Hotel Manager at Grand Hills, A Luxury Hotel & Spa in Broumana, Lebanon

What’s the first thing you do when you get up in the morning?
I check my emails.

What do you love the most about your job?
It is challenging and competitive at the same time.

Talk us through a day in your life…
My work day starts with a tour inside and outside the hotel to check all areas and departments’ functions and operations. We do early morning briefings every day with all the head of departments to discuss about daily tasks and work on problems. I then have meetings with suppliers, reply to emails, and correspond with our regional heads in Dubai.  By the end of day I meet with our sales team for debriefing and I do another tour of the hotel before leaving.

Tell us something unique about the hotel…
It has a unique location and unique characteristics including having the largest hotel suite in world, registered in Guinness Book of Records. It is a museum within itself. It’s valuable gem which the whole team strives to show the best of it to guests.

Three items you can’t live without?
Mobile phone, laptop and car.

Complete the sentence: I’m happy when…
I do a good job and excel in it.

What do you do to relax and unwind?
Exercise and go out with my family.

What really annoys you?
Not being appreciated.

If you could give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be?
Keep your head on your shoulders and feet on the ground if you want to succeed.

Who would you like to be stuck on a desert island with?
My Family.

What’s your personal motto?
When there is a will there’s a way.

How do you want the world to remember you?
As a person who is a source of inspiration and motivation for other and someone upon whom friends and family can always trust.

LOUIS VUITTON’S TIMELESS ACCESSORY TAKES ON NEW COLOURWAYS AND STYLES THIS FALL.

CAPUCINES PM RED SCARLET

Louis Vuitton’s Capucines is a classic bag that speaks a universal language. All over the world this bag is loved by women looking for something timeless and elegantly stylish. The simplicity of Capucines is perhaps what makes it so popular – a versatile yet statement bag that women have come to rely on.

Named after the Rue Neuve-des-Capucines in Paris; the location of Louis Vuitton’s very first store; the Capucines was originally launched in 2003. The classic piece has since become iconic, with new colourways and limited edition versions launching each season.

Capucines PM handle XOXO Black

Each bag requires work from hundreds of artisans in order to achieve a seamless creation that is light, modern and classic but playful at the same time. This bag requires over 250 steps to make, some of which are even similar to the complexity of jewellery making, including the way the LV initials are cast and then set directly into the leather.

“THE CAPUCINES BRIDGES TRADITION AND MODERNITY, SAVOIR-FAIRE AND LIGHTNESS, CLASSICISM AND PLAYFULNESS.”

The bags are created from a hand-picked selection of the finest exotic skins. These rare materials are chosen for their absolute highest quality and reputed for this complex rigid natured. They are the core of what makes these bags so special.

Focus on Taurillon Leather

Each season the Capucines is created in classic versions as well as revisited variations with innovative finishing such as beads, ornamental flowers and leather pearls.

This fall model Liya Kebede showcases the new permanent timeless colour of Capucines: Red Scarlett. This new classic colour captures the timelessness of the bag but gives it a playful feminine update, turning red leather into a classic.

The XOXO Animation design highlights the Maison Savoir-Faire that goes into creating the Capucines; featuring a unique braided technique on the handle that turns this classic bag into something special.

Photography: Craig McDean

Fashion: Marie-Amélie Sauvé

NEARLY ALL OF US USE ANTI-AGEING PRODUCTS, BUT WHAT DOES THIS TERM REALLY MEAN AND HOW DOES IT ACTUALLY WORK? CHANEL EXPLAINS ALL WITH THE DEVELOPMENT OF ITS LATEST UNIQUE SKINCARE PRODUCT SUBLIMAGE L’ESSENCE FONDAMENTALE.

Chanel’s Sublimage skincare range is renowned for its ability to create radiance, restoring the skin’s natural glow with carefully chosen ingredients. Regardless of a woman’s age, or skin type Sublimage is designed to enhance a woman’s natural beauty and allow them to blossom. This year Sublimage takes on a new generation with a specially developed product using the absolute latest in technology and natural ingredients. Here we discover the development process behind Sublimage L’Essence Fondamentale, the latest cream to join the Sublimage family.

THE HISTORY

Sublimage has long been one of Chanel’s pillar skincare lines. Since 2006 its products have been committed to creating radiance. A unique combination of ingredients began with Vanilla Planifolia. Travelling to Madagascar, an open-sky laboratory was opened, offering the opportunity to cultivate and study this unique plant. Through these lengthy studies, Chanel developed its first natural active ingredient in 2006; Planifolia PFA. Extracted from the vanilla fruit and crafted with tailor-made technologies this was the first vanilla ingredient of its kind, and opened doors for many variations allowing the expects to unlock its magic.

THE DEVELOPMENT

2010 saw the opening of a new open-sky laboratory in the South of France. The first of its kind since the initial laboratory in Madagascar. The open sky laboratory is inspired by the naturalist approach of the King’s Garden created for Louis XIII which contained medical plants intended to advance medical knowledge. This, combined with what was learnt in Madagascar provided a great starting point for the development of unique ingredients. The King’s Garden has been in place for over eighty years. Known today as the Jardin des Plantes, decades of work have gone into studying over 500 plants. The plants’ history, medicinal properties, and endemicity were closely examined. The samples that were taken led to over 60 botanical extracts in the laboratory and the identification of molecules of interest via phytochemical analysis.

Bring in Chanel. With the opening of the laboratory, Chanel initiated a new research program. Working with regional experts they pulled this land in Provence Alpes Côte d’Azur from abandonment to locate and develop the latest natural latest cosmetic ingredients. Selected plants were acclimated; and the most promising were then planted in cultivation trial areas. This resulted in the creation of five extracts with exceptional biological properties for use in skincare products. One of these extracts was Solidago virgaurea alpestris, the key ingredient in the new Sublimage L’Essence Fondamentale.

The botanical garden allowed for a first harvest of the solidago flower. The long-term work made it possible to obtain a plant that is so rich in molecules. The idea was not only to adapt the cultivation to the climatic conditions and the specific soil, but also to determine the right yield so the plant could thrive. Year after year a complex process was developed to ensure this ingredient formed exactly as planned. This was a worldwide first.

THE FLOWER

The Solidago flower is a sunny yellow colour. Part of the Asteraceae family, it grows in the dry environment of the rocky foothills of the French Alps, at up to 2,800 metres in altitude. The word comes from the Latin solidago which means “I consolidate” – Perhaps a reference to its power on the skin? Each year, from June to September, the flowers are collected by hand. They are then dried before their active molecules are extracted. This plant is capable of stimulating the expression of SNEW which basically means it will counteract the effects of aging. The active ingredient, solidage extract, helps to improve cellular vitality and restore density to the skin by 54%. It targets the epidermal cells, the keratinocytes, as well as the dermal fibroblasts which produce collagen. The aged cells will begin to pause in their aging, literally putting the aging process on hold. When the solidago extract is combined with the Vanilla Planifolia of Madagascar, it reinforces the technique with its antioxidant power. The anti-aging properties combined with the radiance properties of the vanilla work in perfect harmony together.

THE PRODUCT

With the solidago flower as its key ingredient, Sublimage L’Essence Fondamentale was created. Designed to plump sunken areas, define features and enhance the face’s natural curves, this rich cream works over time with daily aggression. Our skin’s natural elastic texture is put to the test thanks to daily wear and tear on the face. When skin cells lose their vitality, the entire skin becomes damaged. Our expressions are no longer the same hence the ageing process. Sublimage L’Essence Fondamentale is a cream that smoothes, tautens and consildates the skin, making it appear more toned, firmer, smoother and of course radiant. The face regains its expressiveness and the aging process is frozen.

