OHLALA Qatar May 2025

VENETIAN PRINCESS

baume-et-mercier.com

Perfect Together

Suhaim

Travel to another dimension of wellbeing in a prestigious setting in Lusail.

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Editor’s Letter

Life is made of a sequence of moments, and the most special ones are registered through rituals. Finding love and committing to a lifetime together is usually marked with a celebration surrounded by dear ones. A wedding, no matter how big or small, marks the beginning of a shared life and has a meaning that goes beyond a beautiful dress and impeccable décor (but of course, these things help to make this special day even better). The truth is that, after all the preparation and the celebration, what stays forever are the pictures taken. This month, the photographer duo Loredana Mantello and Valentina Costa allowed us to feature a beautiful wedding that they shot in Venice, Italy. In an exclusive interview, they told us about the importance of capturing moments and feelings through images. We also dedicate many of our articles to the theme throughout our May publication; don't miss them.

The watch world invades our pages this month with a series of the latest launches that occurred during Watches and Wonders Geneva 2025 last month. Find out about the novelties from your favourite brands. In the beauty scene, I had the chance to experience a Turkish Bath, for the first time, in the calm environment of Saray Spa at Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Hotel – I can say it was a fantastic journey.

Are you looking for a honeymoon or an opportunity to reconnect with your significant other not so far from home? Our contributor, Amica Sicilia, headed to Zulal Wellness Resort by Chiva-Som with her husband for a shared wellness journey.

This month's dining experience was at Morimoto, a restaurant at Mondrian Doha dedicated to the art of Japanese cuisine – a meal that went way beyond sushi. And to reinforce our petrol DNA, we drove one of the latest releases in the market, the Porsche Macan 4. Don't miss out on the details!

Enjoy your read while listening to the melody of wedding bells.

Fernanda Langhammer Editor-in-Chief @ohlalamagazineqa editor@ohlala-magazine.com

RENEW FOR THE JOURNEY AHEAD

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Heavy METAL

Even though metallic outfits and accessories are no longer exclusive to evening gatherings, they are still quite popular at special events. Have you been invited to a wedding? Dress in gold and silver for a sparkly presence.

Jimmy Choo’s bow handbag is the personification of cute yet bold. This bag can add a striking detail to casual outfits or a ‘more is more’ touch to your evening gowns.

Still in the pretty yet daring department, this cropped Tom Ford golden jacket can add a sophisticated touch to a plain gown – just like stylish armour.

A shiny midi skirt is a versatile item to keep in your wardrobe for a last-minute awe-inspiring look. We are in love with this Rabanne number – we can think of countless outfit combinations.

For the ultimate classic and everlasting

A dress to impress.

This Oscar

gown is a show-stopper with a sequence of little fans building a frock that embraces simplicity in its cut and complexity in its texture.

de La Renta strapless

THE SHADE OF DREAMS

White is the colour chosen by many brides around the world to paint their wedding gowns. We took inspiration from the hue to dream of hot summer nights in white outfits – think of dresses and skirts worn barefoot in fluffy sand (or high-end rooftop parties).

FERRAGAMO

SAVOR THE GOOD LIFE

EVENING GOWNS

It’s not every day that we get to wear floorlength dresses, but special occasions beg for stunning numbers. For some reason, we are into metallic finishes and green hues.

STEPPING WITH CONFIDENCE

The footwear for your ‘I do’ day might not steal the spotlight, but it has a crucial role: to walk you into married life. Here are the shoes we think are the perfect fit for a day that will change your life forever.

AQUAZZURA

LITTLE YET STYLISH

Fancy dresses are best paired with small bags or clutches. They might not be very roomy, but they can be the cherry on top of your outfit by

CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN

CH CAROLINA HERRERA

LA DOUBLEJ

BACK TO SALMON

Also known as peach, the 1950s had an adoration for this colour. The hue is a mix of pink and orange and, this season, it is back on the scene, varying from intense to diluted

ROKSANDA

TOM FORD

European Hair Expertise & Styles Located in North Gate Mall

Something BLUE

There are many wedding traditions around the world; one is to wear something old, new, borrowed and blue on your special day to attract luck. The azure shade is also a trendy colour this season, so we embrace it to bring a sense of tranquillity to the hot days ahead.

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For this month's news roundup, we bring you fresh launches, inspiring initiatives and creative collaborations from around the world.

Empowering

The Changemakers

For 18 years, the Cartier Women's Initiative (CWI) has been at the forefront of supporting women entrepreneurs worldwide. With 10 awards (nine regional and one thematic), the programme has provided critical financial, social and human capital support to businesses addressing some of the most pressing global challenges. CWI has empowered over 330 entrepreneurs, with 64% of their businesses continuing to thrive. The initiative's commitment goes beyond funding, offering fellows executive education at INSEAD, leadership development, and a vibrant community of mentors and peers. This month, the programme announces the opening of applications for the 2026 edition, with the final application date set for June 24, 2025. The new edition will select 30 fellows across nine regional categories and the Science & Technology Pioneer Award. These visionaries will be celebrated at the CWI Awards Ceremony in Thailand in 2026.

Fashion On The Field

FARM Rio and adidas continue their decade-long creative partnership with their latest capsule collection, which draws inspiration from the passion of football (joga bonito) and the vibrant culture of Brazil. This collection offers a fresh take on retro sportswear, bringing together nostalgic aesthetics from the sport with tropical motifs. FARM Rio's signature florals, birds and lively patterns bring a burst of colour to classic sportswear staples, like jerseys and matching sets, that are designed for both comfort and movement. The ensemble incorporates two main colourways, Brazilian yellow and green, and a mix of orange and magenta, chosen to provide a dynamic contrast and reflect the energy of the sport. The items are versatile, making it easy to transition from athletic wear to street style. Together, adidas and FARM Rio celebrate the joy of football while offering functional yet expressive pieces that fit seamlessly into daily life.

A Designer's Touch

FENDI marked Milano Design Week 2025 with a unique collaboration alongside British designer Lewis Kemmenoe. Following a presentation at Design Miami/2024, FENDI revealed a limited edition of the Peekaboo Soft Medium bag, reimagined by Lewis. With only five pieces available at the boutique in Via Montenapoleone 3, the bag featured the brand's leather, intricately cut into a jacket pattern and patchworked in a signature style inspired by the designer's vision. The bag's hardware echoed the ænigma collection, with timber from the collection forming the internal bar, while the silver and brass screws mirrored the other materials used. A hidden wood texture inside the bag added another layer of surprise. The partnership extended to the FENDI Casa boutique in Piazza della Scala, where Lewis curated the display of the ænigma collection, featuring unique pieces such as chairs, lamps and a coffee table.

For The Stylish Player

In a first for ASICS tennis, the Japanese sportswear giant has teamed up with Parisian label A.P.C. to launch a full head-to-toe collection. Arriving just in time for the European Tennis Tour, the capsule combines ASICS' performance-driven technology and A.P.C.'s clean, understated style. The on-court range, rooted in Japanese design principles like kasane layering and shibori dyeing, includes staples like sleeveless tops, sprinter shorts and dresses in crisp blue and white. Meanwhile, the off-court edit, led by A.P.C.'s Creative Director Judith Touitou, focuses on effortless everyday movement with simple pieces and a hint of playfulness. Signature sneakers, tennis-ready accessories and notable pieces like the denim Tote Raquette round off the collection. A meeting point of performance and minimalist Parisian style, the collaboration moves tennis dressing into new territory.

The Magic Unfolds

The world of Harry Potter has been reimagined through a fresh, sporty lens by PUMA and Warner Bros. Discovery Global Consumer Products. The new collaboration channels the energy of Hogwarts' Quidditch pitch, focussing on two of the school's most iconic houses: Gryffindor and Slytherin. Representing PUMA's sports legacy, the collection reworks classic pieces like T7 tracksuits, jerseys, hoodies and T-shirts with clever hints from the wizarding world. Spellbook-inspired graphics, house crests and hidden Golden Snitch embroidery are woven into the designs, balancing bold house colours with a more understated approach. Accessories complete the range, adding layered references for those who look a little closer. It's a collection that captures the rivalry, nostalgia and everyday magic familiar to Harry Potter fans while still being quite athletic.

UPGRADING A CLASSIC

A. Lange & Söhne presented a new interpretation of the ODYSSEUS in its proprietary honey gold, limited to 100 pieces at Watches and Wonders 2025.

A.Lange & Söhne’s newest addition to its ODYSSEUS family brings together robust functionality with luxurious design cues. Released at Watches and Wonders Geneva 2025, the ODYSSEUS HONEYGOLD stands out for more than just its looks, it’s the first of its kind in the line to feature the brand’s proprietary 750 HONEYGOLD, not only for the case but also for the bracelet. Limited to just 100 pieces, this model features a 40.5mm case paired with a rich brown dial and a five-row, honey-gold bracelet that’s both superior and practical. The bracelet integrates seamlessly with the case and includes a user-friendly adjustment system that can extend its length by up to 7mm with the press of a button, which means no tools or fuss are required. Additional links can be added or removed for a more permanent fit.

The use of HONEYGOLD, a material exclusive to A. Lange & Söhne, gives the watch a unique hue and a hardness greater than other gold alloys. It’s matched by honey-gold baton markers and hands, both treated with a luminous coating to ensure legibility in low light. A splash of red at the 60-minute mark adds just a hint of contrast on the minute track. True to the collection’s design language, the dial offers a contemporary take on legibility with an outsize date and clearly defined day-of-week display. The

brown dial carries a textured groove pattern between the hour markers and around the subsidiary seconds, adding a subtle three-dimensional quality that’s visually engaging without being flashy.

But the watch isn’t just about surface appeal. Inside is the calibre L155.1 DATOMATIC, a self-winding movement engineered for reliability and precision under everyday wear, including active or sporting scenarios. The movement includes a unidirectional rotor with a centrifugal mass in 950 platinum, ensuring efficient energy delivery and a maximum power reserve of 50 hours. This calibre is assembled in two layers and decorated by hand. Visible through the sapphire-crystal caseback, it features plates and bridges made from untreated German silver, blued screws and a single gold chaton. Instead of the brand’s typical balance cock, this model uses a balance bridge engraved with a wave motif alluding to the timepiece’s 12bar (120 metres) water resistance.

The ODYSSEUS line was first launched in 2019 as a way for the Glashüttebased manufacturer to explore new territory, namely, a watch that felt at home on the wrist during both formal and relaxed moments. This latest version in honey gold continues that trajectory, offering something tactile, durable and thoughtfully designed.

@alangesoehne

@almajedjw

At this year’s Watches and Wonders, Baume & Mercier revealed new models that are an encounter of history and technology.

Baume & Mercier started its iconic brand in the watchmaking business in 1830 with the motto: “Accept only perfection. Only manufacture watches of the highest quality”, and it’s followed these words to this day. Since its foundation, it has created a dialogue between watchmaking expertise and a passion for design.

THE NEW HAMPTON M0A10795

Unveiled at Watches and Wonders 2025, the timepiece carries forward its architectural representation of time inspired by the maison’s Art Deco from the 1920’s. Its small size makes it a delicate, feminine piece that nestles ideally against a woman’s wrist. Such a slender silhouette and fine proportions enhance its distinctive elegance. In keeping with the refined minimalism of its collection, based on a very understated graphic allure, the Hampton M0A10795 features a silvery opaline dial, which forms the backdrop for a bright, contrasting dynamic. The hours and minutes sweep along in a rectangular case crafted in polished stainless steel, asserting refined proportions: 35mm x 22.2mm and a thickness of 6.92mm. A scratch-proof domed sapphire crystal protects it. The elegant steel cabochon crown is set with a synthetic blue spinel, harmoniously reflecting the hue of the blue hands. The timepiece is driven by a quartz movement with six years of autonomy and is waterresistant to 5 ATM (approximately 50 metres). It is mounted on an interchangeable bracelet in black calfskin with an alligator pattern. The strap may be changed without the need for tools, thanks to a very reliable spring bar system. The Hampton collection showcases

the fascinating crossroads between technical mastery and aesthetic research, the cornerstone of this watchmaking work of art.

