Miu Miu unveils its new advertising campaign for the festive season; Miu Miu Icons

Miu Miu Icons analyses the way we define an icon today and who the icons of the brand can be.

Miu Miu’s icons are myriad women who are multi-faceted and through their persona reflect the ever-shifting idea of and ideals of fashion. Miu Miu women are a community unto themselves but their unifying trait is their individuality.

The campaign stars some of Miu Miu’s icons from the world of cinema and film. the campaign line up includes Kim Basinger, Chloë Sevigny, Du Juan and Raffey Cassidy not only as actors but as Miu Miu women – all of whom have appeared in campaigns, defining Miu Miu women of those moments.

WATCH THE VIDEO HERE…

As Co-Founder and Creative Director of YNM, Yasmin Mulla has redefined traditional Emirati clothing with her own unique take on classic designs.

Inspired by the heroine of Greek mythology, the Antigona collection by Givenchy as embodied strength and authority since it was first introduced in 2010.

For Fall 2020, the Antigona Soft is unveiled to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Antigona handbag; an icon in the House’s portfolio. This soft and feminine accessory comes in a variety of colourways and is embellished with bold zippers and a distinctive pentagonal patch.

Crafted in smooth calfskin, this new accessory blends soft lines and versatility with a multipurpose bag that is perfect from day to night. The Antigona Soft comes in medium and large sizes with two top handles and a removable shoulder strap. For this season Givenchy unveils seasonal colours and treatments.

Seasonal statements feature a graphic houndstooth version that echoes ready-to-wear looks, and an optional extra supple calf leather embossed with a crocodile finish. An elevated version in two-tone, hand-pleated leather offers a dressier option.

Breitling has unveiled a new Chronomat Ladies Watch and a brand new Spotlight Squad starring Charlize Theron, Misty Copeland, and Yao Chen.

The new watch, which is available in two sizes and multiple colour combinations was unveiled via the latest Breitling Webcast summit, hosted by CEO Georges Kern.

Breitling Spotlight Squad

The new Chronomat 36 and 32 collection embodies flair, confidence and an active lifestyle. An elegant watch that can be worn every day but also adds some glamour for special occasions.

While its roots are in the 1980s, this forward-looking timepiece is dedicated to innovative women of today who are reshaping attitudes and challenging stereotypes.

Sporty yet elegant, this modern-retro-inspired watch easily takes its wearer from business meeting to the beach – and everywhere in between.

George Kern, CEO of Breitling said: “Our inspiration for this new collection is the Breitling woman herself, as represented in our #SQUADONAMISSION campaign: a woman of purpose, action, and style who’s at the top of her game.” 

The watches feature Breitling’s iconic Rouleaux bracelet with a butterfly clasp and they are COSC-­certified as well as being water-resistant up to 100 metres.

They are available in an array of metal cases: cool stainless steel, goes-with-everything bi-colour, or luxe 18 k red gold. Women craving extra sparkle can opt for diamond-set bezels and indexes.

The Chronomat Automatic 36 is powered by the Breitling Caliber 10 with a reserve of about 42 hours. There are ten versions to choose from, with special lacquered dials in white, pale green, midnight blue, or copper.

The Chronomat 32 runs on the Breitling Caliber 77 and has a battery life of three to four years. It comes in seven versions, with white or midnight blue dials.

To mark this exciting launch Breitling presents its new Spotlight Squad featuring Oscar-winning actress Charlize Theron, ballet dancer Misty Copeland and Chinese TV and film actress Yao Chen.

This new squad continues Breitling’s #Squadonamission campaign and features three women at the top of the game who embody the spirit of this watch.

Georges Kern said: “Who better than Charlize Theron, Misty Copeland, and Yao Chen to turn the spotlight on major global causes as they redefine what it means to be a strong woman? The three leading stars are known for being fierce and pushing boundaries. What binds them together is the Spotlight Squad and Breitling’s dedication to change, diversity, and reshaping the world we live in.”

The new ladies Chronomat watch is now available online and at Breitling boutiques worldwide.

At Louis Vuitton, travel goes beyond discovering a physical destination, it is equally a process of self-discovery, a personal journey.

The House’s new brand campaign “Imagination takes flight”, is a voyage transcending the times, an emotional journey across landscapes and borders, an innocent curiosity for what lies both beyond and within.

Photographed by Viviane Sassen come to life as the core values of the House are translated into imagery: the Art of Travel, dreams and escapism, transmission from generation to generation, and continuous optimism.

The new Campaign anchors Louis Vuitton’s roots, reminding us of its DNA and its Core Values of freedom, travel and transmission. Products take a side-step as the Art of Travel is put at the forefront.

Shot in Iceland, the campaign features magical images of children exploring the Icelandic landscapes, dreamlike settings with an optimistic outlook on the future. A complete local Icelandic team, including school children, helped make this campaign possible.

The campaign will be unveiled globally on 31st October.

Directed and Styled by Hedi Slimane, Celine presented its 08 Women Summer 21 collection at the Stade Louis II in Monaco.

The sporty offering was fitting to its surroundings as models walked to the soundtrack of “I Like Him” performed by Princess Nokia.

See the collection below:

After the tragic explosion in Beirut in August, some of Dubai’s most popular restaurants came together to raise funds to help those affected.

The Initiative “Save Beirut” which took place on Sunday 30^th August raised a grand total of 1,171,686 AED.

This huge sum was the result of 84 restaurants including Gaia, Zuma, Shanghai Me, LPM and The Maine joining forces along with delivery platforms, fast-food outlets, cafés and casual concepts for this important cause.

The initiative brought Dubai’s hospitality industry and the entire ecosystem together to support the important cause and celebrate the influence of the Lebanese culture and the impact it has on the sector.

The team behind the campaign expressed their sincere thanks and gratitude for the overwhelming response. The impressive amount of participating venues, partners that invested their time, products and expertise, incredible exposure across the mass media, outdoor advertising and across all digital platforms; as well as every donation, booking, and order.

Save Beirut is licensed under the Emirates Red Crescent, the UAE affiliate of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies. The organisation oversees all charitable donations to ensure they are transparent and sent directly to the people that need it most.

Hermès has unveiled its second Rouge Hermès Limited Edition collection for the autumn/winter months.

Three new editions of  Rouge Hermès have been specially created to evoke the mood of the winter months.

The three shades; ROSE OMBRÉ, ROSE POMMETTE and ROSE NUIT reflect the works of fine artists: the silent perspectives of Charles Sheeler, the calm beauty of the still lifes and domestic landscapes by John Register and Arduino Cantàfora, the abstract compositions of Jean Hélion.

ROSE OMBRÉ has a satin finish and combines rosewood and waxed palisander. A secret pleasure in half-tones, discreet and slightly muted.

ROSE POMMETTE which also has a satin finish, is a light-filled, joyful and vibrant pink, like a wild rose in bright sunlight.

And ROSE NUIT with its chic matte finish is a velvety pink, deep, soft and muted tone, with subtle tints of blue beneath a starry sky.

All Hermès lipsticks are refillable making them fully sustainable as the lifespan of the packaging can extend for generations.

The autumn-winter 2020 Rouge Hermès Limited Edition collection is now available in selected Hermès retail outlets around the world.

Discover Dolce & Gabbana’s Fall/Winter 2021 bags. Adorned with embellishments and embroidery, the latest accessories celebrate the best of Italian craftsmanship.

Images provided by Dolce&Gabbana 

See more at dolcegabbana.com. 

Halima Jumani, Co-Founder and Director of Kibsons Online Home Delivery on succeeding during challenging times.

This November, Christie’s will present “We Are All Beirut”, a charity auction to benefit and aid the restoration and reawakening of the arts and cultural landscape of Beirut.

The proceeds of the auction, which will take place between 4^th and 24^th November will be donated to The Arab Funds for Arts and Culture (AFAC) to support the arts and culture community in Beirut including the Sursock Museum.

Mona Hatoum; Witness, 2009; Estimate £35,000-45,000; Credit © Mona Hatoum, Photo Florian Kleinefenn

The auction will include works across three sectors: the arts, the world of design and the world of jewellery. With works by internationally acclaimed artists such as Mona Hatoum and specifically commissioned works for the cause by Ayman Baalbaki, Serwan Baran, Abdel Rahman Katanani and Nabil Nahas as well as iconic designs by Paulin Paulin Paulin and Hervé van der Straaten. The jewellery segment of the sale will include exquisite lots courteously donated by various brands and Maison’s, including Hemmerle, Boghossian and Piaget.

Pierre Paulin, Tapis-Siége, 1972, Estimate £20,000-30,000, Credit ©Paulin

A selection of the works in the auction were part of the exhibition ‘Beirut Year Zero’ which was organized recently in response to the tragic event on 4th August by Zoe and Nabil Debs of Arthaus Beirut and seen by thousands of visitors. The proceeds of these selected works will mainly be donated to the Lebanese Red Cross and Christie’s is delighted to welcome this initiative, as the company has supported the Red Cross in times of crisis for more than 100 years.

