Every day, more than anything else, my clients across the globe are looking for ways of adapting to ‘changing’ uncertainty.

No doubt, business has flipped on its head since the pandemic hit. If you take a look at Maslow’s hierarchy of needs at the top is self-actualisation and at the bottom is physiological health. When the pyramid is challenged by something as big as COVID-19, priorities turn on their head.

Self-actualisation is about long-term thinking, long-term goals and intentions. But in times of uncertainty, these seem restrictive and stifling. Today, it’s a challenge to look beyond three or four months ahead whereas not so long ago we had four or five-year strategic business plans.

The need for certainty in the long run or that we have power over that uncertainty is perceptively challenging. Here’s what can help. When the uncertain happens, you don’t need a plan, you just need a “possible”. Ask yourself:

1. Are you focusing only on your daily business goals or daily routine?
2. Is your flow working? Are you embracing the shift from globalisation and digitalisation to dispersion? The business world is moving away from focal points to a flexible, personalised, tailor-made experience. Is your business moving in the same way?
3. While this brings about a sense of power over our own lives, it does detract from personal interaction, which can be isolating and debilitating. That’s why, in Japan for example, the government has uniquely appointed a “Minister of Loneliness”. What is your business doing to ensure the wellbeing of its employees?
4. Which brings me to my next point… how do you run a 100-kilometre race through the desert when you can’t see the goal? I asked Ryan Sandes, a South African trail-running phenomenon. In 2010 he became the first competitor to win all four of the 4 Deserts races. Here’s his trick: He visualizes finishing the race, but he takes one kilometre at a time. It’s called the Sprint Strategy of Goals. Break goals into bite-sized pieces, but always have the end in mind. Not only is it possible, it allows your pleasure in achieving your goals to be greater.
5. When the pyramid shift happens there’s personal expansion. So, what are you doing to shift your thinking from just the bottom line to building solid relationships to reach those targets?

If you or your business is taking some strain, my suggestion is to stop thinking long-term for a short while; bring in small goals and small wins to help self-motivate. Try the sprint system of goals and make meaningful connections. I know you’ll make it through the finish line.

If you’d like to connect, sign up for my masterclass Forge Your Future or Trans-For-Motion at http://www/johnsanei.com. You’ll get to understand the future of business drawn from hours of research and collaboration. We’ll analyse new models and changing consumer trends to understand their impact on the current market, and what that means for our evolving economies.

Nisrine El Lababidi Moghraby Founder of Harf Noon Design Studio shares her tips trends and colour themes for the new season

The sun is out and we are starting to feel the early days of spring with all the beautiful flowers blooming and the start of the warmth in the air. With that comes lighter colour palettes for interiors. Always think of a new season as an opportunity to be a bit more experimental and creative in how you put things together in your home.

An easy way to update your home is by replacing throw cushions on the sofa with new ones in various textures like silk, brocade, chenille and jacquard. Always consider playing with textures and layers, mixing and matching cushions. Enliven sofas with solid colours and ambient lighting from various indirect light sources. And don’t forget to ignite the sense of smell. Use scented candles and oils to brand spring differently from the rest of the year. Opt for light floral scents in candles and scented oils that will evoke the essence of spring.

For fabrics choose light and airy options and try natural fabrics like organic cotton and recycled polyesters. These could complement furniture in lighter colours and contrast with brass, bronze or gold for an aged mirror effect. Don’t shy away from mixing & matching prints – switching up the textures in your room by having a variety of fabrics on your draperies, rugs, and upholsteries allows for a more personal touch in a space.

With that, I’m keen on three colour trends that I feel will be big this season:

EARTH TONES & NATURAL LUXURY

Say goodbye to the cool tones that have ruled for so many years. Shades of chocolate brown, olive green, and yellow ochre are all taking over in homes.

We will also be seeing more natural materials with a luxurious spin like weaving, marble accents such as vases, bowls and candleholders that balance modern and traditional style. Linen will also be big, but in beautiful jewel tones, with finished edges that feel more polished than the raw-edge boho take we’ve seen in the past. You will also see a lot of soft peachy corals and terracotta—colours that feel soft yet grounded. I also love golden yellow tones in lush fabrics like velvets to buttery, caramel leathers or leather-look. Particularly interesting is the comeback of the curved sofas trend transporting you to the ’60s and ’70s but with a modern twist and a focus shape as well as the actual fabric.

GRAND-MILLENNIAL STYLE

This look is traditional with a twist: blending elements of classic design like chinoiserie, scallops, handmade elements, topiaries, and more, with a contemporary edge, think: modern art and clean-lined furniture. You will also see a lot more pattern on pattern. Patterns, especially layered patterns are becoming more prevalent for tabletop and textiles designs. The key to this trend is that there aren’t any rules. Also think of pattern mixing with colour, bringing together patterns of varying origin and scale. Pattern matching, e.g. where the same pattern flows from the wall to upholstered furniture or bedding, is also becoming more common.

THE NEW NEUTRALS

Neutrals will be replaced by warm colours, saturated hues and jewel tones. Shades of pink (which are a more sophisticated evolution of the millennial pinks we’ve seen in recent years), will be strong in 2021. Particularly interesting is the comeback of purple which combines the calm stability of blue and the fierce energy of red. It is often associated with royalty, nobility, luxury, and power but also represents meanings of wealth, extravagance, creativity, wisdom, dignity, grandeur, mystery, independence, and magic. I love adding it as accents paired with silver and grey in this bedroom.

For simple solutions, consider updating wall colours. This is the cheapest thing to do with the biggest change. Also, think of refreshing some rooms by switching up a couple of pieces of furniture, art, or accessories. Moving things around in the house gives a new instantaneous spirit to any room. Something as small as switching up your coffee table books and styling them differently can help.

Always think of your balcony or outdoor space as an extension of the house and not a separate space. Style your outdoors just like your indoors. Landscaping a garden or balcony with lots of crawling plants and bushes is great and keep a small area for an organic garden. Think of multiple pots in various shapes and sizes to create interest. Using plush cushions, a throw, and a nice outdoor carpet softens the scape. As for accessories introduce a tray with candles, small green pots and even vases. And don’t forget lighting. Small string lights, lanterns and outdoor LED lights are great for creating a relaxed mood.

The kitchen has become an even more important part of the home over this past year and we are seeing a lot of changes in kitchen design with three if the biggest being; open shelving, stone cladding and two-toned kitchens. Shelving opens up the space with an airy aesthetic and allows you the creates styled silhouettes in the kitchen (but keep these well-styled and clutter-free in the Marie Condo way!) They can be rendered in wood, marble or even glass. Playing with metal hardware to hold it gives it an added bonus.

The two-tone trend in cabinetry aids in creating an airy kitchen especially if you keep a lighter colour on the top cabinets and a darker colour on the bottom. Charcoal grey with white, black and white, delicate brass details or even indigo blue cabinetry with marble are all great colour combinations. The darker walls and luxe touches add drama especially paired with pendant lighting that keeps the space right and well lit. Finally, marble, granite and natural stall cladding are popular choices this year. Not only are they easy to clean, but they’re strong and long-lasting and can help you achieve any interior style, whether it’s rustic, sophisticated or contemporary. You can limit it to one show wall or even clad the backsplash with them.

When it comes to kid’s rooms I have been seeing a lot of murals either painted stick-on ones which are easy to remove once you are bored with them. Pastels paired with geometric patterns on walls also create interesting shapes that start on the walls and continue on the ceilings. Space-saving solutions are great too, especially with a lot of kids having to do homeschooling and needing study spaces within their rooms. Try hanging storage that frees up floor space enough to place desks, or bunk beds that allow for a play area underneath them.

What has happened in the past year has definitely influenced home life. Working and learning from home has meant a rise in multifunctional spaces, home gyms and spas. This was also the driver towards sage colour and green walls. Also, technology and the trend to move towards sustainability has been a major player with everyone now more cautious about the plants and our actions

Although trends are necessary for change, it is key to always invest in timeless pieces of big furniture that will transcend trends. Think neutrals and well-built pieces in classic shapes. Their timeless beauty means they will always be in style. The beautiful pieces are usually easy to style too. What to look for? high quality, long-lasting materials, innovation and skilled craftsmanship. Buying a nice piece of design is like buying a painting or a sculpture: it’s something to pass down.

Nisrine Reccomends

Creative Wrap has revolutionised kitchen makeovers by introducing engineered wrapping that is a cost-effective solution to completely transform cabinets, counters, backsplashes kitchen walls and even flooring in a matter of a few hours.

I also love Wallace & Co.’s botanical range of candles and scented room oils. They are all hand made from the finest perfume oils and packaged in stunning design ceramics.

Gabriela Hearst’s first collection for Chloé was unveiled today exactly 100 years since the birth of the Maison’s founder Gaby Aghion.