THE THREE NEW CLIFTON BAUMATICS

The new models M0A10802, M0A10778 and M0A10771 revealed at Watches and Wonders 2025 are a sneak preview of the entire collection, which will be launched in September. The Clifton collection carries forward the heritage of round, slender watches that were very fashionable in the 1950s. The watches from this decade also stand out for the simplicity of their design. The new Clifton Baumatic M0A10802, M0A10778 and M0A10771 go one step further in expressing discreet, understated luxury by reworking multiple details. The proportions and finishings of the case have been overhauled. With a diameter of 39mm, this new case has a thickness of 11.5mm, whereas the precedent models measured 12.2mm and even 12.6mm. This slim profile reinforces comfort in wear and enhances the refinement of these pieces. Arabic numerals have been reintroduced at 12 o’clock. The indexes are longer. The date disk appears in a large aperture at six o’clock and features a new font. The crown is integrated and more slender. The strap buckle is interchangeable. The beauty and strength of the Manufacture Baumatic movement that drives these three new watches is a masterpiece of technology and sophisticated finishes. This calibre offers resistance to everyday magnetic fields up to 1500 Gauss, oscillates at a frequency of 4Hz (28,800vph), has autonomy with a five-day power reserve (120 hours) and boasts a water resistance of up to 5 ATM (approximately 50 metres).

@baumeetmercier @alibinali_luxury

Shaping Every SECOND

Cartier returns to Watches and Wonders with creations that have evolved over time.

Cartier’s watchmaking this year is driven by the metamorphosis of materials, shapes and time itself. At Watches and Wonders 2025, the maison presented new pieces shaped by the alchemy of its artisans, blending technique, form and heritage. Across the collections, the creative dialogue between jewellery and watchmaking is heightened, with each timepiece emerging from this interplay. Iconic classics are reimagined, precious materials undergo sculptural transformation and new calibres are developed with care and precision.

THE TANK COLLECTION

The Tank à Guichets, first introduced in 1928, returns with a new movement developed specifically for this edition. The hand-wound calibre 9755 MC powers a jumping hours and dragging minutes display, a digital format rendered mechanically. As in the original, the hours appear at 12 o’clock, the minutes at six o’clock and the winding crown sits at the top of the case. Cartier keeps the layout and proportions faithful to the original, with a satinfinish case and polished brancards. The new edition is offered in brushed gold and platinum.

On the other hand, the Tank Louis Cartier, first introduced in 1922, is now available in a larger version, equipped with the automatic 1899 MC movement and offered in rose gold and yellow gold.

THE TRESSAGE WATCH

New to the maison’s universe is the Tressage watch, a piece that draws inspiration from previous sculptural timepieces like the Maillon, Coussin and Reflection collections. Combining gold, diamonds and stones, this model plays with volume and form in true Cartier fashion. The watch is created as a wearable sculpture, embodying the maison’s codes while pushing design boundaries. Created primarily in yellow gold, the Tressage is as much a piece of jewellery as it is a watch. Its form is architectural, where craftsmanship transforms static materials into fluid, expressive shapes.

THE PANTHÈRE JEWELLERY WATCH

A watch and a piece of jewellery in equal measure, the Panthère jewellery watch brings together a three-dimensional panther and a ‘Toi & Moi’ bracelet. On one side is the sculpted feline in yellow gold, detailed with black lacquer spots, a black lacquer dial, tsavorite eyes and an onyx nose. On the other, a discreet diamond-paved watch face sits under a curved bezel. The winding crown is hidden beneath the panther’s paw, integrating the timepiece into the overall design. The piece demonstrates the brand’s longstanding commitment to combining realistic figuration with absolute precision.

THE PANTHÈRE DE CARTIER COLLECTION

The Panthère de Cartier watch appears in new variations that play with graphic contrasts. The coat of the feline becomes abstract, inspired by the markings of zebras and tigers, and is created using black and golden-brown lacquer, pavé-set diamonds and spessartite garnets in orange and yellow. The snow-set dial features 145 brilliant-cut diamonds, while the lacquer is applied by hand and fired at high temperatures within the Maison des Métiers d’Art.

@cartier

@alibinali_luxury

REVISITING ICONS

Chopard brought a twist to emblematic designs during Watches and Wonders Geneva 2025.

The luxury brand mixes jewellery, timekeeping and storytelling. Each year, Watches and Wonders Geneva presents an opportunity to reveal the latest watch creations, born from the expertise and innovative spirit of Chopard artisans. From Alpine Eagle and Happy Sport timepieces to the L.U.C and L’Heure du Diamant collections, iconic designs featuring the newest technical and aesthetic achievements are unveiled.

ALPINE EAGLE 33 FROZEN TOPAZ BLUE

The collection welcomes a new Alpine Eagle Frozen model measuring 33mm in diameter and combining the manufacture’s watchmaking virtuosity with its mastery of jewellery crafts. Inspired by the beauty of alpine nature expressed through its noblest heights, this sparkling model evokes the fine frost flakes covering glaciers. The case, dial and integrated bracelet are built in ethical 18-carat gold and set with diamonds. The bezel is paved with a blue-gradient array of topazes reflecting purity and serenity. In terms of technical expertise, it is equipped with the Chopard 09.01-C self-winding movement, ensuring a 42-hour power reserve. The Alpine Eagle collection is a modern reinterpretation of the St. Moritz watch, the first horological creation designed by Chopard’s Co-President, Karl-Friedrich Scheufele, in the late 1970s.

HAPPY SPORT

Happy Sport has embodied effortless dynamism since 1993, brought to life by the mesmerising movement of Chopard’s dancing diamonds. Now, this watchmaking icon takes on a fresh, contemporary edge with a khaki green dial. Drawing inspiration from safari aesthetics, this rich hue lends the watch an understated yet undeniably modern appeal. Warm rose gold-toned hour markers and hands provide an elegant contrast, enhancing the depth of colour with a sophisticated glow. Encased in 36mm Lucent Steel with subtle golden accents, this latest Happy Sport Automatic seamlessly blends adventure and glamour, proving that true style knows no boundaries.

L.U.C. HERITAGE EHG MOON 122

Celebrating the 200th anniversary of the Geneva School of Watchmaking (EHG), Chopard introduced its new L.U.C Heritage EHG Moon 122 model in ethical 18-carat rose gold. Epitomising the manufacture’s artisanal excellence, this 20-piece limited edition is equipped with the new manual-winding chronometer-certified L.U.C Calibre 63.04-L and bears the prestigious Poinçon de Genève, a watch industry hallmark of quality which dates back to 1886, making it one of the oldest quality standards in the industry. It is also fitted with an astronomical moonphase display requiring a one-day correction only once every 122 years. Adorned with impressions of constellations, its elegant aventurine dial provides a striking rendering of the night sky’s natural beauty.

The L.U.C Heritage EHG Moon 122 model underlines Chopard’s dedication to training the next generations of watchmakers.

L’HEURE DU DIAMANT MOONPHASE

For the first time in its history, L’Heure du Diamant collection has a complication at the heart of one of its timepieces. Measuring just 20.40mm by 4.60mm, the 169 components composing the new self-winding Chopard Calibre 09.02-C enable it to fit neatly into a small ladies’ watch case. One of Chopard’s most poetic complications, the moonphase stars in a new L’Heure du Diamant timepiece, following the lunar cycle through the sparkling nuances of aventurine glass and the fire of diamonds magnified by the crownsetting technique. Made in 18-carat white gold, its thickness is 9.60mm and it has a blue alligator leather strap. It captures the beauty of white diamonds in 7.70 carats and personifies the brand’s mastery of luxury jewellery watches.

@chopard @alfardanjewellery

ENHANCED DESIGNS

IWC Schaffhausen has presented a selection of new wristwatches with redefined characteristics.

During Watches and Wonders 2025, IWC Schaffhausen launched a series of new timepieces, among them the Ingenieur Automatic 35, the Ingenieur Perpetual Calendar 41 and the Big Pilot’s Watch Shock Absorber Tourbillon Skeleton XPL.

Ingenieur Automatic 35

With this new automatic model, the Swiss luxury watch manufacturer complements its Ingenieur collection with three 35-millimetre versions. One model is crafted from 18-carat 5N gold featuring a gold-coloured dial, while two come in stainless steel with either a black or a silverplated dial. The new Ingenieur Automatic 35 offers the same enhanced ergonomics and highly detailed finishing as the 40-millimetre version with a thickness of just 9.44 millimetres.

Despite its more compact size, the Ingenieur Automatic 35 features all the design cues of the IWC Ingenieur, offering its instantly recognisable look and feel. The appliques on all three models are individually mounted by hand and filled with Super-LumiNova. All three versions have been equipped with open casebacks showcasing the 47110 calibre with automatic winding and a power reserve of 42 hours. The movement is finished with circular graining and Geneva stripes and features a gold-plated oscillating weight.

Ingenieur Perpetual Calendar 41

This watch marks the Swiss luxury manufacturer’s first stainless steel model to combine the Gérald Genta-inspired Ingenieur design with the perpetual calendar developed by Kurt Klaus. The 41-millimetre case, bezel and bracelet have satin-finished and polished surfaces. Three subdials on the blue dial with the characteristic Grid pattern display the date, day of the week, month and perpetual moon phase. Rhodiumplated hands and metal markers filled with Super-LumiNova ensure

perfect legibility. The IWC-manufactured 82600 calibre with Pellaton winding system and ceramic components can be viewed through the sapphire glass caseback.

The dial is manufactured using a highly complex process. In a first step, the Grid and the subdials are applied to the dial base. Consisting of small lines and squares, this unique structure adds depth and reflects the light exquisitely. The counters are treated with a sunray finish, while the outer edges feature a refined azurage. After colouring, the subdials are pad-printed with the calendar display information. The single moon disc, which is visible in the subdial at six o’clock, features an intricate azurage finish.

Big Pilot’s Watch Shock Absorber Tourbillon Skeleton XPL

This wristwatch marks the first time that IWC has used its patented SPRIN-g PROTECT shock absorber system. The cantilever spring was completely re-designed and adapted to accommodate the IWCmanufactured 82915 calibre with a flying minute tourbillon. To reduce the mass of the movement and maximise the system’s performance, the plates, bridges and rotor are skeletonised, offering a better view of the complicated mechanics and the bulk metallic glass (BMG) shock absorber spring inside. This highly complex watch has a technical design and features a Ceratanium case and crown. It is fitted with a black patterned rubber strap with a Ceratanium pin buckle.

“By adapting our patented SPRIN-g PROTECT system to a complicated movement with a tourbillon, our advanced engineering division XPL demonstrates the system’s extraordinary performance. Protecting a tourbillon against the high G-forces generated by impacts on the watch represents a major leap forward and a break-through in shock protection, proving that this innovative system can also be used for high complications,” explains Lorenz Brunner, Department Manager Research and Innovation at IWC Schaffhausen.

@iwcwatches @almajedjw

An Extraordinary LINEUP

Patek Philippe’s 2025 novelties include a handful of remarkable complications, elegant refreshes and rare creations worth knowing about.

Geneva’s horological calendar wouldn’t feel complete without a moment of reverence for Patek Philippe, and this year’s showcase at Watches and Wonders was precisely that. Fifteen new models were introduced, each brimming with the kind of quiet complexity and craftsmanship the maison is known for. Three new movements anchor the technical side of things: a self-winding Quadruple Complication, a desk clock with both a perpetual and weekly calendar and a 31-day power reserve, and a new Calatrava model featuring instantaneous day and date displays with an impressive eight-day reserve.