Hemmerle Earrings; Estimate £20,000-30,000; Courtesy © Hemmerle

Caroline Louca-Kirkland, Managing Director at Christie’s Middle East commented: “Supporting the work behind AFAC’s cultural and philanthropic initiative, advocating and directing the rehabilitation and reconstruction of Beirut’s artistic and cultural hubs is so important to us here at Christie’s. Witnessing such an incredible level of interest and generous contributions to We Are All Beirut, regionally and internationally, depicts the humanity and benevolence that is so very much needed today.”

Over the coming weeks, Christie’s shall announce the array of wonderous works of art and artists contributing and bringing to life this very special auction.

Vacheron Constantin has launched the “One of Not Many” Mentorship Programme in the UAE aimed at empowering young Emirati women.

Organised in collaboration with Zayed University the program invited six inspiring Emirati women to guide six senior undergraduates through a six-month journey of observation, exploration and experimentation.

The programme mirrors the spirit of the Maison and its proud heritage of know-how, passion, creativity and craftsmanship. Choose six successful women as inspiring mentors, the programme will allow young women to be inspired and empowered.

Latifa Al Gurg

The chosen six mentors to take part in this one-of-a-kind educational program are: Rafia Helal Bin Drai, Founder and Fashion Designer of Mauzan, Hala Al Gergawi, Founder and CEO of Tea Before Noon, Latifa Al Gurg, Fashion designer and Founder of Twisted Roots, Alia Al Shamsi, Author and Artist, Salama Al Shamsi, Founder of Salama’s restaurant and Noora Shawqi, Jewelry Designer and Founder of Noora Shawqi.

Alia Al Shamsi

These women will guide six young students through a course designed to empower the role of youth in the community and encourage women to continue pursuing their dreams to attain their ultimate goals.

Égerie Watch

The Maison has always devoted great importance to meeting and exceeding women’s expectations as reflected through its rich heritage of feminine timepieces, as well as its most recent launch the Égerie watch that reflects today’s inspiring, independent and charismatic woman.

Égerie Moonphase

The Égerie Moonphase jewellery watch, its latest addition entirely bedecked in diamonds, take place at the highest level of craftsmanship and femininity, with a 37mm white gold case, a dial and a bracelet studded with 1,344 brilliant-cut diamonds.

Bringing together the worlds of Haute Couture and Haute Horlogerie with its feminine collection Égérie, Vacheron Constantin has collaborated with the Emirati couture designer and founder of Mauzan, Rafia Helal Bin Drai. Alongside being one of the mentors of the programme, Rafia has designed a capsule collection of 7 unique abayas inspired by the recently Égérie collection timepieces.

Her designs reflect high craftsmanship, passion, creativity and attention to detail. Known to be a true local couturier and empowering women through beautiful designs, Rafia’s passion and creativity resonated with the Maison.

The mentorship journey will begin in November 2020 with a 3-week recruitment period. Based on their career aspirations, students will have the chance to apply through the Zayed University website to be guided by the mentor of their choice in the hope of being selected amongst the six final students.

The six students will embark have regular one-to-one sessions with their mentor, allowing them to observe, explore and experiment in a professional environment. Together, the mentors and the students will set the goal for this Mentorship Program to offer a tailored plan for each student in accordance with their objectives and helping them achieve their own professional destiny.

Throughout the six months, the mentors will share their own experiences, career advice, and guide the mentee to discover the reality of their own field. The end of this unique program will also lead to a potential opportunity whereby any of the six selected students would take part in another enriching learning experience during an internship with Vacheron Constantin.

Based on the image of original blueprints of Aeronefs; some of the earliest aircraft, the new Pilot Type 20 Blueprint by Zenith sparks curiosity and fascination about the manufacture of the watch.

This watch was inspired by the blueprints, typical of production and engineering plans in the mid-19th and early 20th centuries, to highlight the true details of the timepiece.

The designers at the Manufacture sought to highlight this “unseen” aspect of the dial, by incorporating its production plans directly onto it. The dial is created in two parts: a matte blue base with all technical plans and notes used by the dial-maker, and above it a sapphire crystal and a sapphire crystal layer with the usual markers and logo.

This creates a captivatingly deep visual effect, where the various markings cast a slight shadow on the blue base and give the impression that they’re hovering above the blueprint dial.

The Pilot Type 20 Blueprint remains true to the legacy of Zenith’s iconic Pilot watch. Powered by the Elite manufacture automatic movement, it has an oversized steel case, finished with a mix of polished and satin-brushed surfaces, featuring the signature oversized “onion” shaped crown. The side of the case features a screwed plaque bearing the unique limited edition number of the watch which is limited to 250 pieces.

The blue calfskin leather strap is inspired by the classic shearling leather flight jacket, with rivets and a titanium pin buckle as well as a distinctive tab one would find on a vintage pilot’s helmet.

When Reem Abou Samra had the initial idea of creating a chain of beauty salons it was based on her own experience and what she believed was lacking in the market in the UAE.

The Syrian-born entrepreneur wanted somewhere that she could go that would make her feel like a star. Somewhere where she could socialise with friends and have just a few hours completely for her. She was tired of feeling stressed or unwanted in beauty salons and realised the only way she could get the experience she was looking for, was to create it herself. Reem opened her first Laloge salon in Emirates Hills, Dubai and today she has five locations, with more on the horizon. What’s different about her salons is that they were built on passion and experience, so every fine detail has been considered to ensure every woman that passes through the doors, has the best experience possible.

At the beginning of the year, Reem had hopes of opening salons outside of the UAE, with plans to launch across the GCC and even in London. But of course, these plans came to a halt when the global pandemic arrived in March and the business was forced to shut for a month during the lockdown. But things are getting back on track with the salons welcoming even more women than expected through the doors every day. Cleanliness is of the utmost importance and ensuring that women feel safe when they come to Laloge is at the forefront of Reem’s mind. Her plans to expand internationally are starting to move forward and things are looking positive for the future. We find out more about how this period has given this passionate entrepreneur time to reflect and build for a better future.

How have you spent this year so far and have you changed anything about the business moving forward?

I don’t see this year as a problem but as an opportunity. First of all, it gave me the chance to relax as we had to close the beauty salons for a month. I needed this month because I had been working very hard so it gave me time with my family and enabled me to get into a routine of doing a lot of yoga and meditation. This helped me a lot to come up with new ideas of how to change the business and how to move forward. So it was a blessing for me. But of course, for the business, it was slow and challenging. But challenges give me motivation and desire so I embrace them. I realised that we would need to move very fast in order to navigate through these tough months so we put together a lot of new strategies and processes. After the quarantine period, we started to go full speed ahead. We cleaned all of the locations and started to push the salons with marketing and on social media and it has been doing very well, even more than we expected. I think coming to the salon has helped a lot of people as it gives them a chance to relax and think about only themselves just for a while. It has also reassured women that life is still the same. When women look beautiful they feel positive and that is what I want.

What is something that you have learnt throughout this year?

I’ve learnt that we should really think about how to balance our lives. I’ve realised that everything in the universe was imbalanced and the pandemic has allowed us to slow down and reassess what is important. I also think it has been a time for people to think about their mental health, as well as reassessing when it comes to shopping and whether we really need all these material things. When it comes to family, no one ever had the time to spend with their family and this has changed which I think it’s something really beautiful to have come from this. What’s special about this moment is that it’s universal, it’s not exclusive to one particular country or place, it’s all around the world and we have really seen people coming together as one family during this time.

What do you think makes your salons different from others in the UAE?

For our salons, the most important part is what our intention is and that is to make everyone look beautiful and feel happy. Of course, I have to make money, but this is not my main objective. So we focus more on making sure that when a woman enters the salon she feels like a normal lady, but when she leaves she feels like a star. She will be treated like a star when she’s in the salon and she will transform and feel special when she leaves. I created my salons because I felt something was missing in the market. I wanted something that captures what a woman wants and makes her feel better. I like to create an atmosphere where even if she comes to the salon for three hours she feels happy and at home. I invite women to make new friends or come together to socialise and enjoy themselves while having some much-needed me-time.

Last time we spoke you mentioned how you were looking to open international salons – can you tell us any more about that?

Before the pandemic, we had several enquiries about this, especially for the Gulf region – Bahrain, Doha, Saudi Arabia, as well as London. But of course, everything has stopped for a while because of the situation. But now we are looking to start again and we are now ready to franchise to anywhere in the world and we want to start doing it as soon as possible. I think we will start with Saudi Arabia as we have a number of offers, especially with many hotels opening there. We will be picking and choosing the best!

This issue is about celebrating success – how would you define success?

Success for me is first of all to be yourself and then you will make all the right decisions. If you are yourself you will know exactly what you want from your business and that will allow you to have a better future and a better you. For me, it’s about learning and evolving, not just making money. Money comes and goes but the real goal should be how to become a better person and create something new for this world. Some people like to invest for success, I like to create something new and give something unique back to the world.

With every success comes setback and failures – how do you deal with this and stay motivated?

When something happens I don’t see it as a failure, I see it as a challenge. I have to be stronger and go ahead and figure out what needs to be changed. As long as you are yourself and you have the right energy, everything will eventually open up for you.