Paying tribute to the heritage of the brand as a new chapter begins, Hearst’s first offering is informed by sustainability and a commitment to the greater good moving forward, something that is very dear to the designer’s heart.

This collection is in fact four times more sustainable compared to the fall/winter collection last year thanks to new technologies, processes and materials implemented by Hearst and her team.

The collection began with a quote by Gaby Aghion: “There was no luxury ready-to-wear; well-made clothes with quality fabrics and fine detailing did not exist.”

This, along with a small ceramic button in marbled colours, was the starting point for a collection that embraces simple pieces in beautiful materials. That ceramic button is reimagined as pendants on jewellery and embellishments on handbags.

Hearst reimagines classic Chloé codes including scalloping on blouses, on denim patchwork and along the cuffs of knitwear as well as Broderie Anglaise transformed into knitwear and used on the edge of the leather. This season’s motif a colourful marbling effect was created from an artisanal technique using natural ingredients.

When it comes to handbags Gabriela reflects on her first luxury handbag which was in fact, a Chloé Edith bag. “It is a piece I still love and wanted to pay homage to,” she said. So the Edith bag has been re-issued this season, staying true to its original design. The new Edith family includes bags in recycled cashmere or with recycled jacquard and is offered as a mini version, a tote and a doctor’s bag.

Alongside this reedition, 50 vintage Edith bags have been repurposed with leftover materials from this collection. Each is unique.

Other new styles include the Juana bag in scalloped quilting and patchwork leather, as well as handknitted leather totes embellished with a recycled wooden C knitted into the handle. “To me, these are luxury pieces that show how quality and craft can coexist without opulence.” Says Gabriela.

Some of the key environmental actions already initiated by the brand include accelerating the implementation of that House’s sustainability plan which outlines key objectives previously set for 2025. This will now take place within a new timeline of one year.

The material choices in the collection are free from polyester and viscose and recycled, reused or organic denim was used. More than 50 per cent of silk comes from organic agriculture and more than 80 per cent of cashmere yarn for knitwear is recycled. Bags are lined in natural linen.

For jewellery and metallic pieces on bags, the impact of the galvanization process has been reduced by selecting one gold and one silver across all collections. Sustainable suppliers have been introduced from materials to packaging.

In an effort to make the Chloé show more carbon-neutral, emissions are being offset and directed towards a reforestation project of mangroves in Myanmar.

And finally, this season, 20% of ready-to-wear is manufactured by World Fair Trade Organization fair trade-guaranteed members. The collection counts two partnerships – Manos del Uruguay and Sheltersuit – as pathways to a positive social impact for the women and men crafting pieces throughout the collection.

“This is a project I was really looking forward to developing at Chloé, as it gives me the energy that comes from meaning and purpose. It grounds me in the reality that others are living today,” says Gabriela. “I have deep admiration for Bas Timmer of Sheltersuit, a fellow designer who uses all of his abilities in the service of others – the most altruistic way to use design. Bas and his team worked at the Maison for 10 days where they created a Sheltersuit Chloe Backpack in four colours variations with repurposed materials from the house. The design is beautiful, joyful and functional; it is consciously made and for a greater good, providing immediate shelter to people experiencing homelessness.”

The product is completely repurposed and upcycled. For each backpack sold, Chloé will fund the making of two Sheltersuits. Three of the suits will be displayed on the runway showcasing the leftover prints that pay homage to the history of the house and the craft of Sheltersuit.

Gabriela concludes; “this is part of the Chloé mission: weaving purpose to business endeavours in a post-pandemic world to help acknowledge and alleviate the hardship of others. A luxury brand has the duty to do so.”

Dutch Haute Couture designer Iris Van Herpen burst onto the scene in 2007 with her unusual approach to applying innovative 3D printing techniques to her clothing designs.

Fusing together technology and Haute Couture craftsmanship, Van Herpen’s unusual approach to design has earned her a unique and loyal following. After launching her own label in 2007, Van Herpen became a guest-member of the Parisian Chambre Syndicale de la Haute Couture in 2011, allowing her to present her collections on a global platform. Now, ten years later, Van Herpen is continuing to innovate and surprise with her designs like no other. She describes her work as “interdisciplinary” as she draws inspiration from professions outside of fashion and the arts. Each season, Van Herpen works in collaboration with experts from other industries in the fields of science, technology and architecture. This allows her to bring together her expertise in fashion with other areas to create something truly unique.

Van Herpen’s work is a perfect blend of innovation and tradition. Fascinated by the world of traditional craftsmanship she utilises these processes but in new innovative ways that allow her to take her designs to the next level. She is very concerned not just by how her designs look, but by how they move and feel when they are being worn. One of Van Herpen’s biggest fascinations is nature. She looks at nature on a deeper level, delving into the fine details of how nature looks and how it behaves. This has been a key inspiration for her collections over the years. As the world becomes more concerned with sustainability, Van Herpern is ahead of the game. Finding ways to combine nature into her designs on a deeper level through developing her own materials and processes that will allow for a more sustainable collection.

The Spring/Summer 2021 Haute Couture collection “Roots of Rebirth” further highlighted Van Herpen’s fascination with the natural world. The designer referenced the intricacy of fungi and the entanglement of life that breathes beneath our feet. Something so simple, but when analysed deeply, it is so intricate and complicated yet beautiful at the same time. She explores the aesthetics, movement and life process of fungi through this collection. Here we find out more about the latest designs and Van Herpen’s ambitious plans for a future of sustainable fashion.

Tell us about your Spring/Summer 2021 Haute Couture Collection “Roots of Rebirth.” 

Throughout the isolation period, I read a book called “Entangled Life” by scientist Merlin Sheldrake. It talks beautifully about the way plants communicate with each other, and it’s very similar to how we as humans are communicating at the moment. It’s through a network called the “wood wide web” that connects plants, trees and all living things. They help each other with nutrients as an interconnected community that’s invisible but very inspiring to understand. It’s a newly discovered concept and I felt really inspired by it. On one hand, the book is scientific but it’s very poetic too. It talks beautifully about our future and how we can use fungi to create new types of materials because it is something very resilient. Fungi grow really fast, and I believe they are going to be our future partners in terms of cleaning up the waste on the planet. Fungi can become anything from materials similar to plastic to radioactive materials. It’s inspiring to know that there is hope; even in the mess we create!

I also collaborated with an artist this season on new materials using wood from plants to create lace. It all clicked together and felt like a good moment to show the beginning of what will be a long chapter. The whole focus on sustainability has become huge within fashion and this won’t be a pandemic-only move, it’s something that will stay within the industry moving forward. Everyone is improving materials and techniques. Of course, we have had a hard time with the pandemic, but on the other hand, I feel that the last year has been a good year to collaborate and focus on using more sustainable materials because we have had more time to work on these. We have set up so many new partnerships with companies on a sustainability level. So this is just the beginning of a long story.

Much of your time designing this collection was spent in lockdown or isolation – how did this year affect your creativity?

The hardest part has been the collaborations. They have become more local, which actually, I think is also a good thing. I see fashion as an interdisciplinary platform where scientists, architects, biologists etc. can all be part of the evolution and the creation of garments. We therefore collaborate with different institutes and people and so it has been hard when it comes to communication. Previously, I would travel to meet them or they would come to the atelier and they would be able to get a better feeling of the materials we work with, but now everything is done over video call and it’s great that we can do that, but in terms of creativity, we’re missing out on the best part of the experience. I have had to learn how to adapt because my design process has always been very physical. I drape on a mannequin and that hasn’t changed – but when it comes to experimenting with materials, it’s often a very collaborative process and that has been a lot harder. There have been ups and downs but I must say that I look forward to the post-pandemic-era.

What is the message you want to convey with the collection this season? 

I think the message has been very much about sustainability and innovation within sustainability. One project that I enjoyed working on within the collection was the Parley for the Oceans collaboration where we worked on new materials made from plastic found in the ocean. The qualities of the materials are now really of a ‘couture quality’ which is incredible. We have been working on collaborations on all kinds of fabrics within sustainability for quite a few years now, but often you could still notice small differences in the texture, the way it would drape or even the quality of the colour in prints, but now we are really at a point where the recycled fabrics are of the same quality as the usual couture silks and I think that is a really special and important moment. The quality is that high that it doesn’t just need to be saved for the runway, it can also be translated to the looks that we create for the clients.

What do you think women are looking for from Haute Couture designs today?

I think they are looking for both quality and sustainability and maybe even more! I think they want a very unique look, but also an insight into the whole process in terms of how the looks are made and the materials that are used. There is more awareness from clients today and they are also looking for a personal process. Clients want works of art that you create together with them; it is not just about fashion anymore. I believe it’s closely connected to the way we buy art. It’s something that you are investing in for the rest of your life so you want a personal connection with it and I think that’s what I like so much about couture – that notion of knowing that I am creating something very personal.

How have you managed to keep in touch with your clients throughout this year? 