THE THREE-STEP RITUAL

Chanel has developed a three-step ritual that will restore harmony to the face by stimulating key anchor points on the face and scalp. This will optimise the performance of the Sublimage L’Essence Fondamentale.

Before application – Place the fingers at the hairline and press upwards to the top of the head. Repeat four times.Then, repeat on the sides of the head starting from the back of temples toward the top of the head. Finally, repeat this movement from the back of the ears to the back of the head.

The application. – Apply a drop to cheeks, forehead and neck. With both hands, smooth over the face, from the centre outwards.

After application – With fingers together, apply gradual pressure for a few seconds on the following five points: the top of the forehead and at temples toward the top of the head, in front and behind the ears toward the back of the head.

Sublimage  L’Essence Fondamentale now available at Chanel

DISCOVER THE SIX KEY FRAGRANCE OFFERINGS FOR MEN BY CHRISTIAN DIOR PARFUMS.

Fashion Director: Lindsay Judge

Photographer: Henry Pascual

DOLCE & GABBANA TRAVEL TO DUBAI FOR A GAME-CHANGING FASHION SHOW THE FIRST OF ITS KIND IN THE REGION.

Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana

Dolce & Gabbana is changing the way fashion houses present their collections. Or at least it certainly seems that after the recent fashion show held by Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana in Dubai. Runway shows have traditionally been something only the elite are invited to, with the customer having to watch from afar, either in the news, or in recent years through social media. Shows would take place twice a year and the first time customers would get to really experience the product is when they arrive in stores six months later.

Dolce & Gabbana have a new approach to the strategy of presenting their collections. The designer duo believe that it should not just be one collection for the whole world, but instead, regional collections that are targeted to a specific area of the globe. And they have done just this with the presentation of their latest collection in Dubai, featuring looks that are only available in the Middle East. The designers extended invitations not just to VIPs and their long term customers, but also to the public, with an open show inside The Dubai Mall that allowed passers by to watch from viewing platforms. The show felt more accessible and open compared with the elitist shows we expect from a luxury fashion house, and it was also the first time the brand have held a fashion show in The Middle East.

And it didn’t just stop there – Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana were in the recently opened Dubai Mall store before the show greeting customers, posing for photos and chatting, this was really an experience that is quite unusual for such high profile fashion designers. The two were interacting right up until the beginning of the show and then reappeared at the end only to walk the full runway meeting and interacting with the audience. “The show for Dubai is just for Dubai. You cannot see in another place, the same clothes, the same mood, the same things. It is special. And the audience feels it,” said Stefano Gabbana in a press conference earlier that day.

The collection itself was of international standard. Titled Day & Night it was true to the brand’s DNA; extravagant and theatrical, but combined Italian flare with Middle Eastern elegance. Over 100 international models were flown in, as well as musicians, directly from Milan’s La Scala Opera House. Guests were treated to an over 120-piece collection that was as Dolce & Gabbana as you would expect. Many of the looks were created especially for the region and this was the first time they have been shared with the public.

From gowns, tailoring and sportswear to new versions of abayas, the collection encompassed everything the Middle Eastern man and woman need in their wardrobe. Full of contrasts, it was designed for golden nights and colourful days. Long statement evening gowns in pink, orange, yellow and blue chiffon with feather details, amethysts, emeralds, golf and silver crystals, floral embroidery and arabesque ornamental motifs. Headscarves and flowing silky abayas infused the Arabic influences into the designs. More was definitely more as prints clashed, and model’s looks were completed with extravagant headpieces and crowns.

Menswear was beautifully tailored as it always is, but there were many slouchy pyjama-style suits and embellished sportswear, designed especially for the region. The collection also features masculine tuxedos, that are sporty and contemporary.

The atmosphere after the show was expectant and excited. Customers really felt as though they had become part of something exclusive. But the question we must ask ourselves is whether this open-to-all approach takes away some of the exclusivity that there is with a runway collection. Or is it just a natural progression to offering customers what they expect to have access to in today’s society? Only time will tell.

Whether the “It” bag is still a relevant term today is up for debate, but each season there are bag styles and designs that everyone is talking about.

If you’re thinking of making a bag investment in the coming months we have the lowdown on the most talked about styles and shapes of the moment both from the powerhouse brands, as well as bags from cult brands who’s styles are making a name for themselves through social media and digital marketing.

© Chanel Cruise 2019

Cruise collections are becoming more and more popular each year. Originally designed for those who were wealthy and lucky enough to take trips on cruises each winter, these collections were traditionially items designed to literally wear on a cruise. Of course this notion has evolved over the years, with many brands seeing it as an opportunity to present trans-seasonal collections.

This year, Karl Lagerfeld went back to the heritage of the cruise collection with his own custom-built cruise ship in Paris’ Grand Palais. With a collection of looks that would be quite at home onboard a 1950’s cruise liner he redefined the meaning of cruise and took us back to its roots. With more and more fashion houses opting to create cruise collections, they are developing trends in their own right. Here were highlight the key looks from this transitional season that will take you through to early 2019.

BEN GORHAM, FOUNDER OF BYREDO EXPLAINS THE PROCESS BEHIND HIS DEVELOPING COMPANY AND WHY HE WILL NEVER STOP BRINGING HIS DREAMS TO LIFE.

In a world that’s so saturated with mass market perfumes and accessories from huge powerhouse brands, Byredo is doing something quite unique. With no experience in the fragrance world, Ben Gorham, who is of Indian and Canadian heritage, became fascinated by scent after a trip to his mother’s home country of India. After being inspired by a perfumer, Gorham decided to follow his dream of creating his own brand, and subsequently Byredo was born. Byredo has developed a cult following for its unique, high quality fragrance all around the world. The minimalist concept is loved by those looking for a no-fuss, quality product. Once he had mastered the fragrance industry, Ben moved into the foray of leather goods, designing clean luxurious bags that embodied the brand’s same aesthetic.

Today Byredo has stores in Europe, The UK and The United States. Earlier this year Gorham travelled to Dubai to present Byredo’s first pop-up store in the Middle East. With this the brand brought their leather goods to the region for the first time ever, allowing customers to experience the full world of Byredo.

What can you tell us about the Dubai pop-up boutique?

It’s basically a scaled down version of what we are doing in retail, which is something that has become quite relevant for us. Essentially it is the entire Byredo universe in one place. So we have multiple categories. We are known for our fragrance but we launched leather two years ago and we launched eyewear three years ago. When you work with department stores and wholesales these categories often get pushed into different departments, so this is a way to bring everything together and allows people to understand the connection between the categories.

The Dubai Mall pop-up store

What about the design behind your retail stores?

Essentially we are product people and that is how it has been from day one in both expression, execution, quality and emotion – always about the product. My idea for the backdrop in a retail environment is to bring the product into the forefront. So we do that with simplicity of the stores. There is also an element of my own personal taste in there.

How would you define your brand in one sentence? 

People always tell me that we are a lifestyle brand. I thought about this and I came to the conclusion that we’re not a lifestyle brand because we don’t sell a lifestyle. We sell beautifully crafted objects and ideas for your life. So it’s inclusive, which is kind of the opposite to a lot of luxury brands today.

And who would you say is your customer?

From day one I would see an 18-year old girl, an 85-year old man and pretty much everything in between in our stores. I really believe our biggest accomplishment is the diverse customer that we attract. We truly have an inclusive nature in everything we do.