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

When I first came up with the concept of my salon it was very hard to get a good location as nobody wanted to take a chance on me. I found the location I wanted and I spent six months chasing the manager of the hotel. I wanted it to be somewhere that I wanted to go every day and I was determined to have this location. But the hotel wanted to have a salon with a well-known name and at that time I was still growing my company. So they signed with a big name but I felt it would come back to me somehow. After the summer I went back and the salon wasn’t there, so I went to see the manager and he told me that it didn’t work out. So I told him my concept and he saw the passion that I have for it and finally, he took a chance on me. He said I was the only owner of a company that had come to him and really explained why I wanted to be there. So that’s how we opened the first salon.

Another challenge is that I want my stylists and the people that work with me to feel that they can come here and grow and learn and change their mindset. I want all of my team to achieve their best.

If you look back, what is something that you would tell your younger self?

Believe in yourself and follow your dreams. Always dream big and support others. And be happy for them when they have successes.

How do you keep a family/work-life balance?

It is hard but of course, things have changed a little this year. The one thing I always do is that whatever I’m doing I give it one hundred per cent. Whatever it is and for however long, I focus purely on that one thing in that moment. When you give one hundred per cent to something you will get one hundred per cent back. It’s not easy but it’s something very important to learn. Meditation also helps me with this.

What is something you would love to change within the beauty industry in the UAE?

Not only in the UAE, but in the Middle East as a whole I would like to see an academy and criteria for hairstylists to train and receive proper qualifications. This is something that is already in place in Europe but we don’t have it yet in the Middle East. There needs to be more education for all of the talented people in the industry.

What would you say to those at the beginning of their business journey?

Firstly you need to be prepared to work hard and focus. It’s very important to have passion for what you do because otherwise even if you succeed you will not be happy.

Who or what inspires you to succeed?

There is no one specific but whenever I see any person I learn from him or her. It can be anyone around me. This is the way I think you can be more successful in a shorter time.

What is the life motto you live by?

Love yourself first. There are many more mottos that come later but this is what you start with!

Reema Al Banna, the designer behind contemporary UAE- based womenswear brand Reemami has quickly made a name for herself in the region with her unique, modern designs.

The Palestinian-born designer was influenced by her time growing up in the UAE and she started her brand with the vision to fill a gap in the market for fresh, modern womenswear that combined western and eastern styles. Reema founded her brand in 2010 and quickly saw success with her first few collections, receiving awards and accolades for her designs. But while her brand was a success, Reema experienced the difficult side of being a designer in the UAE too. The competition was great and funding and a lack of international development made things tricky. Reema took a three-season hiatus from designing before coming back stronger last year with a new collection. As she plans to launch her new offering, which will see her take a new direction, we discuss what inspires her and how to deal with setbacks and failures while continuing to stay motivated and positive.

What is your first memory of fashion growing up?

I used to go shopping in Sharjah with my mum, and choose outfits that really spoke out, things that I would still wear today! I remember when I was a kid, I would refuse to be dressed in anything If I didn’t choose it. Of course, at school, we had to wear uniforms, so it was the trips that we took outside of school that showed my sense of style.

What are some of the values that are important to you as a woman and as a brand?

Being authentic is very important, having my own voice and trying to speak out loud amid all the noise. It’s very important for me to work in a sustainable manner. As a fashion brand based in Dubai, I’ve always worked with local artisans within my reach. As a woman, I want to make the women who wear my clothes feel confident, love themselves and feel good. I also want to make sure all women whatever shape or size, are invited to the Reemami party!

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

So much! It’s been a ten-year journey so far, but there’s still so much to accomplish and I feel like I only just started. I’m looking forward to making stronger connections with my customers, with my international markets and most importantly, making waves and collaborating with aspiring people.

How do you think your heritage and upbringing has influenced your designs?

Growing up in Sharjah, which was a very cosmopolitan city, it’s fair to say that my Palestinian heritage has influenced my conservative styles, and also the longing to show happiness and colour in my designs, to uplift the mood!

How would you define success?

At every stage in my life, success has a new meaning. Right now success for me is about creating something that will impact other’s lives, for eternity. Something that will make a difference positively to the lives of others.

With every success comes setbacks or failures – how do you keep motivated when you face challenges?

Recently, life has been surprising all of us, it’s been a crazy year for everyone. When I face challenges, I take a step back and take it easy on myself. Throughout the past ten years, everything has been on fast-track, the pandemic and everything that happened this year has made me realise that there is so much more to life than meeting deadlines, and being a workaholic! I’ve realised it’s OK to do things on your terms. Thankfully the pandemic has awakened the whole fashion industry as well!

What can you tell us about your latest collection for Reemami?

My next collection is very dear to me. It’s one I’ve been longing to work on for years. It will be labelled as its theme ‘to be announced’ and it will be seasonless, released in drops throughout the year. This year has shone a light on some styles and made us completely disregard other styles, so we will be producing looks we know will do well and will take their time to shine, which is more sustainable as well. We won’t be producing a collection just for the sake of making clothes, our stories will be even more meaningful this time.

When are you at your most creative state of mind?

When I’m happy, I’ve worked out or had a good night’s sleep. I’m creative when I’ve had a good active weekend when I’m on good terms with my friends and family, and I’m in the zone. Designing is a process, I’ve been working on my last collection for eight months and my creativity level varied throughout, and now it’s the final stretch. It’s been cooking in my head for a while so I think it happens over time.

Who is the woman you design for?

She’s confident, powerful, she loves to express herself, she loves colour and art and she has strong attention to detail.

Who would you most like to see wearing your designs?

A woman that’s confident and is changing the world, step by step

What is your biggest achievement so far?

Reemami is still in its growth stages, so there is still much more to come.

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

So many things related to helping people and giving back.

Who or what inspires you to design?

Art, architecture, graphic design, telling a new story with every collection. My customers, the love I have for designing, my studio!

What is something you would like to see happen in the fashion industry in the UAE?

I would love to see the designers collaborating more, and more support for designers. I would also love to see more factories switching their business models to work with smaller quantities.

What would you say to anyone at the beginning of their business journey?

Get ready for this roller coaster ride, be patient, stay authentic, have a strong message and be sustainable!

What is the life motto you live by?

Solid baby steps.

What is a lesson you have learnt this year?

To appreciate life more, and to take care of yourself, your family and eat healthily.

Jean Dinh Van founded his jewellery brand at Paris in 1965.

dinh van brought a spirit of freedom by introducing design to the world of fine jewellery with modern, minimalist pieces. Today the Maison creates architectural, pure, modern jewellery in inimitable style. dinh van creates everyday luxury, freed from the constraints of convention, its creations are made for strong, emancipated women who wear jewellery for themselves, not for those who look at them.

Mr. Thierry Vasseur, General Manager at dinh van shares secrets to the longevity of the jewellery House.

Mr. Thierry Vasseur, General Manager at dinh van

What can you tell us about the return of customers to the stores post-COVID-19?

Well, we have to say that we are very lucky! Not even two months after the complete lockdown of our stores and retailers all around the world, our faithful clients came back. In most of our markets, the results are good, higher than expected!

Have you seen any ways in which buying patterns of customers have changed?

During the lockdown, our e-commerce platform has experienced phenomenal growth and our online-sales are still superior compared with what they were last year. I think our customers have got used to purchasing online.

What can you tell us about dinh van in the Middle East?

It’s been almost a year since dinh van opened his store at The Dubai Mall. We’ll celebrate its first year anniversary in December. This is the largest store of our network.

Are there any styles or collections that are particularly popular in the region?

The customers in the GCC region are very enthusiastic about the Pulse collection, especially in pink gold with diamonds.

Le Cube Diamant Ring

The Menottes bracelet is of course an icon for the brand – what do you think makes this bracelet so popular?

The Menottes design is emblematic of our brand and best expresses our DNA. Created by Jean Dinh Van in 1976, this collection turned the world of French jewellery upside down. While traditional jewellers strive to make the clasp as discreet as possible, dinh van uses it as the centrepiece for all the collections. The Menotte clasp is particularly difficult to open once worn, thereby inspiring its name after the French word: handcuffs. Even 40 years after its creation, the Menottes collection and pieces are still as popular as ever: both for their timeless unique design and for the freedom of spirit that emanates from it. Wearing a dinh van cuff bracelet means being part of this liberate and strong lover tribe!

What can you tell us about the latest collections in store – what should we look out for?

The jewellery industry has a much slower pace than the fashion industry. We launch, on average, a new collection every three/four years. The latest collection launched was at the end of 2017, the Pulse dinh van. That doesn’t mean that our collections don’t evolve in the meantime! We release about fifty new models per year. For the end of the year, we are notably launching three exceptional models in our iconic collection: Menottes dinh van.

When there is so much competition how do you ensure customers come to you? 

Since the creation of our brand in 1965, we have been faithful to the founding principle of our company. We propose minimalist designs that accompany the customers at every moment of their life. Remaining sincere and faithful to what we were and what we will be is the key to the success of the House. We are able to keep our customers loyal by not following the trends of the seasons, but we offer them jewellery that represents our image of being timeless and humble.