It has been a real shame not to see my clients. Normally, if we are creating a look for someone we see them several times and these are the most special moments. Now it is all done over Skype and Zoom; we haven’t been able to physically go to visit them or the other way around. Our clientele is very international so it’s been a strange time.

We know you are very much inspired by nature and the beauty in the details of natural objects – what is it about nature that captures your attention so greatly? 

Obviously, it is the layers of beauty within nature and the aesthetic aspect, but I think the ultimate attraction for me is to keep nature as part of my design process from start to finish. The growth systems, the forces behind it. The little systems within nature are so incredibly perfect and the way everything depends on each other to sustain life. I think we can learn from nature to create in a better way and I believe that it can become a collaborator within the manufacturing process of fashion. There is still a long road ahead but it’s little steps towards an ultimate goal that will be a fully closed circular system incorporating nature into fashion. I really think it’s possible.

How do you find the experience of presenting your show digitally compared with showing to a physical audience?

We normally have the show in Paris as you know and while we do still have viewers watching online, we of course we have the physical audience too which consists of our clients, press etc. This season everything was digital and the main difference is that our physical audience has not been able to touch the garments or see the textures up close. I think there is magic in the moment of revealing a new collection so I do hope to go back to a mix of physical and digital. I believe both have their own strengths. The inclusivity of sharing a collection online is great as it means that so many people get to see it around the world, but on the other hand, my work is so layered and textured and detailed and it is a different experience when you see it up close. But I hope that next season it might be possible to show the collection in Paris with a combination of the two, we’ll have to see. This experience has definitely highlighted the value of the physical show and how special those moments in Paris are, but at the same time, I feel lucky that we are still able to create and that everyone is still looking to move forward, even if we are still in difficult times.

Your designs combine tradition with innovation – how do you find a perfect balance between the two? 

It’s in my nature to do this. One of the reasons I wanted to work in Haute Couture is because I have a great passion for craftsmanship. I wanted to study historic craftsmanship and to keep that alive. For many years now these traditional techniques have been getting lost. There’s not a lot of education available on it and there’s not a lot of people that can execute some of these crafts. So on one hand, I feel it’s really beautiful to be part of keeping these traditional crafts alive and to be part of that long evolution, but on the other hand, I feel I want to bring my own language into it. We are living in the 21st century, our world is changing so rapidly and all the technology that we have available means there is so much innovation available out there that applies to the fashion industry and can be translated into fabrics, new materials etc. and I think it’s beautiful to explore this and create new hybrids between them. To me, it’s a way of bringing my DNA to the craftsmanship that has been passed down to me from the people before me and I really see advantages in the way we can use certain techniques and I see new possibilities with things such as laser-cutting, 3D printing etc. And when you combine all of these techniques, both old and new, there is a whole new world of possibilities. I’m a very curious person and I feel the need to bring those worlds together.

Bridal Couture Collection

Tell us about your bridal couture collection and what do you think is the beauty in designing bespoke pieces for a specific woman?

I think one of the things that I find special is that you are designing for a very precious moment in someone’s life. It feels special to be part of that and to create something that’s very personal for someone. It’s the same when we dress people in the music industry and we are creating something for a special show or performance. It’s about having that piece for that moment. I see weddings as performances too and they are moments that you’ll be celebrating with the dearest people to you and I think that’s magical.

Is there any request that has particular inspired you or been difficult to fulfil?

Every piece has been such a different process. What I think is really special is that the people that come to us don’t want a piece that you see everywhere. They want to push the boundaries and to create a nice balance between art and fashion. And that’s why I guess, every look is a challenge. The garments we make are very focused on movement and transformation and often clients that come to us are looking for that combination of craftsmanship, transformation and the delicacy between the movement of the body and the garment that they are wearing. I think the challenge lies in the layering, in combination with the movement. That’s something that we’ve studied over the last few years and the hybrid of the different techniques is what’s making that possible.

Who is the woman that you design for? 

I don’t have a particular woman in my mind when I design. I have a dance background and I guess it’s the idea of the body itself and the way it moves and the transformative power within it that inspires me. I have the woman in my mind as a dancer and I look at the way the body moves. That transformative aspect and the emotion within motion is something that I’m trying to catch within my work and I think it’s really important that after the design is done it creates an identity and that is defined by the woman who is wearing it.

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

I would like to open a museum someday where fashion can closely intertwine with other subjects. A museum that combines fashion, science, architecture and art. That would be really exciting.

We know you are an advocate for women’s empowerment – what makes you feel empowered and how would you like to inspire other women? 

I think the first moment in my life when I felt the power within fashion was when I was a child. I would visit my grandma who collected historical garments throughout her whole life. She had a huge collection of incredible garments transcending time and place and I remember dressing up as a little girl in her clothes – even in wedding dresses! Obviously, at that time I had no knowledge of the fashion world but I could feel the power of it. You can really become part of a story when you get dressed and I obviously felt inspired by that then and I think that’s also one of the reasons I went into fashion. It has the power to transform a person. There are no boundaries when you are creating your own identity. I think fashion is a really powerful platform and an instrument for change that inspires us to recreate ourselves and it’s that creative aspect within fashion that is a very powerful one for me.

I think that’s where in my opinion, women have always been very powerful when it comes to fashion. There is a lot more expression and creativity and empowerment within female fashion rather than male and there has always been much more dynamic storytelling in women’s clothing. When I look at my label, we are a very female-orientated company – most of my team are women and I just feel proud that as a woman myself I’m able to have a label like this and to inspire other women to do something that they believe in. I think in the fashion industry we need more female designers as it’s just really beautiful when things are more balanced and I hope to inspire other women to find their own creativity and to dive into the deep end.

What is the professional motto that you live by? 

To inspire people to recreate themselves. I believe in female empowerment and independence and I think there is a lot of freedom to be found in creativity. My ultimate goal is to stay independent and to be completely free within my creativity and so far I have managed that and I want to continue this.

What is a message you would send to your clients and friends in the Middle East and can we expect to see you any time soon?

I would love that! I hope I can travel again soon. I’m an optimist so I do have good hope that I’ll be able to travel this year and I really hope to have another special project in the region – either a fashion show or an exhibition. I hope to do more in the Middle East and to share our creativity there.

See Dior’s Spring/Summer 2021 collection in the latest fashion editorial “Beautiful Day.”

Dior’s ready-to-wear Spring-Summer 2021 collection by Maria Grazia Chiuri takes inspiration from natural surroundings with pieces designed to represent the new way of living today.

White shirt, Navy skirt ,“DiorDouble” Black Belt, Black shoes Necklace, All Dior

Navy dress, “DiorDouble” Black Belt, Black shoes, Earring, Necklace, Ring, All Dior

Multicolored long dress, “DiorDouble” Clutch, Earring, All Dior

Multicolored long dress, “DiorDouble” Clutch, Earring, All Dior

Denim Dress, Medium “Lady D-Lite” Bag, “DiorDouble” Black Belt, Black shoes, All Dior

Headscarf, Multicolored long dress,  All Dior

Headscarf, Multicolored long dress, Medium Blue “Dior Bobby” Bag, All Dior

Headscarf, Blue shirt, Blue and white sleeveless blouse, “DiorDouble” Clutch, All Dior

Medium “Lady D-Lite” Bag, Dior

Medium “Dior Bobby” Bag, Dior

Headscarf, Blue shirt, Blue and white sleeveless blouse, Beige skirt, All Dior

Headscarf, Blue shirt, Blue and white sleeveless blouse, Beige skirt Black shoes, All Dior

Hosting the Diriyah E-Prix opening race in Saudi Arabia has firmly cemented the country’s position in the racing calendar. The E-Prix event which sees drivers globally travel to The Kingdom has continued momentum and growing reputation in hosting world-class motorsport and was able to go ahead behind closed doors, despite the challenges thrown up due to COVID-19.

As the sun sets in Diriyah the engines started and British racing driver Sam Bird took victory at his debut event with Jaguar Racing in Round 2 of the season-opening Diriyah doubleheader. “I was a bit emotional in the car,” said Bird. “It was a big move and a big step for me moving away from what was my family in Envision Virgin Racing to join Jaguar Racing, but they’ve welcomed me with open arms and I’m pleased to deliver this win.

Speaking of his experience of racing at the historical Diriyah circuit, an emotional Bird said: “I absolutely love racing here, it’s one of the best tracks on the calendar and is always a great event. We’re in a unique situation being in the middle of a pandemic but the people of Saudi and Formula E have managed it so well through rigorous testing; it’s been a very well thought-out procedure from start to finish and couldn’t have gone more smoothly.”

The unique track at the world UNESCO heritage site at Ad Diriyah was illuminated with renewable energy technology as part of the country’s commitment to the future of sustainability. With eco-friendly LED technology lighting and the glow of the full moon, the race track was lit up magically.