Why is it important for you to be present in the Middle East at this time?

We’ve always had a great following in the Middle East and Dubai has always been the centre of that. London is also one of our biggest markets and with the influx of Middle Eastern customers and visitors to our stores there, the connection was built quite early. So it’s nice to be able to do something now with all of our categories in one space in Dubai. It is a place I have been coming since I was six years old so I really saw the region develop and it feels natural to be here now.

How are you embracing the digital era to support the brand but still keep its exclusivity?

One important point is to pace yourself because the digital development in the world moved much faster than what most people were physically able to keep up with. It also means that brands need to evolve, because with digital channels the narrative needs to be different. I think we are in a really interesting time because everybody is scrambling to figure it out, and honestly more people are in my opinion, making mistakes because they are abandoning core values. I think for us, even though we’ve seen great growth, it’s been the same formula that we used to build the company over ten years – slow and meticulous. Now we are doing that in digital.

Is it difficult to keep the right balance?

I think so because there is a lot of opportunity right in front of you and you could really maximise it like a lot of people have done. For me it’s no different than if we look ten years back. You wouldn’t open every single store in the world at once, or you wouldn’t advertise on every billboard. And now all of a sudden people are doing that online and they think it’s OK! So I believe there will be a backlash and a correction and our approach is to stick to what we do and make sure that as the narrative evolves, the digital channel is included in that.

The leather goods are here in the Middle East for the first time – what can you tell us about your transition into this sector?

I think it’s always been a very emotional process for me. A lot of our customers embraced the bags which made me really happy, and a lot of people who weren’t already customers have now connected with us. We have a specific approach to making products and expressing ideas. Leather is a different medium to scent – the biggest difference is that it’s so visual and tangible, whereas perfume is essentially invisible. But the intimacy and the tactility that women have with handbags is actually quite similar to the intimacy of a perfume. We try to keep attention to detail and quality the same no matter what the category, and I felt with this we can have a unique perspective. We entered into this arena with big brands, making something of a certain quality and with a certain origin, and we have started to see a great success.

Where does your production take place?

All of the bags are made in Italy and the beauty products are made in France. There are other places in the world to make them, but in all honesty the Italians are still the best.

Talk us through some of your favourite pieces.

We have what we call the permanent collection. The Blueprint was the first bag I designed and the one that took the longest. I probably made 100 samples of this bag to get it to where it is today. It comes in a variety of leathers and colours. I felt that because it was a very simple bag it needed to have a very clear silhouette so that people saw the value and the uniqueness of the bag. It’s the idea of making a collection, just like the fragrance, that we would be able to sell for a hundred years. That may sound like a cliché but this is what we truly do, and I think that’s what sets us apart.

The Blueprint Bag

What about the double buckle, what’s the story behind it?

All of the bags carry a signature double buckle. Initially this was a ‘B’ but I had some quality issues with it so I decided to go to a more generic double buckle. It was the idea of women carrying bags across the body and I love the idea of a jewel across the chest as a signature.

Moving back to fragrance, in a market that is so saturated with mass-produced products – how do you stay relevant?

Simply I think it’s about focusing on the smells. Unique, beautiful perfumes. I honestly believe that’s the formula. That can be copied 100 times but I have a lot of faith in my customers and their perception of what’s real and what’s fake. I think the level of innovation and creative work will always win in the end.

You started your brand with no formal training in fragrance – what challenges did you face?

There were many challenges, mostly connected to learning how to make, produce and sell a perfume.

What made you move into an industry that was so unknown to you?

Initially I went to art school. When I graduated I met a perfumer. I was fascinated by smell. I realised that I had two choices – become an artist, or start a brand to develop my ideas. I think I just really enjoyed creating and growth. I love the idea of unlimited possibilities and I love competing with other brands, and I think all of those things combined with my creative drive meant that Byredo is something I can completely immerse myself in on a daily basis. It’s eleven years later and I work harder than ever and I’m more inspired than ever. I meet people to show them the products and wish that I could show them what’s next because it’s already done in my mind!

What would you say is your passion – fragrance or leather goods?

I don’t know! They’re not competitive in my mind, they’re really just two very different things. When I create these worlds, or creative projects, I still don’t even know if it’s going to be a bag collection or a fragrance collection or both. We launched a collaboration earlier this year called Elevator Music. It was a multi-facet project so we had this great space, and then there was fragrance and apparel, denim, bags and other different objects. It’s actually more about the head space that I’m in. What’s nice is that I had a very clear idea of silhouettes and iconic shapes  that I like.

Where do you go when you want to be inspired?

I look at my wife a lot for the functional part. In the Byredo offices I have around 250 employees and 98 per cent are women, my board are half women, I grew up with my sister and my mother, and I have two daughters – so I am surrounded by muses. I think the inspiration for the bags, starts very much in understanding the function of how women wear bags. In terms of aesthetics, I have a very clear idea of what I find beautiful and most of it honestly relates to the women in my life.

Where do you go when you want to switch off?

The Maldives! It takes me a few days, but because of the environment it really forces you to come down a notch and relax.

How would you sum up Byredo in one word?

True. True to its origins, true to the quality, the creativeness and the ideas.

What have you not done yet that you would like to do?

That’s a whole other article! There is so much.

What can we expect to see from Byredo in the next five years?

The leather will continue to evolve. It’s a constant and I’m always working on new styles and functions. Fragrance will grow. There is a colour cosmetics project that I’m working on which I’m super excited about. There’s a new eyewear collection launching in the spring, which we’re making in Japan. It will be completely in titanium, which is a real luxury take on eyewear. I really enjoy exploring new sectors.

While they are yet to open a store in the UAE, Byredo is stocked inside Bloomingdales Dubai.

HANDBAG DESIGNER LAYLA SHRUGI DISCUSSES HER LATEST CREATIONS FOR LYA LYA, HOW DUBAI IS THE CITY THAT INSPIRES HER THE MOST, AND WHY QUALITY IS SO IMPORTANT.

Layla Shrugi is the designer behind luxury handbag brand LYA LYA. While she is of Lebanese and Russian decent, Layla is now based in Dubai and looks to the architecture and environment around her for inspiration.

LYA LYA’s bags are defined by architectural designs, geometric shapes and bold silhouettes, as well as a recognisable vulture motif that is embellished onto may of the key designs. Layla chooses to play with hard and soft concepts, exploring animal instincts, and creating statement pieces that a woman will be proud to carry. Quality is very important to her and she prides herself on sourcing the best materials and using the best processes to ensure her designs capture absolute luxury. Here Layla discusses her latest collections as well as her motivations as a business woman and entrepreneur.

What qualities should a woman have to manage her own company?

A life experience in any field and being inquisitive about all aspects of life is fundamental for business owners. Knowing your business inside out and always adapting to change. Also you must be organised and have continuous self-motivation. and a long-term plan and a vision. See it, believe and it will come.

What would you say are the highlights of your professional career so far?

I won the award for Best Arab Talent at the Arab Women Awards in Dubai six months after debuting my first collection. The continuous support that I receive through messages from clients  and the compliments they get wearing them is always uplifting. And finally, being able to sell my handbags internationally in the top department stores next to other luxury handbag designers.

What is the most difficult challenge you face as a designer?

The hardest thing that I face continuously is to maintain designing pieces that derive from pure internal inspiration and creativity and not from the constant exposure to trends, social media and other sources.

How would you describe the identity of LYA LYA?