Among the releases is the Quadruple Complication Reference 5308G-001, a symphony of horological mastery cased in white gold. Originally presented in Tokyo in 2023 as a limited edition, this version joins the regular lineup, though nothing about it feels ‘regular’. It has a minute repeater, split-seconds chronograph and an instantaneous perpetual calendar with aperture displays. It houses the new calibre R CHR 27 PS QI, a feat of engineering that includes two patented innovations designed to optimise the split-seconds function. The dial, a crisp iceblue sunburst, gives it an almost serene façade.

Then there’s the Perpetual Calendar Retrograde Date Reference 6159G-001, a beautiful reimagining of one of Patek’s most coveted complications.

The sapphire crystal dial, tinted with grey metallisation, gives a subtle view into the mechanical heart of the timepiece. It is framed by a white gold case with a bezel featuring the classic Clous de Paris or hobnail guilloché motif. Inside beats the self-winding calibre 26-330 S QR –reliable, elegant and designed for those who appreciate the nuances.

For something with a more contemporary silhouette, there’s the new Cubitus collection. The sporty and elegant timepieces come in a 40mm case that features a distinctive square with rounded corner design, brought to life in either white gold with a blue-grey dial or rose gold with a rich brown tone. Both Reference 7128/1G-001 and 7128/1R-001 feature a sleek bracelet with a hidden adjustment system, a 21-carat gold rotor and the same calibre as the perpetual calendar.

On the more playful end, the Ladies’ Nautilus Reference 7010G-013 gets a pop of colour with a new azure blue dial, matched by a composite strap or white gold bracelet. At 32mm, it’s dainty without being delicate, and the signature wave-pattern dial, framed by a row of 46 brilliant-cut diamonds, gives it just the right amount of sparkle. Powered by a quartz movement, it’s easy to wear but still unmistakably Patek.

Beyond the wristwatches, Patek Philippe also revealed a fascinating assortment of rare handcrafts and exceptional timepieces, right from dome table clocks to one-off pocket watches. These creations celebrate métiers d’art techniques and timeless forms, offering collectors and enthusiasts a glimpse into the brand’s more artistic, often under-theradar expressions of watchmaking.

@patekphilippe @almajedjw

A POETIC VISION OF TIME

French luxury jewellery and watchmaking brand Van Cleef & Arpels payed a warm tribute to Paris – the city of the maison’s birth –during the 2025 edition of Watches and Wonders in Geneva.

The tribute consists of the company playing host to precious encounters with the Pont des Amoureux collection, welcoming new colour harmonies and writing another chapter with the Lady Arpels Bal des Amoureux Automate watch and bejewelled watches which celebrate the tradition of jewels that tell time so dear to the maison.

“This event is always an opportunity for us to tell our story and to showcase our Poetic Complications, such as the Pont des Amoureux collection,” said Catherine Rénier, President and CEO of Van Cleef & Arpels (VC&A).

“These watches, created in 2010 and reinvented in several colour variations,

have become a signature of the maison over the years. They embody the Poetry of Time dear to Van Cleef & Arpels, its mechanical expertise and its attachment to métiers d’art, while expressing one of its founding sources of inspiration: love.”

A FLOURISHING STORY

In 2010, VC&A unveiled the Pont des Amoureux watch, the first Poetic Complications piece to win a prize at the Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève (an event that highlights and rewards the excellence of contemporary timepieces that contribute to the global influence of watchmaking and its skills).

Ever since, the collection has told the story of a woman and a man who, bound by affection, meet on a bridge in Paris. Respectively marking the hours and minutes with a double retrograde movement, the two lovers move toward each other at noon and midnight. This year, four new watches with precious bracelets enrich the story, revealing the couple in landscape scenes evoking different moments of the day. The dials reflect the nuances of dawn, morning, dusk and moonlight.

A FRESH CHAPTER

Continuing the story initiated with the Pont des Amoureux watch, Van Cleef & Arpels introduced a new rendezvous. The Lady Arpels Bal des Amoureux Automate watch sets the scene for the couple’s tryst in an all-new décor. This setting recreates the atmosphere and charm of a guinguette, an open-air dance café typical of Paris’ suburbs and surrounding areas popular in the 19th century. An automaton movement brings the lovers closer together at noon and midnight. This tender scene can be recreated on demand with the push of a button on the watch case. The hours and minutes are indicated by two stars set in motion by a double retrograde system, a signature feature of the collection. Within the dial, depth effects are multiplied by five different planes.

A NEW MOVEMENT

The enchantment of the Lady Arpels Bal des Amoureux Automate is made possible by the meticulous work of Van Cleef & Arpels’ watchmaking

experts in Geneva. After four years of research and development, they have created an automaton movement new to the maison’s collections. When the animation begins, each character comes to life. They approach one another, leaning in while their linked arms lower realistically, thanks to three articulations. Experts treated the fluidity of the figures’ movements with particular care. Designed in very small dimensions to fit into a slim case.

JEWELS THAT TELL TIME

At the crossroads of Watchmaking and High Jewellery, Van Cleef & Arpels continues to explore its creative universe with jewels that tell the time. The creations combine the discreet reading of time with the excellence of jewellery-making savoir-faire. While the ingenuity of invisible clasps and assembly techniques brings flexibility and elegance to the bracelets, the stones are meticulously selected and matched according to exacting quality criteria.

The Cadenas watch combines a yellow gold bracelet with a case paved in snow-set diamonds and enhanced by a row of princess-cut sapphires. This radiant combination of colours is repeated on the clasp, adorned with a line of square sapphires. The piece’s white gold dial is also adorned with the brilliance of diamonds.

In the Ruban Mystérieux watch, the metal is rendered discreet beneath the brilliance of the diamonds thanks to the stones’ snow-set arrangement. It also fades away in favour of the rich nuances of the sapphires and emeralds held in place by VC&A’s Mystery Set technique.

@vancleefarpels

@alibinali_luxury

THE BLUE TRIO

ZENITH commemorates its 160th anniversary with a special trilogy of ceramic watches in its emblematic colour.

For its 160th anniversary, ZENITH, the Swiss watchmaker, has released not one but a special trilogy of its most recognisable chronograph in a striking deep blue ceramic. The limitededition pieces include the PILOT Big Date Flyback, the DEFY Skyline Chronograph and the CHRONOMASTER Sport, each limited to just 160 pieces. The three timepieces can be purchased individually or together in a specially designed anniversary box set.

This particular shade of blue, developed specifically for the anniversary collection, is chosen to represent ZENITH’s long-standing connection to the sky, a motif that has inspired the brand since its founding. Ceramic, while favoured for its lightweight feel and resistance to scratches, presents a unique challenge when it comes to colour consistency. Creating a uniform, richly pigmented colour that retains depth and sheen takes months of development and precise craftsmanship, traits ZENITH is renowned for.

The PILOT Big Date Flyback continues the brand’s historic association with aviation, a legacy that began over a century ago. In its new ceramic iteration, the monochrome watch in 42.5mm case is paired with a matching blue dial and blue Cordura-effect rubber strap, accented by luminous markers and numerals for optimal visibility. Inside, the El Primero 3652 movement powers both a flyback chronograph and a big date complication, the latter featuring a patented mechanism that changes in just 0.007 seconds. A sapphire caseback reveals the rotor engraved with the anniversary emblem.

It also comes with an additional white Cordura-effect strap that has a triple folding clasp and an easy-to-use strap-change system.

The DEFY Skyline Chronograph, launched in 2024 as a modern descendant of the original 1969 DEFY, now makes its ceramic debut. The geometric architecture of its 42mm case and integrated bracelet has been given a matte blue treatment, complemented by a dial etched with ZENITH’s four-pointed star motif. The watch is powered by the El Primero 3600 calibre, known for displaying 1/10th of a second and running at a high frequency of 5Hz. It’s a blend of technical precision and contemporary aesthetics, further enhanced by a quick-change strap system, the three-link ceramic bracelet can be changed into the secondary star-patterned blue rubber option.

Finally, the CHRONOMASTER Sport, a cornerstone in the brand’s modern catalogue, also adopts the commemorative blue. The sunray dial, with its familiar tricolour sub-dials, sits within a polished and brushed ceramic case measuring 41mm. It houses the same El Primero 3600 movement as the DEFY Skyline, capable of tracking time to 1/10th of a second, with the central chronograph hand completing a rotation in just 10 seconds. The sapphire caseback reveals the movement’s inner workings, including a column wheel and openworked rotor with the anniversary engraving. Just like the other two watches, it comes with two blue straps: a ceramic bracelet and a rubber strap.

@zenithwatches @almajedjw

JACQUES COLLECTION DE L’ATELIER 2024

Follow THE SCENT

The warm season brings new fragrances formulated with lighter ingredients to balance the intensity of the heat. Citrusy notes and refreshing tones are the best choice for sunny days and summer nights.

HENRY

ACQUA DI PARMA BUONGIORNO

LOUIS VUITTON ELVES

CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN LA ROSE

HERMÈS PADDOCK

GUERLAIN AMBRE SAMAR

Invest in YOUR SKIN

Glowing Bee-autifully

The science of glowing skin meets the power of honey in Guerlain’s latest serum.

Founded more than 200 years ago, Guerlain surely knows that beauty and science go hand in hand. Developed over a span of 15 years, its Abeille Royale range is known for its cutting-edge approach to skin repair, powered by the natural potency of honey. Now, the latest addition to the line, the Abeille Royale Youth Watery Oil Serum, takes this expertise even further.

The formula is built on years of research into mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs), the skin’s natural repair agents. Guerlain partnered with French research lab Restore to understand how these cells behave under stress and how to reactivate them to keep skin looking firm, smooth and radiant. The result is the new Deep Repair Technology, which doesn’t just work superficially but helps restore the dermis from within.

Of course, honey remains at the core of the formula. The brand has carefully sourced three rare black bee honeys from Ouessant Island in France, Connemara in Ireland and Trøgstad in Norway. These

types of honey, packed with amino acids, vitamins and antioxidants, help support skin regeneration while keeping it hydrated and resilient. The addition of royal jelly further enhances the ability to restore skin’s natural vitality. But what truly sets this serum apart is its lightweight, fast-absorbing texture. Infused with delicate microbeads, the oil is formulated to glide onto the skin and melt instantly, leaving no greasy residue, just a healthy, refreshed glow. With continued use, the Abeille Royale Youth Watery Oil Serum promises to help the dermis recover faster, reducing the appearance of wrinkles, improving elasticity and restoring a firmer, more youthful look over time.

Beyond skincare, the brand’s commitment to bee conservation remains stronger than ever. Through the Guerlain for Bees Conservation Programme, the brand has supported bee protection efforts worldwide and with the Women for Bees initiative with UNESCO, it trains female beekeepers in sustainable practices.

@guerlain

Aglow

A flawless complexion takes time and care. Bushra Hakim brings expert tips for brides-tobe on achieving picture-perfect skin.

There's a lot that goes into planning a wedding. The perfect dress, the dream venue, the flowers, the seating plan and so much more. And amidst all the chaos, there's one thing every bride hopes for: to wake up on her big day with calm, glowing skin. Dr Amina Al Tamimi, a dermatologist at Dr Amina Al Tamimi Medical Centre, shares her insights and skincare blueprint to help brides achieve their best skin yet.

SIX MONTHS – TREATMENTS

When it comes to preparing your skin for your wedding day, starting early is crucial. Dr Amina recommends beginning at least six months ahead, saying: "This is the perfect time to begin a professional skincare regimen where you can start addressing any long-standing concerns like acne, acne scars, hyperpigmentation or uneven texture." This is the window for treatments such as microneedling and laser resurfacing, giving the dermis enough time to heal and show results. It's also when powerful actives like retinol and vitamin C can be introduced gradually, allowing resilience to build without irritation.