Podium celebrations under the stars following the second ever Formula E night race

HRH Prince Khalid bin Sultan Al Faisal, Chairman of the Saudi Automobile and Motorcycle Federation said: “Over the last two days we have seen the first-ever night races for the all-electric ABB FIA Formula E World Championship and we’re really proud of this. The Kingdom is on an exciting journey of embracing renewable energy and technology, and Formula E is more than just a race to be the best, it is a partnership committed to the future of sustainability.”

Nico Muller gears up for second day of racing

Ahead of the race Reema Al Juffali, the First Saudi Female Racing Driver spoke of her experience of racing in her home country. She said: “The circuit has been hailed by many drivers as a very unique and challenging track to drive, and I think part of this is because we have the world’s most modern motorsport taking place on a site which honours the Kingdom’s past – it’s a very special combination. Racing in the heart of Diriyah gives you a very strong feeling of connection to our Kingdom’s history.”

She continued by sharing her excitement of Saudi Arabia’s participation in the event: “the passion for motorsport in the Kingdom runs deep, and bringing events like Formula E to Saudi is very exciting for racing fans who aren’t familiar with street racing. I’m also very proud for the first ever Formula E night race to take place at the circuit on home soil which will be an incredible moment for the country and the sport. It’s fantastic to see the organisers making the most of the global spotlight that motorsport brings to showcase some of the beauty of our land and our capacity to put on brilliant, world-class events.”

The Saudi Arabian leg of the Formula E season kicks-off the race calendar and will be followed by race weekends across the world, held in cities such as Rome, Monaco, Marrakesh and Santiago. Following the season opener for Formula E this weekend, April will see the first ever Extreme E race take to the breathtaking Al Ula, before the country plays host to its inaugural Formula 1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix in early December. Then finally closing out the year with the return of Formula E Season 8.

Her Highness Sheikha Sana Al Maktoum has held her first major media event presenting Sana Al Maktoum Fine Jewellery to the world

Her Highness Sheikha Sana Al Maktoum has invited global media to come behind the Palace walls at the beautiful Sheikha Hessa Bint Khalifa Palace in Dubai, for the very first time as she presents her jewellery brand Sana Al Maktoum Fine Jewellery to the world. The first major media event for the designer revealed the inspiration behind her stunning debut fine jewellery range “My Treasure”.

Local and international media representatives were given a rare insight into Sheikha Sana’s design ethos. A certified gemologist, she founded “Sana Al Maktoum Fine Jewellery” in 2020, at the age of just 21. Her vision is to create beautiful, high-quality jewellery pieces, that empower women to look and feel their best. Her style is ethereal, feminine, and thoroughly modern.

The beautiful and spirited Sheikha Sana attributes her grandmother (elder Sanaa) as her greatest inspiration, and the muse for her signature butterflies, which feature so prominently in her “My Treasure” Collection.

The 13 pieces feature ethically sourced diamonds, alongside pink, yellow or blue sapphires, and encased in white gold, yellow gold, or rose gold. Some butterflies are captured at rest, while others quiver on the wearer, using the enchanting “en tremblant” technique.

“My late grandmother was herself an avid jewellery collector and always so supportive of my creativity. To this day I feel her presence always fluttering around me. I consider her my ‘guardian butterfly’. Sheikha Sana explained. A butterfly is ever-transforming, and as a jewellery designer, and as a woman, I feel I too am very much evolving”. 

Her Highness has also revealed, a greater vision to use her personal jewellery brand, to create positive change for women and children, through education-related charity partnerships. Details of these charity collaborations will be released in the coming weeks. She said: “It’s important to me that my jewellery is not just beautiful, but empowering to women of all backgrounds”  

Sana Al Maktoum Fine Jewellery can be found on Instagram @sanaalmaktoumofficial

For Dolce&Gabbana’s Fall/Winter 2021 collection the Italian fashion brand partnered with Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT) to celebrate the excellence of Italian research in the technological field and its infinite applications by using multifunctional humanoid robots as part of the show.

The show, which was broadcast live across the brand’s digital platforms highlighted Dolce&Gabbana’s commitment to the future and scientific developments that will help create advanced solutions to meet our daily needs.

“We are really happy that IIT has accepted this challenge: it is incredible to think how man’s cleverness and determination can give life to new forms of intelligence, which can learn from their own experience and be deployed in the medical, environmental and social fields. Fashion has always been the result of the confluence of worlds that can be very far from each other: if technology is truly serving the man, his needs and his passions, then a craftsman and a robot will be able to coexist”. Said Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana.

The collection itself celebrates the future, but also looks to the past, with inspiration taken from the nineties; a decade of bold styles and colours. Dedicating this collection to the future generations; the “Tik-Tok-ers”, the millennials and the technology-savvy.

Looking to the archives, classic prints and symbols from throughout the brand’s nineties reign reappeared as motifs and prints. Kaleidoscope colours and bold clashing textures came together to create a psychedelic aesthetic.

The iconic D&G silhouettes could still be seen, even between the chaos, and while the future is very much the starting point for the collection, this new chapter for the Italian House perfect celebrates its legacy and the true essence of the brand.

Pierpaolo Piccioli was inspired by the theatre for his Fall/Winter 2021 collection for Valentino.

Titled “Act Collection” the Roman House took over the symbolic Piccolo Teatro di Milano for a sombre but beautiful presentation within the iconic building which is currently still closed to the public as a result of the COVID-19 crisis.

Models meandered around the spectacular location to the sound of British artist Cosima, who performed live a magical soundtrack that truly captured the mood of today.

Dressed almost entirely in black and white, with just a hint of gold, models were both graceful and edgy representing a new generation of fashion.

Hemlines were shorter than ever and a new “punk nostalgia” mood was off-set by the placement of studs; a classic motif for the house, including on the Valentino Garavani Rockstud bags and on the toes of pumps.

This collection was cool, collected and simple yet multi-faceted. The short silhouettes paired with very high heels represented feminism and the right to express ourselves. Men’s looks were too shortened with trousers cut above the ankle.

Piccioli also explored the relationship between men’s and women’s fashion and the simple colour palette reflected this, as well as the choice of geometric checks, animal prints and polka dots.

The idea of showing the body by uncovering or veiling parts of it, overlapping nets, lace, and intensely worked surfaces that reveal instead of hiding, is sensual.

This notion of sensuality is something that stayed in the forefront of the designer’s mind when creating this collection. An awareness of the body that does not deny romanticism but radicalizes it in a libertarian instant.

Contemporary cuts combined with traditional techniques create a tale of modernity featuring the Spring/Summer 2021 collections for men and women.

Dolce & Gabbana

Dior

Chanel

Chanel

Hermès

Givenchy

Celine

Alexander McQueen

Dior Men

Versace

Valentino

Valentino will present its Fall/Winter 2021 Collection live from Milan on Monday 1st March.

Watch the show #ValentinoActCollection live on the link below:

Ashi Studio was a celebrity favourite for attendees at the 2021 Weibo Gala Night Awards in Shanghai. Three Chinese stars stole the show as they dressed in spectacular dresses by the designer.

Actress Victoria Song wore a black tulle dress embroidered with pearl and strass from the Ashi Studio SS2021 Couture Collection. She took to the stage to receive the award for “Breakthrough Actor of the Year” during the award ceremony.

Victoria Song

Victoria Song

Tong Li Y’a wore a bi-colour yellow and white strapless silk faille dress and separate pants, with a draped detail from the Ashi Studio SS 2021 Couture Collection called “Mrs. Dalloway”. The Chinese actress was styled by Wilona Lin.

Tong Li Y’a

Tong Li Y’a

Rising Chinese actress Zhou Dongyu, known for her “Under the Hawthorn Tree”, wore the bright yellow tulle dress with embroidery, also from the Ashi Studio SS 2021 Couture Collection.

Zhou Dongyu

Zhou Dongyu

This year’s Golden Globe Awards took on a different format as celebrities walked the red carpet in their own living rooms but that didn’t see them compromise on style.

We discover some of the most stylish looks from this year’s part physical, part digital Golden Globes.

Emma Corrin, star of The Crown wearing Miu Miu

Gillian Anderson, star of The Crown, wearing Dior Couture

Anna Taylor Joy, star of The Queen’s Gambit wearing Dior Couture

Amanda Seyfried wearing Oscar de la Renta

Nicole Kidman wearing Louis Vuitton

Daisy Edgar-Jones, star of Normal People wearing Chanel

Isla Fisher wearing Alex Perry and Van Cleef & Arpel jewellery

Regina King wearing Louis Vuitton

Lily Collins wearing Saint Laurent and Cartier jewellery

Dany Levy wearing Valentino

Kate Hudson wearing Louis Vuitton

Jared Leto wearing Gucci

Elle Fanning wearing Gucci

Viola Davis wearing Claude Kameni and Pomellato jewellery

The Giorgio Armani Fall/Winter 2021-22 collection “Nocturnal” celebrates classic elegance that transcends time.

