Valmont. After this I said; “why shouldn’t we have one location to exhibit where we can invite artists to join me in imagining a specific concept?” I wanted to create something that people love so they will keep coming back to see the next one. So we chose to have the exhibition space in Venice because it is the perfect destination. The concept is simple: we use a fairy-tale and we ask artists to transform the story in their own way. The last one was “Hansel and Gretel”. The next exhibition which starts in May will be called “Alice In Doom.” And next year it will feature Peter Pan but I don’t know yet what the twist will be. For “Alice in Doom” we have already started working on the installation and I am very excited to see the final concept come to life. So the overall idea for the Foundation is to imagine the world of art which is accessible and easy to understand for the customer and take parts of the exhibition in Venice and bring them to our standalone boutiques. And then we link the exhibition and the business. For example, at the Alice in Doom exhibition guests will have to open some boxes. In those boxes, there will be a challenge. Some of the challenges will be personal, some will be universal, but when they go into our standalone boutiques we change the boxes to include something that relates to our products. So that is how we found a link between the two and it’s something interactive that I hope my sons will repeat moving forward as we work with a new generation of artists.

This past year has been challenging for all, what are the biggest challenges you faced and how did you overcome them? 

Last year was very, very different. But this year, we are starting to see that everything is slowly recovering step by step. Depending on the country. China is doing very well, the United States is starting to recover. Europe is still in trouble. What is going to change for me is that I hope we will work more on the emotions and the experience and less on having to sell products in a way that is not interesting.

What’s the professional motto you live by?

Be sincere. Because if you’re not sincere people won’t trust you.

MICA D’ORO

Can you tell us about a moment in your life that had a big impact on your career? 

It would be meeting my wife Sophie. She is the artist behind Valmont. People ask me who my favourite artist is and while there are a lot I love, the one who is most important for me is Sophie. She is an artist through what she is doing and it is fantastic for her to be part of the company.

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

Valmont is a brand that is open and modern and we want to contribute to the evolution of consumer needs. We want to drive this movement going forward. We don’t just want to sell products, we want to welcome you into an emotional experience and that’s why we are dreaming to have the opportunity to have an exhibition in Dubai.  

Rolls-Royce is inviting young aspiring designers in Lebanon to create their dream car of the future.

Open to all children aged 16 and under the Young Designer Competition asks kids to design their dream car of the future and the entries will be judged by the Rolls-Royce Bespoke Design Team.

The overall winning entry will receive a “money-can’t-buy” prize in the form of a digitally rendered illustration of his/her submission. While ten runners up will be awarded a hand-signed certificate from César Habib, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Regional Director, Middle East & Africa.

“I am constantly overwhelmed by the creativity of children and their vision on the world.  We’re now offering aspiring young designers in Lebanon their own opportunity to demonstrate their creativity and imagination by participating in the Rolls-Royce Young Designer Competition.” Said César Habib, Regional Director Middle East & Africa, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars.

Children in Lebanon are encouraged to let their creativity run free and create the Rolls-Royce car they would love to see in the future. There are no rules or criteria: anything is possible, and the more imaginative the better.

Young designers in Lebanon can share their innovative designs for a future Rolls-Royce at:

https://lebanon.rolls-royceyoungdesignercompetition.com/en/

As the largest exhibition to feature replicas of his artworks opens in Dubai, we discover more about the most secretive man in the art world

The world’s largest Banksy exhibition is currently on show at THE THEATRE at Mall of the Emirates in Dubai. “The World of Banksy” is showing 120 recreated pieces of the iconic street artist’s work in an immersive experience that allows guests to get up close and personal to some of the artists most recognisable artworks. But who is the real Banksy? The street artist has one of the most recognisable names in the art world, but despite there being a great deal of speculation over the years, until today, the artist’s true identity has never been revealed. The mystery around his identity has intensified his popularity over the years and has catapulted him from UK-based graffiti street artist to global icon. But despite his global success, the world is still no closer to uncovering the mystery behind his identity. We delve into the details of what is known about the world’s most mysterious artist.

Banksy is originally from Bristol, England and he first started creating graffiti works in the mid-nineties. He was part of Bristol’s DryBreadZ Crew along with two other artists known as Kato and Tes. His works first appeared in the streets of his hometown and he soon met photographer Steve Lazarides who began selling his works, before later becoming his agent. After spray painting artworks around the city, Banksy soon started to work with stencilling after realising how much quicker he could complete street works without being noticed. Street art is still illegal in the United Kingdom and many countries around the world, so despite the beauty of his art, he was facing many challenges. The rumour is that the artist decided to change his method to stencilling while hiding from the police under a rubbish lorry as he realised it would allow him much more flexibility with his public artworks. Because of the secretive nature of Banksy’s work and identity, it is uncertain what techniques exactly he uses to generate the images in the stencils, though it is assumed he uses computers for some images due to the photographic quality of much of his work.

Banksy’s first exhibition came in 2000 and was held at a restaurant in Bristol, but the artist’s identity remained a mystery. There are many rumours of his true identity but none have ever been confirmed. In fact, many of us could have passed the artist on the street and would never know! After this first exhibition, his popularity began to expand outside of Bristol and he had many collaborations with other artists and musicians.

The World Of Banksy

Banksy’s works combine dark humour with political statements and social commentary, often highlighting the struggles in the world today or making a statement about the state of the planet. The messages are usually focused around anti-war, anti-capitalist, or anti-establishment. His first known large wall mural was The Mild Mild West, painted in 1997 to cover advertising of a former solicitors’ office on Stokes Croft in Bristol. It depicts a teddy bear lobbing a Molotov cocktail at three riot police. In August 2004, Banksy produced a quantity of spoof British £10 notes, replacing the picture of the Queen’s head with Diana, Princess of Wales’s head and changing the text “Bank of England” to “Banksy of England”. The individual notes have since been selling on eBay.

As his success began to grow the artist developed a global celebrity following, with many world-famous actors, athletes, musicians, and fellow artists, including Christina Aguilera, Justin Bieber, Serena Williams and Angelina Jolie, having acquired his work. His works started to sell for tens of thousands of British pounds. On 19 October 2006, a set of Kate Moss paintings sold in Sotheby’s London for £50,400, setting an auction record for Banksy’s work. The six silk-screen prints, featuring the model painted in the style of Andy Warhol’s Marilyn Monroe pictures, sold for five times their estimated price. Their stencil of a green Mona Lisa with real paint dripping from her eyes sold for £57,600 at the same auction.

By 2007, his works were selling for hundreds of thousands of pounds. On 21 February of that year, Sotheby’s auction house in London auctioned three works, reaching the highest ever price for a Banksy work at auction: over £102,000 for Bombing Middle England. Two of his other graffiti works, Girl with Balloon and Bomb Hugger, sold for £37,200 and £31,200 respectively, which were well above their estimated prices. The following day’s auction saw a further three Banksy works reach soaring prices: Ballerina with Action Man Parts reached £96,000; Glory sold for £72,000; Untitled (2004) sold for £33,600; all significantly above price estimates. On 27 April 2007, a new record high for the sale of Banksy’s work was set with the auction of the work Space Girl and Bird fetching £288,000 around 20 times the estimate at Bonhams of London.