LYA LYA’s identity revolves around the unique customised metal work that we do. This makes it stand out from the crowd and creates curiosity about the brand. Our designs are unique, powerful and every piece is a statement of its own.

What can you tell us about your latest collection?

My latest collection continues to be inspired by my fascination with the vulture and its characteristics. It has a sharpness and edginess with the introduction of smaller pieces to reflect current trends. The pack handbag is the perfect day to evening bag for the busy woman. It has its sharp legs and is one of the new additions to the vulture family.

For who do you create your designs?

I design for the woman I aspire to be. A confident, powerful, woman that stands out in the crowd. Someone that does not follow fashion trends but creates them.

What is the best piece of best you have received?

It would be a quote that my dad continuously used; “reach for the moon and you may fall on a star.” It is something I live by and believe that nothing is impossible and to always aim high.

What advice would you give to someone wanted to launch their own brand?

Believe in yourself and you will achieve. Make sure to do your research and create a unique concept even if it is for a niche market. Be true to your aesthetic so that you can maintain it and have longevity in this highly competitive business.

How do you balance your work and family life?

I believe to achieve your full potential and happiness you have to have a balanced life where every aspect is covered. From work, to family and friends. My family is my top priority and quality time is key in our life. Quality versus quantity is what matters, and at work being productive and managing your time smartly makes all the difference.

Are there any places that inspire you?

Since most of my designs are derived from geometrical shapes and architectural structures, there is no place for me to get inspired like Dubai. It has an abundance of new breathtaking architectural projects.

What motto do you follow in life?

Learn from your mistakes as our own mistakes are our best teacher.

Which books would you recommend for aspiring entrepreneurs?

I get a lot of my inspiration in life through the books that I read. Apart from soul searching books, I definitely recommend The Power of Positive Thinking, Who Moved My Cheese? and The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People.

Are you considering expanding the brand’s products?

Yes definitely. Eventually I would love to create a full accessory line. I also always get asked if I will be adding some men’s accessories which is definitely something I am considering.

What are your goals for 2019?

My ultimate goal for 2019, is to penetrate more markets and expand LYA LYA in key department stores.

By Charline Deek

You can find LYA LYA at lya-lya.com, Harvey Nichols Dubai, O Brand, Kuwait, and Galleries Lafayette, Qatar.

Grand Hills a Luxury Collection Hotel and Spa Broumana is one of Lebanon’s hidden gems.

Situated just twenty minutes from central Beirut, this picturesque property is located in the idyllic town of Broumana. Hugely popular with tourists in the summer, Grand Hills is known for its beautiful surrounding scenery and unspoilt panoramic views of the region’s lush green mountaintops and Mediterranean sea in the distance.

The hotel is surrounded by welcoming gardens and courtyards, while the interior houses over 1,200 pieces of art, sculptures, antiques and handcrafted furniture, creating an intimate homely feeling.

Broumana is one of Lebanon’s most popular summer destinations as well as being a prime spot for skiers in the winter, with nearby skiing resorts. Overlooking pine-forested hills, the village (which is now more of a town thanks to increased tourism), attracts thousands of visitors throughout the year, especially during summer. If there is one place to stay in Broumana it has to be Grand Hills. This five star luxurious property sits at the top of Broumana and is home to some of the best views in the region.

ROOMS & SUITES

The hotel features 74 rooms and 44 suites which all house handmade furniture and unique décor. Many of the rooms feature breath-taking views of the mountains, while others overlook  the pool and gardens. All rooms feature floor to ceiling windows, separated living and sleeping areas and outdoor balconies. The suites are all uniquely designed and offer stunning mountain views and larger living areas.

ROYAL RESIDENCE

The hotel’s showpiece is the Royal Residence. Spread over 4,131 square metres this huge independent suite features three pavilions, two private swimming pools and seven floors of living space, decorated with original artworks and handmade furniture. The Royal Residence was actually named the largest hotel suite in the world by Guinness World Records. This extravagant suite can accommodate up to 10 guests in its five bedrooms and it also features a private entrance, private gym, large garden, two-floor private library and two oriental seating areas.

Many Royalties and celebrities have stayed in the suite. The owner of The Royal Residence is a keen collector of art, which is reflected in the décor which includes many pieces of rare art and sculpture.

SPA & WELLNESS

The Grand Hills Luxury Spa focuses on healing the body, mind and soul with a carefully designed treatment menu. The spa is set over four floors and includes twelve treatment rooms, four Balneo Chromatheraphy rooms, four body peeling rooms, and four suites for couples massages. There is also a lap pool for those looking to keep fit as well as a plunge pool. As well as the spa’s pools there is also an indoor and outdoor hotel pool, the latter of which offers breath-taking views across the mountain tops. And for those wanting to exercise during their stay, the Tonic Gym is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

DINING

Grand Hills Hotel offers a number of dining options. Chez Alain offers a fusion of French and Vietnamese cuisine, with a unique blend of ingredients from two very different cultures to create a menu you won’t find anywhere else. Pasquale offers timeless Italian recipes with a casual and intimate setting. Once you’re done with dinner, a visit across the road to Shisha Hills is a must. The outdoor shisha lounge is set overlooking the mountains – the perfect way to end an evening or watch the sunset.

Corinthia Hotel London is one of the most iconic properties in the city.

Located within a stunning Victorian building, the hotel became The Corinthia London in 2011 and brought together classic British grandeur, with modern, bright architecture. Situated in the heart of the city in one of London’s most historical areas, Corinthia Hotel London is a stone’s throw away from Trafalgar Square, The River Thames, The Houses of Parliament, St James’ Park and The London Eye, all of which are a short walking distance.

It prides itself on offering British elegance with a touch of modernity. Stepping into the hotel reception you immediately feel rested. This grand hotel lobby is bright, welcoming and has some of the most beautiful flower arrangements we have ever seen.

The Lobby Lounge Crystal Chandelier

ROOMS & SUITES

The hotel features 294 guest rooms including 40 suites and seven two-storey penthouses which offer panoramic views across the city. The rooms are surprisingly spacious for a central London hotel and feature bright and modern décor. The bathrooms feature white marble, under-heating flooring and the must-try tropical rain showers. To upgrade you stay book into one of the seven penthouses. Choose from the sophisticated Actor’s Penthouse, Explorers Penthouse, Whitehall Penthouse or for the ultimate in luxury The Royal Penthouse features a stunning Twilight Terrace and huge living space. Each penthouse has its own unique décor and style.

Hamilton Penthouse Bedroom, Terrace & Nelson’s Column

Royal Penthouse Lounge

Musicians Penthouse Terrace

DINING

Corinthia Hotel London hosts a range of restaurants and bars offering luxury elements and eclectic cuisine. For fine British dining using fresh local ingredients the Northall restaurant is the perfect destination. For something traditional visit the Moon Lounge for afternoon tea in a relaxing atmosphere. The tea at Crystal Moon Lounge features a spectacular Baccarat chandelier as the backdrop and atmospheric melodies are played on a Steinway piano.

Tea Sommelier Ondreh Herder offers guests a bespoke collection of teas including Corinthia Hotel London’s house infusion (a must try for tea lovers). The menu includes traditional British treats such as scones, homemade pastries and cakes – giving you the truly English experience. Now open is the Kerridge’s Bar & Grill, brainchild of Michelin starred chef Tom Kerridge. Kerridge has a reputation of putting his own twist on classic British dishes including a delicious take on fish and chips .

The Crystal Moon Lounge

Corinthia Hotel Afternoon Tea Jack Hardy

Suwaidi Pearls is the UAE’s only pearl farm that provides locally sourced pearls to jewellers around the world that keeps this old age tradition alive in the region.