True to the brand’s DNA of subtle elegance, this season’s collection features a soft precision that enhances both femininity and personality. Rich in gentle romantic touches it features a colour palette of shimmering turquoise greens, pale purples and soft pinks. Accentuated by ruffles which feature on the collars shirts and necklines of small boxy coats and the cuffs of sweaters.

The collection evokes the excitement of the evening. An elegant nocturnal atmosphere. Velvet returns this season as a key material while checked prints are given a touch of sparkle thanks to crystals and abstract motifs.

Silhouettes are fluid and elongated. Elegant in their structure yet softly feminine at the same time. The new jackets and coats are defined at the waistline, while blazers are long and roomy.

The men’s collection “Passages” explores the psychology of dressing. The result is a structured wardrobe, a collection of garments that are both timeless and modern. Spanning decades and uniting together in the now.

Pieces that every man needs and pieces that can be mixed and match in a way he desires as a form of expression.

Jackets are soft and flowing like shirts, coats are supple and enveloping and geometric-printed sweaters move with the body. Patchworks of velvet and wool or brightly coloured floral patterns make each garment unique.

A colour palette of deep blue and black is juxtaposed with natural hues for a contrasting effect.

Kim Jones presented his debut women’s ready-to-wear collection for Fendi beginning a new chapter for the House.

The wardrobes of the five Fendi sisters were an inspiration for the collection which paid tribute to the traditional codes of the House, a homage to the key codes of the brand and the women who have embodied its legacy.

Taking inspiration from the clothes worn by members of the Fendi family, Jones’ first collection featured elements of the past, presented in a truly modern way.

He drew on specifics from the wardrobes of the Fendi sisters including the bell sleeves of a washed mink and bonded suede coat, the pinstripes of their office attire now rendered in silken shirting or perfectly proportioned wool tailoring, and a utilitarian shirt jacket, inspired by Silvia Venturini Fendi’s daily uniform, is elevated into a new, luxurious, shearling iteration with a bonded mink interior. “The Fendi family are women of intellect who work hard – and that’s what I wanted to celebrate,” notes Jones. “A powerful dynasty.”

Double cashmere and camel outerwear which extends into mink tricot or wool-fringed scarves appears at once profoundly practical and deeply desirable, its form elsewhere translated into draped shirts and dresses. “I’m taking the amazing, strong women who I both know and work with, and listening to their needs,” Jones continues. “There’s a usefulness to the collection, explored in a chic, timeless way.”

An honorary member of the Fendi family was also acknowledged through this special collection. Jones revived Karl Lagerfeld’s Karligraphy monogram.

The remarkable craftsmanship of the Fendi ateliers is clear throughout – in a mink herringbone jacket made featherlight through its suspended construction, leather suiting inset with ajour embroidery, or Karligraphy monograms laser cut into suede.

The embossed Selleria stitching applied to gabardine trenches, double cashmere coats or leather accessories is a tribute to that meticulous exceptionalism – a quality most visible to the women who will wear the clothes. “Fun isn’t always just about bright colours,” says Jones. “It can be about really luxurious self-indulgence, which pleases the person wearing it more than anyone else.”

This is a collection designed with those women in mind: clothing that translates everyday femininity into hyper-luxurious terrain.

Bags for this collection were directed by Silvia Venturini Fendi who debuted the FENDI First which pays homage to the off-kilter irreverence of the brand, with the Fendi monogram tilted into the frame of a clutch.

New silhouettes were also presented through the Fendi Way tote and Fendu Touch shoulder bag. While classics including the Peekaboo and Sunshine Shopper are seen from a new perspective, distorted into new proportions and decorated with Selleria details.

This season, the FENDI hand in hand project – which enlists craftspeople from each of Italy’s 20 regions to reimagine the iconic Baguette – translates Campania’s artisanal excellence into a limited-edition series of objects d’art. Here the same, intricate wood inlays found in 6^th century Benedictine monasteries become a veneered, structured Baguette with a baroque floral motif.

The Prada Fall/Winter 2021 Womenswear collection Possible Feelings II: Transmute by Miuccia Prada and Raf Simons is inspired by the idea of change and transformation, opening possibilities.

A coming together of opposites and embracing the freedom of expression through fashion. Classic pieces are re-engineered to cater to the woman of today and her ever-changing needs.

Inspired by the idea of change and transformation; two aspects that open a world of possibilities, this collection, the second for the design duo, reflects the ever-changing landscape we live in today.

This collection explores the space that exists between conventional polar opposites – the point between simplicity and complexity, elegance and practicality, limitation and release, transmuted.

The freedom of the body is celebrated through fitted bodysuits in stretch jacquard-knit. While movement is represented through pleats and gathers in skirts and trousers. Tailored suits are both classic yet modern, bridging the gap between masculinity and femininity.

Clothes are both functional and stylish with pieces being re-engineered to be multi-functional. evening-gowns become utilitarian jumpsuits and tailored coats are proposed in bright colours or executed in paillettes, transforming and mutating between antonymous purposes. Outerwear is key to the collection. Executed in re-nylon and jacquard, faux fur and sequins.

Traditionally gendered fabrics are recontextualized. Embellishment is structural, economical, and combinations and juxtapositions of surfaces evoke tension. This is mirrored by the multi-textural environment that envelops the models.

This collection was not just highlighting the new chapter of Prada now two great fashion minds are working alongside each other, but a new chapter of the world and an adjustment to fashion moving forward.

The Moschino Fall/Winter 2021-22 runway show will take place on Thursday, February 25th at 6pm Dubai time.

WATCH THE SHOW LIVE HERE…

Brunello Cucinelli’s Fall/Winter 2021-22 collection “The Touch of Knit” celebrates the return to authentic and natural values.

Blurring the boundaries between day and evening wear and embracing the beauty of beautiful fabrics such as Cashmere, wool, silk, alpaca and mohair for an all-round cosy and warming experience.

Knitwear is of course key to the collection and features strongly throughout. The warming qualities of knitwear reflect through to all elements of the collection. From fluid and lightweight coats, blazers, down jackets and matching-sets to knitted dresses, all-over looks and twin sets, as well as bags and footwear.

Unique manufacturing processes and soft volumes represent the cardinal elements of fluid and well-proportioned cosy wear. Timeless textures highlight the noble fibres, which alternate with captivating organic effects and delicate dazzling reflections, always with refined and minimal taste.

Malfilé, tweed and checks in classic colourways bring to mind the open-air, closer to the tranquillity of nature.

The colour palette reflects the whole ethos of this collection. Soft, warming and timeless a spectrum of creams, greys, and natural pastel tones that are both elegant and classic.

A collection that embraces the now and looks forward to a new generation of fashion where products are long-lasting and sustainable and comfort and style are perfectly aligned.

Italian fashion brand Genny will present its fall/winter 2021-22 collection live on Thursday 25th February at 1pm UAE time. Scroll down to watch the video…

WATCH THE SHOW LIVE HERE… https://genny.cdn.live-stream.ch/

Rich autumnal colours and warming textures that embrace the body were the basis of Alberta Ferretti’s Fall/Winter 2021 collection which debuted at this season’s digital edition of Milan Fashion Week.

Classic shapes in unexpected volumes suggest unexpected ways to wear staple garments. Reflecting the times that we’re in this collection is both surprising yet comforting.

Enveloping shapes that embrace the body in the warmth of fuzzy, protective textures; flowing in curves. Even carrying a bag means hugging it. A true representation of what we are all craving today.

A new minimalism arises, grounded on platform boots with chunky glam heels; then, suddenly, the daring to sparkle explodes, without hesitation, into dreamy, nightly escapism.

Coats edged in blanket stitching are cut wide like ponchos, or fluid-like dressing gowns, and can be worn alone, or under sturdy trench coats. Ruffle necklines, turtlenecks, ribbed sweater are cosy and warming, while long pleated skirts open over soft trousers.

There is a sense of modesty to these looks. A pleasure in covering up, from the neck down to the ankles. Overalls alternate raw-cut dresses, blousons and high-waisted slacks with shearling coats, denim suits with tuxedos.

Boots, wide-brimmed hats, and soft bags complete the strong silhouette.

Colours and materials underline this fluid movement. Black, dense and severe, and gunmetal grey dissolve into earthy tones of ochre, brown, beige, in touches of petrol green and olive, and then get back to the nocturnal sparkle of non-colour, illuminated by sequins, lit by gold.  As the flow progresses, fabrics pass from dense felts, flannels and shearling wools, to leathers and suede, finally opening up to the softness of silk and transparencies.

The result is a harmony of contrasts, a balance of decisive or reassuring gestures.

For its Fall/Winter 2021 collection Roberto Cavalli starts a new chapter that launches an empowering vision for the brand’s future.