Can we expect to see dinh van further expand in the region?

Indeed that’s what we are hoping! Our flagship store in The Dubai Mall is our first step in the GCC, we have contacts for upcoming openings in the region. Stay tuned!

Menottes bracelet

Do you think the way in which women wear jewellery today has changed and how?

Nowadays, women wear their pieces of jewellery differently than fifty years ago. For many reasons, their way of life has changed, they work, they are independent and they have self-confidence. They wear their jewels for themselves and not for those who look at them.

Our jewels represent this change. In the 60s, our founder Jean Dinh Van launched his House because he felt and wanted to enhance the changes of the generation all around Europe, touching all the creative sectors. For instance, Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Cardin invented the ready-to-wear when only made-to-order fashion was available. Dinh Van Paris has been created with the same will, bring the jewellery in the streets of Paris, worn by any type of women any time of the day, disrupting the codes!

How would you describe dinh van in one word?

Timeless.

Chloé has revealed a capsule collection dedicated to the UAE that will be available exclusively in the Emirates.

The collection coincides with the opening of the new Chloé flagship boutique in the Dubai Mall’s Fashion Avenue Extension.

The capsule collection consists of three elegant accessories for women in line with the fall/winter 2020-21 collection.

The highlight piece is an embroidered version of the Maison’s Tess bag, one of the key lines, inspired by traditional female outfits of oriental ethnicities.

The Lauren sneaker is also presented in an exclusive colour combination and a brass eyewear chain with Natural Fresh Water Pearls and Swarovski Crystals.

Available at the Chloé store at The Dubai Mall, Fashion Avenue Extension.

Abu Dhabi born jewellery designer Noor Shamma had an interest in understanding the complexities in everyday life from a young age. Her passion for architecture evolved into a passion for jewellery design, which ultimately saw her creating a brand that combines the two art forms. Her architectural modern designs are the jewellery of the future. Creating a beautiful blend between classic and contemporary Noor’s pieces reflect the concept of unity in diversity through unique patterns and minimalist motifs. Each of her jewellery pieces capture personal stories interwoven with art, identity, and emotion; and is expertly crafted by worldwide artisans in New York City and beyond.

While her family home is in the UAE, Noor’s business headquarters are based in New York so she spends much of her time travelling between the two, running her company, as well as being a mum and to a daughter. Of course, this year much has changed as travel has become much more difficult and the designer has had to adapt to new ways of communicating with her teams and developing new products from afar. We find out more about how this new way of communicating has changed her business and we discuss her upcoming jewellery collection.

This year has been a strange year for all – what is something you have learnt from this period?

I’ve learnt to stop resisting my reality, and I’m working on being present and adopting a slower pace.

We know you spend much of your life on a plane – how have you managed to adjust this year and where did you spend your time?

On the couch! I must say that not travelling was by far the toughest part of this year for me, though I luckily did manage to get on a few planes before the lockdown. I have had to adapt to a slower pace and find ways to cope with the new lifestyle. I miss travel though, so much.

Have you changed anything within your business moving forward?

Absolutely. I had more time to focus on building relationships and curating a more personalised experience for my clients. I also got to experiment with a plethora of beautiful gemstones as I worked on a few exclusive pieces. It was a great time to get out of my comfort zone and explore new territories.

What can you tell us about your latest collections?

What I can share now is that the collection encompasses a shared intimacy that echoes across generations; let’s say, this one is by far the closest to my heart.

Why do you think it is important for women to have jewellery in their lives?

I think it’s because jewellery is forever, it is timeless. There’s a great sentimental aspect that’s tied with jewellery and that makes it priceless.

Your style of jewellery is very unique – how would you describe it in your own words and who is the woman you design for?

Timeless and very functional with a twist of cool! Given my active lifestyle, I need to know that I’m wearing classic yet practical and functional pieces that are easy to move with and travel in, from day to night. My jewellery happens to tick those boxes! The collections are functional yet timeless with a contemporary twist through a unique geometric aesthetic; almost as if it was “wearable architecture”. I love that it can be passed on from one generation after another; jewellery is forever. Also, my jewellery adapts to the women wearing it, and that’s what makes it special.

Take us back to the beginning of your journey before you launched your brand – what was your goal and how did you set about achieving it?

I majored in Design Management and I stumbled upon jewellery design by chance, but I immediately fell in love with the whole design process and working with talented craftsmen who bring my ideas and concepts to life. A few years ago, I got GIA certified in Applied Jewellery Professional which has helped me better understand the craft and industry. Jewellery always comes with a story — it is timeless and sentimental and I get to share my own artistic interpretations through this timeless medium.

This issue is about success – how would you define success?

Success to me is the ability to adapt.

What is your biggest achievement so far?

Would surviving this year (to date) count? Along with starting my jewellery business — that’s my biggest achievement. And motherhood — that’s a given.

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

Settle on a farm, forever after.

How do you think your heritage and upbringing has influenced your designs?

I’m naturally very influenced by culture, architecture and the people I interact with, be it consciously or subconsciously, and that allows me to design pieces that translate effortlessly between cultures without it dominating one over the other — East meets West. It’s simply relevant.

When are you at your most creative?

If I’m very honest, it’s usually when I least expect it. I tend to get bursts of creativity followed by lengthy artist blocks. But I usually try to make the most out my creative outbursts and allow myself to be in that state of flow.

How important is sustainability to you as a brand and what are you doing to ensure you are working in the most sustainable way?

Naturally, we ensure the protection of human rights and the environment by using recycled, conflict-free 18-karat gold. In addition, we responsibly source the best quality diamonds and coloured stones with the highest integrity in our efforts to produce sustainable fine jewellery. It is also worth mentioning that all our stones are natural, so they’re non-heated and non-treated. We are committed to developing the right partnerships and embrace sustainable practices to monitor our impact as a business through conserving natural resources, reducing energy usage, carbon emissions and carbon footprint.

We know you wear many hats – how do you manage your time and get a good work/life balance?

The truth is, I don’t have a work/life balance and I have come to terms that it will never happen! Some days life wins, most days work wins — it all depends on my priorities in that phase, something’s gotta give!

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

There have been numerous challenges but those are always the best learning curves. I try to avoid being overwhelmed and tend to focus on breaking down the problem to solve it gradually.

If you could look back, what is something that you would tell your younger self?

Breathe! This too shall pass.

What would you say to anyone at the beginning of his / her business journey?

Challenges are the best learning curves. Running a business has its complexities and it is sometimes disheartening when the results are not immediate; but I’ve learnt that talent, hard work and patience are the perfect recipe to success.

What is the life motto you live by?

To love is to act.

To say that Ingie Chalhoub is a busy woman is an understatement. As Founder and Managing Director of Etoile Group and Artistic Director and Designer of her own brand INGIE Paris, she has many roles to play as a businesswoman.

Over the years, Chalhoub had overcome many challenges, from being the only woman in a male-dominated world to defying the odds by launching her own international fashion brand. But this year has seen one of the biggest challenges yet. With the global pandemic closing stores and halting travel, Chalhoub has had to rethink her strategy and plan for the “new normal’. We find out what is on the agenda for the future of INGIE Paris as well as the upcoming collections and the business developments within Etoile Group.

How have you managed your businesses throughout the lockdown and how have you been able to communicate with your customers at this time?

It has been a very challenging year. We have had a very stressful time because what happened was very sudden and it’s not something that we were prepared for. No one believed that something like this could ever happen. As well as the health crisis, we have the economic crisis and consequently a social crisis so it has been a really difficult thing to deal with.

In terms of our customers, we had to close our stores which was very difficult, but at this point, the priority was ensuring the safety of our staff and respecting the rules that were set in place by the government. When we started to reopen firstly we had to ensure that we were following the safety guidelines from the government and protecting the staff. Then we started reaching out to our customers via What’s App, sending them the lookbook and trying to offer a concierge service and communicate with them. At first, this was on a personal level, it wasn’t about sales, we wanted to check in with them and make sure they were safe. It was very difficult when the stores first opened as the regulations changed and we had to take several precautions which were difficult to put in place. There was a lot of stress and challenges, everyone was worried. It was a crazy period. The team has been working from home so that was another challenge, documents still had to be signed so we had people going back and forth for this. We had a team meeting every day on Zoom and we had to set new protocols to adjust and be agile.

Is there anything you have changed within the business moving forward after this time?

We launched e-commerce for Etoile La Boutique which was great because it was something we already had in the back of our minds but it wasn’t a priority. When COVID came; it became a priority. So our business model has definitely changed. We have tried to convince our partners that they should all have e-commerce in the region, specific to the UAE. The second priority was the Concierge service that we have put in place. All of our customers can have access to the free service which involves us sending a selection of pieces to their home, so they can try on the pieces and decide what they like. A lot of people, particularly in Kuwait and KSA were staying quite far away from the stores throughout the lockdown, so we were able to send pieces from Kuwait City for example to their beach houses on the coast. That was great for them and it was great for us too as it meant we could still have some sales.

What is a lesson you have learnt from this period?

