As the authorised General Distributor of Mercedes-Benz in Dubai, Sharjah and the Northern Emirates Gargash presents an exclusive edition version of the Mercedes-AMG G 63 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the UAE.

Reimagining one of the brand’s iconic models, Mercedes-Benz partners with Gargash to celebrate the 50 years milestone with a limited series of 50 units of this eye-catching model that will launch across the UAE in April 2021. Each of the 50 units will have an exclusive serial number, to represent every year of the UAE’s union.

Speaking about this historic launch, Shehab M. Gargash, MD & Group CEO of Gargash Group said “We are glad to be able to pay tribute to the UAE and the brand with this limited-edition vehicle. The Mercedes-AMG G 63 UAE Golden Jubilee is a testament to both – the evolution of our country as well as to the legendary G-Wagon.”

This special edition features a two-tone exterior original from the G-Class factory. There will be 25 units in a white/iridium silver combination, and 25 in magnetite black/graphite grey. Golden Jubilee badges add an individual touch to the limited edition line.

The limited edition carries forward the model’s authentic interior finishes including a numbered interior badge to symbolise the UAE’s 50th anniversary. The limited-edition features standard latter-type frame and LOW RANGE off-road gear reduction, as well as a custom tyre inflation system allowing drivers to adjust the pressure of their wheels to their desire. The vehicle also offers special carbon fibre spare wheel covers designed exclusively for the occasion.

Potential customers interested in purchasing the exclusive G-63 Golden Jubilee edition will be redirected to a dedicated phone a line at Gargash Mercedes-Benz that promises one-on-one interaction with a G-Class expert, who has been assigned to exclusively attend inquires around the launch.

Contact: 800-BENZ or visit: www.gargash.ae for more

Gargash showrooms are located at:

Dubai, Deira, Al Ittihad Street | +971 4 269 0413

Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Road | +971 4 340 0625

Sharjah, Industrial Area, Street No. 3 | +971 6 538 9449

Ras Al Khaimah, Al Ittihad street | +971 7 235 1575

Fujairah, Mohammed bin Mattar Road | +971 9 223 3776

Say hello to good hair days with the new ghd Platinum+ which is designed to respond to your hair offering personalised styling.

Merging science and innovation, with luxury beauty and style; ghd changed the face of the hair industry when it first appeared on the scene in 2001. Today, ghd (meaning good hair day), pioneers new Ultra-zone technology to create the most technically advanced hair tools in the world, which deliver safer for hair heat styling and have become an essential part of the daily lives of hairstylists and women globally.

The new ghd Platinum+ takes things to the next level with ground-breaking innovation – ultra-zone with predictive technology – which allows the ghd platinum+ to respond to each individual’s hair and the way they style, controlling heat more effectively and predicting your personal hair needs, to give ultimate results and stronger, visibly healthier hair.

The new styler can curl, straighten and shape thanks to its cutting-edge predictive technology that recognises the thickness of your hair, the section size and the speed at which you are styling and adjusts the power accordingly. Infinity sensors monitor the heat 250 times per second, to always maintain the safer-for-hair temperate of 185°C.

The ghd platinum+ styles at a temperature of 185 degrees, offering salon-quality style from the comfort of your own home. Simple to use and with impressive results, this is guaranteed to be your next “can’t live without” hair tool.

Available at Sephora stores and online in the Middle East.

Emporio Armani’s R-EA collection puts sustainability at the forefront of design.

The R-EA collection for Spring/Summer 2021 by Emporio Armani brings together practical and functional design with the most advanced textile research in terms of sustainability. Every material used in the nautical themed collection is certified according to the most relevant international standards in the field of eco-sustainability.

Technical fabrics such as GREENLON and NEWLIFE are made in Italy with nylon and post-consumer polyester derived from plastic bottles. While the crinkle, highly wear-resistant nylon, comes from the recycling of plastic waste such as fishing nets and lint from synthetic carpets.

The organic cotton used in the designs has a low environmental impact, employs no GMO (genetically modified organisms), and is grown without the use of pesticides or toxic chemical fertilisers.

The menswear follows a strictly blue and white colour palette with sporty shapes featuring hoods, toggles and contrasting stitching. Is spired by the marine world the collection features parkas, anoraks, blouson, Bermuda shorts and dungarees. For women, a similar colour palette offers a chic nautical theme.

Key pieces of the collection include light dusters, mini tops, oversized sweatshirts, cargo pants and Bermuda shorts. A model of sunglasses and a watch made of low-impact materials complete the offer. The certified compostable packaging also underlines the intent of the project.

Discover more at Emporio Armani stores and online.

Today via the fourth edition of its digital Webcast, Breitling CEO Georges Kern presented the latest edition to the Breitling family; the new Premier Heritage Collection.

This new line of elegant timepieces was inspired by Breitling’s founders and pays homage to three generations of men who changed the history of timekeeping and made Breitling what it is today.

Breitling Premier Heritage Chronograph

These three men consist of Léon Breitling who founded the company in 1884 and later, patented a simple timer/tachymeter that could measure any speed between 15 and 150 km/h, an invention featured in the 1906 Vitesse pocket watch.

Breitling Premier Heritage Duograph

In 1915, his son, Gaston, created one of the first wrist-worn chronographs with an independent pusher at 2 o’clock. This innovation separated the start, stop, and reset functions from the crown, making it infinitely more practical for timing sports.

Breitling Premier Heritage Datora

In 1934, Léon’s grandson, Willy, patented the second independent chronograph pusher at 4 o’clock. Among Willy Breitling’s celebrated pioneering achievements was the establishment of the Huit Aviation Department in 1938.

Willy Breitling understood people’s desire for a touch of elegance and glamour. This inspired him to design the original Premier wristwatches in the 1940s. The Premier Heritage Collection brings this timeless elegance back to life through six watches, divided into three distinctive categories: The Chronograph, The Duograph, and The Datora.

Breitling Premier Heritage Duograph

These 40mm vintage-inspired Chronograph is manually wound and powered by the Breitling Manufacture Caliber B09, which is based on the Breitling Manufacture Caliber 01. It comes in two variations: with an eye-catching pistachio-green dial encased in stainless steel or a stately silver-coloured dial encased in 18 k red gold.

The Premier Heritage Duograph features stainless-steel and 18k 42mm red gold cases and comes with a blue or black dial. Its rattrapante function – one of the most elaborate in watchmaking – enables the wearer to measure two elapsed times simultaneously thanks to its two superimposed chronograph hands.

Breitling Premier Heritage Chronograph

And finally, the 42 mm Premier Heritage Datora stands out for its highly visible and complex functions, namely its day, date, and moon-phase displays. It is powered by the Manufacture Caliber B25. Its copper-coloured face is framed by a stainless-steel case, while its silver-coloured dial comes in an 18 k red gold one.

The models will be available at the end of April 2021.

Dutch-Persian influencer Negin Mirsalehi’s haircare range Gisou has launched in the Middle East, exclusively at Sephora stores.

The honey-infused line was inspired by Negin’s heritage, growing up in a family of beekeepers. Gisou features only sustainably sourced ingredients and honey from Negin’s family bee garden in Holland.

The Instagram star who has over 6 million followers decided to launch her own haircare range after receiving thousands of enquiries about her own luscious locks. Negin decided to share her homemade haircare secret with the world, now famously known as Gisou’s iconic hero product: The Honey Infused Hair Oil.