Season Zero;  the first collection by Creative Consultant Fausto Puglisi represents a new direction and new creative path, embracing the challenges the world is facing today.

Fausto Puglisi, Creative Consultant, says: “I want the Cavalli print to represent a statement: The United States of Cavalli. A universal flag connecting and wrapping together citizens of all cultures – empowered, free, fierce. A pervasive statement running throughout the collection, from garage kids’ cool denim to Hollywood- Couture frocks.”

Fausto Puglisi, Creative Consultant

The collection for men and women revisits classic Cavalli icons including the animalier print which is a key symbol throughout. It highlights the experimental and rebellious spirit of the label’s ‘70s beginnings and the red carpet glamour of the 2000s, reworking them in Puglisi’s vision.

Graphic animalier prints featuring, tigers, zebras and jaguars heads become bold and graphic, patchworked into iconic styles.

The feminine silhouettes of the famously seductive figure-hugging, high-impact Cavalli dresses are firm, sculpted, contoured and empowering.

Daywear options, combine boldness and eccentricity with the need for protection. Quilted blanket-capes of generous proportions alternate with smart trench coats; the suit is reimagined as a versatile three-pieces where an all-over printed animalier slim-fitted blazer is paired with a matching tight turtleneck and a full circle skirt.

Menswear is equally bold and sexy. Denim, a Cavalli signature from its hippy era, is treated with airbrushed textures in black and nude skin tones, conveying a cool, worn-out ‘garage kid’ vibe, in a fluid genderless offer suited to a diverse audience.

Black leather amps up the assertive message: Patched biker jackets are the ideal match for animalier- printed oversized boxy shirts, puffed capes, hoodies and sweats.

The colour palette is edited down to a neat selection of black, chocolate brown and nude, to emphasise a powerful, focused message.

Breitling has been announced as the official timekeeper of the UAE Tour 2021, the Middle East’s world tour race.

The luxury Swiss watchmaker will award the winner of each of the tour’s seven stages, and the overall General Classification victor, with the Breitling Endurance Pro. The model features a red inner bezel ring and a bold red rubber strap, matching the UAE Tour’s official colour.

The partnership is Breitling’s latest move in a long relationship with cycling and continues a legacy that has embraced legendary riders such as Fausto Coppi and Gino Bartali, as well as partnerships with major competitions including the Giro d’Italia and the Tour de France.

Commenting on the partnership, Aed Adwan, Managing Director, Breitling Middle East, India and Africa said: ‘’We are delighted to be the official timekeeper of the UAE Tour 2021 and to be continuing Breitling’s legacy in competitive cycling. With the Endurance Pro we adapted our SuperQuartz™ technology to the needs of professional athletes who play as hard as they work. And the Breitlight® case is so light that it won’t interfere with anyone’s training routine or sporting activity.”

The Breitling Endurance Pro features the ultralightweight 44-millimetre Breitlight® case and a thermocompensated SuperQuartz™ movement ten times more accurate than conventional quartz. It offers comfort, precision, and functionality that will appeal both to committed athletes and to more casual sports enthusiasts.

Designed for men and women whose active lives blend a professional mind-set with a sporty lifestyle, the Endurance Pro is equal to the challenges of a rigorous workout but fashionable enough for everyday wear.

Every year Van Cleef & Arpels celebrates the arrival of spring with jewellery pieces that reflect the warmth of these months.

For 2021 the jewellery Maison presents Lucky Spring; a colour collection that pays tribute to the season of rebirth.

Luck is a symbol that has been a close part of the house for many years and the Lucky Spring creations are brought to life with motifs of ladybugs, plum blossoms, as well as lily of the valley leaves and bells which complement one another and express the positive vision of life which the brand celebrates.

A long necklace, three bracelets, a clip and a pair of earrings portray joyful ladybugs, along with flower and leaf motifs. Blending rose gold, mother-of-pearl, carnelian and onyx in delicate harmony, the collection adds a new and vibrant touch to Van Cleef & Arpels’ enchanting garden.

Like an invitation to celebrate nature’s rebirth, ladybugs, leaves and flowers joyfully feature on the long necklace and the five-motif bracelet. A sign of attention to detail, fine golden pistils glimmer in the heart of the plum blossoms, while the mother-of-pearl corolla harmonises with the nacreous sheen of the lilies of the valley. The pieces are interspersed with tasselled leaves in textured rose gold, delicately reflecting every movement.

Two bracelets honour the ladybug, known for heralding the resurgence of flora. This much-loved creature is represented either at rest with its wings folded, or with wings fully spread, as if ready to take flight. The bracelets are set with carnelian for a dazzling red hue that contrasts with the deep black of the onyx portraying the head. The ornamental stone motifs are fitted within a beaded rose gold contour. This fringe is further echoed in the polished gold pins adorning the wings to represent ladybugs’ distinctive spots. The ladybug in-flight features a slightly vaulted body made of mirror-polished rose gold for intense radiance.

Designed as a springtime tableau, the Lucky Spring clip brings together the different motifs in a high-relief ensemble. The interplay of perspectives highlights the bright, vibrant colour of the carnelian, setting off the iridescence of the mother-of-pearl that adorns the floral motifs. Earrings in the shape of plum blossoms round out the collection, gracefully indulging a desire for matching parures.

Van Cleef & Arpels selected and matched the materials with the utmost care, to compose a poetic rendering of nature’s hues while imbuing the creations with a particular vivacity. The Maison’s stone experts single out carnelian featuring a vibrant, uniform and slightly translucent red-orange hue, while the onyx is selected for its deep black tone and its intense gleam. White mother-of-pearl is chosen for its harmonious iridescent nuances.

The gentle tinge of the rose gold captures light in dazzling reflections thanks to the harmony between the golden beads and the polished or textured surfaces.

The Lucky Spring collection is available at Van Cleef & Arpels boutiques.

Reema Al Juffali is the first Saudi female racing driver to officially compete in The 2021 ABB FIA Formula E World Championship.

The event, which is being held in The Kingdom later this week returns to the historic surrounds of Diriyah and surrounded by the UNESCO World Heritage site for the third season in-a-row, and this time it’s set to be a spectacular event in the dark, as Saudi Arabia plays host to Formula E’s first night races.

Ahead of the race, Reema Al Juffali The Kingdom’s first female racing driver speaks of her excitement and expectations for the race.

You made history in Diriyah by becoming the first female racer to drive competitively in the Kingdom during the Jaguar I-Pace, what did that moment mean to you?

That was a day of many firsts for me and one I will cherish for the rest of my life. It was my first time ever racing in an electric car and my first time racing in an international event on home soil – it was truly a historic moment for me and my country. I was so fortunate to have the opportunity to race in front of home fans and it was the highlight of my career so far. Hopefully there will be many more opportunities like this in the future.

The Diriyah Circuit has become one of the more iconic circuits in Formula E, what do you think makes it so special?

The circuit has been hailed by many drivers as a very unique and challenging track to drive, and I think part of this is because we have the world’s most modern motorsport taking place on a site which honours the Kingdom’s past – it’s a very special combination. Racing in the heart of Diriyah gives you a very strong feeling of connection to our Kingdom’s history.  For me, having never raced on a street circuit before, I had to adjust to being closer to the walls whilst driving an electric car but it’s something I loved and I will never forget.

Now in its third year, we’ve seen Saudis become more engaged with the Diriyah E-Prix.  Can you tell us about  the excitement you’re sensing ahead of this year’s race?

The passion for motorsport in the Kingdom runs deep, and bringing events like Formula E to Saudi is very exciting for racing fans who aren’t familiar with street racing. I’m also very proud for the first ever Formula E night race to take place at the circuit on home soil which will be an incredible moment for the country and the sport. It’s fantastic to see the organisers making the most of the global spotlight that motorsport brings to showcase some of the beauty of our land and our capacity to put on brilliant, world-class events.

Formula E stretches beyond just sports but it also aims to promote a sustainable and clean future, which is in line with the Saudi Arabian government’s initiatives. How important is it that a sport to promote the sustainability message in Saudi and beyond?

Saudi Arabia is on a journey towards sustainability and Formula E’s message for promoting a clean future compliments the aspirations of Saudi’s Vision 2030. As a driver I feel a sense of responsibility to spread awareness regarding the need for a more sustainable approach to everyday life and I’m honoured to be a part of a journey towards a more environmentally conscious future.

You’re currently competing in Formula 4, what are your aspirations for the future?

One of my ultimate goals in life is to race Le Mans with some of the best drivers in the world. But more than anything I just want to excel in my field, regardless of the category or the event. I want to feel proud of my performance. The sky is the limit!

If you’ve ever thought of escaping to nature there could be a new destination on the horizon.