Then in 2017, marking the 100th anniversary of the British control of Palestine, Banksy financed the creation of the Walled Off Hotel in Bethlehem. This hotel is open to the public and contains rooms designed by Banksy, Sami Musa, and Dominique Petrin, and each of the bedrooms faces the wall. It also houses a contemporary art gallery.

In October 2018, one of Banksy’s works and perhaps the most iconic of all, Balloon Girl, was sold in an auction at Sotheby’s in London for a record-breaking £1.04m. However, shortly after it was sold, an alarm sounded inside of the picture frame and the canvas passed through a shredder hidden within the frame, partially shredding the picture. Banksy then posted an image of the shredding on Instagram captioned “Going, going, gone…”. After the sale, the auction house acknowledged that the self-destruction of the work was a prank by the artist. A man seen filming the shredding of the picture during its auction was actually suggested to be Banksy although the reports have never been confirmed. Banksy has since released a video on how the shredder was installed into the frame and the shredding of the picture, explaining that he had fitted the painting with the shredder a few years previously, in case it ever went up for auction. To explain his rationale for destroying his own artwork, Banksy quoted Picasso: “The urge to destroy is also a creative urge” The woman who won the bidding at the auction decided to go through with the purchase. The partially shredded work has been given a new title, Love is in the Bin, and it was authenticated by Banksy’s authentication body Pest Control. Sotheby released a statement that said “Banksy didn’t destroy an artwork in the auction, he created one,” and called it “the first artwork in history to have been created live during an auction.”

Today, Banksy displays his art on publicly visible surfaces such as walls and self-built physical prop pieces. He no longer sells photographs or reproductions of his street graffiti, but his public “installations” are regularly resold, often even by removing the wall they were painted on. A small number of his works are officially, non-publicly, sold through an agency created by Banksy named Pest Control.

“The World of Banksy” is running from April 5 until June 30, exclusively at THE THEATRE, Mall of the Emirates.

The latest edition of the Ataya Exhibition organised under the Patronage of Her Highness Sheikha Shamsa Bint Hamdan Bin Mohammed Al Nahyan is promoting local talent while supporting charitable initiatives

The UAE’s annual Ataya Exhibition has been taking place since 2012 to help support charitable causes around the world. Partnering with local and regional designs, the initiative which is organised by Emirates Red Crescent under the Patronage of Her Highness Sheikha Shamsa Bint Hamdan Bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, also works to promote local creative talent. Each year during Ramadan, a range of designers are carefully chosen by the Ataya Higher Committee in fashion, jewellery, home accessories and furniture and their exclusive pieces are sold through an exhibition in Abu Dhabi. The funds raised from the exhibition are used to support charitable establishments around the world as well as raise awareness of these causes.

This year, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Ataya exhibition is taking on a new virtual format. Running throughout May, it will see 35 participating designs including talented Emirati artists showcase a range of handcrafted one-of-a-kind pieces in fashion, accessories, crafts and home décor. This year proceeds raised from the exhibition will be used to support 200 fully-funded training grants for nurses from select universities in India, the Philippines, Egypt, Albania, Bosnia, Mauritania, and the UAE.

Designers participating in this year’s edition include Emirati designer Fatma AlOtaiba whose luxury accessories label Odeem was founded in 2018. The designer specialises in leather goods that are handcrafted with elegance. Odeem creates classic handbags through the integration of a variety of leather skins and textures that are responsibly sourced and provide a unique sense of style, inspired by Fatma AlOtaiba’s passion for textures and leather. Designed by Hind has become one of the UAE’s leading brands of porcelain, offering bespoke crockery that combines the best of UAE culture and craftsmanship. While Sheikha Hind bint Majid Al Qasimi expertly fuses traditional Emirati elements with stunning contemporary designs to create heritage-inspired interior works. In fine jewellery, pieces designed by Shaikha Bint Abdulla Bin Eisa Al Serkal feature exquisite gemstones and motifs from the UAE, drawing inspiration from the country’s rich culture.

As the virtual exhibition continues to run until the end of May, we talk to the Ataya Higher Committee to discover more about this year’s event, how it differs from the previous years and the plans for the future of the initiative.

What is the goal you are trying to achieve with the Ataya initiative?

Since its launch ten years ago, Ataya’s goals have been aligned with the UAE’s strategy as a humanitarian and development donor that supports less fortunate countries and helps them to develop in various fields. Due to the implications of the COVID-19 pandemic, which posed significant challenges to the healthcare sector in some countries around the world, this year’s edition of Ataya is dedicated to contributing towards the support of nurses in seven countries, by providing 200 scholarships to empower the next generation of healthcare frontline heroes.

Why do you feel it is important to promote and nurture local talent?

Ataya is principally based on creativity and innovation, therefore, it hosts unique brands and designers from the UAE, GCC and Arab countries and beyond. We aim to create a connection between the brands, their products and handcrafts, and the audience to identify the general trends and taste of women in the UAE, as well as their needs in terms of fashion and home accessories.

How did you identify the partners for this project and what were the criteria you looked for from the brands? 

Ataya is held annually to cater to women’s needs during the Holy Month of Ramadan. This is the basis when it comes to selecting brands and designers who meet those needs in categories such as fashion, home accessories, jewellery, and food- all within an innovative and creative manner.

How does this edition differ from its previous editions especially as we are still in the midst of the global pandemic?

Ataya 2021 launched in early Ramadan and it will continue until the end of May. Due to the exceptional circumstances amid the COVID-19 pandemic, this year’s edition will be held as a virtual platform with the participation of 50 exhibitors from the UAE and outside.

What has been achieved so far with the initiative? 

Ataya begins its second decade with even more innovation and creativity in the humanitarian field. Since its inception, Ataya has adopted several initiatives in the fields of rebuilding and development, as well as social empowerment in the areas of health, education, and infrastructure. Those projects include building hospitals and specialized healthcare centres, covering the treatment costs for thousands of patients, and building schools and homes. Ataya has also supported local initiatives such as Al Faraj Fund and autism centres in the UAE.

What is still to be achieved achieve and what is still in the pipeline for the initiative?

Ataya aspires to offer support to vulnerable segments around the world, especially in light of the pandemic and its implications in the fields of environment and climate, health and education.

Would you like to grow it beyond the UAE borders?

The Ataya exhibition gained its unique identity from being held in the UAE with the participation of international and local brand exhibitors. However, our noble causes transcend national borders and reach out to vulnerable individuals and charitable organisations throughout the world.

How do you think members of the royal families in the UAE have to be the right role models in taking initiatives and giving back to the community?

Members of the royal families in the UAE are leading examples and pioneers in several areas, whether in culture or art or social service. This creates a great atmosphere of communication surrounding ways to develop and innovate. This also aligns with the country’s objectives and its wise leadership’s drive towards realising development goals for the people of the UAE.