From growing up in her family’s Mirsalehi Bee Garden to working with ingredients from her father’s hives, Negin Mirsalehi’s knowledge of beekeeping and honey-based haircare stems from a passion deeply rooted in her Middle Eastern heritage. Inspired by Persian self-care practices, it was Negin’s mother, a hairdresser by trade, who introduced her daughter to the honey-infused formulas she still values today. Her mother’s kitchen was the birthplace of the highly sought-after haircare secret that sparked Negin’s journey from influencer to beauty industry entrepreneur.

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

“Launching Gisou exclusively with Sephora in the Middle East, just 7 months after our Sephora debut in North America, is surreal and amazing.” says Negin Mirsalehi, “My family heritage, and that of Gisou, is deeply rooted in the Middle East which makes this launch particularly special. I’m incredibly happy to finally share Gisou and our honey-infused haircare with our new community members”

Gisou is now available at Sephora stores across the Middle East and online.

Charlotte Tilbury’s new Supermodel Brows collection helps women to achieve perfect brows at home – we discover more with Makeup Artist to the stars Sofia-Schwarzkopf-Tilbury

Charlotte Tilbury’s makeup and skincare products are known for their visible results, so when the beauty mogul decided to launch a range that helps you to achieve the brows of a supermodel at home, you know it’s going to be great! Charlotte Tilbury’s new Supermodel Brows collection consists of three key products that will allow you to fix, shape, and lift your brows for results that last all day. After years of innovation, this three-step toolkit has been designed to be quick and easy to use and well as simple for every woman to use, whatever their brow style. “Throughout my 28-year career as a makeup artist to the stars, I have become known for my SIGNATURE SUPERMODEL BROW that I’ve created for countless celebrity clients. I have bottled my BEAUTY SECRET to give you my signature SUPERMODEL BROW – the perfect balance of a full, fluffy brow, a defined arch and an elongated tail. Get ready for your BROWFORMATION!” Explains Charlotte. To find out more we talk to celebrity makeup artist and Charlotte’s niece and right-hand-woman, Sofia Schwarzkopf-Tilbury. 

What are three things we need to know about the Supermodel Brows collection?

The three things everyone needs to know about Charlotte’s Supermodel Brows collection are; FILL, FEATHER and FIX. Charlotte has decoded her secrets to having supermodel brows in an easy, three-step-system. First, you fill, using Charlotte’s new Brow Cheat pencil, adding texture and tint to the brows. Then you feather, by brushing through the brows with the Legendary Brows Tinted Gel, and finally, you fix with Brow Fix; an incredible clear brow gel that gives you long-lasting hold with an invisible finish. I’m obsessed!

Why do you think this collection particularly resonates with women in the Middle East?

Whenever Charlotte and I travel to the Middle East, we are always so inspired by the women who truly understand the power of makeup. I think the Supermodel Brows collection will resonate with Arab women because they are all so passionate about beauty and really embrace the latest trends. I have met so many beautiful women when visiting the Middle East and each of them has incredible makeup skills.

Tell us about the three-step system and how we should use the products?

Supermodel Brows is an easy-to-use collection. So many women are overwhelmed when it comes to their brows, so Charlotte wanted to make it as simple as possible. Firstly, use the new Brow Cheat pencil to FILL your brows. I always brush the hairs upwards so I can see the shape, then work in delicate, hair-like strokes to add depth to any sparse areas. Brow Cheat has an amazing micro-precision pencil that allows you to create tiny strokes, and the formula is rich in emollients so it glides on and stays without any dragging. It also has pure pigments and natural-looking undertones, so it doesn’t look ashy or too red like some brow products do.

Step two is FEATHER: It’s a quick and easy way to add texture and tint to your brows, especially if they tend to sit flat. The tiny brush catches every single hair, even the baby ones! I just brush up and out to add texture and lift.

Brow Cheat in Natural Brown

The last step is FIX. When we were working on this product, I tested it by wearing it to an intense Pilates class, and when I left, my brows still looked lifted and fixed, as if I’d had them laminated. It’s the perfect final step, but it’s also great on its own. So if you’ve got naturally thick, bushy eyebrows, it transforms them into a perfect supermodel shape. Charlotte created this gel so that it gives a 24-hour hold and never looks waxy or stiff. It has silk threads in the formula, so your brows look glossy, silky and feathered while they stay put all day.

Why are these products different from others out there?

The key with all of Charlotte’s products is that they’re designed to make you feel like the best version of yourself. She always says “beautiful before” and “beautiful after”, and the right brow can totally transform the look of your face. These brow products never make your brows look stamped on, too heavy or too bold; whether you’ve got full brows, sparse brows, thin brows or thick brows, the easy three-step system gives everyone their perfect supermodel brow. It’s a super modern, flattering, natural-looking brow shape that stays in place all day and suits everyone.

How do we determine which shade is right for our brow colour?

Perfecting the shades in the Supermodel Brow collection was important to Charlotte. We worked with models with all skin tones, all brow types and all hair colours to investigate the nuance of colour and make sure that we were catering to all brow undertones and overtones. We wanted to create flattering shades that not only suit your hair colour but also enhance your complexion so your brows never look heavy or unnatural. They work for so many complexions, and you can use Charlotte’s shade matcher on CharlotteTilbury.com to help you find your perfect shade.

How do you think women’s makeup routines have adapted throughout the past year? 

I think women are spending a lot more time on their skin right now. This could be due to having more time at home for skincare routines, or the growing trend for glowing, fresh-looking skin that I’m seeing everywhere on social media! One of the first things Charlotte ever taught me was to always take great care of my skin. I never, ever, apply makeup without Charlotte’s Magic Cream and Magic Serum. They instantly give you glowing, hydrated, plumper looking skin and help your makeup glide on beautifully too.

I’m also loving the new Super Radiance Resurfacing Facial, to refresh, exfoliate and reset my skin. It’s unlike any other acid treatment I’ve ever tried because it works in two ways — first clearing your pores and exfoliating away dead skin cells and signs of greyness and tiredness, then adding radiance and hydration with ingredients like Polyglutamic Acid, Avocado Oil and Resurrection Leaf.

After cleaning, masking and moisturising, my ultimate secret for glowing, dewy skin is Charlotte’s Hollywood Flawless Filter – it is like a social media filter bottled! I like to use it underneath my foundation to get a “lit-from-within”, glowing finish, but you can also use it on its own for a fresh, dewy, no-makeup look; mixed with foundation for a flawless glow, or on the high points of the face like a highlighter.

Brow Fix Gel

Do you think women are opting for more at-home brow solutions today rather than in-salon treatments?

This time has empowered so many people to do their own brows, facials and beauty treatments at home! Charlotte’s new Supermodel Brow collection was all about decoding the supermodel brow so women can be educated and feel like they can create a perfect shape in minutes.

What are some tips you would share for doing our makeup when having to wear facemasks?

Face masks have become a part of daily life for us, but there’s no reason why we can’t still have fun with our makeup! Masks make the eyes the focus of the face, which I love, so lately I’ve been making my eyes look bigger, brighter and more mesmerising using Charlotte’s Hollywood Flawless Eye Filter Palettes and the Hollywood Exagger-Eyes Liner Duo, which play with the light to give you the look of wider, brighter eyes!

So many people have asked me how to prevent their makeup from transferring on to the fabric of their masks too, and I am loving the Airbrush Flawless Setting Spray for this. It’s a hydrating, fixing, magical beauty amplifier, inspired by the pore-blurring, smoothing effects of Charlotte’s world-famous Airbrush makeup family. I like to mist the setting spray all over my face before and after makeup to prime and set it for up to 16 hours! It weightlessly holds everything in place and helps stop your makeup from melting, creasing or transferring, and it smells incredible too.