Nestled in the shadow of the Wasatch and the Uinta Mountains amid rolling ranch land and protected forest, Benloch Ranch is Utah’s newest community. It rests on a plateau with expansive views of the Jordanelle Reservoir, just 20 minutes from Park City. A far cry from the traditional master-planned community, the 2,550-acre Benloch Ranch is designed with minimalism and practicality in mind and captures the essence of bringing the outdoors in. Home designs and lot locations harness significant outdoor living areas, while the master plan conforms to the undulating terrain. Pre-designed and custom architectural plans are available, ranging from mountain modern to traditional cabin couture.

Modern, elegant, and sustainable, Benloch Ranch homes are designed with both luxury and the environment in mind. The architectural designs stand in harmony with the natural beauty of the area, with a range of mountain-inspired home plans created to capture the spirit of the valley. The homes feature high-end touches, open floor plans and fluid outdoor living spaces.

Understanding and embracing the natural surroundings at Benloch Ranch is central to its conservation philosophy. With over 900 acres of open space and 20 miles of trails, Benloch has implemented policies to protect the beautiful landscape, including seeding native plant species, sourcing sustainable materials, reducing storm water runoff, conserving rain and potable water, and reducing noise pollution to protect the health and safety of native wildlife species.

“Our highest priority is to minimize the negative impacts of our activities while striving to be better stewards of the land,” said aid developer Jamie Mackay. “We have adopted a high level of sustainability standards including protection policies surrounding wildlife preservation, conservation of vegetation, and water quality protection.”

Responsible land management and sustainable practices are at the core of Benloch’s mission. The Ranch community is committed to a legacy of responsible environmental, community, and economic stewardship to ensure that generations to come will enjoy what is left behind.

With convenient easy access to five national parks, more than 40 state parks, an array of world-class ski resorts, terrific fly fishing on the Provo and Webber Rivers, and 15 golf courses, Benloch Ranch is truly an adventure living community.

If you’re looking for a move across the pond or a second home to escape from it all this unique destination will offer tranquillity and escape from the world.

Interior designer and Founder of Harf Noon Design Studio Nisrine El Lababidi Moghraby has redesigned homes of all shapes and sizes in the UAE and beyond.

But this year has been somewhat different, as the home has taken on a new role in all of our lives. Becoming not just a living space, but also a workplace, a school for kids or an escape from the outside world. The global pandemic has seen us all appreciate our homes in ways we may never have thought of before. Throughout this past year, customer needs have changed drastically and as a result, our home environments have become more important than ever. Here we discuss some of the ways you can update your home to adapt to your lifestyle as well as an outlook on the upcoming home and interiors trends for 2021.

When it comes to a new year what are some of the ways we can easily update or freshen up our home?

The past year has been like no other, we have seen a shift in how people utilise their homes and spaces and connect even more with their surroundings. Colour is a key part of that. Pantone has announced “Ultimate Gray” and “Illuminating” to be the colours of the year due to their warmth and dependability, however, I think many will be shifting towards rich browns, jewel tones and a range of greens, that will bring the outside in at a time where we are all spending more time at home. Paint has the power to transform a space on a tiny budget.

What are some of the interiors trends you are looking forward to in 2021?

I think we will see an increase in sustainable furniture and accessories. Antique, repurposed, salvaged and retro pieces all have their place in 2021. The key is to go with a ‘less-is-more’ approach for a cohesive aesthetic – collecting items over time that mean something to you and contrasting them with a few luxe pieces to create a modern take on it.

I also think earthy colours and warm natural textures will prevail. Be it through accessories or finishes, it’s nice to show the influence of nature, the nostalgia of travel and the desire for a getaway through the home. Maximalism is another trend I foresee increasing in popularity. This is where one would curate a home packed full of personality. Think highly decorated layers that tell a story, from bold wallpaper overlaid with furniture and souvenirs that have been collected. You can read more about trends in my book; “HOMES: We Make Them, They Make Us”.

For those who like their home to be more of a blank canvas – how can we use accessories to brighten up the home?

For the colour shy or those who get bored quickly, I would suggest purchasing larger pieces of furniture in neutral tones such as beige, white, grey or even black, then layering with colour through cushions, throws and accessories. Warm golds and terracotta tones look great together or you can opt for jewelled tones of ruby and emerald green. The trick is to follow the 60-30-10 rule: 60% neutral, 30% one colour, 10% contrasting or complementing colour. Vases, flowers, interesting objects, trinket boxes and art all provide opportunities to inject colour onto a blank canvas.

As many are now working from home – what are some of the ways you would recommend designing your living and workspaces so that we can ensure a clear separation between the two?

First and foremost, if possible, find a quiet spot that can be dedicated purely to work. This way you can have a clear division between work responsibilities and home responsibilities. If your home doesn’t have space for a home office, set up in your kitchen, living room, bedroom or even walk-in closet. But take extra care to make these areas work-focused by day and home by night. Clear enough space for technology, office supplies, coffee and anything else your job may require so you can access and use things comfortably. Lighting is very important too. Brighten your workspace by setting up near a window or using a desk/floor lamp. Keep your space decluttered and tidy as this will increase productivity and improve your mood.

How have some of the requests you have from clients adapted since the beginning of the COVID-19 period?

Of course, we are receiving more requirements for office spaces that can cater up to two people, often in a guest room. We are also seeing an increase in requests for home gyms, as well as more and more parents requesting desk setups for their children in their bedrooms. And finally, there’s an increase of requests for fully-kitted-out spa and hair salons inside villas that have the space for this!

• The first trick is to keep it clutter-free and designate areas for storage that are easy for everyone to use.
• Having your storage units hanging off the floor also clears floor space and maximises the use of your walls. Think hanging sideboards, tv units, etc.
• Using mirrors will multiply the feeling of space and they bounce off the light to make rooms feel larger and brighter.

How important is it to have a home environment that you love?

It is extremely important. Our homes are reflections of us and they are our sanctuaries, so if we do not love them they can become toxic and you may not want to spend time there. If you are the type of person that dines out every day or would prefer staying in hotels over the weekend, then make some changes to your home and see how that all changes!

What are some tips and tricks for those with kids to ensure a balanced living environment?

Having a home with kids does not mean losing style. I often advise my clients to go for baby and toddler safe options when it comes to tables, for example, choosing round tables, or upholstered ottomans and then layering them with accessories that won’t break like coffee table books, a small metal tray with a trinket box, some wooden vases and perhaps even an X&O set. You can even decorate with shells collected from a beach trip or some interesting sticks from a walk in the park! Candles are also very safe to style with, but be careful when lighting them with kids around.

Another important thing is to include their toys in your living space but dedicate an area for their play. That could be a small corner with big baskets for toys that they can tidy up on their own – it also means the space looks tidy. Having a soft rug is also nice for them to sit and play on. You can carve up a small reading nook for example under the stairs or create a boho-style tent that is cute and stylish at the same time. They will love you even more for that!

What is the one thing we should invest in the home for 2021?

Elevate your home with dramatic touches of luxury and bring the ultra-glamorous trend to your living environment. Consider how playful opulence and patterns lift an interior’s moods, redefining the home with all the comforts and refinements of boutique hotels. This can be incorporated by adding geometric shapes, luxury velvets, monochrome prints and cashmere throws.

How would you define your style as an interior designer?

An aesthetic vocabulary that references both classicism and modernity with a layered narrative.

What advice would you give to anyone who is confused about where to start with the renovation of their home?

First and foremost think of the function of every space and if it is serving the home dwellers as needed. Is there, for example, a need for a closed office space? A gym? A guest room? Is an open plan living room working to its best or is it better to have a closed kitchen to stop cooking scents from escaping? Asking these questions allows one to get creative and really dissect the home when approaching a renovation. Perhaps the house lacks architectural detail or it is not naturally lit – so these issues are the first to be targeted. Next is to properly set a budget – this is sometimes overseen and often results in disappointment. Committing to a budget allows one to realistically focus on the necessities and often means that decisions can be made more quickly. Thirdly I would say decide on the mood and style intended from the renovation – this will again very much depend on your budget.

What is the professional motto that you live by?

It always seems impossible until it’s done.

What would you say to anyone who is thinking about changing their home in 2021?

Your home is the most important safety haven – find one that truly reflects your identity. It could be a high-rise overlooking our beautiful city landscape. Or you might be someone who rolls out of bed onto the running track or someone who longs for a quiet life surrounded by lush gardens. Whatever it may be, find a house, an apartment, a condo or a bungalow that adds to your soul and energizes your daily living – then make that a home.

Upcycled by Miu Miu is a special collection of vintage dresses reworked and transformed by Miu Miu, while the memory of the originals is preserved in cloth.

Seven exclusive dresses will be available in the Middle East at the Dubai Mall boutique in Fashion Avenue, inviting shoppers to come and discover these unique pieces.

Strictly limited to a selection of just 80 one-off pieces and numbered designs, Upcycled by Miu Miu is built around precious, anonymous finds, dating from the Thirties to the Eighties, carefully sourced from vintage clothing stores and markets worldwide.