Hundreds of years before oil and tourism boosted the UAE’s economy it was pearls that kept the country alive, thanks to its pearl harvesting industry. With these natural stones becoming increasingly popular again it is surprising to know that pearls are being harvested locally on the shores of Ras Al Khaimah.

Abdulla Al Suwaidi is keeping the pearl industry alive with the regions only pearl farm; Suwaidi Pearls. Based in the small village of Al Rams at the foot of the Hajer mountains, Suwaidi Pearls was established in 2005 by Al Suwaidi. He has a heritage in pearl diving – his family were experts in the trade for centuries until pearl farming died out in the region.

Unlike gemstones, pearls are a unique entity. Natural pearls are found inside the shell of an oyster as a result of a small grain of sand finding its way in between the two shells. Over a period of time in order to protect itself from irritation, the oyster will quickly begin covering the sand with layers of nacre — the mineral substance that fashions the mollusk’s shells. Layer upon layer of nacre, also known as mother-of-pearl, coat the grain of sand until the iridescent gem is formed. This is a slow process and is hard to detect and rare to find. Many years ago pearl divers would physically search for pearls, in dangerous conditions, searching through hundreds of oysters before finding their treasures. Pearls can also be cultured. This is a process that involves pearl farmers embedding a grain of sand into a mollusk – this will likely eventually turn into a pearl. This method has a much higher success rate and allows a greater number of pearls to be harvested in  a shorter period of time.

Cultured Arabian pearls are the most distinctive in terms of their size, quality and nacre thickness. They are not easy to harvest and require and intense process that has to be done in the most specific and demanding of environments. The lagoon at Al Rams benefits from the fresh rainwater that comes from the Hajer mountains and fills the seawater with oxygen, making it the perfect environment for the pearls to grown.

Suwaidi Pearls have already supplied pearls to Mouawad and Van Cleef & Arpels, as well as many local designers. But founder and pearl diver Abdulla Al Suwaidi has bigger plans for his business, with hopes to supply pearls to many of the world’s top jewellers. We chat to him on the past, present and future.

What makes these pearls so unique?

Our pearls are unique as they have been cultivated from the first Arabian Pearl farm in the world. This is a potential development that links the past to the future, a journey of the Natural Pearls to Cultured Pearls in the Gulf region. We have been in the cultured pearls business for almost a decade and have successfully cultured some of the finest types of pearls from the Arabian seas. I have successfully cultivated more than 100,000 cultured pearls in my farm in Al Rams, Ras Al Khaimah.

This oyster is susceptible to disease and torrent weather conditions so every pearl found is a miracle. Cultured pearls are not like synthetic gemstones, where neither the processes nor the environment are influenced by nature. Achieving high-grade pearls with a beautiful luster is very demanding and requires knowledge and a long-term vision that particularly focuses on sustainable and responsible best farming practices.

The discerning Arabian client will only accept the best. My vision of creating a thriving Gulf pearl industry that will be enjoyed by future generations is my raison d’etre. Buying a Suwaidi Pearl is therefore an investment, that not only is involved in the promotion of responsible relationships with our environment, but also in Arabian heritage.

My belief is not in just making or achieving something new from the pearls, but also complimenting them with continuous enchanted and adventurous endless stories of my ancestors relationships with the pearls

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Centuries after centuries the beauty of the pearls were featured by my ancestors and it only paused by the end of 1920’s. However, just few decades ahead in 2005, I engineered and reinstated, repositioned and revived the Arabian pearls legacy back to where it belongs and where it shall remain and stay.

Why is pearling in this region something that is so close to your heart?

I think because of the hardships and survival instinct that was the core strength of the people of the pearls in the Gulf. The people had abundance of faith and passion that lead them to experience the joy of prosperity in the midst of harsh diversity. Many divers would journey for months and face all kinds of hardships such as marine hazards, sickness, hallucinations and dangerous encounters with venomous stings and bites of jellyfish, sharks, barracuda, and sawfish. They survived on dates, coffees, fish and oyster meats for months. However, they maintained high hopes and faith and entertained themselves with folklore songs and beautiful chants as their boats continued to navigate by the direction of the sun and the color and depth of the sea.

The women of Al Rams and neighboring villages would take on the role of taking care of the young and old and keeping themselves busy by taking over the men’s responsibilities and tasks. They would keep their homes safe and prepare the essence of musk, saffron and amber in preparation of welcoming home their fathers, brothers, husbands and sons. They would gather every evening chanting poets, singing songs of the pearls, seas and journeys of the divers! They would pray and yearn for the safe return of their loved ones. These divers brought hope of prosperity to their families. Such was the life of the divers and their families all around Al Rams and neighboring villages.

Tragedy was inevitable, however, the return home was always a joyful occasion. As they approached the shores of their homes, from a distance you would hear their chants in rhythm with the oars, looking forward to uniting with their loved ones and sharing the stories of their journeys. The blend of prosperity and adversity in the past has been kept of the memory of generation after a generation and so it has stayed in my heart.

Is pearl diving something that’s quite difficult to learn?

Not at all, you must have what I call the 3 P’s (Passion, Persistence, and Patience).

Talk us through the process of developing pearls in the ocean.

It’s a bit complicated due to the nature of the environment and the species, but it can be simply explain in six steps:

We breed our own natural oysters in the farm (3-6 months),

Preparing our adult oysters for the seeding operation (6 months),

Seeding operation of our oysters daily basis,

Monitoring the oysters after operation (30 days),

Caring and nurturing the seeded oysters for about a year while nacre grows over the seeded nucleus,

Harvesting the pearls!

How has this process changed from hundreds of years ago?

Pearl diving in the past was a very hard process, gathering hundreds of thousands of oysters to get 1% pearls. It was known out of 1000 natural oysters collected from the sea by a diver, the possibility of finding a pearl is 1%, which means 10 Pearls.

However, in our current process, for every 1000 seeded Oysters, there is 60% rate of finding pearls and these are of different grades, quality, luster, size and colors etc.  giving us 600 pearls out of 1000 harvested oysters.

What about extracting the pearls from the mollusks – is this a complicated process?

The process is very simple, and it takes few seconds. A special traditional knife is used to open the oyster to extract the pearl from its gonad, similar to the extracting of a natural pearl from an oyster.

How long does it take to harvest a pearl?

One year after the seeding process.

Tell us about the difference in colours of pearls.

Our Arabian pearl oyster have the same DNA of famous and unique Arabian natural pearls, it produces 13 different color from the glowing white, off white, to the shades of blues, greys, yellowish, gold, pinkish, violet and green colors.

This is something that has been in your family for centuries – how are you keeping the memory of your ancestors alive?

My family, is intrinsically linked to the history of the pearling era in the Gulf, dating back to 12th & 13th century & belonging to the Julfar dynasty. Pearling was embedded in the culture and the traditions of everyday life of the Julfar villages, the birth place of my ancestors.  The family background traces back to life in the Gulf region that has been entwined with the jewel of the ocean for over 7000 years. My ancestors carried on with pearling for generations leading finally to the 20th century with my grandfather Mohammed Bin Abdulla Al-Suwaidi being one of the last remaining pearl divers of Al Suwaidi legacy. For centuries many divers dedicated their lives to pearl diving as it was the main means of living and generating wealth.