Legendary Brows

As a finishing touch, I always apply my favourite lipstick. It might seem odd to wear lipstick with a facemask, but I wear it for myself. When I apply my Hyaluronic Happikiss in Pillow Talk, I feel confident, gorgeous and ready to take on anything.

What is your favourite brow trend currently that we should be aware of?

I am in love with full, feathery-looking brows right now, and I always like to focus on the arch and tail to create a lifted, youthful look. The new Brow Fix gel is my saviour for a natural-looking, lifted brow in seconds.

What about skincare in hotter weather, what would you recommend?

When it comes to dealing with heat and humidity, taking good care of your skin is key! With the combination of heat, air-conditioning and dehydration, your skin needs moisture. Women in the Middle East need to try Charlotte’s Magic Serum Crystal Elixir and Magic Cream Light. The serum is formulated with Polyglutamic Acid, Niacinamide and Golden Vitamin C, so it’s great for creating a glowing, hydrated, brighter looking canvas. Magic Cream Light was specifically created for humid, sweat-inducing weather—it has SPF20, triple protection against UVA/B rays, blue light and pollution and it’s humidity-proof, so perfect for local climates. It makes the skin appear smoother, firmer, brighter and hydrated.

Brow Lift in Dark Brown

I also love to use Charlotte’s Magic Lip Oil in hotter weather! My lips get so dry after a day in the sun, and it’s easy to forget they need skincare too. Magic Lip Oil is like a serum for your lips that boosts lip volume by up to 70% in 4 weeks, I am addicted! To ensure my makeup looks flawless all day, I like to use the Airbrush makeup family! Every product has incredible hydrating, smoothing and pore-blurring effects that create instantly airbrushed-looking skin and they’re humidity and sweat-proof and transfer-resistant to keep you looking flawless from day to night. I use them on all of my celebrity clients before a red carpet event!

What is a message you would like to send to your fans and customers in the Middle East and can we expect to see you soon?

Charlotte and I absolutely love the Middle East, we’re always so blown away by the warmth, fun and vibrancy of the culture. I can’t wait to visit you all again soon.

Emirati property developer and entrepreneur Mohammed Bin Zaal is a visionary.

Long before the COVID-19 pandemic, Bin Zaal saw the changing landscape of the working world and set plans in place to provide new forward-thinking concepts and businesses for new generations. He has pioneered several unique developments, thinking outside the box to offer solutions for the modern world. His father, Zaal Mohammed Zaal was the brains behind Dubai living concept Al Barari, for which Bin Zaal was the CEO for many years and he too has the same entrepreneurial spirit as his father and it has since led him to work on his own projects.

After leaving his father’s company, Bin Zaal shifted focus to his first solo development; KOA Canvas. This modern real estate project was designed with the vision of changing the way we work and live in Dubai. More than just a retail estate, KOA creates communities that reflect the new global outlook of the region and cater to a new generation of people who demand individual expression. KOA puts innovation, substance and craftsmanship at the forefront with a brand new way of living. At the heart of KOA is Nasab a private workspace and social club that combines work, wellness and creativity in a modern environment. Nasab invites its members to work in an innovative way, intricately weaving leisure and entertainment into daily working life. We discover more about this unique concept and Bin Zaal’s plans for the future.

This past year has been a strange one for all – what is a lesson you have learnt and have you changed anything in your life or business? 

As a business, we learnt to move quickly and to be responsive to the needs of our members and potential customers. There is no point holding on to legacy plans and processes. The world changed very quickly and we had to look forward and adapt. We changed our growth plan, our product lines and our marketing approach in the span of a month, and for Nasab in particular, it has been a really positive move.

On a personal level, 2020 taught me the value of slowing down. Like many, the “always-on, always running” mentality was setting the tone for my life, I just didn’t realise there was another option. 2020 has been a huge wake-up call for me, it’s shifted my entire outlook on how I live my life and my values.

What was the goal you set out to achieve with Nasab? 

The way we work has changed. People need flexibility, mobility and they want to be inspired. Nasab was created in response to this changing work dynamic. We created a place that inspires great work and provides a platform for cultural education and allows people to make meaningful associations with like-minded individuals.

With so many changes in the way we work – in your opinion what is the future of the traditional office job?

The future of the traditional office job is going to be the one that creates productively, cost efficiencies and attracts the greatest talent. There will not be a one-size-fits-all model. I think we’ll see many different hybrids – remote workspaces, working from home, virtual offices merging with more formal HQs. Decision-makers need to be asking themselves how they can attract the best talent and give them an environment that allows them to do their best work.

What do you think members can gain from being part of the Nasab community?

For freelancers or small companies, it is the ability to be surrounded by like-minded people and potential collaborators. We give them an environment they would not be able to create for themselves. For SME’s, they can attract talent through the environment they can provide to their team. They also see huge benefits through cost, savings and flexibility.

Your concept is appealing to a new generation of people – how would you sum up the future generation and what do you think are the biggest differences compared with generations before?

The young generation has access to so much knowledge, so much inspiration, so many options. They see every purchase decision as an extension of themselves so the values and emotional facets of products and services become very important for them.

To what extent do you consider the importance of looking after our wellness when we all live such busy lives?

It’s everything. Mental and physical wellbeing is intrinsically linked to our output and performance as professionals. It’s a non-negotiable investment for anyone that wants to get the most from every facet of their life.

Tell us about the KOA estate in general and what makes it so unique?

The biggest point of difference for KOA is that it seeks to bring all aspects of the grassroots cultural movement that is taking shape in Dubai into residential living. There has been an ongoing shift in the region where we have seen creative industries, personalisation and community-focused initiatives become more and more in demand. These trends have touched on many different sectors but haven’t been fully realised in the places where people live. KOA brings this together through not only the tangible design elements of the project but also through amenities, activities and services available to residents. What we have created is a real ‘members’ community where residents have access to all the elements they need to enrich their lifestyles. KOA’s strength lies in creating unique spaces and that are focused on enhancing human experiences.

Tell us a little about your choices in architecture and design in relation to your projects.

For everything I create I ask myself one question; “would this be as relevant in 20 years as it is now?” Timelessness is the one constant through all of my architecture and design choices. Nasab, and even KOA Canvas and LOWE – cannot be categorised into any trend or single design style. They are based on craftsmanship, beautiful materials and art pieces that tell a story. Multi-layered designs that resonate with and reflect the individuals that use the spaces.

Where do you stand on sustainability with your projects?

The connection and commitment to nature is one of KOA’s defining characteristics. The grounds of KOA Canvas and Nasab preserve the ecological balance and sustainability of the local area through landscaping that’s focused on celebrating the region’s indigenous plant species. It’s about paying homage to the real, local beauty of the region and not imposing excess strain on the environment.

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

I’m very happy with the progress we’ve made. We have been able to shift perspectives on what a work environment should look feel like and modernise the mindset around how great work can be achieved. There is still a long way to go. We are a young company and in a short time, we’ve built an incredible platform for future growth and progress in this arena.

As an entrepreneur, what advice would you give to others who want to follow their own dream? 

Having the right team around you is everything. Find people who share your vision and values for your project. You can’t compromise on this. Take the time to find the people who truly understand what you are trying to accomplish and complement and enhance your skills. And of course, just start; once you start moving in the right direction, the rest flows.

Who is your biggest inspiration?

My wife is my biggest inspiration.

What does the month of Ramadan mean to you? 

It means reflection, gratitude and family. It’s a special time for me and my family, especially now that I can start to teach my boys about it, and its place and value in our lives. It’s a challenge every year, it’s a humbling experience that I am very grateful for.

Prada has partnered with two young creatives in the region Afra Al Dhaheri and Fatima Al Ameemi to present a special collection of ready-to-wear and accessories for Ramadan.