What are some of the challenges faced with such initiatives?

Challenges facing humanitarian initiatives are numerous, some of which are existing ones and others have emerged due to the pandemic or natural disasters or geopolitical conflicts.

This year the UAE celebrates 50 years – what is a message that you would like to dedicate to the UAE at such an important milestone?

As the UAE celebrates the Year of the 50th, we share the aspirations of our leaders towards further excellence and leadership in creating innovative solutions for the most urgent humanitarian issues, to alleviate suffering and support the target societies and segments, which is in line with the UAE’s humanitarian message

Obviously, women’s empowerment is a topic that’s been in the spotlight for the past few years and the UAE is a pioneer in empowering women in all taskforces – how do you see the future of women in the UAE and how does the Ataya initiative support this?

The UAE has made remarkable strides in highlighting the important role women play in development and has provided outstanding support to empower women in the country to undertake their roles and serve their nation.

Over the past editions, Ataya has extended support to many charity organizations that empower women in their local communities, through their participation in Ataya where they exhibit their handicrafts and speak about their goals. This grants them the needed support to enhance women’s economic role and enable them to support their families and children.

To shop one-of-a-kind pieces from talented designers, artists and boutiques from the UAE, the region and further afield, or to make a one-off donation, visit Ataya’s official website, atayaprojects.ae.

Chanel presented its Cruise 2021/22 collection at the Carrières de Lumières, in Les Baux-de-Provence, France.

Designed by Virginie Viard, the collection was a fusion of rock chic and classic Chanel elegance.

Days before the show which took place without an audience on 4^th May 2021, Chanel revealed a teaser video shot in the apartment of Gabrielle Chanel and highlighting her importance to this collection. The location was also chosen with the brand’s founder in mind.

“Because Gabrielle Chanel was close to Cocteau, and I love the film Testament of Orpheus. In particular this magnificent scene: a man with a black horse’s head descends into the Carrières de Lumières, his silhouette cut out against the very white walls”. Destination: the Carrières de Lumières, in Les Baux-de-Provence, for a highly graphic show, “because the simplicity, the precision and the poetry of Cocteau’s film made me want to create a very clean collection, with a very distinct two-tone, made up of bright white and deep black”. Explains Viard.

The location was the perfect setting for the almost-all monochrome collection. Elegant black and white looks with just a touch of colour stood out against the clean background of the mesmerising location.

There was a clear edge to the pieces with a rock-chic mood throughout. “Echoing the extreme modernity of Cocteau’s film, I wanted something quite rock. Lots of fringes, in leather, beads and sequins, t-shirts bearing the face of the model Lola Nicon like a rock star, worn with tweed suits trimmed with wide braids, and pointed silver Mary-Janes. A look that recalls as much the modernity of the sixties as that of punk…”. Viard explained.

Tweed jackets were embroidered with lucky charms, leather fringing and fishnet tights added attitude to skirts, juxtaposed against radiant shirt dresses that captured the light. Black macramé capes were almost fairy-tale like and velvet dresses added a feminine touch.

This collection was always about the vision of Coco Chanel – from the choice of location to the materials to the elegance with an edge.

See more of the collection below:

We discover ways to incorporate the latest catwalk looks into your Ramadan wardrobe.

For day time opt for understated comfortable pieces that are both light and airy. Button-down shirt dresses paired with simple sandals or elegant trouser suits are great for the office, while floaty kaftan-style dresses are perfect for the weekend. Pair with headscarves, comfortable flats and a statement bag.

Dolce&Gabbana

BOSS

Dior

Michael Kors

Hermès

Chloé

Max Mara

Emporio Armani

Cosmetic Dermatologist Simon Ourian is one of the most well-known names in the industry.

His Beverly Hills medical spa, Epione Beverly Hills welcomes an impressive celebrity clientele including the Kardashian sisters, Miley Cyrus, Lady Gaga, Iggy Azalea, and many more. But it’s not just his A-list client list that makes Ourian so popular with women (and men) from all around the world, it’s his unique approach to enhancing the beauty of an individual through using innovative non-surgical procedures. Ourian’s philosophy is that almost anything is possible without the need of having to go under the knife, and he has developed his own exclusive non-invasive treatments that allow women and men to make the most of their body and faces without having to undergo surgery or endure long recovery times. From non-surgical jawline contouring to non-surgical facials, cellulite removal, non-invasive nose jobs – you name it Ourian has a unique method to do it. His Coolaser and Coolbeam techniques are particularly popular with clients looking for an anti-ageing approach and by the magic of science, Ourian developed these two exclusive methods that have completely changed the process for the better.

Not everyone wants to undergo even non-invasive cosmetic procedures in this way, but many would like to benefit from the knowledge of a globally known doctor. To fulfil this need Simon Ourian developed a line of skincare products. Medical Doctor Ourian (MDO) Professional skincare bridges the gap between beauty and medicine and allows women all around the world to benefit from Simon Ourian’s expertise. He developed the products to allow women to be able to achieve professional results safely and easily in the comfort of their own homes and he wanted to address a number of issues including ageing skin, hydration, radiance, and general skin health. As the products rollout across the world, we discover more about the philosophy behind them and what’s next for Simon Ourian.

How has this past year been for you and what is a lesson you’ve learnt? 

That’s like asking me “how do you learn from your nightmares?” But truly, in retrospect, we were very lucky. We closed down for three or four months so we had to readjust to that. Aside from the economical aspect which affected everyone, there has also been the need for a difficult psychological adjustment. I don’t think my situation was any more unique or different from anyone else in the world. The toughest part for me was not being able to be in physical contact with the people I love and knowing people who got sick from COVID-19. I had a couple of close friends who had the virus and one of my colleagues passed away, which was very surreal and difficult. Until you know someone that it happens too, it’s hard to understand the reality. Unfortunately, it turned out to be a lot worse than we expected.

Luckily, since returning to work things have slowly gone back to normal (almost). The part that is not back to normal yet is our international clients. We have around 30 to 50 per cent of clients from overseas, many from the Middle East, and it is still difficult for them to travel. We miss them. Over the years they have become part of our extended family. Everyone in my team has been very fortunate to be vaccinated. And we have taken very extreme measures to make sure everything is clean and safe and it has been very effective.

You have become one of the most recognised names in your industry in the world – what was your aim when you started in this career and have you achieved it?