Once restored, pieces are re-fashioned and finished with signature Miu Miu embroideries and embellishments. Each piece is entirely unique and all are completed by hand.

Re-imagined through the Miu Miu lens, the lives of garments worn and loved in the past are extended, renewed and sustained, enriching the lives of the women who will wear them by return.

Upcycled by Miu Miu dresses are available in nine selected Miu Miu boutiques worldwide, including Dubai.

We reveal some of the skincare solutions now in the middle east to look out for this year.

Augustinus Bader

This celebrity-favourite skincare brand has been creating miracles around the world, but it only recently arrived in the UAE. Founded by world-leading expert in stem-cell research, Professor Augustinus, the skincare line is based on the principles of science, with formulas that will provide true, visible results. Augustinus spent 30 years unlocking the body’s innate processes to self-heal and he uncovered how to reawaken cells that go dormant over time due to ageing or trauma and thus produce products that offer real life-changing results.

Augustinus’ mission first started with the intention of helping burn victims, particularly children with traumatic injuries. In 2008, he formulated a ground-breaking wound gel that works to heal even third-degree burns without surgery or skin grafts. It works by carrying a set of healing signals to the site of the wound or burn, triggering the damaged skin cells and facilitating perfect healing. Augustinus Bader Skincare was born out of this breakthrough. When he saw the potential of his formulas he decided to open it out to a wider audience and in 2018, Augustinus Bader Skincare launched with two hero products – The Cream and The Rich Cream; followed by The Body Cream which was launched in 2019.

All three creams contain patented TFC8® (Trigger Factor Complex) technology, which supports the skin’s natural processes, leaving all skin types – mature, dry, oily, or sensitive – looking restored and regenerated. TFC8® is comprised of natural amino acids, high- grade vitamins and synthesised molecules naturally found in the skin. It guides key nutrients and powerful natural ingredients to the skin cells, creating an optimal environment for the body’s innate processes of repair and renewal.

Augustinus Bader Skincare is available exclusively at Harvey Nichols – Dubai and Bloomingdales Middle East, and online at Ounass.com and Bloomingdales.ae

Fenty Skin

The long-awaited arrival of Rihanna’s skincare line Fenty Skin has excited the region over the past few of months. The pop icon’s debut skincare offering made headlines during the recent Dubai Shopping Festival as shoppers were invited to discover Fenty Skin Island which took over The Dubai Mall promenade to celebrate the arrival of the skincare line at Sephora and invited customers to discover the new products.

Fenty Skin was developed in partnership with Kendo Brands, an LVMH-owned beauty developer, with a mission to provide simple solutions for all skin tones and types. It represents a new culture of skincare, providing clean, uncomplicated, effective products for all women (and men). Every product is designed to multitask and is packed with multiple benefits.

Fenty Skin brings together ingredients from around the world and pairs them with skincare powerhouses, such as hyaluronic acid and niacinamide, for clinically proven results. Rihanna was keen to create formulas that are vegan, cruelty-free, gluten-free and earth-conscious. Packaging has prioritised recyclable materials and smart refillable packs that still feel luxurious. The products in the range are inspired by Rihanna’s own skincare needs and routine for achieving a bright, healthy-looking complexion. Highlights of the range include the Total Cleans’r Remove-It-All Cleanser, Fat Water Pore-Refining Toner Serum and Instant Reset Overnight Recovery Gel-Cream.

Fenty Skin is available at Sephora stores and online throughout the Middle East.

Tata Harper

Tata Harper skincare launched for the first time in the Middle East late last year. The luxury beauty brand prides itself on producing high-performing products that are non-toxic and 100 per cent natural. Founder and CEO Tata Harper created her skincare brand with the mission of pushing the boundaries and innovating for the next generation of beauty to deliver luxurious products that really are effective. Since founding her company Harper has worked with the world’s top botanists and chemists to find non-toxic ingredients that will truly make a difference to women and men’s lives and not be harmful in any way.

Using the latest technology, Tata Harper’s products are formulated with the highest-quality natural ingredients available. Every product is created from start to finish on the Harper’s 1,200-acre certified- organic farm in Vermont Champlain Valley, meaning every aspect of the production process is able to be controlled and overseen by Harper herself. Every Complex Formula is engineered with the highest possible quantity of precious innovative ingredients, captured at their most effective peak for maximum potency.

If you’re new to the brand you must try the 7-Step Winter Ritual which is made up of seven key products from the range which work together to revive the skin for a nourished long-lasting result. Key products from the range include the Hydrating Floral Mask which is designed to recharge the skin, replenish lost moisture and reduce redness. While the Rejuvenating Serum 2.0 is an intensive age defence serum with micro-smoothing technology to combat visible signs of ageing such as fine lines and wrinkles.

The full range is available on Ounass.com, at Bloomingdale’s Dubai Mall and Harvey Nichols Dubai, and is distributed exclusively in the Middle East by Wild Distribution.

Sunday Riley

Sunday Riley’s products arrived in the UAE a while ago but they are still creating a storm. A favourite of beauty experts and insiders, Sunday Riley’s products focus on using key ingredients that really get to the root of skincare problems. With a background in science, Sunday Riley is a Cosmetic Chemist and Product Formulator who spent years developing her own skincare products after being dissatisfied with other formulas on the market.

These products are fun and great to look, at but the real test is in the results which truly are visible after regular use. One of the cult products Good Genes, a Glycolic Acid treatment is a multitasking treatment that smooths, refines, clarifies and brightens, while Luna Sleeping Night Oil is beauty sleep in a bottle! The latest product line CEO Glow features products that are rich in Vitamin C – a key ingredient needed to brighten, hydrate and give us that summer glow we all long for.

Sunday Riley is available exclusively at Sephora stores and online.

Patek Philippe has unveiled three new Twenty~4 models designed for modern, active women.

The “manchette” or cuff-style models with quartz movements now include a new version in rose gold with a chocolate-brown sunburst dial. The Twenty~4 Automatic, in a round case, offers two new models, one in steel adorned with an olive-green sunburst dial, the other in rose gold, its dial gilded with a rose-gold sunburst. Three new expressions of the Patek Philippe style, bring beauty to every moment of daily life.

The three new Twenty~4 models, mean women have a total of twelve lifestyle companions in the collection – with either a round or “manchette” design, quartz or automatic movement, a steel or rose-gold case and bracelet, and a splendid palette of dials, together with diamond-set versions ranging from discreet sparkle to dazzling.

Twenty~4 Reference 4910/1201R-001 is a new model in rose gold with a chocolate-brown sunburst dial. It pairs an 18K rose-gold case with a chocolate-brown sunburst dial. Two vertical rows of Top Wesselton Pure diamonds are set with textbook precision to highlight the distinctive two-tier shape of the case. The clean layout of the dial gives centre stage to the Arabic numerals, and the trapeze-shaped hour-markers and the rounded baton-style hands, all in rose gold with a luminescent coating. A Calatrava cross, emblem of the manufacture, decorates the crown. The rose-gold bracelet with fold-over clasp is a jewel in its own right. Fully hand-polished, it feels smooth and cossetting on the wrist. The mechanical components of the Patek Philippe caliber E15 quartz movement are crafted with the same devotion to fine workmanship as those of the mechanical movements.

The Twenty~4 Automatic Reference 7300/1200A-011 features an olive-green sunburst dial. The olive green colour makes its first appearance in the contemporary Patek Philippe collections. The white-gold Arabic numerals and white-gold hands have a luminescent coating, ensuring excellent legibility under all conditions. A white-gold frame adorns the date aperture at 6 o’clock. The pure circle of the case is lit with 160 diamonds (0.77 carat) set in two staggered rows according to the “dentelle” (lacework) technique. A transparent case back reveals the painstaking hand-finish and decoration lavished on the caliber 324 S C self-winding movement. The polished-steel bracelet features a new, patented fold-over clasp secured by four independent catches.

The Twenty~4 Automatic Reference 7300/1200R-011comes in rose gold with a gilded rose-gold sunburst dial. This watch extends the warm sheen of its case to a dial gilded with a rose-gold sunburst and to hour and minute hands, applied Arabic numerals and the frame of the date aperture all fashioned in the same precious metal. A double row of diamonds in a “dentelle” (lacework) setting adds a touch of brilliance, as does the fine hand-finish and decoration of the caliber 324 S C self-winding movement visible through the sapphire-crystal case back. The new, patented fold-over clasp adds to the comfort of the bracelet, whose three rows of rose-gold links are fully hand-polished.

To mark the arrival of these three new models Patek Philippe strengthen its communications campaign “Rituals of My Life”. This digital campaign launched in autumn 2020 focuses on the precious personal moments that, day by day, punctuate and illuminate the modern woman’s life. Cherished moments to which the Twenty~4 contributes its grace and beauty.