I have learnt many lessons! In difficult times, you go back to what is most important and what is less important. Having a connection with my family, with my team members and my friends became the priority. Caring about them, making sure they are feeling safe. Making sure our team members are safe and happy. Looking after our customers and ensuring they are in good health. Making real connections with people is something I have learnt to put at the forefront during this time.

What can you tell us about your fall/winter 2020 collection for INGIE Paris?

The fall/winter 2020 collection was developed around the idea of a strong feminine woman. I was inspired by Jane Birkin. She is someone who had a real influence on my childhood because she was a symbol of freedom. The kind of beauty that is very natural yet glamorous with a touch of rock. I wanted to pay tribute to her because she has opened up a lot of doors for other women. Through my collections, I always try to celebrate women who have been strong and inspiring and who have opened the doors for others.

This issue is all about success – in your own words, how would you define success?

You achieve success by finding harmony and balance in life. It is not only about money or succeeding in your professional career, but success is also about achieving inner happiness and having time to yourself and with your loved ones.

Take us back to the beginning of INGIE Paris what were the challenges you faced and how did you overcome them?

I faced a lot of challenges but I did have a lot of support from journalists, friends, family and partners. What I have achieved in such a short time couldn’t have been done without the support I’ve had from people in the region. Our partners understood that starting INGIE Paris was important to me. But the challenge was to have people understand that I can wear different hats and that I am still the same woman. I’m just happy to be able to design for my own collection. That was challenging at first as I had to shift the perception of people from seeing me as a businesswoman to seeing me as a creative director of a brand.

As a businesswoman how do you deal with challenges and overcome failures?

As a businesswoman, it was always very difficult because I’m a woman! When I started out it was a time when it was not very common to have a woman be the partner of big brands or a woman discussing finance and budgets etc. Dealing with partners and getting them to have that trust in me was something that I had to gain. Over time they have learnt to appreciate my skills and understand that they can still do business with me even though I am a woman. In fact, as a woman I have certain advantages as well! But I absolutely had to work harder because of my gender.

We know you wear many hats – how do you manage to keep a work/life balance?

It’s very important to take care of yourself. Like every woman I am multi-faceted and we are all required to wear different hats at different times. I start my morning very early and take one hour for myself. I have to give a lot of my time to others so I think it’s really important to have that time just for me. I have a lot of requirements from the family and the business so it’s important to make sure my mind is completely focused on what it needs to be focused on. I have to be able to organise everything before, otherwise, I will be distracted.

What would you say is your biggest achievement so far?

I haven’t got to my biggest achievement yet! I never look at the past, I look at the future and think about my next project and where I’m going. For sure, I have won a lot of awards and been given rewards, but the real reward is the philanthropic work that I do, trying to help people who are in need. We have been doing a lot of things in Lebanon since the explosion, as well as other projects. This is very important to me.

What’s something you would still like to achieve?

There is always something! I have many more projects to come and hopefully one day soon I’ll be able to achieve some of them. But right now I’m taking some time for myself because I need to re-set and concentrate on the business. I’m also trying to re-evaluate the situation and assess how we can move forward. I would also like to develop some new projects or ideas that have been in my mind for a while.

If you could look back, what is something that you would tell your younger self?

Take more time for you. I have given a lot to my work and my family and I think I have neglected myself a little! I don’t regret that at all but I think I need some time for me now.

What is the life motto you live by?

Make others happy.

What can we expect to see from INGIE Paris from the last part of this year and going into 2021?

I need to re-think the strategy of the company. The future is not very clear and when you don’t see the light at the end of the tunnel you feel uneasy. So I would like to take the time to reassess and not to hurry into anything. I don’t want to have the pressure of doing a certain number of collections per year and abiding by deadlines and the criteria of others. I want to take more time to look at how and why we are doing things. I have learnt that we were rushing things out so quickly and it was just too much. This is one of the things I would like to change. I don’t want to go by the book and the rules anymore. I really believe this time is an opportunity.

Breitling has become the first luxury watchmaker to offer a digital passport based on blockchain for all of its new watches.

This new technology means that new watch owners can access Breitling’s new digital sphere thanks to blockchain technology which provides digital security and allows the owner to prove the authenticity and legitimacy of their ownership.

All new watches will be delivered to their owners with a block-chain digital passport, secured by Arianee technology to ensure their authenticity and accessibility. This allows the owner complete security as well as an enhanced services in customer relations and offers them access to essential information, repair-tracking guarantees and insurance for theft or loss.

Breitling is the first luxury watchmaker to offer this kind of blockchain innovation. Beyond the authenticity of each product, the digital passport is at the heart of a new ecosystem of digital services for Breitling watch owners. The passport is automatically connected to Breitling’s digital warranty program and it also allows owners to track and initiate repairs.

HOW DOES IT WORK?

With our latest editorial production, we take you on a journey through Dior’s latest fine jewellery collections.

Featuring Rose Des Vents and The D De Dior Satine designed by Victoire de Castellane, discover the femininity and elegance of the pieces that will capture those precious moments in life.

Watch the video here… 

The iconic Rose Des Vents collection is now enriched with precious new pieces. The new Rose Céleste is a homage to Christian Dior’s passion or divinatory art. The luminous greens of emerald and malachite combined with mother-of-pearl and diamonds appear on a cuff and our-strand necklace, while a coloured choker with diamonds in a rice grain setting.

Decorated with lapis lazuli and a compass rose, a hand jewel and pair of earrings blend into a monochrome ensemble of mother-of-pearl and diamonds.

The facets of Rose Céleste, featuring a majestic sun in chased yellow gold on one side and a sparkling moon on the other, keep company with Rose Des Vents’s eight-pointed star on a bracelet, earrings and necklace in black and white onyx and mother-of-pearl. a set of hypnotic combinations that may be worn with either face forward.

Like sentimental jewels, circle rings edged in a twisted rice grain motif create an elegant counterpoint between delicate diamonds and the rose des vents and rose céleste medallions.

First created in 2003 the D De Dior Satine watch has been updated year on year. This year it has been embellished with a Milanese knit strap. The impression ribbon makes this elegant piece perfectly feminine. Created using a metal-knitting machine, this unique piece is then hand-polished to perfect its details.

The watch comes in two 19mm diameters in five styles with a steel strap, mother-of-pearl dial in various shades and a bezel set with diamonds. It also comes in two 19mmverions with a strap in yellow or rose gold and a “sun” brushed gold dial and bezel set with diamonds.

Van Cleef & Arpels has unveiled its latest Winter Flowers creations consisting of two beautiful collections.

The first pays tribute to the Christmas Rose and its white and colourful corollas representing a symbol of hope, the Rose de Noël jewellery creations reinterpret the motif introduced by the Maison in the 1970s.

Originally in pink coral, yellow gold and diamonds these pieces from the seventies reflected the effervescence of the time, highlighting a multitude of materials and colours. Over the years the collection has been reinterpreted into many variations, combining the sparkle of diamonds with mother-of-pearl, coral and chalcedony, as well as chrysoprase.

Rose de Noël

This winter, the Rose de Noël pieces feature a motif in a new mini size in the form of two pendants and two pairs of earrings. Offered in white mother-of-pearl and lapis lazuli the delicate pendants feature yellow gold and diamonds. Matching earrings feature the same design with three diamonds at the centre.

Rose de Noël

The second collection the Hellébore jewellery collection once again drew inspiration from the Christmas rose, also known as Helleboris. These bold designed are statement pieces perfect for the festive season. A necklace, a clip, earrings and a ring, as well as a Between the Finger Ring feature sculpted flowers mounted on white gold with diamonds.

Hellébore jewellery collection

Mother-of-pearl, turquoise and Lapis Lazuli are featured in a graduation of wintery hues while diamonds represent snowflakes with this romantic design and make for a play on light. Adorned with one or more motifs, Hellébore pieces stand out for an airy, asymmetrical design that imparts an impression of motion. The lines of diamonds burst forth on the skin, displaying an aesthetic of ethereal lightness further heightened by the openwork petals embellishing each creation.

Hellébore jewellery collection

To celebrate these festive offerings Van Cleef & Arpels has embarked on a digital partnership with Alexandre Benjamin Navet, winner of the 2017 Grand Prix Design Parade Toulon Van Cleef & Arpels. The French artist portrays the world of flowers, with floral shapes and dazzling colours, bursting forth in a series of three animations.

Since its opening in 2015, The MAINE Oyster Bar & Grill has become one of Dubai’s gastronomic hotspots.

Famed for its food as well as its unique atmosphere and image, this New England style Brasserie is one of the most popular restaurants in Dubai and that’s just the beginning. Founder and Managing Partner Joey Ghazal first had the vision for the eatery after moving back to Dubai from the United States and seeing a gap in the market for an American-style brasserie. He transformed an empty garage location into a high end, modern venue and has since won multiple awards for his achievements.

Following the success of The MAINE Oyster Bar & Grill, Joey has opened MAINE Street Eatery in Studio City and the most recently MAINE Land Brasserie in Business Bay. With plans to take the concept internationally, this is only just the beginning for the Canadian entrepreneur.