When I first started, my goal was really just to do something that I could be good at. That’s the only thing that mattered – I didn’t have a huge grandiose vision of how things were going to go and I didn’t want to change the world. I just wanted to do something that I’m good at. My background was art and sculpture and I had a huge affinity to aesthetics and I love to do things associated with that. Plus, I was already working in medicine and I thought this was a way that I could combine the two. When I was 18, I had a nose job and I realised how incredibly it could change not just a person’s appearance, but their psychology. And I thought that if I could do that for people in a few minutes, that would be great. Unfortunately, when I first started, things were pretty much 100 per cent surgical. So I think I was one of the very first to realise that non-surgical procedures were going to be the future. Twenty years ago when collagen first started to be talked about, I thought I could do a lot with it. I started to experiment with fat transfer processes for the face and body which was very effective but had limitations. I think the biggest thing that happened was when botox and fillers were introduced and I transferred my experience with sculpting to this world and that’s probably what gave me an edge over others. It wasn’t something that doctors were taught in medical school and no one had any background in it, so I had a natural advantage. I wasn’t being arrogant but there was no Blueprint to this so I had to, out of frustration, take things into my own hands and I got lucky that my way was also the way that people appreciated.

What is the philosophy you live by in terms of your career?

It’s a very broad philosophy but the bottom line is I think beauty is important and it’s powerful, and as much as people would like to deny it, beauty does matter. Being beautiful and attractive does give you a lot of advantages in life, and I find myself in a position where I can create certain types of beauty very simply, and I think that’s a huge privilege to have been blessed with. It’s a profound thing that I can do for people and that gives me the motivation to do more. I don’t have an ego attached to it, I have this capability where I can do something and make changes in people’s lives and I think if I can do that and make them feel better about themselves and live their lives better, then I have accomplished my goal.

Some might say that every woman is beautiful without needing to work on her appearance – what would you say to them? 

Nobody needs to do these things, the same way we don’t need to get a haircut. It’s not a need, but there are certain tools available today, that you can decide if you want to use or not. Everything I do is elective and it’s nice that there is an option. Nobody has to drive a Rolls Royce or fly first class but if you want to do it, the options are available and thank god that they are. Ten, twenty, thirty years ago, in fact, throughout the history of mankind, vanity was frowned upon because there was nothing you could do about it. But in a very short time that has changed. That’s why you see a lot of celebrities who don’t mind talking about what they’ve had done or what they’re doing and that’s great because they are sharing the power with others. Not all of us are born with everything we want, but it’s nice to know that if you want to change something safely and effectively, then the options are there. The cartoon versions of cosmetic surgery that you see in the media are extreme cases of very unfortunate situations. I think if things are done in a tasteful, artistic, elegant way, most people shouldn’t know that you’ve even had a procedure done – it should look like you’ve had a good vacation!

What are some of the most common requests you are receiving from women currently? 

Usually, it’s facial contouring – I suppose perhaps that is what I’m known for because of my celebrity clients. People notice that the jawline or cheeks of some of my famous clients have changed and they want to achieve the same results. If you go back to some of my patients who are well-known and look at their pictures from ten years ago, you will see a gradual difference over the years. Although they don’t necessarily share exactly what they have done, you can see how things have improved in their facial features. To me, it is a basic mathematical equation of trying to achieve certain proportions and symmetry, but that’s what my brain is programmed to do and what my hands are programmed to achieve. But the key is to make sure that it is done in a very proportional way. There is no standard approach for everyone. Every face is different and I have to work on each woman’s face individually. So facial contouring is by far our number one treatment. This is followed by stem cell treatments: taking a person’s own stem cells and rejuvenating their skin with it.

You have recently launched your skincare products – tell us a little about them and why they are different from anything else out there? 

It wasn’t really the case that I wanted to launch them as much as it is something I have been using in my practice for the past twenty years. There was nothing available out there that was right for my patients, so I used to make a concoction in my office and give it to them. We started to get a cult following and friends of patients would come to buy it and eventually it became overwhelming so I needed to find someone to manufacture it for me in a larger quantity. I had very specific requirements: I wanted it to be preservative-free, clean, no animal testing – all the things that you would want to have in a product today. I found a company in Germany and they did everything exactly how I wanted it. I think we have a line of skincare that is second to none. I’m very proud of it and I’m very happy that people can now use it all over the world.

What are the key products we should look out for?

The first is our Intense Hydrating Moisturizer. It has nanotechnology and nanoparticles which penetrate the skin and create a film on your skin that you can’t even feel and keeps you hydrated. Our Ampoules are very important to me because they stay completely sterile and they keep their Ph value and their potency for as long as they haven’t been opened. They are single-use products, you use one a day and you don’t have to worry about cross-contamination. From the get-go I wanted my skincare to be very treatment-orientated, based on each woman’s concerns, so whatever the issues are, be it fine line, anti-ageing, hydration etc. we have a product for that issue.

Tell us a little about Coolaser therapy and why it is so effective? 

Many years ago I was doing CO2 laser therapy for my patients but it had huge disadvantages. Some people would not tolerate it well, they would get discolouration, the recovery time was long and there was a lot of redness and sensitivity. So I contacted the manufacturing company in Germany that was producing these lasers and I asked them if they could make certain changes for me which I thought would be effective for most people; even for darker-skinned individuals who have really sensitive skin. After a few rounds of trial and error, they developed the Coolaser and the results were amazing. I remember when I first tried it and I couldn’t believe it. We were getting the same results as the CO2 laser but without the downtime or the side effects and it worked on all skin types. There are many different elements but the key factor is that I realised if you sent energy deep into the skin instead of to the top layer, you trick your skin into thinking that you have a third-degree burn (without actually having a third-degree burn), and your skin goes into an overdrive of producing collagen. That’s what our skin is programmed to do if you get burned; you produce collagen to replace the skin. So we fool your skin into thinking that it has been burned and it goes into overdrive to produce brand new baby skin. And that’s why in less than two months, people end up with beautiful, supple, healthy fresh skin.

Why do you think women are so concerned with looking younger?

Philosophically and traditionally my understanding is that throughout history, youthfulness has been associated with vitality and vitality for women has been associated with being more attractive. Because of that, being youthful is associated with being more valuable to society. Whether that’s true or not I cannot say, but that’s what we have been programmed to believe. So if you can do anything you can to make yourself look a little more youthful or fresh, the chances are, someone is going to take notice. It doesn’t matter if you’re old or young, you want to give the best first impression you can and luckily now we have tools to do that.

In this issue we talk about women’s empowerment – how do you think you make women feel more empowered with the treatments you provide for them?

It’s not uniquely something I do, but from cosmetic procedures in general I think beauty is power. For women and men, beauty opens doors for you. It has been scientifically proven that even children as young as six months old respond to more “beautiful” faces. Historically we are programmed to do this. So if you believe that being more attractive will allow you to have better interactions with people, it automatically gives you a lot of power – whether from a social or economical point of view. So the science is there. It is nothing unique to acknowledge that beauty will bring you a lot of power and to deny that is to take away some of the natural powers that women have. Obviously, in my personal life I have experienced times when I looked better and as I mentioned earlier, when I had a nose job at the age of 18, the way I perceived myself completely changed and because of that, my self-confidence increased which ultimately opened more doors for me. Even if you’ve never had a cosmetic procedure we all experience this concept. You take a shower, you get a haircut, you shave, and you feel differently about yourself and often you see people responding to you differently. So this is one step beyond that. I don’t want to minimise the risks or side effects, but as long as the treatment is done by a doctor who knows what he is doing and has plenty of experience I think your chances of getting good results are very high.