THREE MONTHS – CARE

As the big day draws closer, the focus moves from correcting concerns to maintaining dermal health. "We start to taper off intensive treatments and focus on maintenance," explains Dr Amina. Monthly hydrating facials, brightening serums and consistent sun protection take centre stage. This period is also ideal for trialling your wedding day make-up alongside your skincare products to avoid any unwanted reactions. If injectables like Botox or fillers are being considered, schedule them around six weeks in advance to allow any swelling or bruising to settle.

ONE WEEK TO GO

With just days to go, keeping things calm and simple becomes the priority. Dr Amina stresses: "Stick with tried-and-true, soothing and hydrating treatments. Now is not the time for anything new or aggressive." Gentle facials, sheet masks, plenty of water and lots of rest will do more for you than any last-minute experimentation. Focus on locking in hydration and maintaining a steady, soothing routine.

LIFESTYLE ADJUSTMENTS

Good skin isn't just about the products you use, it's also about your daily habits. It all starts from the inside out. Key lifestyle tips include drinking plenty of water, eating an anti-inflammatory diet rich in fruits, vegetables and healthy fats, and prioritising good sleep. Daily SPF use remains essential, even on cloudy days. Stress management is equally important, especially with wedding planning in full swing. "Stress triggers a hormone called cortisol, which can increase oil production, leading to breakouts, redness and even conditions like eczema or rosacea flare-ups," says Dr Amina. To combat this, she recommends mindfulness practices such as yoga or meditation, regular exercise to boost circulation and the use of calming ingredients like niacinamide and green tea extract in your skincare.

LAST MINUTE PREP

If you're less than a month away from your big day and haven't focussed on your dermis yet, don't panic. There's still time to make a noticeable difference. "With a tight timeline, focus on hydration, exfoliation and calming the skin," advises Dr Amina. Gentle, hydrating facials and skin booster injections can offer a quick refresh, while at-home care should prioritise vitamin C serums, mild exfoliation and rich moisturisers. However, caution is key. "In the month leading up to the wedding, I advise avoiding aggressive peels or laser treatments, new skincare products, highpercentage actives like strong retinoids or acids and excessive exfoliation," she warns. Keeping the skin calm, nourished and your routine consistent will help you achieve a healthy, luminous glow when the spotlight is firmly on you.

Connect with Dr Amina Al Tamimi @draminaaltamimi

SUNNY SKIN AT PEXELS

A SERENE JOURNEY

For a unique blend of cleansing and relaxation, Fernanda Langhammer visited Saray Spa for an immersive experience.

Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Hotel is quite an imposing building with two high towers covered in glass, a highlight on Doha’s landscape. The hotel is home to an array of dining spots, but the reason for my visit was a pampering session at Saray Spa. Located on the seventh floor, the spa has nine treatment rooms, relaxation areas, a steam room and a sauna. But I was there for something extra special: the Turkish Bath.

The reception is ample, with dark tiles on the floor and an array of retail products in a nicely lit ambience. I was welcomed with a hibiscus juice and a warm towel. After I filled out a form about preferences and health conditions, I was introduced to Murni, my therapist, who led me to the changing room. I loved the dark corridor with spots of light placed on the floor, which gave a tranquil atmosphere. Lamps in lantern designs hanging from the ceiling added a nice touch to the minimalist décor and a sense of warmth.

In the changing room, I slipped out of my day clothes and was hugged by a fluffy robe. The therapy involves a 30-minute massage and 45 minutes of Turkish Bath. Murni asked if I wanted the massage done in the Hammam or in the treatment room, and I went for the second option. We entered the space, and a very comfy bed was in the middle. The few days before this therapy were very stressful for me (as with every end of the month, to get my magazines out in the world), and my upper back was killing me, so I asked my therapist to concentrate on that region. Her touch was perfect, firm yet careful not to overdo it; even though my knots were in real need of proper deep tissue, she treated them gently, working in motions that loosened them but didn’t make me cry. It was a fantastic massage, and I really needed it. Murni promised I would relax even more after the next step of this indulgent session.

I have tried Moroccan Hammam in various different spas (and each place has its own twist), but it was my first time having a Turkish Bath – I was really looking forward to it.

We entered the room reserved for Hammams. As expected, it was a space covered in tiles with a large, marble bed in the centre. The ritual occurs in a room that feels like a humid steam chamber. What I like most is that at Saray Spa, the vapour is pleasant and constant and doesn’t give the suffocating effect I usually get when the steam is on (I am a bit claustrophobic, so I genuinely appreciated this detail). But the best feeling, and I am not sure I will describe it as it deserves, was lying down on the marble bed. It was warm and felt like a giant warm embrace. The day was particularly cold, so this balmy feeling spreading through my entire body was absolutely amazing. To my joy, it was going to get even better. Murni started by washing my body with warm water. The towel on top of the bed retained the water that kept its temperature due to the marble being heated – I must say, what a comfortable feeling! The next step was the application of black soap made with natural ingredients; it was spread in circular motions all over my body, followed by another round of water to clear the soap. She then wore a special glove and scrubbed my skin to remove dead cells and reveal clearer complexion. This part can be a bit rough in some areas, but she kept ensuring the pressure was okay. She then washed it all out and started with the best treatment step, which differentiates this therapy from the Moroccan Bath: she applied huge mountains of bubbly foam all over my body. She had a special piece of cloth that looked like a pillow cover that she would fill with foam and squeeze out on top of me. If the warm bed was a hug, this was like being enveloped in a lovely, scented cloud. It was a feather-like feeling that she repeated seven times – foam, wash, foam, wash and so on – such a different and enjoyable sensation. She then gave me a deep hair wash. I felt that Murni not only performed a full-body cleanse but removed all my tension and stress. The heaviness in my shoulders, stiffness in my muscles and general negativity were washed away with the water. I felt renewed. I guess Hammams have this effect, but the Turkish Bath at Saray Spa takes you to another level of relaxation. I sipped my peppermint tea post-treatment with an invaluable feeling of restfulness.

For more information or to make a booking, please call Saray Spa at Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Hotel on 4419 6090. @sarayspa.doha @marriottmarquisdoha

Pampering Bliss

Looking for relaxation and rejuvenation?

Check out these wellness offers!

ALWADI HOTEL DOHA – MGALLERY COLLECTION

M|SPA

Indulge in the Luminous Renewal, a summer glow-up that includes a body scrub, hydrating body wrap and brightening facial. Available daily from 10am to 10pm and priced QR480 per person.

Call 4009 9999 or WhatsApp 3158 6970 for more information or to make a booking.

ALWADI HOTEL DOHA – MGALLERY COLLECTION

M|SPA

Share the serenity and take your bestie to M|SPA with you and get an upgrade to your massage. When purchasing a 60-minute treatment, you and your companion receive a 90-minute treatment. Available daily from 10am to 10pm, priced QR480 per person.

Call 4009 9999 or WhatsApp 3158 6970 for more information or to make a booking.

BANYAN TREE DOHA

Banyan Tree Spa

Treat yourself to a moment of pure relaxation for a rejuvenating experience. Any 60-minute full-body massage of your choice is priced at QR450. The therapies are designed to melt away stress and revitalise your body and mind. The offer is valid on Sundays and Mondays. Call 4410 3334 or WhatsApp 5570 2810 for more information or to make a booking.

BANYAN TREE DOHA

Banyan Tree Spa

Embrace a luxurious escape with the Pampering Touch spa package, designed to relax, rejuvenate and renew your senses. It includes a 60-minute full-body massage of your choice and a refreshing 30-minute Kieffer Lime Mask. Priced QR900. Call 4410 3334 or WhatsApp 5570 2810 for more information or to make a booking.

FAIRMONT DOHA

Fairmont Spa

Pamper your skin with a sensorial Organic Coconut Sugar Scrub & Mango Enzyme Wrap. Begin with a gentle coconut sugar scrub exfoliation, followed by the deeply nourishing and rejuvenating mango enzyme wrap, leaving your skin soft, hydrated and glowing. The 90-minute experience is priced QR1,050.

Call 5993 8226 for more information or to make a booking.

FAIRMONT DOHA

Fairmont Spa

Enjoy Fairmont Spa’s Organic Stone Crop Ritual, a two-hour restorative experience designed to nourish the body and mind. It starts with a stone crop scrub for gentle exfoliation, followed by a restorative stone crop wrap, removed with warm towels or a refreshing shower. Complete your journey with a 60-minute massage using Stone Crop Massage Oil. The 120-minute ritual is priced QR1,200.

Call 5993 8226 for more information or to make a booking.

MANDARIN ORIENTAL, DOHA

Spa & Wellness

Experience the ultimate relaxation with the Rasul treatment. Begin with a thorough full-body exfoliation, followed by the application of mineralrich clay. Once prepared, you will be guided to an exclusive colour therapy steam room, where the heat softens the clay, opens the pores and promotes the release of toxins while allowing the skin to absorb natural minerals. This results in soft, rejuvenated skin. Afterwards, a nourishing body lotion is applied, and your experience concludes with a soothing scalp massage with hair serum and a relaxing foot massage. The 90-minute therapy is priced at QR1,200 per person.

Call 4008 8888 for more information or to make a booking.

MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA HOTEL

Saray Spa

Immerse yourself in authentic Hammam rituals that cleanse and nourish through harmonising ancient traditions for a serene experience. Elevate your relaxation with a 30-minute massage, adding an extra touch of tranquillity. The 75-minute offer is priced QR649 and is available daily from 10am to 3pm.

Call 4419 6090 for more information or to make a booking.

MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA HOTEL

Saray Spa

Enjoy a calming couple's massage to refresh your senses, then unwind together with complimentary access to the outdoor pool – a perfect retreat for two. This couples' escape is available daily from 10am to 10pm and priced QR1,000 per couple.

Call 4419 6090 for more information or to make a booking.

RAFFLES DOHA

Raffles Spa

Indulge in the Turkish Hammam for the Luminescence Ritual, a purifying therapy designed to restore radiance and refresh your skin. The experience includes a 60-minute Turkish Hammam and body scrub and a 30-minute Radiant Glow Facial & Bright Eyes treatment and a 20-minute Glow Boost to enhance skin radiance.

Call 5992 3447 for more information or to make a booking.

SHERATON GRAND DOHA RESORT & CONVENTION HOTEL

Sheraton Fitness

Join coach Liza at Sheraton Fitness for an energising Pilates class to strengthen and tone your body, leaving you refreshed and focussed. The sessions on Sundays and Tuesdays run from 5pm to 6pm, Thursdays from 10am to 11am and Saturdays from 11am to 12pm. Single Sessions are priced QR150 and Private Sessions QR250. Call 4485 4600 for more information or to make a booking.

THE RITZ-CARLTON, DOHA

The Ritz-Carlton Spa

Enjoy the following spa treatments at The Ritz-Carlton Spa: Weekend Radiance priced QR680 per person (from Sunday to Thursday, 10am to 2pm), Unwind Together priced QR1,980 per couple (daily) and Beat the Weekend Rush with the Royal Hammam treatment, priced QR900 per person (Thursdays).

Call 4484 8173 or email rc.dohrz.spa@ritzcarlton.com for more information or to make a booking.

WALDORF ASTORIA DOHA LUSAIL

ESPA Life

Embrace a day of well-being and treat yourself to ESPA Life’s thermal and hydro facilities, gym or a group class of choice and sum up your day with a refreshing smoothie and poke bowl from Wyld Erth. Available daily and priced QR350 per person. Call 4456 5742 or email espalife.doha@waldorfastoria.com for more information or to make a booking.

WALDORF ASTORIA DOHA LUSAIL

ESPA Life

Enjoy a deeply relaxing and balancing aromatherapy treatment for an enduring state of well-being. Available every Sunday from 10am to 9pm and priced QR490 per person.

Call 4456 5742 or email espalife.doha@waldorfastoria.com for more information or to make a booking.

W DOHA

Sisley Paris Spa

Recharge and reset with the W Signature Massage, enhanced to elevate your sense of well-being. It includes a 60-minute massage and a complimentary warming back massage. The treatment is priced QR650.