I have a symbolic relationship with pearls and for me pearls symbolise wisdom and I believe this organic gem is the subject of many myths and legends. I believe pearls are the mystical treasure of the earth and represent purity, generosity, integrity and loyalty of the people who have them. Therefore the history and legacy of my ancestors and their intimate relationship with the pearls has inspired me and made me who I am, whilst my high esteem for these oceanic gems has driven me to secure their heritage and future.

Why is this particular location good for harvesting pearls?

The environment plays a fundamental role in the growth of the pearls. The lagoon in Al Rams benefits from the fresh rainwater that comes from the surrounding mountains and fills the seawater reducing the salinity and infusing oxygen. This natural occurrence increases the capacity of oysters to produce more nacre, the material that grows in layers to form the pearl. Cultured pearls are still a product of nature, they are grown naturally and require the same biological processes. There must be a healthy oyster in an unpolluted environment to produce a beautiful pearl.

Is it difficult to harvest pearls during the summer when there isn’t much rain?

We stop seeding operations during the summer months but we maintain all monitoring and maintenance work and this actually goes on through out the year ensuring clean environment for oysters and other marine life.

Tell us about some of the jewelers you are now supplying pearls to?

Suwaidi Pearls have adorned some of the collections of international brands such Steven Webster, Sara Ho, Van Cleef & Arpels and Mouawad. As well as customised private collections for some members of the royal family in the region. We also work with some of the young Emirati women’s jewellery designers who have created beautiful jewels from our pearls.

What about the people that work for you – how do they learn to pearl dive?

I have few staff working on the farm that I personally trained to Pearl dive. Pearl diving is all about technique, practice and passion.

How do you think pearls are perceived around the world?

Pearls are one, if not the only gem produced by a living species. Hence it is considered mystical, spiritual and lucky! They are largely worn by royalties and also women who are passionate about pearls.  Arabian pearls are specific and have their own long lasting reputation of perfection and exquisiteness.

What’s the one piece of jewellery every woman should own?

A string of pearls.

What is your vision for the future of the company?

My vision is to launch a global brand that would boast pearls of the finest quality from the DNA of the Arabian pearls. I invented a new enhanced modern technique for the first time in the history of cultured pearls that will cultivate much higher quality of Pearls.

These pearls will be routed to some of the best well known Jewelry designers in the world. I have several initiatives with the government and private sector to re-establish the UAE as an important hub for not only trading but also producing pearls. Pearl farming is a long-term investment; there must be the correct balance between a protected environment, in which eco-systems co-exist, and a successfully operating pearl farm that can give the time needed for the nacre to build to produce high-grade pearls.

Today, this beauty, as well as the complex creation of pearls, still intrigues and excites; this is particularly true for my determination to grow and protect the legacy of Arabian pearls for future generations. It’s this pearl legacy that my grandfather Mohammed, passed over to me without saying a word… Hence I became the ultimate guardian of the pearls.

Arriving at Four Seasons Hampshire is a truly magical experience. Situated in the English countryside this historic property is around a one and a half hour drive from the centre of London. We were lucky enough to visit on a day when the sun was shining and the hotel and its grounds were looking their absolute best.

This large property is set in the grounds of Dogmersfield Park in Hampshire. The manor house has over a thousand years of history that dates back to Saxon times and was even mentioned in William the Conqueror’s Domesday book of 1086. Throughout history dozens of royals stayed at the manor including Henry VI. The property has since functioned as a private house and school until it was acquired by Four Seasons in 2001. The hotel opened its doors in 2005.

ROOMS & SUITES

The hotel features 111 guest rooms and 22 suites. The interior design follows that of a Georgian manor house with period style furnishings and fixtures. If you are looking for a truly luxurious experience you must stay at recently renovated Royal Suite. Created by designer Martin Brudnizki, this suite comprises of a bedroom and living area inspired by traditional English Manor House interiors. The colour palette of soft blues and yellows with vintage prints that are complemented by a series of contemporary artwork. As well as the living space, the suite features a dining room, large enough to hold eight guests. The bedroom features floor to ceiling windows with views of the lush greenery. The suite also includes a private terrace with outdoor furnishings and heated lamps – the perfect place to watch the sun go down.

FOOD & DRINK

Four Seasons Hampshire’s signature restaurant Wild Carrot offers seasonal dishes that use locally sourced fresh ingredients to give guests the true countryside experience. The chef and his team regularly visit the local markets in the region to locate the best most natural ingredients for their recipes. Also on site you’ll find The Library; perfect for a relaxing coffee, heathy spa café Sante, and Fox Hollow; a private dining area for up to 26 guests. Of course, in-room dining is also available.

FACILITIES

With over 500 acres of lush green countryside the options of activities to undertake at the hotel are endless. From relaxing country walks, to bike rides – you can even try your hand at clay pigeon shooting or croquet. Guests can also enjoy on-site horse riding (which is available for children too), fishing, falconry, swimming and tennis. All the services are available to guests and take place within the grounds of the hotel. If you do have your children with you there is also a babysitting service available for parents wanting some time to themselves. For those without children, you can even bring along your pets, who are invited to stay at the hotel also.

SPA & WELLNESS 

The spa at the resort is open to both in-house and outside guests. Perfect for a relaxing experience during your stay or if you wish, a day trip out of the city for a few hours of bliss. The spa is a converted 18th century stable block, which is brought to life with modern interiors and polished natural materials. There is an indoor and outdoor vitality pool as well as a central courtyard relaxation area for those who what some peace and quiet. Many of the treatments offered use ingredients sourced within the property’s grounds. The spa’s signature treatment is the Soothing lavender back, face and scalp therapy. This 90 minute treatment uses locally sourced lavender and relaxing oils. The spa also offers seasonal treatments which are updated every few months. The day spa retreats offer tailor made programmes for those wanted a full day of relaxation. Once you’re finished in the spa, visit the fitness lounge and relax in Santé; the spa’s healthy café.

For more information visit fourseasons.com/hampshire

Elegant, understated creations make for a subtle and feminine collection by Dior fine jewellery.

“Rose Dior Bagatelle” Necklace, “Archi Dior” Bracelet, “Bois de Rose” Bracelet By Dior Fine Jewellery

Dior Grand Bal Resille Rouge By Dior Timepieces

LEFT IMAGE:  “Tete de Mort” Necklace, “Tete de Mort” Ring, By Dior Fine Jewellery

RIGHT IMAGE:  “Tete de Mort” Necklace, “Tete de Mort” Ring, By Dior Fine Jewellery

Dior VIII Grand Bal, By Dior Timepieces

LEFT IAGE: “Diorella” Ring, “Archi Dior” Bracelet, By Dior Fine Jewellery

RIGHT IMAGE:  “Gourmande Libellule” Ring, “Miss Dior” Ring By Dior Fine Jewellery

LEFT IMAGE: “Rose Dior Bagatelle” Necklace, “Archi Dior” Earrings By Dior Fine Jewellery

RIGHT IMAGE: “Diorette” Ring By Dior Fine Jewellery

La D de Dior Satine – Malachite By Dior Timepieces

Fashion Director: Lindsay Judge

Photographer: Greg Adamski

Hair and make-up: Ania Poniatowska

Model: Tania at MMG Models

Location: La Ville Hotel, Dubai

Messika is a name we have heard a lot of in the last few years despite being a relatively new fine jewellery House, founded by Valerie Messika in 2000.

The last few years have created extraordinary growth for the Maison thanks to its unique style of minimal fine jewellery as well as strong celebrity endorsements and a collaboration with Gigi Hadid. As a young jewellery designer Valerie Messika didn’t have a decades-long heritage and history to her brand as many jewellery houses do, but what she does have is a lifetime of being immersed in the world of diamonds. Her father was famous diamond merchant André who passed his core values down to his daughter.