Do you have any recommendations or tips for women in the Middle East? 

Luckily, most Middle Eastern women are very good at protecting their skin from the sun. Most of my patients in Saudi for example don’t leave the house until 2 pm! So they have learnt to deal with this extreme heat. There are two factors that I want to highlight. It is not just the sun but also the heat that causes discolouration. So sometimes you might feel like you’ve covered your face completely, but the heat is also an issue. You have to keep your skin cool and away from the sun completely. The Hydration Serum that we have is really powerful and it has a cooling effect as well as a moisturising effect. It keeps the temperature of your skin at least one or two degrees lower. So that would be my recommendation to clients in the Middle East.

Where do you stand on non-invasive Vs invasive treatments? 

I think we have come a long way. 80 per cent of the things we were only able to do surgically, now we can do non-invasively. I think that surgical processes should be the very last result. We have plastic surgeons in the clinic of course, and we do offer facelifts, body contouring, tummy tucks etc. but we want to it as a very last resort when there are no other options left.

What is something that you still want to achieve?

My wish is to train a lot of doctors in the techniques that I do so that these techniques could be very mainstream. One of the worst things for me is when I see people with bad work on their face, some of which is irreversible. It can be heart-wrenching. You want to see really good results and there are amazing doctors worldwide, but I want everyone to be amazing and that’s what I would love to spend my time doing in the next chapter of my life.

What is the motto you live by?

I’m not much of a motto person but I really learned from my parents to be hardworking. They were immigrants when they came to this country and they instilled a very strong work ethic in me. I come to the office every day and work until I go home to take care of my family. I believe that 80 per cent of the job is done if you show up and I think if you do the best work that you can, people are going to be happy. It is a huge privilege to be in my position.

Can we expect to see you in the Middle East any time soon?

I would love nothing more! I used to visit Dubai and Qatar a lot – not to do procedures but to see a lot of my clients. I do some procedures for my clients who don’t like to travel but normally I like to see patients in a clinic setting. But hopefully, I’ll be back soon, even if it’s just for a visit because it’s a beautiful part of the world and it keeps getting more beautiful. I’m from Iran so for me, it feels like going back home and I miss it. I hope I can go back soon.

This Ramadan, many of us will be spending more time entertaining at home and it’s important to create the magical atmosphere associated with the Holy Month within your own space.

Whether it’s an intimate family gathering for iftar or you’re welcoming guests for suhoor it’s important to be sure your table looks great and your guests feel special. Wedding Planner and Table Stylist Maya Toubia offers her tips on styling your home to perfection in order to celebrate this Ramadan and Eid in the best way possible.

Maya Toubia

With Ramadan fast approaching what are some of the ways we can start preparing and decorating our homes?

As lanterns are traditionally used to welcome Ramadan in many Muslim countries, using your own lanterns, candles and string lights is a great way to start. Introduce lanterns to the home both outside and inside to create a welcoming setting.

Are there any colours or trends that we will see a lot of this year in terms of table decoration? 

Gold is always a winner during Ramadan but any other additional colour is more than welcome. Remember to consider your home interior. Ramadan decorations should complement the colours that are already present in your home.

What should we think about when choosing plates and glassware? 

The size of glassware and cutlery should ideally be in proportion to the size and style of the plates you chose as well as the size of the table. Always choose something both useful and beautiful. And try to stay away from plain white plates and simple transparent glassware.

For those on a budget what are some of the simple ways you can add sparkle to your home this Ramadan?

Incorporating a few lanterns will simply add a Ramadan touch to your table. You can also use beautiful paper napkins that will add design and colours to the table without going over budget.

When entertaining guests throughout Ramadan what are some of your top tips for table decorations?

Use light decorative elements on your table as a way to keep space for the food and also don’t use high centrepieces that might block eye contact between you and your guests.

What about outdoor table styling for suhoor – what would be your suggestions? 

If you are entertaining outdoors try to use fairy light strings or hanging bulbs that will add a magical Ramadan spirit to the overall table.

What is your biggest ‘no’ when it comes to decorating your table?

Don’t over exaggerate. Sometimes less is more. Make sure you leave space for the food because it will usually be displayed on the table during Ramadan, not on a separate buffet table.

Many of us will be spending more time at home this Ramadan – what are some ways we can add a special touch to dining at home that will bring that restaurant feel to the dining table?

Make your table look fuller by using tabletop elements. Show plates are a great extra as well as placemats or table covers and runners. Use full plate sets, fabric napkins, napkin rings and full glassware sets. Always have multiple glasses on the table – one for water and one for juice.

What about flower arrangements is there anything you would recommend? 

When it comes to flowers follow a colour palette according to your tableware and glassware design and colours. Make sure your flower centrepiece is not too high as it will become distracting.

For Eid celebrations what should we keep in mind when entertaining family? 

You can still use the same table wear but maybe try changing the flowers and it will instantly give you a completely different look.

Any other tips and tricks you would like to share?  

Try to find small and cute giveaways that you can place on each plate setting for your guests. It will make your table look fuller and after all, Ramadan is all about giving back.

Emirati Film Maker Nayla Al Khaja is living her dream as it was recently announced that Oscar-winning writer-director Terry George, whose work includes Hotel Rwanda and In the Name of the Father, will turn his creative hand to bring to life a concept she devised and wrote. The story of a real-life tale of death and deceit in early 20th century Egypt will be made into a series later this year. Nayla Al Khaja, will be Executive Producer for the series and is also being attached as a potential director for some of the episodes – something that she always dreamt of. This is the first big step into international work by Nayla but will not be her last.

The young filmmaker grew up in Dubai and studied film making in Canada before returning to the UAE with a vision of global success. In 2006 Khaja directed and produced the documentary Unveiling Dubai. Supported by Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, UAE’s Minister of Higher Education, the film premiered at the 2006 Dubai International Film Festival (DIFF) and she was officially announced as the first woman filmmaker in the UAE, being awarded the title of “Best Emirati Film Maker” in the same year. Nayla became the CEO of her own company Nayla Al Khaja Films and she plans to break the international boundaries of the film world with her upcoming projects. We discover more about her latest series and her plans for the future of her journey.

Tell us a little about the project with Terry George – how did it come about?

It is like a dream come true to see this riveting series being brought to life by Terry George. The story is about these sisters who were serial killers who received the first capital punishment sentence in the Arab World as women. The project “The Alexandria Killings” is a project that I have wanted to do for the longest time. As a matter of fact, I pitched it to another team first and was recommended to also pitch to another agency. I was then signed by Gianluca Chakra at Front Row and Rocket Science; and after receiving “created by” and “Executive Producer” credits, things progressed, and Terry George got attached to the project. It became larger than life at that point. I have submitted the material, the treatment, the concept and Terry George will now take this and develop it into the series.

What does it mean to you to have your work recognised on a global scale? 