The collection was presented in a unique location showcasing the pieces on a modern yet traditional backdrop in the middle of the Arabian desert. The images take inspiration from a continuous interplay of light and shadow.

The capsule collection contains a selection of pieces from the women’s Spring/Summer 2021 collection by Co-Creative Directors Miuccia Prada and Raf Simons. Modest pieces are featured in a soft colour palette of blush pink, beige and monochrome tones.

The accessories stand out against the stunning landscape where heritage meets modernity. The almost surreal atmosphere, in which nature plays a symbolic role, gives rise to the pure design and clear-cut volumes of bags, accessories, mules and sandals, which take centre stage. Mules are presented in delicate pastel tones. The Prada Nappa mules which are a hero product for the season, are juxtaposed with luxurious evening sandals featuring crystals and embroideries.

The bags featured include the Prada Cleo, with a new range of colours and adjustable strap, Prada System, made of patch Nappa leather and the Prada Re-Edition with crystal embroideries.

For men, elegant sandals with functional designs are the highlight of the selection. Other men’s pieces include a briefcase made of iconic Saffiano leather, sunglasses with a bold profile and soft loafers made of the finest materials.

The collection is now available in Prada Boutiques across the GCC and online at https://www.prada.com/ae

Credits:

Photographer: Greg Adamski

Stylist: Daniel Negron

Hair & Make Up: Ania Poniatowska

Her Highness Sheikha Sana Al Maktoum recently unveiled her jewellery brand Sana Al Maktoum Fine Jewellery to the world through an intimate ceremony conducted behind the walls of the stunning palace where she grew up in Dubai.

Inspired by her late grandmother Her Highness fulfilled her dream of creating her own jewellery line featuring special pieces that will live with women through the memorable moments of their lives. Her Highness wants to create more than just a jewellery collection, she wants to provide pieces that allow women to feel empowered, inspired and confident. Her first collection “My Treasure” is made up of 13 pieces that feature ethically sourced diamonds, alongside pink, yellow or blue sapphires, encased in white gold, yellow gold, or rose gold. At the heart of the collection is the butterfly symbol which represents her late grandmother Sheikha Sana. The butterflies are captured beautifully using the enchanting “en Tremblant” technique which allows them to “quiver” when they are being worn. This old-age traditional technique has been passed down through generations and remains one of the most highly skilled methods used in jewellery-making today.

As well as providing exquisite products for her clients, Her Highness has expressed her wish to take her brand further through a greater vision to create positive change for women and children, through education-related charity partnerships. She will be developing charitable partnerships which will enable those in need to benefit in several ways. To find out more about the latest collection as well as the plans for the future, we talk to Her Highness Sheikha Sana Al Maktoum.

Why did you decide to launch your own jewellery brand and what was the inspiration?

The inspiration behind the collection is my grandmother. I remember her as a strong, spirited woman who always walked her own path. She lived a life away from the public eye but had such an incredible influence on the people of the UAE. She was her own individual self and butterflies remind me of her. They are a symbol of beauty, hope, metamorphosis and change. I feel her around me all the time which is why I call her my “guardian butterfly”.

What is the goal you have set out to achieve with your brand and where would you like to see it in five years?

I hope to launch more jewellery collections in due time and to solidify exciting partnerships and collaborations with other global companies. My dream is for Sana Al Maktoum Fine Jewellery to evolve into a truly international brand, known for its innovative and modern design, but also as jewellery that makes a real difference through its charity connections.

Tell us a little about the debut collection “My Treasure”.

Memories are to be treasured, and I treasure the time I spent in the garden with my grandmother Sheikha Sana. She would often laugh and call the butterflies, “her treasure”. She had a profound impact on my life, so she has become my own “Treasure”. I continue to share her love of butterflies, and the My Treasure collection is in her honour.

You recently presented the collection to the world, what has been some of the feedback you have received so far and how was the experience of inviting guests behind the walls of the palace?

Apart from the fact that the palace is a beautiful venue, it is also my home. Having the event at home, created a very personal touch that I wanted when discussing my debut collection. It’s also important for me and my brand, to develop a good working relationship with media representatives, so hosting them at the Palace was a step forward in creating that respectful and productive relationship. The response has been overwhelming, heart-warming, and positive to say the least. I feel very encouraged and excited about the future of Sana Al Maktoum Fine Jewellery.

What can we expect to see coming from your brand throughout the rest of the year?

I’m looking forward to designing a new collection and pursuing exciting new collaborations and a partnership with a charity close to my heart.

What do you think women are looking for from jewellery today particularly in the Middle East?

Women in the Middle East are very fashion-forward and understand jewellery well in terms of quality and branding. They are always one step ahead when it comes to fashion trends and are looking for pieces that allow them to stand out within their circles as a form of self-expression and harnessing their power.

What is your first memory of jewellery?

As a child, I found myself very drawn to jewellery. My mum used to dress me up in jewellery before we went to see my grandmother. I picked up my affinity towards it at a very young age and it has since developed further into a passion. Purchasing and wearing a certain piece of jewellery evokes special moments in your life that you want to treasure forever.

Where do you stand on sustainability with your projects?

All the stones are sourced ethically. My goal is to eventually transition to finding diamonds that are sustainable as can be.

Growing up in the UAE how do you think you were inspired to follow your dreams?

I have been surrounded by the most amazing role models that have served as inspiration. My mother, Sheikha Hessa, is an artist and I have been blessed by her creativity. Sheikha Latifa Al Maktoum has been inspiring as a sportswoman- she is an incredible horse rider and Olympian showjumper. I love how Sheikha Mozah Al Maktoum went on to inspire many more by becoming the first Emirati pilot and Sheikha Manal Al Maktoum bint Mohammed bin Rashid for encouraging Emirati women to follow their dreams. And of course, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum who is the ultimate visionary for Dubai and responsible for putting it on the map as a world-class city.

What support did you receive from those around you?

My family has given me a lot of support. Besides this, I have an amazing international team that’s always hands-on. I’m extremely grateful to my best friend Sara for being there at all the appearances and major milestones of Sana Al Maktoum Fine Jewellery. My close friend Hessa has also been a huge part in building the business right from its foundation.

As a young businesswoman, what advice would you give to others who want to follow their own dream?

Believe in yourself and follow your intuition. Always go with your gut instinct and don’t follow the herd. Always do what you believe in.

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

I would love to go to the Bharat Diamond Bourse (BDB) in Mumbai, India. It is the world’s largest diamond market, and I would love to visit it and interact with various traders as well as craftsmen to learn from them. I really look forward to learning from various experts in the industry.

Who is your biggest inspiration?

HRH Princess Diana – she was truly a people’s princess. I love her grace and the fact that she never held back from showing her love to the people and stood for her own rights. She was a woman of peace, charity and integrity. She seamlessly embraced all cultures and traditions, which is something I value greatly.

What is the life motto that you live by?

Always go with your gut instinct.

What does the Holy Month of Ramadan mean to you?

Ramadan is a time for family and a time to go within. It is a time where I connect deeply and spiritually with my faith. It is a month of slowing down, reflection, and gratitude for everyone and everything that I have.

What is a message you would like to send to our readers about your brand?

Sana Al Maktoum Fine Jewellery is a brand that embraces a new way of design and expression – I view it as an international, versatile and timeless brand for the modern woman. It transcends seasons and feels transformative and empowering. The pieces carry a sense of emotion and metamorphosis – women are ever-evolving and changing, and I want it to be a symbol of this transformation and for my brand to serve as a memory of this change.

We discover the latest modest fashion looks from local and international designers to wear this Ramadan.