Call 4453 5555 or WhatsApp 3059 8071 for more information or to make a booking.

W DOHA

Sisley Paris Spa

Embark on a royal ritual that rejuvenates your body and soul with an added touch of indulgence. It includes a Royal Hammam by Charme D’Orient and a complimentary argan oil treatment. The experience is priced QR1,200.

Call 4453 5555 or WhatsApp 3059 8071 for more information or to make a booking.

ZULAL WELLNESS RESORT BY CHIVA-SOM

Wellness Pass

Experience a day of holistic wellness, relaxation and rejuvenation. Indulge in world-class wellness treatments and explore tranquil spaces designed to restore balance and harmony. The One-Day Wellness Pass includes full access to all wellness facilities, one body composition analysis, one wellness meal (lunch or dinner) and one 50-minute massage (choice of full body Tad Leek or Signature Relaxing Al-Qadam). The offer is valid until September 2025 and priced QR700 per adult and QR250 per child (includes activities at Zulal Discovery). Advance reservation is required. Call 4477 6955 or email reservations@zulal.com for more information or to make a booking.

Images of a DREAM

This month, we bring a different approach to our Lookbook. We interview the photographer duo Loredana Mantello and Valentina Costa and showcase their wedding editorial shot in Venice, Italy.

LOREDANA (LEFT) AND VALENTINA (RIGHT)

OHLALA – How did you start your photography partnership?

Loredana Mantello – We started our journey around 10 years ago when I called Valentina from Italy to come to Saudi Arabia to work with me at a royal wedding. That moment marked the beginning of a long and successful collaboration. Her professionalism, creativity and elegance were evident from the very first project. Valentina has become more than just a collaborator – she’s a trusted partner and a true artist in her field.

OHLALA – What are the important elements to consider when photographing a wedding?

Valentina Costa – The most important thing is to focus on what truly matters: people, family, emotions and the atmosphere. It’s not just about taking beautiful pictures of décor or dresses – it’s about capturing the relationships, the energy, the love in the air. We pay close attention to the meaningful details, the light and the genuine moments shared between the couple and their guests. It’s a delicate balance of aesthetics and soul.

OHLALA – Do you have particular considerations when shooting weddings in the Middle East? Do clients usually want something different here?

Loredana – Yes, we must take into account the protocol and religious aspects, always respecting their traditions. Now, their preferences have also changed – they no longer want posed shots but rather spontaneous, candid photos.

OHLALA – What has been an unforgettable wedding? And why was it so memorable?

Loredana – There have been so many unforgettable weddings! What stands out in the Middle East is how each celebration is unique, incredibly curated and rich in details. From stunning floral arrangements and dreamlike lighting to the most exquisite gowns – every wedding feels like a new world. Each one leaves us with a different kind of magic and beauty to remember.

OHLALA – Do you have any funny stories or unexpected situations that you can share with us?

Loredana – Weddings are full of surprises! Once, during a ceremony by the sea, the wind became the unexpected guest – veils were flying, petals were everywhere and even part of the décor decided to take off. Everyone burst into laughter, including the couple, and it turned into such a light-hearted, unforgettable moment. These little unexpected twists often create the most authentic memories, reminding us that perfection lies in spontaneity.

“Weddings are once-in-a-lifetime events. After everything is over, photographs are the only thing that remains.”

– Loredana Mantello

OHLALA – What do couples need to know regarding the photographs of the celebration? What should they know to create the best possible result?

Valentina – Trust is everything. When a couple feels relaxed and connected with their photographers, the magic happens. We always recommend having a conversation beforehand to align expectations and get comfortable with each other. Also, great light, enough time and a bit of flexibility in the schedule can make a huge difference to the final result.

OHLALA – In your opinion, what is the importance of selecting experienced professionals to deliver memorable images?

Loredana – Weddings are once-in-a-lifetime events. After everything is over, photographs are the only thing that remains. That’s why selecting professionals who not only have technical skills but also emotional sensitivity, is essential. Experienced photographers know how to anticipate moments, work with light and remain calm under pressure – ensuring that your memories are beautifully and authentically preserved.

OHLALA – When creating wedding-inspired photoshoots, how do you select the theme?

Valentina – It always starts with a feeling. Sometimes, it’s inspired by a location, a colour palette, a historical reference or even a song. We like to blend fashion, art and real emotions to craft something that feels timeless but also modern. Every theme we choose tells a story – we want each image to feel like a cinematic frame from a love story.

@loredanaphotos

Celebrating CREATIVITY and ARTISTRY

We explored Manolo Blahnik’s bridal universe in an interview with Kristina Blahnik, the brand’s CEO, for an in-depth look at its iconic designs.

OHLALA – You worked in the construction field before and, in 2009, you joined your uncle at his namesake company. It’s been a while now, but how was the transition into fashion?

Kristina Blahnik – I actually began my career as an architect and ran my own practice for 10 years before officially joining the business. Even during that time, I remained closely connected to the world of Manolo Blahnik, designing many of our stores globally and Manolo’s first solo exhibition at the Design Museum in the UK in 2003. When I officially joined the company in 2009, I stepped away from practising architecture day-to-day, though my studio continued to lead the design of our retail spaces worldwide. The shift from architecture into fashion felt like a natural evolution. Both industries are driven by numbers, structure and creativity, and I found I could apply the skills I’d developed in new, exciting

ways. I grew up in the Old Church Street store, visiting every day after school and spending hours exploring, playing and talking with my uncle. I was surrounded by his magnificent creations from a young age, so in many ways, this world has always felt like home. The transition into the business felt more like a continuation of a life I was already living.

OHLALA – What is Manolo Blahnik’s signature trait? In other words, what makes a Manolo Blahnik, a Manolo Blahnik?

Kristina – Manolo has never been driven by trends. His shoes transcend fashion. They are, above all, beautiful objects d’art. This philosophy has always guided everything we do. At the heart of Manolo Blahnik is a deep respect for craftsmanship and the extraordinary artisans in our factory in Italy who bring Manolo’s sketches to life with such precision and care.

KRISTINA BLAHNIK

What truly defines a Manolo Blahnik creation is Manolo’s unwavering artistic integrity. We have never compromised on our core values of craftsmanship, comfort and quality, and I believe that’s what resonates so strongly with our customers. That commitment has allowed us to build a loyal, global community and is what makes each pair unmistakably and uniquely Manolo Blahnik.

OHLALA – Who is your customer? Why do you think the brand is wellreceived in the Middle East?

Kristina – Our customer is someone who has a deep appreciation for craftsmanship, values timeless, elegant pieces and chooses to invest in quality that lasts. They’re confident in their style and drawn to pieces that feel personal and refined rather than mass-created or trend-driven. The Middle East has a profound appreciation for luxury, elegance and bold design, qualities that are very much synonymous with Manolo Blahnik. There’s a natural synergy between our aesthetic and the region’s love for detail, colour and individuality. When we design new styles with the Middle East in mind, we always consider what will truly resonate with our clients, pieces that speak to both beauty and meaning.

OHLALA – The brand is desired by brides, grooms and guests across the globe. What makes the ‘Married in Manolos’ collection so appealing?

Kristina – Manolo Blahnik has a rich history of being part of life’s most meaningful moments and weddings are no exception. For decades, our shoes have adorned the feet of brides, grooms and guests alike, from royals to actresses and models. What began organically has evolved into a beloved tradition and, today, the ‘Married in Manolos’ collection reflects that journey. The collection draws from our extensive archive of iconic styles dating back to the 1970s to the now-celebrated Hangisi. Over time, it’s grown into an all-encompassing offering, with something for everyone at the wedding party. We’ve curated an edit that includes quintessential silhouettes adored by our bridal customers alongside seasonal styles crafted in new fabrications and heel heights to suit every taste and occasion. Ultimately, it’s the blend of beauty, craftsmanship and emotional connection that makes being ‘Married in Manolos’ so special.

OHLALA – What are the highlights of the capsule? What are the materials used to make the bridal collection unique?

Kristina – The bridal collection showcases a beautiful array of craftsmanship,

combining innovative techniques with refined detailing and luxurious materials. Signature styles such as the Camparinew Bridal in cream satin and the crystal-adorned Lurum exemplify our timeless aesthetic, while seasonal additions bring fresh elegance to the edit. Highlights include the Polypemahi in pale blue silk with intricate decorative detailing, a subtle nod to ‘something blue’, and the Kifat pump, adorned with delicate pearl embellishments for a romantic, modern finish. Another standout is the iconic BB pump, reimagined in elegant lace to offer a refined option for today’s bride. Each style is thoughtfully designed to embody timeless elegance and meticulous artistry, ensuring that every bride can find her perfect pair that feels deeply personal, beautifully made and unforgettable.

OHLALA – How popular are the ‘Something Blue’ shoes? Why do you think they stand out?

Kristina – The tradition of something blue has become a beloved part of weddings globally, and blue shoes have naturally gained popularity among brides looking to incorporate a touch of colour in a meaningful, stylish way. Our blue styles, particularly the Hangisi, have become iconic choices. Of course, the Hangisi gained legendary status after it was worn by Carrie Bradshaw in Sex and the City and, ever since, it has remained a favourite for modern brides. It brings a touch of boldness yet timelessness to the wedding day, a beautiful blend of tradition and individuality. We also find that offering colour within our bridal collection resonates strongly with today’s brides, especially those embracing non-traditional celebrations. It’s a way to express personal style while still honouring the romance and symbolism of the day.

OHLALA – If you were ever to get married again, which pair would be your pick?

Kristina – I did actually get married again in October 2022 and I chose the red Maysale with crystal buckle. The Maysale has always been one of my favourite styles; it’s timeless, effortlessly chic and incredibly comfortable. Originally created for Isaac Mizrahi’s runway show in 1991, it has remained one of my uncle’s most iconic and beloved designs. What I love about the Maysale for brides is how it balances a pared-down aesthetic with a refined, elevated sensibility. It’s elegant without being overly formal, and that versatility means I could wear them from the ceremony all the way through to the very last dance. Truly the perfect dancing shoes!

@manoloblahnik

Your Scenarios For

‘I

DO!’

Planning your wedding day can be exciting, but if you don’t really know which style to follow, it can lead to a disconnected concept. Understanding what kind of vibes you would like to have on your special day can help you decide what type of celebration you would like to host. We’ve put together some ideas to set the tone for your nuptial ceremony.

I DO IN THE CITY

If your ceremony happens in the city, hotel ballrooms that can be decorated according to your preference are a great choice. The good thing about them is that they include food and beverages in their packages – sometimes, you can even get rooms at discounted prices. These celebrations are versatile and allow you to choose any type of dress, from voluminous and trendy mermaids to simple structures and high-heeled shoes are welcome as the flooring is easy to walk on. Flowers set the tone and you can choose from popular pink shades to a black and white concept. Basically, this kind of wedding can embrace any personal style.

FLYING INTO MARRIAGE MODE

Destination weddings have become popular lately, with dreamy locations like paradisiacal beaches ranking as favourite places to tie the knot. These weddings tend to be a bit smaller, with a limited guest list reserved for close family and friends. Sometimes, the expenses are covered by the couple, but it’s a common practice that each guest pays for their tickets and accommodation – a good way of combining holidays with a special celebration. The bride usually opts for a lightweight dress in a shorter length and not really puffy paired with flat sandals or even barefoot style. Guests also embrace the beach mode in their dress code and casual summer dresses are acceptable attire.

BARN LOVE

If a rustic vibe is something you find interesting, holding your ceremony on a farm or in a simpler structure surrounded by plantations or animals can give a bucolic vibe. The décor could embrace hay bales, fruit and greenery for a touch of countryside experience. The best wedding dresses for this kind of celebration are midi options, as you may face uneven terrain with mud and don’t want to get your pristine white gown dirty for the photos. An unusual yet practical footwear choice would be white boots, but if you don’t really want to play a cowgirl during your wedding, shoes with small heels would be the perfect pick. Lemons are a nice option to incorporate into the invitation and decorate the cake for a farm-to-table touch, which could also be the concept of the food offered.