It means a lot of things: I was able to break the first glass ceiling, that is the international glass ceiling, which is incredibly difficult to do. It puts me in a more serious position – I shall be able to pitch for more international work with industry heavyweights, as well as create, develop and get global exposure for other interesting stories from the Middle East. I also have another project in the pipeline, which I cannot wait to package and pitch to companies. It’s very exciting because I have other international projects lined up too. It means that all of the hard work I have done over many years has proved worthwhile. I know that I am at the beginning of my journey and it will be a very interesting and rewarding road I will travel.

Tell us a little about the story and what we can expect from the series? 

Set in the Egyptian city of Alexandria in 1920 when it was under British rule, the series will revolve around two real-life sisters Raya and Sakina Bint Hammam who pulled themselves out of poverty by running high-class brothels frequented by an influential circle of Egyptian and British officers, informants and statesmen. When profits from these infamous venues started to flag, they turned to petty crime, which led to the murder of 17 women. It will be a very interesting and exciting series to watch as the story develops and the drama unfolds.

Why do you think it’s important to share stories from the Middle East with the rest of the world?

I think it’s very important to share Middle Eastern stories globally from a regional perspective, as often these stories are told from a Western perspective. As it will be narrated through the Arab voice, this series will be very authentic because we have grown up with these stories. It will be much more real. Through the power of storytelling, I think you can break a lot of stereotypes and given the Middle East is a very controversial area of the world, I hope that this series and others will humanise the area and bring a better understanding of our region to the world.

What is the message you want to share with the world about living in the region? 

The Middle East consists of more than 20 countries and so people should not paint the entire region with one colour – each country has different religions, tribes, its own cultural heritage and historic backgrounds – it is not one country centred on one idea, which is what some Westerners believe. This is something that really pains me. Unless you live here, you do not understand the diversity of the region – you are relying more or less on news, which is often packed with war or bloodshed and this is not the reality for most of the Arab world. Hopefully, stories that emerge from the region will provide a better understanding for global audiences. This is one of my main drives and why I am passionate to share Middle Eastern stories that move the heart and soul and provide a true insight into the Arab world. It is time to break the norm, crush stereotypes and really tell the truth about the region to global audiences and ultimately inspire people to celebrate what is common between them, not what is different.

What would you like to see happen with the film industry in the region moving forward?

I would love to see grants established from both private and government entities. The government could have an agenda to make funding available so that films can be made and can be presented in film festivals and screened in cinemas. These could be arthouse films or films that are more human-centric. Commercial ventures could benefit from private sector investment to ensure that Arabic and local stories have a chance to be told for artistic or commercial reasons. The birth of film funds in the Middle East would really benefit this industry.

“Neighbour” Film Poster

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

There is a lack of an ecosystem for filming anything in the UAE but I know that is changing and developing. We really suffer from a lack of producers and writers – I don’t think this is solely a UAE problem, it is a GCC-wide problem. I hope that people take this field more seriously – it could provide a major economic boost to the region as it can be very lucrative. It’s important to remember that when there is an economic crisis, film does not get hit as badly as other industries so it is a very smart sector in which to invest.

As a woman in a male-dominated industry, what are some of the struggles you face? 

I believe we all share the same struggle – that is, a lack of financing. For any project, the higher the budget the less chance a woman will be at the helm. This is a simple and very sad fact. The ratio of men to women studying film at university is 50/50 but once the course is complete, not even 10% of these women have work. This comes down to the fact that those writing cheques are 99% male. This will only change when women take the pen in their hand, create their own narrative and create stories for themselves. We cannot wait for this to change; we need to drive the change.

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

I would love to create, write and direct my own film. This is currently in the pipeline and I am very excited about it. The other thing I would like to do is to start a film fund.

In your opinion what are the perquisites to being successful in film making? 

Lots of patience, passion and immense perseverance. You need to have an authentic love because often it can take 20-25 years for that big break. I remember asking Morgan Freeman once over dinner how long it took him to break into the industry and he told me it was 23 years and that is why everyone really only remembers him with grey hair!

We know you are also working on a big-budget action film – can you tell us anything about that?

It is an adventure film for youngsters – it is The Goonies meet Indiana Jones. It is called “The Magic Carpet” and one of the Executive Producers is Bella Thorne. Right now we are casting for the main character, and this project is planned for end of this year or early next year, depending on COVID-19 restrictions.

Do you have an idol role model in the industry?

Nadine Labaki – the fact she took all these years to create her film Capharnaum and mortgaged her own house to raise funding for it is, some would say insane, but to me, it’s inspirational, as it got her an Oscar nomination. The self-belief she had was so strong and she was able to shatter every glass ceiling and that is incredible.

What is the motto that you live by?

Live and let live.

What is a film or series you would love to make and who would you select to star in it both on a regional and international basis?

I do have a series but I can’t speak about it because I am currently packaging it so I can pitch it! But the series I always dreamed about was The Alexandria Killings and that is coming to life so I am very excited. I would love to direct at least one episode and work with Terry George on this project in closer proximity. Egypt has a strong collection of writers and the studio system there has been up and running since 1923 so they have had a lot of time to hone their skills and create fantastic content so the series will be in very good hands with the Arab writers assigned to the project.

To what extent do you believe today that the stories that we see are a reflection of the reality we live in? 

True life stories are now not being meddled within the way they have in the past because now the world is telling us a story as opposed to just Hollywood or Bollywood, thanks to streaming giants.

No longer do we have to go to a Film Festival to watch a foreign film – they are all in our homes thanks to the game-changing technology that has developed and allowed us to view subtitled, foreign films and each of these films enables us to view different perspectives. I think this is a trend that will continue. The fact an Asian woman won an Oscar this year – only two women have ever won Best Film in the history of the Oscars –reflects how male-dominated the industry is and how hard it is for women to penetrate but this win does provide hope that the industry is open to change.

What is your favourite memory of the UAE growing up?

Taking AED2 and buying all the unhealthiest junk food in the small grocer’s shop near when I lived and then sneaking it into the house so my mother and grandmother wouldn’t see it is a very clear memory! The city was simpler and a lot smaller when I was young, so I remember my grandmother cutting fresh fruit, playing in the neighbourhood and so on. I really miss that sense of intimacy and through a film called “Baab” that I plan to make in the future, I hope to capture this nostalgia and the beauty of growing up in the city when I was a child.

The UAE celebrates its 50th anniversary this year – what is a message you would send to the country? 

I was very fortunate to direct some material that was used to celebrate the 49th anniversary, including the orchestra for Expo 2020, which went viral and received great reviews. I would love to direct something for this year’s landmark anniversary – it would be a source of real pride and honour to direct something to mark the Golden Jubilee of my country.

What is your vision for your next 50 years? 

I hope that we will all become more sustainable in our way of life so that we can effectively tackle climate change. When it comes to filmmaking, we can be exuberant so I am trying to be more mindful of sustainability in all areas whenever I can. On a personal level, I would love to establish film funds that allow the creation of films that offer insight into the Arab World and allow global audiences to appreciate the Middle East and see it through the eyes and hands of humans that live here. I would love for that to be my legacy.