Joey’s love for the restaurant business started at a young age taking his first job in the industry at just 18 years old. He worked his way up the ranks from busboy to waiter, to manager to head of concept development and marketing for one of Canada’s most prolific Restaurant development companies. He has developed dozens of popular restaurant and bar concepts across two continents but this is the first time he has seen his own vision and company come to life. A motivated entrepreneur, Joey is always striving to achieve more. We find out what’s next on his to-do list and how he plans to always stay ahead of the competition.

This year has been a strange year for all – what is something you have learnt from this period?

Strange is an understatement; it’s borderline Science Fiction! The main lesson I have learnt from all of this is that we are extremely susceptible to the forces of nature and we need to learn to live in better harmony with nature. At The Maine Group, we have spent the last six months asking ourselves what we can do to be more sustainable and more supportive of local businesses. We replaced many of our ingredients to ones from local farms, fisheries and producers, we introduced a plant-based menu across all our venues, and we introduced plastic-free delivery and banned all single-use plastics from our outlets. We have also started a campaign to use our discarded oyster shells to regenerate the coral reef on Dubai’s coastline to promote biodiversity in our waters. If everyone does his or her small part, the world would be in much better shape.

How did you manage your business over the lockdown period and have you changed anything moving forward?

I’m proud to say we were able to keep the entire original team together. Everyone had an essential role to play in the reopening of our exiting outlets and the opening of our newest outpost in the OPUS by Zaha Hadid in Business Bay, Dubai. We are a lean company and a small management team so we’re able to be more agile, react quicker and weather this storm better than others. We took advantage of the lockdown to migrate all of our systems and processes online, eliminating paper from our company and putting the power and the accountability squarely in the hands of all of our whole team. I strongly believe that this decentralized approach to management will keep our people happy, motivated and invested in the brand moving forward as we grow internationally.

The MAINE has been hugely successful since its opening – what is the secret to a successful hospitality business in Dubai where there is so much competition?

I wouldn’t call them secrets; it’s more a question of attention to detail. It starts with telling a compelling story that resonates with people. Great service, food and drinks are essential, but it is the ambience and the consistent delivery of those memorable moments that make The MAINE stand out. I believe a big part of our success is attributed to our die-hard regulars who feel like they are part of a community lifestyle.

How do you keep ahead of the game when things change so quickly in today’s society?

It doesn’t matter who’s following, as long as they can’t keep up. We constantly have to stay ahead of the game by challenging ourselves to be better – to give a better experience for our guests and our team alike. That constant need to improve and innovate is the key to being in that top 10% of companies that are benchmarks for the rest.

You have already grown your business to various locations but what would you still like to achieve that you haven’t done yet?

The big test will be growing the brand internationally. The MAINE as a New England Brasserie concept is unique internationally. I am excited to develop the brand further with our own cookbook, retail items and of course, a flagship location that will give the brand a platform internationally. There is still so much to do.

What advice would you give to anyone who is afraid to chase his or her dreams?

There are many types of fear – fear of failure, fear of commitment, fear of risk. These fears are like walls that we build around ourselves, boxing ourselves in. You have to live as though there are no walls around you; this is how you access your limitless potential. For some people their dreams seem overwhelming, I would say start small – make a list, do the research, make the phone call, set up the meeting, ask the question from others in your field. If something comes to your mind, do it immediately, don’t procrastinate, and just get it done. If you do enough of these small things often enough, you will realise that you’re already living your dream.

This issue is about success – how would you define success?

Success is about balance in all aspects of your life. Every part of your life needs attention – your family, your health, your partnerships, your work, and your hobbies. If any of these are neglected, then all of them are neglected and you won’t even be able to truly appreciate or even enjoy your successes.

What is your biggest achievement so far?

I’m very proud of The MAINE as a brand, but mostly as a family. Not only our team but also the regulars who feel like The MAINE is their home. Being able to bring these people together gives me the greatest amount of pride.

How do you manage your time and get a good work/life balance?

Routine and discipline are key to getting a good balance. I take time to myself to recharge so that I can give time and energy when needed. The restaurant business is very emotional, so you always need to keep a clear head and maintain a thick skin or you won’t be able to survive.

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

Struggles and failures are part of the journey. I often ask myself ‘where did I get all of that energy and willpower to start again and keep going every time I failed?’ The key is to keep the hunger alive, not to allow yourself to become demotivated from challenges or complacent from success – but to keep the curiosity alive.

You were born in the UAE but spent many years in North America – how do you think your experience in both countries has influenced the person you are today?

Those of us who grew up in Dubai in the 80s and 90s feel like we are part of the history of the city, so Dubai has always felt like home and yet when I moved back in 2013 I realised that the city was missing a truly North American Brasserie experience and so I only did what was obvious and familiar to me. Dubai made me dream big, but being from Montreal grounds me and my work. I always want to bring that authenticity to my restaurants.

What do you look for in good team members?

The only criteria to work for us is to be a generous and kind person, only then will you be able to serve from your soul. That is not something that can be taught or trained, it’s about upbringing. You can immediately spot a person that loves to make other people happy or someone that just wants a job.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?

Take time before making a decision. I used to get very excited about projects or opportunities until I realised the amount of time and energy projects need to be nurtured and executed properly. My time is more valuable than any project, so I need to be absolutely sure that I can give enough time and not be spreading myself too thin.

What is the life motto you live by?

Be the change you want to see.

Huda Kattan has built her global beauty business from scratch. As a Dubai-based makeup artist and beauty blogger.

The American-Iraqi entrepreneur saw a gap in the market for bold, wearable makeup products. She set about doing her research through her social media platforms and her blog ‘Huda Beauty’, getting feedback from her followers that would ultimately become the basis of her company. After taking a loan from her sister Huda created a line of false lashes which were picked up by Sephora in the UAE. Through her promotion on social media and her growing following the lashes became (what seemed like to an outsider) an overnight success, with the likes of Kim Kardashian wearing them. Huda’s company, which even until today is based out of Dubai, later began to offer other beauty products, including eye shadow palettes, liquid lipsticks, highlighter palettes, foundations, concealers and more. Her latest venture WISHFUL sees her move into the skincare category.

This true success story has been an inspiration to women not just in the UAE, but all over the world. Huda’s quest to promote a positive mindset about beauty, encouraging confidence and for all women to feel beautiful in their own skin, has made the brand image one that all women can relate to. Her current following on Instagram stands at almost 50 million and her reach is far greater than that. Huda has defied the odds to become a global beauty brand based out of Dubai so just how did she do it? We find out more about the true story behind her success and what we can expect to see in the coming months.

This year has been a strange one for all – what is something you have learnt during this period?

I’ve learned that it’s okay to take a pause. Since we started the blog ten years ago and the brand seven years ago, It’s been non-stop for me and the family. This period forced me to hit the pause button and to take the time to reflect on the last ten years. It also forced me to think about how I wanted to move forward – the things I wanted to start doing and the things that I wanted to change. This forced pause was truly a gift and I think I’m better for it.

You have launched a number of products throughout the COVID-19 period – how were you able to keep up the momentum?

We start developing our products long before they are actually released. In some cases, it takes several years before our products actually come to life, so that’s why we had a consistent stream of launches this year. That being said, we did delay the launches of some of our products as the timing just didn’t feel right and also made sure to put some of our launches to good use by dedicating them to front line workers.

Are there any changes you have made within the company during this time that you think are for the better? And is there anything you believe you will do differently moving forward?

We’ve really made it a point to listen to our consumers right now. We want to be as empathetic as possible as the world is changing so rapidly. One of the things we’ve done is delay the launch of some of our upcoming products as we wanted to make sure that consumers were ready for and open to hearing about new products. Additionally, we foresee that the current situation will accelerate the digital revolution and e-commerce will be a bigger part of all of our lives. Something else that we did this year, was that the family and I decided to forego our salaries to ensure that we could keep our teams at Huda Beauty around the world intact. Our people are the most important thing to us, so it’s imperative that they feel secure in order to be able to perform to the best of their abilities.

What can you tell us about your latest products or what we can expect to see soon?

We launched our debut skincare brand WISHFUL earlier this year and we want to make everyone’s skincare wishes come true with our gentle, simple and effective products! Great skin makes for a great makeup application, so WISHFUL and Huda Beauty go hand in hand. We are launching more new products this year, across our brands, all of which I am very excited about…you will have to watch this space!

Take us back to the beginning of your journey before you launched Huda Beauty – what was your goal and how did you set about achieving it?

When I understood how powerful makeup was, I wanted to share that power with the world. Makeup became a tool that I used to give myself confidence because I never felt beautiful growing up. My passion for beauty comes from the feeling that makeup can give you, no matter how much or little you choose to use and apply. It’s a vehicle for confidence and creativity and with that, you can conquer anything

You have had global success with your brand – what was your biggest “pinch me” moment?

Without a doubt, Sephora stocking our lashes for the first time was a surreal moment for me – I literally had to pinch myself! If anyone knew how many times that I had emailed them to schedule a meeting to give my business pitch, they’d think I was crazy!