Growing up in Paris with her family, Valerie was surrounded by diamonds from a young age and has spoken many times of the inspiration this has given her. After working closely with her father, Valerie moved away from diamond trading to concentrate on her passion for design. Guided by her love for precious stones Valerie discovered a niche in the market, and founded Messika.

What Valerie strives to do is create a new approach to wearing diamonds. Her philosophy is to imagine, dream and create – and she has done just that. With her fine jewellery Maison she has combined the timelessness of the stone with the modern approach of minimal understated designs to create something that’s quite unique in the market. Her pieces are made to be worn every day and Valerie’s keen eye for detail ensures that each creation perfectly represents her vision. She is currently striving to create new shapes and styles that blend these traditional stones with a contemporary way of wearing them.

Last year Messika collaborated with Gigi Hadid on a fine jewellery collection. And this September it introduces a second.  My Soul has been designed by Gigi and features minimal pieces that can be layered and stacked to be worn in a bohemian-chic way. Inspired by the hippy trend, Gigi worked very closely with Valerie who’s input came from her knowledge of the stones. The collection features chokers, bracelets, anklets, and earrings.

Ahead of the launch we talk to Valerie Messika who shares her passion for what she does and the vision for the brand.

You were immersed in jewellery your whole childhood – how do you think this influenced you?

My whole childhood is filled with memories of diamonds. My first real crush for diamonds was at the age of 12 when I found an envelope with tiny diamonds at my parent’s house in Paris. I was fascinated by the light they exhaled. I learned how to look inside each stone. That’s where my attention to detail and keen observation comes from.

What does a diamond mean to you?

Diamonds are in my DNA.

How important is family to you?

I met my husband at Messika. I had just finished my communications degree, while he was carrying out his first internship in diamond sorting. We have two little girls, Romane (7) and Noa (5). I try to pass down my passion to my girls. They do show interest especially on the collections named by each of them. My girls inspire me every day!

What inspires you for your designs?

I get my inspiration from a lot of things, all the time – I am constantly on the lookout for things! I am always looking for inspirations on my travels, through architecture, interior design (which I am crazy about), by walking through the streets in Paris and observing people’s attitude and style. I admire the Parisian’s, they look so chic but always in a very minimal and effortless way. The names of collections are chosen after the jewels are created. The jewel is always the starting point.

What is your favourite diamond cut?

My favorite cut is the pear shape diamond. For me this shape means both sensual and dazzling.

Tell us a bit about the process a stone will go through from when it is discovered to when a woman wears it.

I always have in my mind the sentence: “In the same way that we choose our future partner with the heart, we choose a diamond for the emotion that it creates in us.” I start all my creations with a blank page. This is opposite to the prestigious houses of Place Vendôme that have centuries of rich archives of distinct styles. At Messika, each new collection is a real jump into the void; although I admit feeding obsessions for certain jewellery techniques. I always start the process without a precise brief.

The most difficult aspect of my jewellery creation process is to transcribe my ideas into a drawing. I always have many ideas, but sometimes it is quite difficult to get the result I have imagined and visualised. I am very lucky to have all of my team in Paris and to be able to work very closely with them, in our high jewellery atelier based in the heart of the city of lights. At the end, and thankfully, we always manage to make it possible and produce collections that we are all so proud of.

What’s the one piece of jewellery every woman should own in her lifetime?

A heritage piece of jewellery. When I was young, my grandmother, one of the most amazing women I have ever met, offered me one of her rings, a pear shape diamond of 9.30 carats. That is my favourite and most treasured piece of jewellery.

What makes Messika’s pieces unique?

Through the years, Messika gained special in-house techniques:  Messika made its name around one collection and technique – the Diamond in motion, with Move Collection. Through the innovative Silk technique, I came close to recreating the suppleness of fabric in the jewels, taming gold so that it hugs the curves of the body like a precious garment worn next to the skin.

Last year, Messika developed the Feather setting, this is used for the Firebird necklace, and is an innovative diamond-setting technique unveiled last year by Messika. Certain rows of stones in the centre are underlined by a delicate half-surround of brilliant-cut diamonds arranged by level. The stone’s original shape is thereby elongated, enhancing its perspective and volume.

The skinny concept was born out of the desire to make the river of diamonds into an item a woman can always turn to in her day to day life. Thanks to the system of micro-springs, the jewellery is elastic and extendable.

Do you have a favourite from all the pieces you have created?

I don’t really have a favourite piece, but I must say that I am really proud of my High Jewellery collections. This year, my High Jewellery Atelier created more than 150 High Jewellery pieces.

You chose to partner with Gigi Hadid for a number of collections – how do you think she captures the identity of your brand?

Gigi Hadid and I are launching a second collection this September. The choice of Gigi Hadid as the muse of Messika was simple. The renowned model is the perfect incarnation of the multi-facetted brand, not least owing to her modern approach, her simplicity and her love of fashion. She is the perfect example of the Messika woman: she is spontaneous and bright, filled with energy and light.

Tell us about the new Gigi collection – it feels quite bohemian – what is the inspiration?

For this collection, Gigi Hadid wanted to create a collection that was still true to her jewellery-wearing style but that could still be mixed with pieces from the first collection. The second collection is influenced by Gigi’s Middle Eastern background and inspiration from travel.

Tell us your rules for wearing jewellery.

My pieces are not created to stay in a safe. If I can give one piece of advice to all women, it’s to wear their jewels in everyday life.

What comes first – jewellery or clothes?

Both. Fashion is one of my passions and I get my inspiration from it. I always try to mix and match with fashion and diamonds, as they perfectly enhance each other.

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

“Do only diamonds”

“Remain legitimate in what you know how to do and do not lose yourself”

“Do not copy” meaning that I need to have your style.

How do you think your approach to jewellery is unique?

I think that my approach must be different as I bring a fashion perspective. My goal is to answer to women’s desires and I want to enhance a woman’s natural beauty. Also, I always put a part of myself into my design. I have a personal and sentimental touch.

How should a piece of jewellery make you feel?

I create elegant diamond pieces to be worn on an everyday basis. A modern mix between timeless and contemporary pieces, but always with a little twist. “Less is More” is my credo and I imagine my collections around 4 core values: Modernity, Lightness, Purity, and Sensuality.

I have been always lucky to work with diamonds in a free and audacious mind set.

I like my creations to be very comfortable; women should be able to live her life without being annoyed by excessively heavy jewellery.

So many amazing women have worn your jewels – is there anyone you would like to see wearing them that hasn’t yet?

I have been lucky to see my jewellery on many celebrities. It’s always a great moment of emotion to see such prestigious personalities choosing jewellery for their events or simply their everyday life. Beyoncé for example, wearing a Glam’Azone ring day and night.

What challenges do you face as a business woman?

Talent is not enough, you need to work hard to fulfil your dream.

What makes you happy?

My family and the fact that Messika Paris is growing so fast. I am so proud of my team.

What makes you angry?

I won’t say angry but disturbs me or annoys me. But when things don’t go the way I imagine, like when I create a piece. I am a perfectionist and I strive for everything to be perfect.

Where do you plan to be in five years time?

Everything is going so fast for Messika. I feel like I am living in a dream! I hope Messika will continue to evolve, we are still a young brand and there are still so many things we would like to achieve.