Katie Brindle, Chinese medicine Practitioner, Author and Founder of the Hayo’u Method discusses the benefits of traditional Chinese techniques to our health and wellbeing. 

In a world where technology and science so often lead the way, it is easy to forget that traditional methods can often be just as effective if not more than modern FADs and gadgets. This is something Katie Brindle discovered after years of suffering after a serious car accident. When modern medicine didn’t help her pain, Brindle turned to traditional Chinese medicine and was overwhelmed by the results. So much so that she began to study in the field and consequently make it a career.

After practising in the field for almost 20 years Bridle founded the Hayo’u method; a selection of one-minute rituals that can help to combat many modern ailments from poor sin, to fatigue, to bad digestion to anxiety. Using crystals to perform unique rituals the Hayo’u method consists of powerful self-treatment techniques that counter-balance the impact of modern living and bridge the gap between ancient wisdom and modern living. Brindle was recently a key speaker as part of Net-A-Porter’s online event “The Beauty of You” which is encouraging women to open up and discuss beauty and wellness, especially at a time where many of us are feeling anxious and stressed. Brindle’s key message was that these methods will help to relieve all the negative feelings many of us have at the current time. Her range of products which are available at Net-A-Porter are both sustainable and natural, allowing for an all-round positive experience. Here we discuss the effects of Chinese medicine and why it can help us all.

What first interested you to become involved in the practice of Chinese medicine? 

I was actually training to be an opera singer when I had a car accident and sustained severe whiplash. My injuries ended those dreams. Western medicine was unable to help me, and I spent years searching for a solution which ended up being a Chinese doctor in a humble TCM clinic in London. Having reached that pinch point, finding the solution after years of agony, I fell in love with Chinese medicine with a passion. I immediately embarked on a course and re-trained. Alongside practising massage and reflexology, I studied Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and qualified as a Five Elements Chinese medical practitioner, graduating from the UK’s Integrated College of Chinese Medicine.

HAYO’U Jade Beauty Restorer

What is something everyone can do every day to help improve our health? 

Body Tapping! Tapping with bamboo is an ancient Chinese therapy called Pai Sha that works wonders for your general wellbeing. It’s a simple, pleasurable, yet hugely effective way to support and maintain your health, no matter your age or physical state.

How does it work? Well, according to Chinese medicine an absolute fundamental of health is a good circulation of qi and blood around the body. This flow can be disrupted or stagnate for any number of reasons, a sedentary lifestyle, stress, emotional upset or injuries. In as little as one minute a day, an all-over body tap can clear areas of stagnation, support lymphatic drainage, release tension and encourage a smooth flow of blood and qi around the body. Tapping will instantly energise you in the morning and deeply relax you in the evening. This exercise gives your circulation a serious wake-up call, so it’s a great antidote to feeling tired or sluggish. The technique should take anywhere between 1 and 5 minutes to practice – and daily is great, but whenever you feel like it!

What are some of the most common requests you receive from clients?

Here are my top 3: “How do I do a natural facelift?” “How do I lose weight?” And “how can I effectively treat cellulite?”

For the first one, the answer is without a doubt facial gua sha. It’s often referred to as the ‘Eastern Face Lift’ (see below for more information)

How do I lose weight? The answer is with Qigong! Many people push themselves through super-hard workouts and wonder why they aren’t losing weight when they are working so hard. The truth is that this type of workout raises cortisol levels, and when the body is stressed, it holds on to fat. Qigong, on the other hand, works the muscles and nourishes all of the organs – but, crucially, doesn’t strain them. It boosts your oxygen uptake and circulation, but while your body is relaxed. This builds your capacity to store and generate your reserves of Qi (energy) as well as balancing your body. Achieving your natural optimum weight is a happy side effect.

And for cellulite: My go-to tool for this would be the jade comb. Body combing is an ancient Chinese self-healing treatment, it’s pleasurable, simple and hugely beneficial. Body combing works similarly to body brushing. It boosts lymphatic drainage, making it particularly effective for heavy legs, water retention and the dreaded cellulite. Cellulite occurs when fat deposits push through the connective tissue beneath the skin. In Chinese medicine, cellulite is connected to water metabolism. When our Qi (energy) is stagnant, proper fluid management is impeded, which causes cellulite. We all have energy channels, called meridians, that flow through our body. All of these meridians have either direct or indirect connections with the head and scalp. Combing gently stimulates the meridian channels and clears stagnation – ensuring the free-flow of Qi, blood and fluid around the body. It’s remarkably effective, and indeed our Beauty Restorer Comb is an award-winning anti-cellulite tool!

We recently saw you participating in the Net-A-Porter Beauty Festival – why do you think it’s important for women to talk about beauty and wellness today? 

Well, beauty is a bit of a no-brainer, not least because everyone is having such a hard time at the moment, that to indulge in your beauty regime is a way to care for yourself, to feel better and also just to have a little control. Also, we have more time at the moment!

However, wellness is what I’m really excited about because wellness is just another word for preventative health. And that is what I am passionate about as a practitioner of Chinese medicine. In Chinese wisdom, we approach beauty from the inside out. Essentially, you are never going to look your best if you don’t feel well. We see beauty as the exterior manifestation of interior health. This is why body gua sha is going to be the next big thing.

Body gua sha is such an unsung hero. It’s a simple self-massage technique using a round-edged tool, that has been used for thousands of years to treat inflammation, muscular tension, coughs and fever and boost immunity. Body gua sha offers us the fully-fledged integration of health and beauty and absolutely where the beauty industry is going. Try our Hayo’u Body Restorer if you’d like to give it a try, there are lots of tutorials on the website and Instagram.

Tell us a little about how your journey evolved to develop Hay’ou and why do you think it’s relevant for today’s modern woman? 

After I found the cure for my health issues came from Chinese medicine, I was inspired. Alongside practising massage and reflexology, I studied Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and qualified as a Five Elements Chinese medical practitioner, graduating from the UK’s Integrated College of Chinese Medicine. There are a few reasons I started my own business: I could see that the Eastern philosophy that I had trained in had an answer to the Western illness epidemic. As a consumer, I believed that companies need to offer responsible, long-term solutions to the products they were selling and offset any environmental damage along the way and as a practitioner, I could see that people wanted to be empowered about their health but didn’t know where to start. And finally, as a mother, I wanted to do my part to safeguard the planet for my children, contributing to a better world, not a lesser one.

During my time as a Chinese medicine practitioner, I quickly realised that the prevention and self-treatment of illness was the secret of longevity in ancient China. When my patients practised the self-care techniques I suggested in between treatments, they would get better so much more quickly. There is a great Chinese proverb – ‘Dig the well before you are thirsty’, the Taoist philosophy is wholly based on the principle that prevention is better than cure – it is far better to stop yourself from getting sick than waiting to get sick and then fixing it. And Yang Sheng, the self-care part of Chinese medicine in which I specialize, is full of simple techniques to help you achieve precisely that.