What would you say is your biggest achievement so far?

When we were just starting, we weren’t taken as a serious brand for a long time. There was a lot of frustration because retailers and distributors thought we were just silly girls with a hobby! I am so proud that my sisters and I stayed true to our vision and were able to take Huda Beauty from an idea to what it is today. One of the biggest rewards has been succeeding in a space where it isn’t common for an individual or a family-owned business to do so.

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

I really want to change the perception of beauty and make a big difference in the industry. I’m a firm believer in the power of beauty; it’s transformative abilities and how they give you the confidence to change the way you feel about yourself.

How important has social media been in the growth of your brand and what do you think it adds to your company?

We’re a social media born brand, so social media is the helm of everything for us! Starting my business as a blog and then developing into a brand, it was our social community that allowed us to make this jump. We wouldn’t be where we are today without our followers around the world. Our social family is a constant inspiration for me and I am so thankful to be able to connect with them every day. When it comes to creating new products, we always take into account what our community are looking for.

With every success comes setbacks and failures – how do you deal with this and stay motivated?

For me, it has always been about creating authentic beauty content that could help and inspire others. The relationships that I have built with my followers and the trust that I have gained is far more valuable than any business setbacks. I have been way more focused on the long-term impact and it has created a super-strong foundation for the brand.

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

One of the most challenging things was getting started. In order to start the business, I took a 6,000 USD loan from my older sister Alya to get going. Once we got off the ground it was extremely challenging to get investors to take us seriously. I think a lot of people overlooked us because we were women working in the beauty industry, so I think changing the misconceptions of investors was one of the biggest challenges that we had to overcome by believing in ourselves and pushing forward.

If you could look back, what is something that you would tell your younger self?

Be ready to sacrifice a lot, and that sometimes that means passing up on awesome opportunities. When you really want something, you have to work for it. You need to push through and never give up. Keep focused, and only do it if you are 100% passionate about it.

What is your secret recipe to success?

Focus on the right things and surround yourself with the right people. Your surroundings are so important, so you want to spend your time with people who uplift and inspire you and are constantly challenging you. It’s very easy to absorb the energy around you, so you need to make sure that energy around you is positive and upbeat. I also think it’s so important to trust your gut. Everyone knows what’s right for them, so trust your instincts. They’re usually right!

What is something you would love to change within the beauty industry?

I want everyone to be able to feel beautiful. Everyone is so different and has different features and personalities and stories and for me, that is true beauty. So I want everyone to be able to find a home within the beauty space.

What do you think women really want from beauty products today?

Every country has its nuances, but there’s an overall desire for high- quality makeup products worldwide. In the Middle East, we can see a for bolder makeup as women in this region love to take chances with makeup so there is a demand for things like dramatic lashes, contouring products and long-wear foundation.

The beauty market, particularly in the Middle East, is so competitive – what do you think made you and your brand stand out from the competition?

I think we have our own place in the market, and I think this is attributed to our relationship with our social media family and their role in our business. We pay attention to trends in the market and what’s driving growth for other businesses. Our inspiration comes from what our community wants, and we take that and figure out how to deliver using the best technology and formulas. I also think that we try to keep it real with our social media. I always try to show the most stripped-down, vulnerable side of myself, which I think a lot of brands and people aren’t willing to do. It’s this relatability that people gravitate towards.

What would you say to anyone at the beginning of their business journey?

Believe in yourself and surround yourself with people that believe in you as well. When you have support around you, you can do anything! I’d also say don’t be afraid. It’s OK to take risks and fail. Every step along the way is part of a learning curve. If you’re passionate enough to persevere and keep going, then every failure will be something to learn from and you’ll eventually get to where you want to be!

What is the life motto you live by?

Don’t take no for an answer. Listen to yourself, trust your gut and go for it! Be kind to yourself, stay positive, keep fighting and chasing for your dreams.

French-Tunisian artist eL Seed has made an international name for himself with his unique and distinctive style of artwork that uses Arabic calligraphy to spread messages of peace and unity and tell stories all over the world.

His artwork if often of graffiti style and can be found all over the world, often on murals or outside spaces. Growing up in France, eL Seed had a fascination with Arabic calligraphy thanks to his Tunisian heritage. After learning to read and write in Arabic he combined his love for the language with his love of the art world to create a unique blend of cultures.

Whenever he works within a community, eL Seed takes time to research an appropriate quote to summarise the voice of the community he is working within and to underline his key principals of love, respect and tolerance. His work has been shown in exhibitions and public places all over the world including most notably on the façade of L’Institut du Monde Arabe in Paris, in the favelas of Rio de Janeiro, on the DMZ in between North and South Korea, in the slums of Cape Town and in the heart of Cairo’s garbage collectors neighbourhood. Many of his works can also be seen around Dubai and he has collaborated with many luxury brands including Louis Vuitton and MAC, applying his unique style of art to their collections.

Coming from a small town in France eL Seed could only dream of the global success he has had so far but as it became a reality he became grateful every day. We discover more about his journey to where he is today and his hopes for the future.

Dubai Opera

How have you been continuing working this year and how has this period affected your creative state of mind?

This year I have realised that time is a luxury and I have tried to use the time I’ve had in the best way possible because in a normal period I am travelling at least every three weeks, so having time off and just being home was a way for me to rethink the way I work and also allow me to focus on the next projects I want to do.

What inspired your fascination with Arabic calligraphy?

I was born and raised in France to Tunisian parents and when I was a teenager I had a kind of identity crisis where I didn’t know if I was French or Tunisian. So I started to learn how to read and write in Arabic and then I discovered Arabic calligraphy. I started doing graffiti in the late nineties, but when I discovered calligraphy I would bring it into my graffiti art and it became something really organic for me.

How would you describe your unique style of art?

It’s a mix of calligraphy and graffiti. It’s difficult to define your own art as I wouldn’t want to put myself in a box, but I try to create art that brings people, cultures and generations together.

When are you at your most creative state of mind?

When I feel good in my head I am at my most creative. When my mind is in a good place and nothing is bothering me, that’s when I’m really inspired.

Who or what inspires you the most?

I don’t think inspiration comes from only one thing. It comes from the conversations that I have, books that I read, people that I meet. All of these things lead me to new ideas that can then become an art piece.

What is your favourite medium to work with?

I think painting on a mural in the street is what I love the most because this is what creates and interaction with the community.

What can you tell us about your upcoming projects for the rest of the year and into 2021?

I’m working on some new projects but unfortunately, with the COVID-19 situation, it is difficult to plan and to know whether something will happen or not. So to be honest, everything is blurry at the moment, but I hope I can start to make things happen soon.

How would you like art in the Middle East to be recognised on an international scale?

I think it’s important to understand and to know that art in the Middle East has been here for centuries, it’s not something new. So I’m always pleased to see when Middle Eastern art is referenced on a global scale. I think there is so much creativity that has been here for years but now with media and social media people think it’s something new, but actually we have always been creative.

You have seen great success with your artworks – what do you think makes your work stand out?

I’m grateful to know that I have been successful, but I think this is just the beginning. I hope I can have more success to come. I don’t think there is a secret recipe, the way I do it is my own way. I think other people do things in different ways and are just as successful as me, so it is a mix of work, meeting the right people at the right time and destiny.

What is a “pinch me” moment you have had throughout your career?

I think about this concept all the time. This is something that I have every single time I finish a piece of work. I never thought that one day I would be able to do what I’m doing right now, so I’m pinching myself all the time. I’m living my dream.

How do you want people to feel when they see your artworks?

There isn’t one emotion that I want to create as I don’t want to impose anything on people. If people feel any emotion about my artwork I think it’s amazing. When they try to dig deeper to understand the meaning of the work and why I’ve done it, I find that very interesting. I want to invite people to understand what I’m doing and why I’m doing it.

This issue is all about success – how in your own words would you define success?

Being successful is having peace of mind. When you’re at ease and at peace with your self, that’s how I would define success.

If you could tell your younger self something what would it be?

I would tell him to go the same way that I have and not be scared. Don’t follow any trends or crowd and just keep doing what you’re doing. I don’t regret anything but I would tell myself to learn more languages. I wish I could speak ten languages!

What is a period in art history that inspires you the most?

The period of art that inspires me the most is Impressionism. The way the Impressionists came to the art world and shook it up with a new trend that at first, everyone criticised and then with time they started to salute it. I love the fact that they went against every rule and just believed in themselves.

With any success comes setbacks – how do you deal with setbacks and failures?

There are a lot of setbacks and often people don’t see this from the outside, they only see the successes. I think you have to be strong in your head and not be affected by setbacks and it’s something that takes a long time to learn. For me as an artist, this is part of the game. When you fail, you stand up and then you succeed.

What is something you would still like to achieve?

There is so much I would like to achieve. I would love to be more useful to people and to help those within the art community. I would love to open an art foundation, something where I can welcome artists and help them in the same way that people have helped me in the past.

What is the life motto you live by?

My motto in life is “You don’t have twice the chance to give a first impression.” This is the motto I tell my kids every day too.

Stella McCartney has single handily changed the way the world sees sustainable fashion and that is her greatest success – we discover more.