This year, I chose to reinterpret fairy tales for my new High Jewellery collection, hence my collection name “Once Upon a Time”. The tales, like we imagine them, do not necessarily coincide at first sight with Messika, which is very modern. So, I decide to reinterpret, in my own way, stories where strong women are put forward.

The Outnet has changed the world’s perception of off-season products. Now it is localising its site to focus on customers in the Middle East, we talk to off-season president Alessandra Rossi.

With its trend-led approach to providing products from past seasons, the Outnet has become the world’s biggest off-season retailer. A platform that started off as the sister of luxury e-commerce site Net A Porter, it has outgrown its initial placement to become a global brand in its own right, offering customers trend focused products at a discounted price.

Although the pieces are from previous seasons, The Outnet focuses on providing products and content that follow current trends. We all know that trends come back around, so it’s easy for The Outnet to keep up, and the bonus for the customers is the reduced price. As well as other designer’s pieces The Outnet has its own brand Iris & Ink which has hugely grown in popularity. It’s just launched a work wear boutique with a focus on style and functionality and the latest collaboration with Preen by Thorton Bregazzi is an exclusive collection of newly designed pieces not available anywhere else.

With all this going on at the same time as planning the launch of a localised GCC-based site, The Outnet team are keeping themselves very busy. In between the hectic schedules we talked to Off Season President Alessandra Rossi on a recent visit to Dubai. We get an insight on what exciting developments we can expect over the coming months as the Outnet puts a strong focus on our region.

Who is the Outnet shopper?

She is 35 plus. She is used to a luxury shopping experience and a high quality of service. She is a customer that knows what she wants, she is savvy. She is mixing the full price buy with the off-price buy.

So you think most customers are also buying full price products?

Yes they mostly do, especially in the region as people have many occasions that they want to be ready for so they will buy an off-season product for an event perhaps.

Are there patterns in the types of products customers are buying full price and reduced price?

The top category across both is always dresses but it is also depending on the editing and what we offer on the site at any particular time. It is our core DNA to provide great editorial contact. We tend to have a clear edit we are not just selecting everything so the editing part is very important.

I don’t know if you are aware but originally we used to take all of our product from Net A Porter from their end of season stock, but now only seven percent comes from Net A Porter so we go directly to the brands. We have 350 brands on-site, we do exclusive collaborations with brands as well. We are much more in touch with brands directly and curate from them.

What are  the differences between marketing off-season and on-season products?

I mean they tend to have completely different strategies. It’s a matter of understanding the customer’s needs and trying to adapt to their needs. So the term of approach is similar – the editing, the way we showcase the product on site, the way we create content. One difference is that we have four uploads a week whereas for in-season they maybe only upload products by season but for us it’s much more fast-paced so the customer is really excited. There is an excitement and an urgency to shop with us.

How are you communicating with your customers?

We send out newsletters, we have Chat Bot which is our latest robot. We have Facebook which talks about what’s coming up. We have influencers promoting our products. We have homepages that constantly change and we have a 10,000 insider panel which is very engaged. So I would say we’re quite fast paced and so our marketing strategy reflects that.

How do you think The Outnet has made it cool to wear off-season pieces?

That was the plan! We are relevant. The trends you see in the magazines, you’ll find it on our site because the buying team are curating with that in mind. For sure the editing and the way we showcase products is the key part of the site. We try to understand exactly what is the needs of the buying customer.

Which markets are particularly important to you at the moment?

Here! That’s the reason why we are here! We are making investment in the region. We also recently moved to a completely new platform that allows us to be much more local than we were before. So the geographical expansion is one of the key pillars of our strategy for the future. This is a starting point. The fact that we are localizing is just the beginning, we are going to be even more and more local. Still keeping the global identity but making it much more local.

So will all the editorial content on the site be specific to the region?

The core will be global and everything will be managed by our team in London, but certain edits will be local. We need to be relevant for the customers lifestyle but also keep the global identity. This is the challenge we have.

Have you been in touch with the customers on a personal level?

We had an event to show the latest collection to the customers and it was exactly for that – so we could see the reaction in their eyes and understand exactly what they are interested in. This gives us a clear indication on what they want. It was definitely very interesting.

How soon will the local site be live?

We started in April with some major improvements, we changed the currency so you can now pay in dirham. We are going to localise the site offering both languages (Arabic and English). This is a major improvement of our platform and the first time we have done it. This is going live this fall. We will also have the option for cash on delivery. We realised after asking to our customers that this is something they think is very important for the market.

What can you tell us about Iris and Ink?

Iris and Ink was launched in 2012 with the idea of offering a collection of essentials to complete the look. But after five years the collection is wide so it is a proper collection. Surprisingly in the region it is working really well and globally it is one of the top five brands on the site. It fits in very seamlessly into the wardrobe. It’s also a side effect that the customer is trusting us.

Are there plans to expand it further?

Of course, always.

What do you think is the future of online shopping in the region?

Things will become more and more mobile. I started working in e-commerce twenty years ago and the mobile didn’t exist at this time. So something that still surprises me is how the Smartphone disrupted the industry in such a  short time. You really make a quick connection between the information and the product you can access it everywhere. It’s something that still surprises me a lot but being mobile first is our core strategy. Fifty five per cent of sales come from mobiles. The accessibility is so easy.

How do you design the mobile site differently to the desktop site?

What is designed for the app is very different to the desktop site because we are finding that the customer doesn’t want the same content on the app. They want to just shop, she wants the filters to make it easier and have a quicker easier experience. The connection with social media is very, very close.

What’s the one item every woman should own?

If you ask me personally it’s shoes! If you ask me professionally – a beautiful dress. If you ask me to choose – I don’t know!

Are there any particular brands or products that you think never go out of fashion?

The white shirt, the black blazer – the classics.

What’s the last clothing item you shopped for?

This Valentino dress that I’m wearing – from The Outnet of course.

Are there any cultures you find particularly fascinating in the way they shop?

That’s what so great about being so global you learn so much from the markets. We learn about which brands the markets like. Here it’s Dolce & Gabbana and Pucci. Whereas in another market it might not be that at all. I think the general theme is that all our customers have passion and urgency to shop.

What do you love most about what you do?

The passion that is across everyone. Working with people, the team and also having the chance to meet the customers. I think this is the most fascinating part of my job. Also when we receive emails of feedback from the customers. I really always enjoy to read a message from a customer.

For you, what is luxury?

Authenticity.

What else can you tell us about the future of the brand?

That’s pretty much what we can tell you – the core message is that we will be more local and more relevant. The challenge is to find the right balance between what is relevant for the brand and what is relevant for the customer.

How are you going to be different from other off-season local sites in the region?

The fact that our assortment is unique is the main point of difference we have. The fact that we are editing the content and the fact that we have a huge selection of global brands who we are working directly with. We also have exclusive collections.

Anything else you want to tell us?

Top tip for the readers check the site at 10am UK time because that’s when the uploads go on site four times a week! And once everything is gone it’s gone and it goes very quickly.

Louis Vuitton presents the new edition of its city guides.

These 30 books include a stylish guide to some of the world’s most iconic cities. Since 1998 Louis Vuitton has been creating guides for the discerning travelling, developing its own unique take on the world’s most popular destinations.

This series includes guides to Paris of course, as well as Bangkok, Los Angeles, Rio de Janeiro, Shanghai, Rome and more. Each guide delves into the city to present a unique look on the places to visit and experiences to be had all in line with the brands core values and the latest trends.

This year the guides contains the most up to date places to eat, stay, work and visit, as well of course where to shop with secret boutiques and secret spots. The guides are also available in a mobile app version providing 24 hour access to travel information.