Editor in Chief: Lara Mansour Sawaya

Styling and Direction: Lindsay Judge

Photographer: Ausra Osi

Model: Ioanna Bella

Hair and makeup: Sophie Leach

With Special thanks to Jeep

Dress: PEARLA

Kaftan: Azzalia Headband: Gucci Shoes: Dior

Shirt Skirt Sandals Belt Sunglasses: Etro

Shirt Skirt Belt Sunglasses: Etro

Dress: Noora Hefzi Sunglasses: Bottega Veneta

Kaftan: Sem Sem Earrings: AURATE Sandals: Etro

Dress: IAM MAI Shoes: Giuseppe Zanotti

Dress: ILLUSTRELLA Earrings: AURATE
Shoes: Christian Louboutin

Dress: ILLUSTRELLA Earrings: AURATE Shoes: Christian Louboutin

Dress Bag Shoes Sunglasses: Valentino

Abaya: YNM Bag: Tod’s Shoes: Tod’s

Dress Jacket Tote Sandals: Dior

Kaftan: Sem Sem Earrings: AURATE Sandals: Etro

Dress: Dolce & Gabbana Shoes: Tod’s

Discover the Dior Gold capsule collection that evokes mystery and elegance.

This Ramadan, Dior presents the Dior Gold capsule collection that reinforces the House’s connection to the colour gold and all that it represents. Through this capsule collection, Maria Grazia Chiuri reinterprets iconic styles in subtle versions enhanced with a touch of gold. The Creative Director revisited dresses and ethereal skirts in tulle, silk or multicoloured mesh – punctuated by meticulous embroidery, symbols of the excellence in the Dior Ateliers – and reinvented the J’Adior 8 t-shirt, evoking Monsieur Dior’s superstitious nature and his lucky number.

Photographer: Mazen Abusrour

The Dior Palto jacket which was revealed at the spring-summer 2021 ready-to-wear show – sculpts the waist in an elegant ode to singularity and freedom of movement crafted in a rich gold tone.

Bags including the Dior Book Tote the Lady Dior, the Saddle and the Dior Caro are featured in soft tones. The latter is dressed in signature cannage and embellished with a chain whose links repeat the “CD” signature, is finely embroidered with metallic threads creating delicate stripes, This ornamentation also sublimates the DiorTravel vanity, an essential that travels anywhere, as well as J’Adior pumps, Walk’n’Dior sneakers, Dway mules and Dior Granville espadrilles.

Refined accessories including a stole, a bracelet, and a belt signed “Christian Dior” enrich this dreamlike and romantic universe, reflecting a resolutely Dior style.

This exclusive series will be available from April 1st, in all Dior boutiques in the Middle East set within dedicated pop-ups, as well as in a pop-up store in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and on the Dior website in the United Arab Emirates.

Shop the collection at: Dior.ae

Cartier’s new Double C De Cartier bag is set to become a must-have investment piece this summer.

With the Cartier initials at the centre, this structured accessory is both timeless and contemporary. “We sought to modernize the logo by freeing it from the interior oval, where it had previously appeared on the Maison’s bags.” Said Marin Huson, Director of Leather and Leather Accessory Creation at Cartier.

“We handled it like a piece of jewelry, with particular attention being paid to its unexpected opening. For the first time, its presence is both aesthetic and functional, not to mention the pretty click sound it makes when closed, further enhancing its jewel clasp. Moreover, the highly structured bag shape is so streamlined that it allows the clasp to shine. The bag is its perfect backdrop. It was designed to be worn two ways: over the shoulder or crossbody, thanks to its adjustable shoulder strap.”

This elegant creation can be worn both over the shoulder or across the body. Its simple, understated lines are crafted in smooth leather, available in deep black, intense red, powered pink and fuchsia pink. It is available in a large and small size.

Available now at Cartier stores and online.

Fendi presents a Middle East collection with new exclusive designs for the region.

Fendi presents a special collection for Ramadan, crafted with the Middle Eastern client in mind. The iconic Fendi Peekaboo bag has been reimagined in a series of eucalyptus green crocodile bags with matte gold hardware.

Perfect for the Ramadan season these luxurious designs in soft tones are both timeless and feminine. These three new pieces have been made exclusively for the region with the Middle Eastern woman in mind.

They use the most precious exotic leathers brought to life by the expertise of Fendi artisans who are trained and specialised in the creation of one-of-a-kind pieces handcrafted using the finest attention to detail.

The bags are accompanied by a selection of shoes from the Spring/Summer 2021 collection. Each piece emulates elegance and grace, values epitomised by the Fendi House.

The exclusive pieces are available at Fendi stores in the Middle East.

On the occasion of the Holy month of Ramadan, Loro Piana presents a Capsule Collection.

The capsule offering pays homage to the Middle East, celebrating the art of embroidery with a selection of sophisticated kaftans characterised by a spontaneous and timeless elegance.

The kaftans are crafted from super-soft linen and embellished with delicate summer weaving embroidery on the cuffs and collars. The modest feminine designs consist of full-length straight-cut styles that are slightly flared with three-quarter length sleeves.

Available in a range of soft yet eye-catching colours that reflect the hues of the desert, the kaftans are perfect for the day time or evening. The yarns used for the weaving of the embroidery are transformed into a delicate rope that is embellished onto the linen creating a unique embossed effect and giving the perception that it is a texture of the fabric itself.

Thanks to the technique used, every kaftan has its own unique embroidery.

The exclusive Capsule Collection will only be available in the UAE for the period of Ramadan and Eid, both at The Dubai Mall and the e-commerce platform.

Salvatore Ferragamo will take part in this year’s Art Dubai with a special display of selected pieces from the Spring/Summer 2021 collection.

The collection was inspired by the technicolour vibrance of Creative Director Paul Andrew’s favourite Alfred Hitchcock classics and fits perfectly with the theme of the fair.

The SS21 campaign fashion movie which was created by Oscar-nominated director Luca Guadagnino will also be showcased at the fair to guests visiting the Ferragamo booth. . The film tells the story of the collection pieces where the imagery of Guadagnino and designs of Creative Director Paul Andrew combine to conjure a haunting and ambiguous series of Milanese mise-en-scenes.

Guests will also have the chance to participate in a special experience to solve ENIGMA, an online game that provides a dimension to stimulate interactive dialogue with clients for alternative storytelling of the intriguing universe of the SS21.

Art Dubai will run from 29th March to 3rd April in its new location at DIFC.

At the heart of the Baby Dior spring-summer 2021 collection by Cordelia de Castellane is a series of looks inspired by the philosophy of “peace and love.”

A colourful and playful celebration of dreams and an ode to the freedom of childhood.

For girls, highlights include ethereal dresses in cotton voile or embellished with crochet inserts, as well as jackets in pastel shades.

While For boys, faded shirts in soft hues and sweatpants in multicoloured tie-dye patterns punctuated with the “Dior” logo become symbols of reinvention; a blank page for etching out the future.

A celebration of dreams and an ode to the freedom of childhood, to be discovered now in Dior boutiques.

Monica Bellucci has been unveiled as the face of Dolce & Gabbana’s Devotion Bag campaign.

Pictured with the stunning backdrop of Lake Como in Italy, the Italian actress embodies the traditional spirit of the House.

“Monica Bellucci is the emblem of Italian beauty in the world. Her friendship makes us proud and her charm gives an incredible light to our creations. With Monica we share the devotion for the Beauty and craftsmanship, for work, family and Italy: it is a pleasure to be able to tell all this love alongside her”. Said Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana.