OSCAR DE LA RENTA

RENE CAOVILLA

COURTESY OF MAXX ROYAL BODRUM RESORT

VAISHALI SHAHPHOTO BY MARTINA H PHOTOGRAPHY

NARDOS

NARDOS FARM RIO

AN ODE TO NATURE

Garden ceremonies can be grand or just be held in your backyard. Natural plants and colourful flowers compose the décor which is either naturally there or can be created with the right arrangements. Romantic girls often opt for this atmosphere and dresses with a girly touch. Floral lace and 3D embellishments add details to the bridal gown to match the ambience of a dreamy spring scene. Bouquets are usually composed of simple garden and seasonal flowers instead of elaborate arrangements. Many brides also opt for adding them to their headpieces – a fairy-like aesthetic. Sandals are frequently a footwear pick. A honeymoon destination would be a romantic city such as Venice or Paris.

LESS IS MORE

The minimalist couple will choose basic decorative items with a sleek design – nothing too grand, but somehow memorable. Brides opt for plain dresses without embellishments in plain fabrics, with satin being a common choice. The dress may be daring in its cut without losing its discreet elegance. Bouquets follow the same minimal style with one rose stem, or just a few, composing the floral arrangement to be easily carried in one hand by the bride. When it comes to cake, a white-tiered cake with stylish white flowers is a sophisticated choice for this ceremony that can be simple yet speak volumes about the couple’s contemporary yet refined taste. Honeymoon destinations might be New York or Copenhagen.

BACK IN TIME

Marriages can bring on a nostalgic feeling in some couples and, if they already have a thing or two for antique items, a vintage theme could fit the ceremony vibes. Brides might repurpose their mum’s dress and they tend to embrace traditions such as something old, new, borrowed and blue. Dresses with an oldstyle flair are also a good choice in this case and conventional footwear such as pumps with embellishments complete the look. Heritage jewellery is also a nice touch to the celebration that gives value to objects’ sentiments. Bouquets are a bit rustic with greenery and tones of peach. Ideal cities for a honeymoon are Prague and Bruges.

UNCONVENTIONAL NUPTIALS

Steering away from usual ceremonies, couples who opt for eccentric elements in their wedding ceremonies display personalities that thrive on unique and unusual concepts. The themes can be as wild as their imagination – from punkinspired dresses and accessories to colourful or dramatic gowns. Some ethnic weddings can also be placed in this category, where traditional Western celebrations may seem bland and unappealing. The more-is-more approach can be applied here, with everything over-the-top, from décor to guests’ dress code. These newlyweds would love to explore unconventional destinations that match their style. Places like Patagonia or Iceland could please those looking for distinct honeymoon memories.

STILL WATERS RUN DEEP

Zulal Wellness Resort by Chiva-Som, where holistic well-being meets romantic retreat, welcomes Amica Sicilia for a unique getaway.

You know you’re arriving when the bright line of sand merges with the gleam of the sea and sky and water become indistinguishable. After miles of desert, we cross over into a sacred sanctuary where body, mind and spirit are all invited to rest. Zulal Wellness Resort by Chiva-Som is one of the region’s largest immersive holistic wellness retreats. Its remarkable approach rests on six pillars: spa therapies, fitness, physiotherapy, aesthetics, nutrition and holistic health, creating a unique fusion of traditional and innovative approaches to well-being.

Even arrival seems like a ritual. The entrance unfolds into what feels like a kind of temple. At the centre stands a sandstone cube housing an early, untitled sculpture by Anish Kapoor. At its heart, a void lit by a shaft of light from a skylight. It is stillness made visible. To one side, the apothecary: walls lined with jars of herbs used in the resort’s Traditional Arabic and Islamic Medicine (TAIM). To the other, a soaring library of pale wood, filled with books guests are free to borrow. The hush is immediate, as if the world has paused.

As warm afternoon light slants across the floor, we’re served tea. Wholefurled green leaves and delicate Japanese sakura cherry-blossom petals steep in cast-iron pots and delicate raku cups. Tiny almond and date sugar biscuits, a pot of royal white honey. Everything quiet. Everything golden. Refreshed, we step into Zulal’s gardens, which unfold like a living mosaic of hibiscus, tuberose, neem, jasmine and sidra. Every plant is medicinal, many of them what the in-house experts call Grade A: each part of the plant usable in a different healing preparation. These gardens open onto the lagoons. To one side, Discovery Lagoon – welcoming families into a shared journey of well-being. To the other, Serenity Lagoon – our destination, and the heart of the resort’s adult sanctuary.

We’re here for reconnection. For stillness. For romance. The resort’s serene rhythms and carefully considered experiences make it a perfect choice for couples seeking space and time together – whether newlyweds, honeymooners or simply those ready to press pause and breathe again. Our wellness consultation with Dr Aashly, an experienced naturopath, gently maps our way in. “How are you?” he asks; a simple question, and yet somehow it lands differently here. We talk about sleep, stress, habits, energy and he suggests a tailored path through the resort’s many offerings. Outside the window, the healing garden he helped plant sways in the breeze. From the first moment, we feel cared for.

Our suite is elegant and calm. Cool stone, pale wood and soft textures. The bed is supremely comfortable, with crisp sheets and plump pillows. The generous bathroom offers not only a bath but a walk-in shower that can open either to the room or to a private, sheltered garden with our own pool for morning swims or access to bathing in the lagoon just steps away. That evening, we dine at Acacia, the resort’s most refined dining space, with soft slate-grey walls, modern art and the quiet theatre of an open kitchen. From our semi-private booth, we begin with a charcoal za’atar flatbread, studded with glossy dots of hummus, apricot, capers and bell pepper, like edible gemstones on black slate. A salmon tartare arrives next, delicately curled with avocado, micro herbs and edible petals – fresh, precise and luminous. My main is grilled octopus, a rich deep purple braised with smoked paprika and laid over fluffy potato, while my husband has a sousvide duck breast with broccolini and citrus goji sauce. The dessert is a triumph: a tribute to the humble date, Qatar’s other treasure, with a single perfect fruit filled with cinnamon custard, resting on a natural jelly with pistachio ice cream and shards of toasted hazelnuts.

Later, we join a magical floating meditation session. Reclining on mattresses, we drift gently on the lagoon’s surface, following a guided meditation that lifts our gaze to the star-studded sky and lets our minds float to calm.

The rest of the stay flows like water. Morning swims in our private pool. Super Stretch classes that unfold tension and reconnect us with our bodies. Quiet meals – like the breakfast at Aizoon where my husband savours a silky scramble of eggs and I reach for a charcoal croissant and vibrant shots of beetroot and ginger.

Later that morning, we borrow bicycles and coast gently through the gardens to the Zulal Discovery, to join a clay workshop. Hands in clay, feet grounded, side by side we happily shape, smooth and create, guided by the expert recreation team. The act is meditative, tactile and joyful.

Lunch is served in the light-filled dining room of Al Sidr, which draws on pan-Asian flavours and opens into a sunken terrace set into the lagoon. I begin with a poached duo of asparagus in honey and coriander dressing, followed by pomelo salad with coconut and tamarind. My collagenboosting soup – brothy and warm, packed with salmon, chia, flax and kale – feels like medicine in a bowl. My husband’s laksa is aromatic and smooth with prawn, Korean glass noodles, cabbage and long beans. Entirely without refined sugar, the dessert is extraordinary: chai sponge with popped amaranth and creamy charcoal coconut ice cream. Service is gracious, informed and unobtrusive.

That afternoon, we each have our TAIM consultations. Practitioner Bibi Lockhat sensitively guides me through a series of gently probing lifestyle questions: the foods I crave, the climates I thrive in and my emotional responses. Her conclusion: I am phlegmatic – a water temperament. She shares insight into the six essential factors of health: atmospheric air, physical movement, sleep and wakefulness, mental rest, digestion and emotional balance.

Afterwards, I return to the spa for an Al-Ras head massage. With careful, focussed pressure on the scalp’s meridian points, the therapist works in silence, in rhythm with my breath. At first it feels localised, but then the sensation spreads – down the neck, along the spine. I drift off briefly, and wake with the distinct feeling that something inside has quietly shifted. All tension gone. We finish the day at the yoga studio with Zulal’s signature Good Night Ritual – a singing bowl session by candlelight. Just 20 minutes, but it feels like someone has hit a reset switch.

As morning breaks, we join a Tai Chi class in the light-filled studio. Our instructor’s movements are fluid, rising and falling, shifting our weight like water. We return to Aizoon for a final nourishing breakfast, then walk together down to the edge of the sea. The tide is low. The water glass-clear, lapping white sand. Below the soft blue horizon runs a line of mangroves. Their deep green is feathered with pinkish cream – Qatar’s famous flamingos! They know where to find the peace they seek. The morning light is cool. The water is still. Zulal means pure water in Arabic. And there couldn’t be a more fitting name for this place, this experience, and the feeling we carry with us as we leave. A place that cleanses. Clarifies. Quietly restores and helps us realign with ourselves and each other.

For more information or to make a reservation, please call Zulal Wellness Resort by Chiva-Som on 4477 6500. @zulalwellnessresort

The Bridal

GETAWAY

Before the big day, go big on the holiday. These themed trips are tailored for every kind of bride and her ride-or-dies.

There are no written rules that bachelorettes have to be a wild night out or a dinner at someone’s house. Though there’s nothing wrong with a local celebration, why not take this opportunity to head away with your girl gang to create a memory of a lifetime? A bachelorette trip gives you and your bridesmaids the chance to bond, explore and make memories beyond the usual glittery sashes and drinks. No matter what the bride’s mood is (bet she’s feeling all sorts of ways), there’s a destination for every kind of celebration. Here are six fabulous themed trips, each one with its own personality, just like your squad.

THE BEACH LOVERS

THE FASHIONISTA AT HEART

Big city girls find their match in the Big Apple. New York is every fashion lover’s fantasy and the ultimate playground for shopping, sipping and strutting around like you’re Carrie Bradshaw in her Manolos. Whether you’re hopping between boutiques in SoHo, sipping overpriced drinks at Bemelmans or trying on an endless selection of shoes at Saks, the energy of New York City is contagious. Make your own Sex and the City moments with a brunch at Balthazar, a girls-only shoot on the Met steps and a cheeky late-night slice from Joe’s Pizza in stilettos. Throw in a Broadway show or an offbeat brunch to give your trip many layers. This doesn’t just feel like a holiday but your own little TV show.

For the bride who’d rather ditch the stilettos for salty hair and sun-kissed skin, the Bahamas is a dream destination. This is your chance to live out your tropical fantasies with private yachts, beach bonfires and crystal-clear waters unlike any you’ve seen before. Book yourselves a resort in Nassau or get a private villa on Exuma for something more exclusive. Charter a catamaran for a day, explore hidden cays, snorkel through coral reefs and book that boat ride to take a dip with the famous swimming pigs of Exuma. Arrange a private beach dinner under the stars or set up a picnic on a secluded stretch of pink sand with your closest girls. It’s the kind of trip you’ll talk about for years.

KEVIN

COURTNEY COOK AT UNSPLASH

AUBIN KIRCH AT PEXELS

THE PARTY ANIMALS

If your idea of the perfect sendoff involves dancing until sunrise, Ibiza was practically made for your bash. Known for its legendary nightlife, this Spanish island is the kind of place where daytime naps are mandatory because nights rarely end before 6am. Start your days with a slow brunch at Cotton Beach Club, then snooze by the sea before getting ready for the evening. During sunset, head to Café Mambo or Experimental Beach, where the pre-party vibe begins. Clubs like Pacha, Ushuaïa and Amnesia deliver the ultimate big night out experience, often with international DJs and themed nights. Try and squeeze in a detox yoga class or a sound bath session the morning after. Because, trust us, you’ll need it.