And so I created Hayo’u. Hayo’u is a gua sha tools and wellness brand, combining the ancient wisdom of Chinese medicine with innovative tools that achieve long-lasting results in just one minute of daily use. Hayo’uFit is the UK’s first dedicated online Qigong platform, offering both courses and flow classes. I think it is relevant to the modern woman because she is time-poor. Our strapline is one-minute to self-care. Everyone needs to look after themselves, and these are enjoyable, simple techniques using quality tools and precious crystals.

HAYO’U Nephrite Body Comb

How can crystals help our wellbeing?

Chinese medicine has a rich tradition of using crystals as medicine. The philosophy is that gemstones can support our Jing Qi (life essence), blood (circulation) and fluids (lymphatic drainage). I chose jade because this was traditionally used by the empresses of China. Jade is the empirical beauty crystal. It’s been used for thousands of years because it is the ultimate balance of yin and yang. It has remarkable cooling properties, is great for reducing inflammation and puffiness – and it’s gentle, so suitable for everyone.

Research studies show that, when heated, certified jade radiates healing far-infrared rays. It also produces negative ions. Negative ions are commonly seen in nature, being abundant in a waterfall and on the beach. When you get positive vibes while out in the great outdoors that is because of negative ions. Jade has a high output of negative ions, and this help to regenerate cells. Our Beauty Restorer is made from 100% Xiuyan jade. It is a type of serpentine jade that comes from a region of China renowned for the best quality jade in the world. 100% jade is much rarer than composite. You can tell it’s real because it is really smooth, it will differ slightly in colour as its natural, it is cold to touch and doesn’t break easily.

How can we bring them into our skincare routine and what benefits can women have from using this method? 

Facial gua sha! This is a simple massage technique using a round-edged tool. It’s been widely practised in China for thousands of years. ‘Gua’ means to press-stroke, whilst ‘sha’ describes the temporary red flush that results. Facial gua sha stimulates the dermis to support collagen and elastin production and releases tension to relax your facial muscles. I believe it’s the single most effective technique for transforming your skin. Facial gua sha is a game-changer and many of my clients tell me how much they love the way it has transformed their skin. It has been shown in studies to exponentially increase circulation and aid lymphatic flow, release congestion and soothe sore eyes and skin, to brighten your complexion and leave you with a radiant glow.

HAYO’U Body Oil, 100ml

How do we know which crystal to choose – can you give us a little detail on each crystal and what they should be used for? 

Jade has always been a crystal of choice for the ancient technique of facial gua sha, revered for its restorative and cooling properties. Jade helps to balance the yin and yang in the body, so it’s a great all-rounder and the perfect starter crystal. Rose quartz is especially good to use in the morning or if you have sensitive, delicate or inflamed skin. And clear quartz is known as the ‘master healer’, it is great for clearing mental energy, so really good as an evening crystal.

How can we use the products to help us when we are working from home or staring at a computer screen all day? 

There are two, in particular, I’d recommend here. The Body Tapper Bamboo and the Body Restorer. Get up every hour and tap yourself all over with the tapper for a minute, it’s instantly energizing. And the Body Restorer you can use over clothes to release muscular tension. It’s a metal gua sha tool and works so well at clearing qi stagnation due to lack of movement.

How important is it to you to use sustainable materials in your products? 

So important! And we are striving to improve our CSR constantly. I think all businesses should. Our major contribution to sustainability is that we offer the ability to consume less. Our crystals are intended as one-time purchases. Buy one and it will last you a lifetime, replacing the need for disposable items that ultimately end up in landfill and in our oceans. We are continually driving change in terms of our packaging. We have moved to using recycled card and away from single-use plastic. We have no offices. And I’m committed to my ongoing work with charities that protect the environment.

We know that looking at Hi-tech vs traditional when it comes to beauty is something important to you – how do you think traditional methods such as Gua Sha can still be relevant today when there are many technical tools available? 

Because it really works! The beauty industry is open-minded, yet discerning. If it works, it will last. Gua sha is the missing link in our skincare routine – it hits the zeitgeist. People want quick, easy solutions. The discerning customer is making conscious choices. It’s time-tested. These techniques have served over 1000s of years. And for the modern-day customer, time is more precious than money. And this is a simple technique. We crave simplicity in our lives. This is something that makes sense.

HAYO’U Beauty Face Oil, 30ml

What is your top wellness tip?

Qigong! Qigong, which translates as ‘life, force, practice’, is quite simply the most incredible exercise. By strengthening your life force on the inside, you will see the results on the outside. Lifeforce is the very thing that makes you feel alive, energised and healthy – and the minute you start to practice you’ll feel the difference. If you are tired, lacking in energy, out of shape or simply not feeling great, trust me Qigong is for you. Qigong is a fundamental pillar of Chinese medicine. It is classed as a form of internal exercise. (any combination of slow, considered movements with breath and mental engagement, another example would be yoga. Qigong is, quite simply, the ultimate self-healing technique.

Many people exercise to improve the way they look or perhaps improve the health of their heart and lungs, but Chinese medicine says that while aerobic exercise does work those organs, it simultaneously taxes them. Qigong, on the other hand, works the muscles and nourishes all of the organs – but, crucially, doesn’t strain them. It boosts your oxygen uptake and circulation, but while your body is relaxed. This builds your capacity to store and generate your reserves of qi.

One of the things I love the most is that Qigong is suitable for everyone! According to Chinese medicine, your organs control the entire health of your body. This includes, amongst other things, your muscles, fascia, bones, body fat and any tendency towards weight imbalance. Look after your organs and you’ll see a knock-on positive effect on all of your health. Qigong will give you stamina without stress, and it will tone without pain. As you do the exercises, you’re balancing the whole body and, because they’re so gentle, they also suit older people, those recovering from illness and anyone else with physical or energetic limitations. Just because it’s gentle, don’t underestimate its power and efficacy.

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

We are planning to launch in America this year, which is hugely exciting – and we’ve also got some pioneering new products in the pipeline. So, growing the business, and also making progress with our sustainability goals. And setting up a charitable foundation, which is the first thing I’m planning on implementing once the business is solidly established.

In this issue we talk about International Women’s Day – what advice would you give to aspiring female entrepreneurs? 

I always say that I’m not a businesswoman, I’m a woman in business. I’d like to think that my story illustrates how anyone can do it. I had no training, just a good idea and I got on with it and stuck with it. I have gumption, tenacity, passion and integrity. Those qualities in modern business are just as important as understanding how to read a spreadsheet!

HAYO’U Beauty Restorer Comb

What is the biggest challenge you face with spreading your message to others? 

I would say probably just getting people to take a chance on something which sounds a bit “woo woo” on the face of it! Once people try it, they are amazed and they love it. It’s getting over that first hurdle. Five years ago, nobody wanted anything to do with facial gua sha, now it’s a global beauty trend.

What is the motto you live by? 

Prevention is better than cure!

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