The Devotion Bag launched three years ago and has become an icon within the Italian House and comes in a range of sizes, fabrics and colours.  A declaration of love and devotion to elegance, the craftsmanship and attention to detail is sealed by the Sacred Heart symbol.

Available at Dolce & Gabbana stores globally.

Photographer: Branislav Simoncik

Three new limited edition bright and colourful shades of Hermès’ Rouge Hermès Lipstick have launched for Spring/Summer 2021.

Beige Ebloui, Rose Oasis, Corail Aqua are three fresh tones inspired by the colours of summer that will fit seamlessly into the current collection.

Beige Ebloui Studio des fleurs

BEIGE EBLOUI represents the vibration of sand, richly warmed by the sun, an amber caress on the lips.

Rose Oasis Studio des fleurs

ROSE OASIS is neither quite fuchsia nor quite magenta, an exalted pink, part bougainvillaea, part succulent plant.

Corail Aqua Studio des fleurs

CORAIL AQUA evokes a divine dip in a turquoise pool, the shimmering glow of a bright and intense vermilion.

The three lipsticks are housed inside a colourful, refillable case. Each of the lipsticks features a shimmering satin finish that is both highly pigmented and moisturising on the lips.

Available at Hermès outlets globally from March 2021.

Celine debuts its TRIOMPHE bag in a new shape for Spring/Summer 2021.

The elegant shoulder bag is perfect for today’s modern woman and is versatile as well as stylish.

Perfect to be worn from day to night, the TRIOMPHE Shoulder Bag features the TRIOMPHE signature on the front and its shorter strap offers a younger, more contemporary silhouette.

Designed by the brand’s Creative Director Hedi Slimane for the Spring/Summer 2021 Ready-To-Wear Women’s collection, the bag is available in a wide range of materials and colours including pastel tones, tan, calfskin and Triomphe Canvas.

The new bag is available globally at Celine stores as well as online at celine.com

Hermès Dubai Mall is hosting an exclusive exhibition that celebrates the Maison’s watchmaking know-how.

The Crafting Time installation will be located at the Dubai Mall store until 27th March 2021 and will highlight the savoir-faire and excellence of watchmaking at the house.

The attention to detail is highlighted through the Arceau L’heure de la lune watches; the latest creations for the Maison.

The Dubai Mall store windows are dedicated to this new watch, offering an insight into the latest pieces. While inside the store, visitors are invited to discover a made-to-measure service that makes it possible to personalise the case, dial or strap of the Cape Cod and Heure H watches, or to engrave an inscription on their back.

Guests will also get to discover the latest novelties from Hermès Watches with the new Arceau L’heure de la lune being the star of the show. This elegant watch offers a unique vision of Earth’s satellite with the simultaneous display of moon phases in both northern and southern hemispheres.  Framed by a white gold or platinum case, the mechanics adopt a light, barely-there role.

The exhibition will run until Saturday 27th March at Hermès, The Dubai Mall.

Louis Vuitton has opened a Spring/Summer 2021 pop-up store in Qatar’s renowned 21 High Street, Katara, the outdoor shopping destination.

Showcasing the women’s latest collection designed by Artistic Director of Womenswear Nicolas Ghesquière the pop-up invites guests to discover the world of Louis Vuitton in a setting of green screens and silver details with products presented in a futuristic setting that sets the tone of the collection.

The temporary store will offer ready-to-wear pieces from the latest collection, as well as accessories, leather goods and shoes. The Louis Vuitton Exotic City Bags will also be on offer for those looking to find something that bit extra special.

The store is now open at 21 High Street, Katara, Qatar.

Debuting for Spring/Summer 2021, Rendez-Vous is an elegant and timeless accessory that’s perfect for the summer months

If you’re looking for an investment piece this season Louis Vuitton’s new Rendez-Vous bag collection is the perfect summer accessory. Luxurious and refined the new bag combines edgy signatures with subtle memories of House’s legacy as a trunk-maker.

The lock is inspired by the brand’s archives padlocks and nautical chains that have become instantly recognisable throughout history, while the Edge chain with its sharp lines and sleek Monogram engraving reflect designs of the past. A new refined calfskin leather supple is soft to the touch, offering a sleek finish.

The new Rendez-Vous makes its debut for Spring/Summer 2021 and is offered in three colourways: black, tomette and camel, as well as a black Monogram and metal version. There is also a luxurious crocodilian leather version in deep olive green and in maroquinier looking Miel.

This elegant bag is the perfect accompanist to any rendezvous you have this season!

Portuguese chef José Avillez has partnered with Maison Christian Dior to create a unique menu inspired by the House’s fragrances.

The menu which will be on offer Tasca restaurant located at Mandarin Oriental Jumeira will see each course paired with some of the House’s most popular fragrances in the Gulf Region.

Chef José Avillez worked closely with the Maison to bring out the notes of each scent in the six-course menu, blending unique flavours to unique dishes that complement the fragrances.

The chosen fragrances to be paired with the menu are: Gris Dior, Oud Rosewood, Oud Ispahan, Purple Oud, Ambre Nuit and the latest addition to the Maison, Tobacolor and dishes such as ‘Burnt Avocado Cocktail and Algarve Prawns’ and ‘Braised Red Mullet Scented with Basil Jam’ will tickle the tastebuds of diners.

We are extremely excited to be able to collaborate with Maison Christian Dior to combine the vibrant dining experience Tasca is known for with one of the most renowned brands in fragrance” said Chef José Avillez. “Creating such a unique concept in dining will hopefully inspire people to see this as more than simply dining, but a true feast for the senses.”

The Maison Christian Dior x José Avillez Menu is available at Tasca exclusively for dinner and priced at 600 AED per person, food only, with the option of pairing for 350 AED per person. The menu will be available from Thursday 25 March to Thursday 1 April.

For more information or to make a reservation, please call +971 4 777 2231 or visit www.mandarinoriental.com/tasca

Escape to retreats and destinations that will put your wellbeing first and refocus your mind and body.

Pura Eco Retreat

The UAE’s first ever luxury eco-retreat is now open for visitors, offering guests the perfect place to relax and unwind. Situated on Jubail Island in Abu Dubai, this five-start destination provides a picture-perfect backdrop of Abu Dhabi’s abundant mangroves and turquoise waters and a glance of life on Jubail Island as the master development materialises.

The adult-only Pura Eco Retreat is an exclusive hideaway, built with sustainable practices in mind and a holistic approach while offering every conceivable luxury leaving guests feeling pampered from head to toe. The island-inspired wellness retreat focuses on the connection between the mind and body to ensure guests feel fully restored and rejuvenated.

Taking its name from the popular Costa Rican phrase “Pura Vida” – translating to “pure life” – the retreat is home to luxurious and unique accommodations ranging from the Chic Domes, to the Native Tents experience. The Chic Domes are five spacious domes adorned with locally sourced furniture pieces and artwork. Each dome features a king-sized bed, en-suite bathroom and 5-star amenities offering a refined glamping experience. With a minimalist theme and neutral tones, the domes offer scenic views of the mangroves and wilderness, and a colourful cabana offers guests a secluded spot to relax alfresco in the unspoilt nature of the island. Guest can relax around the BBQ for a home-from-home experience as they lay under the stars, or opt to experience the retreat’s fine-dining options. Meanwhile, the Native Tents experience provide rustic accommodation inviting guests to stargaze alongside the tranquil lagoon. Surrounded by mangroves the texts feature a full-size bed, along with lazy seating and fire pits as well as access to luxury bathrooms.