THE REGENCY GIRLIES

If your bride swoons over Bridgerton, tea parties and empire waist dresses, then Bath in the UK is the ultimate place for a charming Regency-inspired escape. Elegant Georgian streets, honey-hued architecture and just the right touch of whimsy to transport you back to your favourite era. Take tea at the elegant Pump Room or The Roseate Villa, where you can toast with bubbly and finger sandwiches. You can even book a private costume experience at the Fashion Museum and The Jane Austen Centre or hire epoch gowns for a themed photoshoot around the Royal Crescent. Add a spa day at the famous Thermae Bath Spa to your itinerary, complete with rooftop thermal pools and a pampering menu. Book tickets to a candlelit classical concert or host your own Regencystyle dinner party to complete your evenings.

MIGUEL ÁNGEL VILLAR AT PIXABAY

ROHATCOM68 AT PIXABAY

THE SKINCARE OBSESSED

South Korea is a paradise for beauty lovers, especially those who religiously follow skincare rituals and the latest K-beauty innovations. A trip to Seoul is a perfect mix of pampering, culture and ultra-Instagrammable moments. Book a group facial at one of the city’s famed beauty clinics, like Whoo Spa, which treats Korean celebrities. Browse the endless rows of sheet masks, serums and gadgets in neighbourhoods like Myeongdong and Garosugil. In between treatments, sample local street food or take a stroll through Bukchon Hanok Village in hanbok (traditional Korean dress). You can also book a Korean bathhouse experience (jjimjilbang) and sweat out the wedding stress with a traditional scrub and steam. End the day sipping regional drinks in one of Seoul’s stylish rooftop lounges with views of the neon skyline.

THE WELLNESS SEEKERS

When the bride needs a moment of quiet before the storm of wedding madness, Kyoto in Japan is the answer. This city whispers calm. You won’t be rushing through itineraries here because Kyoto is all about slow mornings, spiritual pauses and taking it all in. Stay in a traditional ryokan with tatami mats and private onsen baths. Begin your mornings with matcha ceremonies or sunrise meditation at Kiyomizudera or Ryoanji. Spend the afternoon wandering through Arashiyama Bamboo Grove or getting lost in the quiet beauty of moss-covered gardens. You could also book a group wellness experience, like a Zen cooking class, sound bath or a Japanese calligraphy workshop. Enjoy plant-based kaiseki dinners and take a walk at night by the river in Gion, where you might even spot a geisha. Instead of a night of chaos, this trip is a deep breath, a shared memory of stillness and the perfect prelude to the busy chapter ahead.

ETHAN BROOKE AT PEXELS

KIMIA

JAPANESE WITH A TWIST

delicious and unexpected food journey.

Morimoto at Mondrian Doha takes Ailsa Whyatt on a

Years ago, I was lucky enough to take a trip around Japan and was blown away by the welcoming hospitality of the people, the stunning scenery, the cultural richness and the glorious efficiency of the railway system. And the food. My goodness, the food. I was actually concerned that having visited Japan, sushi would be ruined for me forever because no place I had ever eaten outside of Japan had ever managed to achieve the softness of sashimi fish that I experienced there. Enter Morimoto, Mondrian Doha.

As luck would have it, I have been invited to this wonderful establishment to relive my Japanese memories. As we are welcomed in, the host greets the kitchen and wait staff with a loud ‘Irasshaimase!’, Japanese for welcome. In return, we are greeted with the same cheerful response and then shown to our table. Our host Jenny, explains that all guests are greeted in this manner to set the tone and welcome them into the setting of Morimoto. We are handed hot towels, scented with lemongrass, to cleanse ourselves, and are just admiring the brass lighting, mirrored walls and intimate spaces of the restaurant when we are greeted by the enigmatic Paulo, the hotel’s Multi-Outlet General Manager. He selects some signature mocktails (mine is the Kumamoto Mule – a delicious blend of Japanese citrus kabosu, passion fruit and a fresh ginger foam that packs a zingy punch) before serving us with a selection of appetisers.

Some sizzling hot Pan Fried Chicken Gyoza announce their presence way before they arrive at the table – these little parcels of perfectly soft chicken thighs are hot! A light crunch to break through the gyoza, complemented by the ginger scallion topping and a side of spicy sauce to add ‘hot to the hot’, is a scrummy opener for the table.

Next up is my personal favourite, Whitefish Carpaccio, in which beautifully thin, melt-in-the-mouth slices of suzuki (Japanese for seabass) have been delicately seared with hot sesame oil, dressed in yuzu soy and adorned with micro cilantro in a kabosu dressing and a yellow Japanese kiku flower. Incidentally, the kiku flower is symbolic of rejuvenation, longevity and transformation in Japanese culture. The dish certainly rejuvenates me, and the flavours are truly transformative. For an extra lift, fresh yuzu is grated on à table and the zest is dusted over the top. Heavenly.

We are then served the Signature Tacos, or hamachi (yellowtail fish) tacos, as Jenny refers to them. They have been delicately made using gyoza shells, giving a fabulously gentle brittle crack as you bite into them, unlike the hard snap of a tortilla shell. The flavours of the shell go perfectly with the yellowtail, which has been marinated with yuzu kosho, made with yuzu zest, green chilli and salt condiment, and layered with guacamole droplets, jalapeños, cherry tomatoes and micro cilantro.

No meal at Morimoto would be complete without the Nigiri Selection, which is brought forth on simple white earthenware so we can fully appreciate the colours of the wonderful fish. We are treated to incredibly soft lean tuna, which has been marinated in house soy, delicate yellowtail, fresh salmon, seabass with fantastic ponzu jelly and scallions on top and finally, torched salmon with its decadent truffle and mayonnaise.

Our final savoury of the night is Chef Morimoto’s signature dish of Lobster Sushi Rice Risotto. Sweet al dente lobster pieces are set in a rich risotto with a parmesan foam that is thick and creamy, yet somehow light at the same time. Sous Chef Dasanth comes out to talk us through how this dish is created: cream and parmesan, which is ‘foamed’ around the plate using a ‘Sea Foam’ pressurised bottle device. For the risotto, sushi rice is gently cooked in lobster stock, combined with tender sweetcorn kernels and shallots, and then placed into the middle of the plate, having had a brief but important dalliance with some butter, crème fraiche and more parmesan. The final touches of succulent Canadian lobster, green herb oil garnish and micro herbs are then added. It is a warming, innovative and beautiful dish –from flavour to ingredients, all the way through to its presentation.

To top our meal off, Paulo brings us a Baked Soufflé Cheesecake. Small admission of guilt, I am not a baked cheesecake fan. So often, it is solid, stodgy and unimaginative and thus, I would never order it. Oh joy, therefore, when this cheesecake comes out. It is incredible. The lightest cheesecake I have ever had, blowtorched to perfection with a crunchy caramel-like crème brûlée on top and, if that wasn’t enough, fresh and vibrant raspberry and mango sauces to make the taste buds sing, and a similarly delicious raspberry sorbet, fully packed with flavour and served on a vanilla soil (crushed biscuits), for texture. If I were not so full by this point, I would be tempted to order another one! An absolute triumph of a dessert, thank you. We leave the restaurant extraordinarily full and satisfied and just have time to offer a heartfelt wave and say arigato (thank you) to the chefs in the open kitchen, who have truly produced wonders for us tonight. It is a truth universally acknowledged that if you want good sushi in Doha, you go to Morimoto. However, I would argue that Morimoto is not only a place for the traditional Japanese delights with which we are so well accustomed and which absolutely remain a delicious mainstay of the menu, it is also a place to experience lesser-known and wonderfully creative Asian and Asian-inspired dishes. From carpaccio to tacos and risotto to robata, there is a hearty and warming ‘Irasshaimase!’ to greet you, with an intimate setting and serious food for the soul.

For more information or to make a reservation, please call Morimoto at Mondrian Doha on 4045 5555.

@morimotodoha

@mondrian_doha

Dining

It’s Time!

What brings us together better than sharing good food? We selected a few must-try options around Qatar.

ALWADI HOTEL DOHA - MGALLERY COLLECTION

Le Colonial

Savour one of the most lavish family brunches in town where flavours will collide leaving you awestruck. Indulge in a carnival of international street food including live cooking stations, seafood paella and an array of desserts accompanied by live entertainment and fun activities for kids. Runs on Fridays from 1pm to 5pm, priced QR199 with soft drinks, QR260 with house beverages and kids pay QR80. Call or WhatsApp 7143 9547 for more information or to make a reservation.

BANYAN TREE DOHA

Saffron

Treat your senses to the best of Thai cuisine during a laid-back family brunch while taking in the endless views of the city. Siam Brunch offers a delightful four-course set menu served at the table with interactive live food stations featuring freshly prepared salads and noodle soups. For the perfect finale, savour traditional Thai rolled ice cream alongside a variety of the finest desserts. Runs every Saturday from 12.30pm to 4pm, priced QR269 with soft drinks, QR379 with enhanced beverages or QR479 for the Bubbly Package. Children aged six to 12 pay 50%.

Call 4410 3310 or WhatsApp 3992 0505 for more information or to make a reservation.

FAIRMONT DOHA

Dôme Fairmont Lounge

Enjoy a delicious afternoon tea, including French pastries and delicious savouries, either in the lounge or on the Garden Terrace, which is open daily and offers stunning sea views. Available daily from 2pm to 9pm, priced QR300 per stand.

Call 4030 7200 for more information or to make a reservation.

HILTON DOHA THE PEARL

La Pergola Lounge

Experience a whirlwind of excitement and flavour at the Family Fiesta Brunch with pool access every Saturday. From fluffy cotton candy clouds to sizzling hot dogs and popcorn popping all around, the excitement never stops. It’s a brunch where laughter and joy are always on the menu! Runs on Saturdays from 1pm to 4pm, priced QR259 with soft drinks and QR395 with house beverages.

Call 4492 4444 or WhatsApp 3159 4737 for more information or to make a reservation.

IDAM BY ALAIN DUCASSE

Experience the perfect blend of ancient techniques and modern innovation at IDAM, all while enjoying the stunning views from the top of the Museum of Islamic Art. Open Sunday to Thursday, 12.30pm to 2pm and 7pm to 9pm. Experience Menu available for lunch and dinner priced QR690 per person for seven courses, add QR90 for pairing. Lunch Menu is at QR350 per guest, add pairing at QR50.

Call 4422 4488, WhatsApp 6617 1830 or email contact@idam-restaurant.com for more information or to make a reservation.

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY

The Square Head to Butcher & Roast Night for an unlimited selection of international barbecue and rotisserie with juicy and savoury options from around the world. Runs on Wednesdays from 6.30pm to 10.30pm, priced QR230 with soft drinks. Or try the Seafood Market Night for an unlimited oceanic feast on Thursdays from 6.30pm to 10.30pm, priced QR275 with soft drinks. Call 7021 8803 for more information or to make a reservation.

LE MÉRIDIEN CITY CENTER DOHA

La Maison de L'Entrecôte

Join the Entrecôte Soiree for a two-hour feast of unlimited steak, grilled to perfection, paired with a fresh salad and crispy fries. Runs on Sundays from 6pm to 8pm, priced QR220 per person. Call 4041 3333 or WhatsApp at 5077 6821 for more information or to make a reservation.

MANDARIN ORIENTAL, DOHA

Mandarin Lounge & Baraha Lounge

The Mandarin Lounge and Baraha Lounge present the Spring Afternoon Tea. Enjoy a selection of savoury bites such as Wagyu Beef Arancini and Corn-fed Chicken Wrap, complemented by warm scones and your choice of tea or coffee. For a more indulgent experience, the Mandarin High Tea includes additional hors d’oeuvres and a guéridon service with Greek Yogurt Namelaka and white tea granita. Available daily from 12pm to 9pm, priced QR260 for the Classic Afternoon Tea for two, QR310 for the Mandarin High Tea or QR90 per person for Cream Tea. Call 4008 8888 for more information or to make a reservation.

MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER DOHA HOTEL

New York Steakhouse

If it’s Tuesday, it must be time for jazz and Tomahawk. Sink your teeth into a whopping 1.5kg USDA prime Angus Tomahawk rib eye steak with a choice of sides, NYSH legendary sauces and soulful jazz tunes – a perfect mid-week culinary match. Runs on Tuesdays from 6pm to 11pm, priced QR645 serves up to three guests including soft beverages and QR695 serves up to three guests with a bottle of grape. Call 4419 5510 or WhatsApp 6643 6890 for more information or to make a reservation.

RAFFLES DOHA

Blue Cigar

The Experiential Flight takes place daily from 5pm to 8pm, promising a sensory journey with an expertly crafted tasting experience. A range of curated template tasting menus is available at QR299, with pairings. Or enjoy the Aperitivo A Bite Size Taste Of Italy at QR160 from 6.30pm to 8pm, except Sundays.

Call 4030 7070 for more information or to make a reservation.

SHERATON GRAND DOHA RESORT & CONVENTION HOTEL

Jamavar Doha

Celebrate the golden season of Alphonso mangoes at Jamavar Doha. Experience the king of fruits reimagined through vibrant, pan-Indian creations where sweet, tangy and spicy notes come together in perfect harmony. Available throughout the month (except Friday lunchtime) for lunch from 12.30pm and dinner from 6pm to 10pm, priced QR350 per person for the non-vegetarian, five-course tasting menu, QR295 for vegetarians.

Call 4485 3000 for more information or to make a reservation.

THE RITZ-CARLTON, DOHA

Lagoon

Head to Lagoon for the family-friendly Friday brunch, which includes a selection of international favourites, live stations and plenty of entertainment for the little ones. Runs on Fridays from 1pm to 4pm, priced QR250 for the Soft Package, QR425 for the Enhanced Package and QR125 for kids aged six to 12. Under sixes dine for free.

Call 4484 8000 or email rc.dohrz.fb.reservations@ritzcarlton.com for more information or to make a reservation.

THE ST. REGIS MARSA ARABIA ISLAND THE PEARL QATAR

Bay View

Bay View offers a unique dining experience that combines Mediterranean flavours with a relaxed, marina-front ambience. The eclectic menu features specialities curated from various destinations, ensuring there’s something to delight every palate. Check out Brunch by The Bay with live entertainment every Saturday from 12.30pm to 4pm, priced QR290 with soft drinks and pool pass, QR425 with enhanced beverages and pool pass. Kids aged six to 12 pay QR145 each and those aged five and under dine for free.

Call 4020 4411, WhatsApp 3373 6139 or email bayview.marsa@stregis.com for more information or to make a reservation.

THE NED DOHA

Kaia

Check out Kaia’s new Lunch & Business option for a quick and flavourful business lunch with a new set menu featuring your favourite Japanese dishes. Launching in May, it runs Sunday to Friday from 12.30pm to 3.30pm, priced QR99 for two courses and QR130 for three courses.

Call 4406 1111 for more information or to make a reservation.

W DOHA

Market by Jean-Georges

Wake up to a world of flavours and savour the perfect start to your day with a variety of breakfast delights. Available Sunday to Thursday from 9am to 11am, priced QR95 per person. Or call in for the Lunch Express, a three-course lunch served in 40 minutes, the perfect complement to your business meetings. Runs Sunday to Thursday from 12pm to 4pm, priced QR98 per person.

Call 4453 5135 or WhatsApp 7794 3975 for more information or to make a reservation.

WALDORF ASTORIA DOHA LUSAIL

Scarpetta

Saturdays got a delicious upgrade with the Il Mercato Brunch, the Italian brunch filled with authentic bites, live stations, Italian charm and live entertainment. Runs every Saturday from 1pm to 4pm, priced from QR320 with soft drinks.

Call 4456 5773 for more information or to make a reservation.

ZULAL WELLNESS RESORT BY CHIVA-SOM

Acacia Restaurant

Explore the fusion between the most refined health and wellness ingredients and the fine-dining concept at Acacia Restaurant. Reinterpreting international and Arabian cuisine, while being deeply rooted in Qatari culinary heritage, each dish is crafted with a focus on balance, flavour and nutrition. Dinner is available Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 6.30pm to 9.30pm (adults only). Families with children are welcome from 6.30pm to 7.30pm. Prices from QR40 for starters.

Call 4477 6950 or email reservations@zulal.com for more information or to make a reservation.

ELECTRONIC ELEGANCE

OHLALA HAD A POWERFUL AND PRACTICAL EXPERIENCE IN YET ANOTHER NEAR PERFECTLY PRODUCED PORSCHE, THE NEW MACAN 4.

OHLALA was recently invited by the team at Porsche Centre Doha to enjoy the manufacturer’s latest creation, the new Macan 4. Having been so impressed by our previous 12 Porsche test drives, we were most excited to see what this allelectric offering brought to the luxury mid-sized SUV table.

SPORTY EXTERIOR

We had heard whispers that the second-generation Macan was a serious upgrade from the first. The moment we laid eyes on Porsche’s latest creation, we could confirm these rumours.

Although the instantly recognisable Porsche proportions are still apparent in the new Macan, the upgrades to the front of the vehicle are evident. The large grille of the previous generation has been scaled down for the new model, making space for two large air intakes designed for cooling the batteries. A sizeable splitter in contrasting colouring sits under the grille, adding a further flourish of sportiness.

We noticed the redesigned front lights have been split into two parts. Firstly, the upper light units with four-point daytime running lights are now embedded in the wings of the flat front bonnet. The main headlight modules with optional matrix LED technology, now sit slightly lower in the front end.

Shifting our attention to the fancy flanks, we took in the characteristic Porsche flyline, effortlessly combining with the shallow-raked rear window. Muscular shoulders endow the luxury SUV with an athletic stance, whilst the frameless doors and trademark side blades in textured Lava Black deliver a dynamic-looking character. And 20-inch-high gloss black wheels further added to the vehicle’s road-ready demeanour. Moving to the backend, we appreciated the adaptive rear spoiler and

the horizontal lighting strip that runs the full width of the SUV. The Porsche logo now sits in the centre of the 3D light strip, moulded threedimensionally like a glass sculpture. We also noticed a charging point on both sides of the rear, the right being an 11kW slow charger for home use and the left a faster one for up to 270kW using 800-volt tech.

LUXURIOUS INTERIOR

Slipping inside the seductive interior, we immediately felt at home in the plush environment, with the combination of the panoramic sunroof and large windows ensuring a light and airy feel inside the comfy cabin.

We found the cockpit to be the epitome of class, its width emphasised by an integrated black panel. High-end materials having been used on the door panels from top to bottom were another clear indication of an upmarket carrier.

We loved the LED lighting strip integrated into the finely shaped trim along the cockpit and doors. This fabulous feature is more than just ambient lighting; it is also a communication light. Depending on the situation, it provides either information or a warning. For example, it can function as a greeting tool or to warn the driver when a car is in a blind spot.

We soon noticed that the ventilated front seats had been lowered, the sloping design of the centre console accentuating their sporty positioning. And the rear offered extra legroom compared to the previous model.

Porsche has ensured the new Macan is not only performance-orientated but hugely practical thanks to its spacious configuration.

Electrifying the new generation has ensured far more room for stowing goods. The rear luggage compartment offers 540 litres of space, a capacity enlarged to 1,348 litres when the rear seating is folded flat. The ‘frunk’ under the bonnet provides an additional 84 litres.

“Porsche has ensured the new Macan is not only performance-

Further must-mention interior features include a compact steering wheel with excellent grip, a well-designed digital cluster, plenty of storage under the armrest, storage space under the centre console and two USB-C sockets.

INTUITIVE TECHNOLOGY & INFOTAINMENT

We were, thoroughly impressed by the tech in the new Macan. The second generation houses an instrument cluster with a 12.6-inch curved display, a 10.9-inch central display, a 10.9-inch passenger display, a head-up display with augmented reality technology and the aforementioned ambient communication light.

This Android-based system was very easy to navigate, with sharp graphics and no lagging. It is also wirelessly compatible with both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Porsche has noticeably upgraded the design of the Driver Experience, adding welcome animation, a more modern look and feel and further personalisation options, thanks to the new Themes app. Further, this new-generation infotainment system includes Porsche Communication Management (PCM) as standard. The intelligent Voice Pilot feature executed our voice commands at super high speed, providing valuable assistance, including finding the correct route with optimal charging stops.

EXCEPTIONAL POWER, RANGE & ASSISTANCE

Finally, we were out on the tarmac en route to our test site. As we negotiated the busy streets of the city, we appreciated the smooth and quiet nature of the ride, loving how effortlessly we glided amongst the traffic. The new Macan uses permanently excited synchronous electric motors (PSM) and 800-volt technology, with the electronic motors drawing their energy from a lithium-ion battery in the underbody. Once at our destination, we put this powertrain to the test. As soon as the foot flattened the accelerator, we felt the responsive nature of the Macan 4, shooting from 0-100km/h in a very respectable 5.2 seconds.

Not too shabby for a mid-sized SUV. We achieved the electronically capped top speed of 220km/h without much effort. An intelligent control algorithm provided the appropriate emotive sound to suit the driving situation and the torque and speed of the electric motors.

With four driving modes, a sharp antilock braking system, steel spring suspension and an extensive array of other performance-enhancing systems, we always felt in complete control of this exciting driving experience. Despite the sportiness of the Macan 4’s performance, we were surprised to learn that the SUV can travel for up to 612km on a single full charge. When the battery is low, it can be charged from 10% to 80% in a mere 21 minutes at a suitable fast charging station.

It came as no surprise that Porsche included a full suite of driver assistance and safety features. These include ParkAssist, Lane Keeping Assist, Intersection Assist, Cruise Control, Porsche Hill Control, Porsche Active Aerodynamics and much more.

OUR VERDICT

The new Macan 4 is a triumph for Porsche which has produced a fully electric SUV that provides style, comfort, performance, practicality and a whole lot of fun.

For more information, please call Porsche Centre Doha on 4459 9666. @porschecentredoha

NEWS FLASH!

As always, the world of fashion refuses to sit still, and Miss Ohlala is here to keep you in the loop.

Big changes are afoot in the luxury world! Prada Group has officially acquired Versace from Capri Holdings for a whopping USD1.42 billion. The Italian fashion house is borrowing an additional USD285 million to relaunch the struggling label, which faced losses last year. A bold move in a tough market, we’ll have to wait and watch what Prada has in store for Medusa.

Meanwhile, Ferrari is revving things up beyond the racetrack. The brand’s clothing line, launched in 2021, is moving into audacious territory this season and its AW2025 collection is proof. Sharp tailoring, rich leather trenches, bold colour pops and highdrama silhouettes all tell us that Ferrari is no longer just a car brand but a lot more.

From the colliding worlds of celebrities and fashion houses, Kendrick Lamar has been announced as a CHANEL brand ambassador. Popular for his understated style and thoughtful approach to fame, Kendrick brings a fresh, authentic edge to the French maison. Whether campaigns or special projects, it’ll be interesting to see how CHANEL taps into his cultural influence.

And perfectly timed for our wedding issue, the Vivienne Westwood brand debuted its first-ever bridal runway show at Barcelona Bridal Fashion Week. Held at the historic University of Barcelona, the show celebrated punk meets romance with corseted gowns, sheer separates, ruffles and a rebellious spirit, perfect for modern brides looking to make a statement.

COURTESY OF CHANEL

COURTESY OF FERRARI

COURTESY OF FIRA BARCELONA

Alfardan Premier Motors Co. (L.L.C.)