When Stella McCartney had a dream of creating a sustainable luxury fashion brand 20 years ago, many thought there was no way she would succeed, but the designer defied all the odds to create a global brand that puts sustainability at the forefront but doesn’t compromise on quality or standard.

Growing up in a perhaps non-conventional family (Stella is the daughter of Musician and The Beatles member Paul McCartney and Animal Rights Activist Linda McCartney), it was clear from a young age that the designer would never do things that followed the norm. She loved fashion but also had a strong interest like her mother, in supporting animal rights and wanted to find a way that would bring these two worlds together. When it came to launching her own fashion house in 2001, McCartney made it clear from the beginning that she wanted her brand to have a “no animal” policy; meaning no fur and no leather in her designs. But this was just the beginning. Since then, the designer has gone on to develop innovative materials that are better for the environment and create her pieces using sustainable practices and methods. But there is still much work to be done. In 2019, Stella entered a partnership with LVMH, which will see the designer advise Chairman and Chief Executive Bernard Arnault on ways to move the luxury industry forward in a more sustainable manner.

Stella McCartney Autumn/Winter 2020-21

This year of course has been a very different one for the designer who is used to working closely with her teams every day. The lockdown period saw Stella working from home on her latest collection and learning new ways to adapt and communicate. We find out more about how she spent her time during this period as well as the future of sustainability at the brand and how she plans to make long-lasting changes in the luxury industry as a whole.

This year has been a strange one for all – what is something you have learnt during this period?

I found the first couple of weeks really tricky because in our industry we work with teams and we feed off each other creatively, and I’m usually surrounded by my team in different departments every day continuously. I also have a large family network so I never spend much time on my own. The first couple of weeks were really interesting to me on a working level, because I was trying to settle into working via a device and using my teams in a different way, learning how to use Zoom very quickly! Coming somewhat out the other side, I feel more connected with my teams globally than ever before. We had much bigger meetings with all departments from around the world, which has definitely been a real silver lining as I feel I have learnt so much from them and this something we have continued to do.

Are there any changes you have made within the company during this time that you think are for the better? And is there anything you believe you will do differently moving forward?

I think this situation has reminded us that we can be flexible in how and where we work and still achieve what we need to achieve and beyond. We have many mothers working at Stella McCartney and I have four children myself, so speaking to these women over lockdown, and from my own experience, it was clear that allowing flexibility to work at home a couple of days a week really helps, and so this is something we will absolutely continue.

Stella McCartney Autumn/Winter 2020-21

What can you tell us about your autumn/winter 2020-21 collection – the inspiration, the shapes the materials etc?

This collection was very much about looking back in history to the glamour, looking back at film and theatre; two things that I have always found so inspiring, very much wanting to make it feel dreamlike and something you could escape into. I think usually at Stella McCartney I try to make everything really wearable and sometimes avoid things that are just too extraordinary, but this season I wanted to do the opposite!

I looked at the work of an incredible artist called Erte, who I met on a plane when I was young and went and did a work placement with him. I think as a fashion designer, I often look at Erte’s work as it’s super-theatrical and just really very surreal in a sense. So for this collection, I wanted to bring his incredible work into the now and was lucky enough to visit his archives and use never before seen prints and colourways. It was very much about taking glamour and extravagance and these amazing muses and great women in history and bringing them and their wardrobes into the now and creating pieces that I felt were modern, but still had a huge amount of detail and energy.

Sustainability is of course a key part of the business – why is this so important to you?

I was so lucky to be raised by such a loving and open-minded family who were having these kinds of conversations about the environment and sustainability from day one. I didn’t live by the standard conventions most generations have had to. My parents were rule breakers and never dictated to me the rule that I needed to eat meat and care about the environment but it’s something that just made complete sense to me. I was brought up in the countryside surrounded by nature. The country has always felt like home to me, so naturally, I had to take that mindset into my business practices. There was never the option of doing it any differently.

Stella McCartney Autumn/Winter 2020-21

What can you tell us about the future of sustainability at Stella McCartney?

Innovation is at the core of what we do here at Stella McCartney. We are seeing that consumers are now asking for clarity on where the things they buy come from, pushing brands to be open. We all need to be more transparent about how things are made, where they are made and what their impacts are and that’s something we continuously work on. For the conscious consumer, at Stella McCartney, we try our best to do the work for you. From day one I never wanted to sacrifice on style and I believe with our products you can’t see any difference. For me, innovation is the future of Stella McCartney but also the future of fashion and I think that it’s all about desirability and luxury is about good design and beautiful materials. All our innovative materials look the same or better than traditional ones and this is something I will continue to work hard on!

This year you have launched some new sustainable materials – how important are these landmarks and what is the next step in terms of sustainable materials as Stella McCartney?

Both were an incredible milestone for the brand, and something we are so proud of. It is landmarks like these that keep me going. For our Autumn 2020 collection, we introduced a new fur-free-fur called KOBA® which is made of plant pulp and recycled polyester and uses around 30% less energy and 63% less carbon emissions which is incredible, and we are the first brand to use it. We also worked with a new denim partner to create the world’s most sustainable, biodegradable stretch denim. It’s innovations like these that we plan to develop through our future collections and also explore new areas of innovation, as we want to keep growing this arm of the business.

Stella McCartney Autumn/Winter 2020-21

What challenges do you face in sourcing and creating sustainable materials?

There have been many challenges along the way and I know we’re not perfect, we are always striving to do better. As a brand, we have a very high standard for choosing who we partner with. We have been working with our key partners for many years as innovations can take years until they are off the ground, but it is always worth the wait! We don’t join things just to be a part of them. We are past the point where just talking is an acceptable action. The initiatives that we get behind are ones that are pushing to change the status quo, to really and radically shake things up and address the serious issues we are facing as humans and as an industry.

What is something you are most proud of when it comes to sustainably producing your collections?

I am incredibly proud of being able to show the world that you can create luxury fashion and desirable accessories in a way that is better for the planet and better for the animals without sacrificing style for sustainability. I’m so proud of the milestones we have hit as a house, for example in 2010 when we stopped using PVC which is by far the most toxic of all plastics. In 2016 we hit two milestones, we stopped using virgin cashmere and introduced sustainable viscose. Sustainable viscose has about seven times lower impact than virgin cashmere. Viscose comes from trees, and our sustainable viscose ensures that no deforestation occurs, we can map the journey of our ready-to-wear collection’s viscose back to its roots in sustainable managed certified forests in Sweden. By 2018 80% of all the cotton we used was organic, and in 2019 all of our denim was organic. These are just some examples of things we have been working incredibly hard on over the years and we will certainly not stop there!

Stella McCartney Autumn/Winter 2020-21

In 2019 you entered a partnership with LVMH – what opportunities has this offered you in terms of developing sustainability within the company?

My goal is to assist Bernard Arnault and to be his personal advisor, so that’s what I’m going to do – advise him. You know timing is everything, I know that he is ready for the conversation and the magnitude of what we could do together is quite game-changing. As I mentioned above, these things don’t happen overnight, and sadly we don’t know if we have enough time to change for our children. But all I know is that the opportunity is there and I couldn’t be more excited, more ready, and more equipped to deliver on that privilege.

In your opinion what is the future of fashion weeks post COVID-19?

This situation allowed us all to take a minute and reflect on how we work which has been an incredible gift. I found it extremely interesting watching the recent fashion weeks as I feel being forced to create collections in lockdown allowed designers to really get creative and to think outside the box, which I’ve found refreshing to watch and experience myself. That said, we’re creatures of habit so I don’t know if this situation will cause a permanent change to the way we do fashion weeks. We can see that many brands have already bounced back to the traditional runway show format, but I would like to think that as a whole, we might stay in this moment for longer than to be expected. I hope this time has allowed people to reconsider that we can have a little more consciousness and to change our mindset.

This issue is about success – how would you define success?

Defining success is completely unique to everyone, and there can be big successes or small, everyday ones. But I guess for me, I will feel such a huge amount of success when the day finally comes where sustainability in the fashion industry isn’t singled out, or when it’s a whole conversation because it’s just part of everyday life – everyone consuming consciously and responsibly and brands producing collections sustainably. That for me will be a huge success as I started on this journey 20 years ago when people were telling me I was an eco-weirdo! We have come a long way since then but we still have a long way to go.

What is your secret to success?

Stay true to what you believe in! I’m proud that I’ve managed to stay true to what I believe in, to not have compromised anything when I had people around me telling me I needed to do things in a certain way to be successful, to me that is success and what I’m most proud of!

Stella McCartney Autumn/Winter 2020-21

What can you tell us about Stella McCartney in the Middle East and can we expect to see you visiting any time soon?

I last visited the Middle East end of 2018 for a work trip. It was the most wonderful trip and I had such a fantastic time meeting and talking to my customers and experiencing the culture. With COVID-19, I’m staying put for now, but I hope I get to come back again soon! I would love that.

What is a message you would like to send to your customers and fans in the Middle East?

Thank you for your tremendous support, I can’t wait to be back with you all soon! X Stella.