Activities include cycling, kayaking, yoga, stargazing, bird watching and even a private beach exclusively available for overnight guests. This retreat allows guests to escape their busy lives and be at one with nature without having to leave the UAE. The vast landscape has been designed specifically to preserve the unspoilt native flora and fauna, with each hideaway constructed using ethically sourced materials that blend in effortlessly with the natural surroundings.

With sustainability at its core, Pura Eco Retreat has taken steps to reduce its carbon footprint by implementing a strictly car-free zone – guests are transported around the retreat on golf carts – re-using and recycling materials, planting more trees, zero use of motorized activities and applying sustainable practices across the retreat that preserve nature and promote environmental awareness. Attempting to raise awareness of sea pollution, the retreat has installed fishing pods to gather litter thrown in the mangroves water.

Ibrahim Al Mannaee, the owner of Pura Eco Retreat says: “Pura’s philosophy of ‘Pure Life’ led us to the unspoilt nature at Jubail Island. In complete harmony with its surroundings, the eco-retreat complements Jubail Island’s vision of co-habiting within nature with minimum impact on the surrounding environment. There was a need within the market for a secluded hideaway, away from the hustle and bustle of the city, where guests can appreciate nature without giving up on the necessary comforts of life – living on Jubail Island offers just that. Pura Eco Retreat provides a window to the future of island life that will soon be realised. We also wanted to complement the Department of Tourism and Culture’s vision for ecotourism and hope that we are on the path to contributing the emirate’s tourism offering. “

The Retreat Palm Dubai MGallery by Sofitel

 

This Dubai-based retreat brings together a five-star resort location with a focus on health and wellbeing. It was the first holistic wellbeing resort in the Middle East, offering an immersive, enchanting experience that allows you to relax, unwind and focus on yourself. Situated on The Palm Jumeirah, the beachfront destination houses 255 boutique rooms all designed with natural elements, earth tones and a harmonising Feng Shui philosophy throughout.

At the heart of the resort is the Rayya Wellness Centre, inspired by a 360-degree holistic wellness concept, offering organic-based products, uplifting rejuvenation experiences and transformational wellness retreats. The unique Rayya Spa features a distinctive array of wellbeing therapies and signature spa treatments, rejuvenating cryotherapy, detoxifying facials and the traditional Hammam. Rayya Wellness offers a range of all-inclusive retreat packages, designed to help improve mental and physical wellbeing. Treatments can take place within our spa and wellness centre, as well as on the beach and other tranquil locations around our luxury Dubai resort.

And when you’re done experiencing treatments and activities, relaxing by the resort’s infinity pool, overlooking the Dubai skyline. The property also features four dining concepts with a range of options promoting healthy gastronomy, serving an array of nutritious food and beverage varieties made from locally-sourced products.

Find out more at theretreatpalmdubai.com.

UAE-founded luxury brand Elna Line has recently unveiled an exclusive Ramadan collection titled “Reflection”.

Born during lockdown the collection takes inspiration from the isolation period caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Amna Karmostaji Creative Director and Founder of the brand said; “this collection is a tribute to all the women who want to get dressed up and at the stay time stay comfortable, it’s a tribute to understated glamour.

It’s for every woman who wants to take her fashion from the sidewalk to the catwalk”. “Reflection” is a compilation of the best of Elna Line over the years featuring signature cutes and shapes, reinvented with new fluid fabrics and luxe embroideries.

Monochrome designs are key to the collection as well as the brand’s signature pearl details. Lightweight, airy, minimalistic styles are both simple, comfortable and easy to accessorise. Tone on tone embroideries and mixed panel elements give the collection an understated allure that is true to the brand’s DNA.

The “Reflection” collection is available online at Elna Line’s website as well as at Ounass.com, Designers Empire Boutique and United Designers.

UAE-based fashion brand PEARLA has launched its “Seeds from Heaven” collection for Ramadan 2021.

Designed by founders Hessa and Fatma AlJoker, the collection is the sister’s creative interpretation of heaven as well as being inspired by the serenity and spirituality of the Holy Month. Details, lines, cuts, and colours were carefully crafted and selected to convey spirituality, lightness, and purity synonymous with heaven and with the month of Ramadan.

With a bright and joyous colour palette soft and light fabrics in fluid silhouettes flight in harmony with nature. “This time of the year is very close to our heart and to our local community. It exudes a spiritual and radiant energy. It inspires hope and peace. It reconnects people with each other and with what matters most in life. At a time when our world is facing the unpredictable and the unknown, it is also an opportunity for us to contemplate, create, and innovate for better days ahead. True to PEARLA tradition, our Seeds of Heaven collection is fashion art imitating life, both celebrating and drawing inspiration from the heavenly spirit of the Holy Month,” commented Hessa and Fatma AlJoker, on the launch.

They concluded; “this year more than ever, the Holy Month of Ramadan will be a global celebration; a time to reflect, rejoice and recount our blessings after a very challenging year. It is in this spirit that we wanted Seeds from Heaven to be accessible to all fashion lovers around the world.”

Seeds from Heaven will be available on PEARLA’s website, Pearla.ae, as well as across select stores in the UAE.

Chanel celebrates 100 years of its iconic perfume Chanel N°5 with an exclusive high jewellery collection.

In the first high jewellery collection dedicated to a perfume Patrice Leguéreau, Director of the Chanel Fine Jewellery Creation Studio, has reimagined the iconic fragrance as a an extraordinary diamond jewellery collection titled; Collection N°5.

The collection showcases all the facets of a perfume, interpreting the eternal mystery of the fragrance in an exceptional manner. One hundred and twenty-three extraordinary pieces express the different facets of the perfume. With its hundred years of fame, only a perfume as mysterious and iconic as the N°5 perfume could inspire such a majestic High Jewellery collection.

The highlight of the Collection N°5 is the extraordinary 55.55 necklace that expresses all the codes of the fragrance which radiate through an exceptional gemstone crafted in its honour, a 55.55-carat custom-cut diamond.

“This is an unprecedented approach” observes Patrice Leguéreau. “We started with a rough diamond that we had cut, not to make the biggest stone possible, but to obtain a perfect octagonal diamond weighing 55.55 carats.”

The harmonious shape, in an emerald cut, the symbolic weight of 55.55 carats, the D Flawless quality of this stone and the 18-carat white gold bezel set with 104 round diamonds and 42 baguette diamonds testify to Chanel’s perfectionism and exceptional levels of creation and technical mastery.

The profile of the stopper, the silhouette of the bottle, the fastener shaped like the lucky number, and the cascading of pear-shaped diamonds in different sizes, cut one by one, mould this piece into an ultimate tribute to the perfume.

The 55.55 necklace symbolises the embrace between the spirit of the N°5 perfume and the most exceptional jewellery making. This fascinating and eternal item of jewellery adds its own stone to the story of Chanel’s first perfume, which has become a myth.

Due to its exceptional story,  Chanel will keep the necklace 55.55 in its Patrimoine allowing this extraordinary piece to forever be a part of the history of Chanel’s High Jewellery and the symbol of the unbreakable ties that unite place Vendôme with the N°5 perfume.

Lama Jouni founded her contemporary ready-to-wear label in 2013 with the aim of redefining the fundamental, effortless, refined, and meticulous present-day woman.

Using a discerning selection of materials and conscientious tailoring, Jouni has presented a series of collections inspired by music, travel and art compose structural silhouettes for the fierce, sensual, and understated woman. Born in Lebanon, Jouni pursued her degree at ESMOD Instituto Marangoni and finished at Parsons Paris with a well-built foundation in fashion history and tailoring. With an aim to redefine high-fashion ready-to-wear women’s wear at a comprehensible price point, Jouni is particularly concerned with striving to become a fully sustainable brand that produces long-lasting timeless pieces.

The past year has been unsettling in many ways – how have you been able to continue designing and what are the biggest challenges you have faced?

My journey throughout lockdown has actually brought me clarity towards the brand. I was already striving to make the brand more concise by aligning products with lifestyle and so during all that free time at home I was able to narrow down my vision to the true essence of the brand.

What is a lesson you have learnt from this year?

As a creative and as a human being, I have learnt how to appreciate living a slow, conscious life, towards myself and my brand. The slow-paced life has brought me clarity and gave me the opportunity to understand what is important today in the fashion industry, which is slow fashion and working collectively towards sustainability.

What can you tell us about your Essentials collection?

The essentials collection is designed thoughtfully for the fundamentally versatile and effortless silhouette. A collection of classic, timeless pieces using cotton knit for a comfortable fit. Preserving an elemental colour palette, the collection features buttercream and onyx black for the fierce, sensual and understated present-day woman. The collection keeps sustainability at its core by encouraging mindful shopping through pieces that can be transitioned from day to night, all year round.

How do you think Fashion Trust Arabia is helping to raise awareness of designers in the region?

The FTA initiative is raising awareness by having the most influential people in the industry recognise the work of emerging designers. It is important to shed light on the talent in the Middle East that is thriving and growing.

What would you like to see happen in the fashion industry in the region?

I would like to see stronger infrastructure in terms of suppliers and production facilities to help Middle Eastern designers grow locally. I would also like to see the industry grow more towards sustainability and taking steps into reducing the fashion industry’s footprint in the world.

What is next for Lama Jouni?

Lama Jouni is now working towards becoming fully sustainable and focusing on the Essentials collections becoming the dominant part of the brand, while reaching a wider global market.

What is the biggest challenge you face today?

The biggest challenge I face today is scaling production as much as I want to, while reaching new retailers on a global scale.

When are you at your most creative?

I feel most creative when I am done with my daily tasks and have all the time to be creative at night.

What is the motto you live by?

My motto in life, is that consistency is key, no matter if it’s in my personal life or career.

What is something that you’ll take away from the FTA experience?

I will take from the experience that humbleness that comes with it, while learning from all the creatives and influential people on board. In addition, this kind of experience is mind-opening in terms of seeing what kind of talent and new minds are developing within my region and culture.

Garrard has further expanded its Fanfare collection with a new offering of refreshingly contemporary Fanfare Symphony jewels.

Each piece contrasts the vibrancy of the House’s signature coloured gemstones with the unique beauty of ornamental hardstones. The original Fanfare collection was inspired by the precious fans carried by guests at the opera masquerades that were the height of fashion in London’s theatre district when Garrard opened its first boutique there in 1735. For the new Fanfare Symphony jewels, Garrard’s designers revisited these spirited masquerades, interpreting instead the symphony of colour unleashed as ladies swirled around the ballrooms in their extravagant gowns.

“The Fanfare Symphony collection celebrates the wonderful diversity of ornamental hardstones, which have such a different look and feel to traditional gemstones,” explains Sara Prentice, Creative Director at Garrard. “The array of new designs brings an exciting dimension to the collection.” 

Looking to expand the theme of colour that infused the original Fanfare collection, led by Creative Director Sara Prentice, Garrard’s designers turned to the diverse world of hardstones for an exciting new palette with which to work. Creating mood boards featuring different combinations of gemstones and hardstones, they narrowed them down until they were left with the most harmonious pairings. There are 40 pieces in the collection in total, offering the perfect balance between the opacity and tonal variations of the hardstones and the fire and translucency of the coloured precious and semi-precious gemstones.

The gemstone and hardstone pairings in the Fanfare Symphony collection are inspired by the House’s history. Designed to accentuate the primary hue of each jewel, pink tourmaline is combined with pink opal; emerald with malachite; sapphire with lapis lazuli; aquamarine with turquoise; yellow sapphire with cachalong; ruby with hematite; and white diamond with mother-of-pearl. Retaining the generous size and strong silhouettes of the original Fanfare Classic jewels, these creative combinations trace the outline of each Fanfare motif, with the carved hardstones set alongside faceted pavé gemstones.

A more stylised Fanfare silhouette has been introduced into these new jewels, distinguished by bold flashes of hardstones set to mimic the pleats of a fan. This appears on Fanfare Symphony stud earrings and delicate pendants, together with asymmetric rings featuring two delicately angled fans that sit side by side upon the finger for double impact.

Other creations remain faithful to the original openwork Fanfare design but with a twist, setting the motif’s sweeping curves at artful angles on rings and necklaces, capturing the drama and mystique of the collection. Elegantly interwoven into the jewels is another design code of the House: the Garrard Windsor motif, formed of geometric shapes that reference Queen Mary’s Girls of Great Britain and Ireland tiara.

Chaumet’s Joséphine collection has been updated with creations reflecting the many facets of the personality of the Empress, the first major client of Maison Chaumet.

The Joséphine Aigrette and Joséphine Ronde d’Aigrettes pieces feature a uniquely shaped watch, evoking an empress as a fashion icon, while Joséphine Valse Impériale and Joséphine Duo Éternel High Jewellery recall the splendour of festivities at court and the legendary couple she formed with Napoléon. These new items can be mixed and matched with the collection’s existing creations to compose a unique style.

By playing with trends, the new Joséphine Ronde d’Aigrettes collection offers pieces in which pear cuts are assembled together. Whether asymmetrical compositions on earrings, bracelets and rings conceived for stacking, or graphic duos on pendants, rings and earrings, Joséphine Ronde d’Aigrettes features rose or white gold, and diamonds either solo or paired with an aquamarine note.

The new Joséphine Aigrette-shaped watch challenges the codes of watchmaking and offers an original way of everyday wear. This creation is precious and refined like a jewel, with its pavé or mirror-polished gold case, singular and feminine in its pear shape. The bracelet wraps the wrist in an unprecedented way, without hindrance or buckle. In white or rose gold it can be worn with a leather strap in the day, and satin for the evening, and with a white or black dial or entirely in pavé diamonds.

The Joséphine Aigrette jewellery watch is an expression of Chaumet virtuosity and detail. Reinterpreting the Maison’s historic art of trompe-l’oeil, the pear motif appears on the index set with a brilliant-cut diamond and adorns the dial with its graphic facets.

Inspired by Joséphine’s sovereign allure, the Joséphine Valse Impériale High Jewellery parure evokes the pomp of imperial festivities. It pays tribute to the art of lightness and grace that has always been a hallmark of the Maison’s creations. Central stones in the form of pear-shaped diamonds sweep with symmetrical curves, emphasising the elevation of a tiara, spilling as earrings worn in an ultra-contemporary manner, or hugging the neckline on a majestic necklace. Reflecting the virtuosity of the 12 Vendôme workshop, the fils couteaux mounts seem to make the metal disappear, letting the stones shine out.

Joséphine Duo Éternel, is a contemporary revisiting of the traditional form of the “Toi et Moi” ring, a perfect symbol of love. In an echo of the engagement ring given by Napoléon to the future Empress, this new High Jewellery collection perpetuates the Maison’s prized tradition of sentimental jewellery. Offering timeless pieces worn in a contemporary way, Joséphine Duo Éternel is distinguished by its asymmetrical compositions.

Rings feature gems arranged head-to-head, but there are also torque necklaces and a bracelet, whose refined line is accentuated by a gradient of diamonds, earrings worn on either side of the ear and, for the first time in the Joséphine collection, a brooch that can be worn by both her and him. These light parures are available as diamonds or diamonds and sapphires, echoing the Chaumet blue and Joséphine’s historic “Toi et Moi” ring.