HP MAGAZINE | VOLUME 45| MAY 2021

HP MAGAZINE ARABIA

VOLUME 45 | MAY 2021

FRESH LOOKS

BEAUTY FOR A NEW SEASON

ELANE SMITH "No artist tolerates reality" FASHION MODEL

ETRO

HP MAGAZINE VOLUME45 | MAY 2021

Fashion

The Story Behind Amanda Seyfried’s Stunning Oscars Gown

Film

Irreverent or insane? A $76K sandal cut from real Birkin bags

Architecture

MAA Releases New Photographs Of Istanbul's Supertall TV And Radio Tower As The Tower Opens In Spring

Culture

Every show-stopping outfit from the 2021 Oscars after party

Beauty

This new haircare line is for everyone looking to switch to environmentallyresponsible products

15. INTERVIEW 20. ALESSANDRO MARRO 32. ETRO 54. ALBINA DYLA 64. CHANEL BEAUTY

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2021 MEDIA KIT

AN INTERVIEW WITH ELANE SMITH

BY HARSHIT PATEL

Hi, could you start by telling us a bit about yourself?

My name is Elanè Smith. I am 31 years old. grew up in South Africa. I am a female singer, female DJ, actress and model by profession.

Currently based in Dubai. I travelled UAE, Seoul, Vietnam, Bahrain and China so far.

Tell us about your journey so far?

I arrived in Dubai back in 2014 and started my journey here as a female singer working for five star hotels performing six nights a week. I left Dubai in 2018 and travelled South Korea and China working as a Musician. I did contract after contract until the virus broke out.

Lockdown and the entertainment ban pushed me to start a whole new career in modelling as a Plan B, which has now developed into a full time career.

How would you describe your style?

I love to be different because that to me is sexy.

I am the type of girl that would rather shoot in a simple jersey on the beach instead of a bikini. I think I own like at least 100 bodysuits. I love bodysuits and a good pair of jeans…with thigh high boots! Oh…and big earrings! You can never forget the earrings.

What are your hopes for the future of the fashion industry?

To include and celebrate all kinds of beauty and women. I think it is already happening with plus size ranges and designers from all over the world. Each category has a space and exhibition here. From fashion to Beauty to traditional wear. And at the same time money is being made.

Tell me about yourself as a model.

I attended modelling school in South Africa during High school and University. I have done various photoshoots and portfolios as a young woman in my twenties. But as the years went by my look and body completely changed. I have always aimed at becoming the best version of myself. When the entertainment ban was announced, I made the decision to do a collaboration shoot with a photographer that I scouted in a magazine fashion editorial. I had no idea who he was and what it might lead to at the time. I did the collaboration shoot and the next week received one request after the other for more shoots. Word of mouth paid off. And my photos reached and impressed many people via Instagram. I started reaching out to more photographers doing one collaboration after the other. Soon they were the ones reaching out to me. It helps to always be responsive and professional. At the end of the day if the designer or photographer is happy then I am happy.

2020 has been the strangest of years, how did you find lockdown? Any lessons or discoveries?

It was undoubtedly one of the most trying times of my life. Never did I imagine that I would find myself back in Dubai one year later doing what I love and more! The lesson learnt? Anything is possible! You can achieve anything you wish to become. Lead by example. Show people and show yourself that it can be done. Simply reach out and give it a try! Don’t limit yourself. You are allowed to dream big. You can have more than one career and more than one skill…your potential is bigger than you even realize. I am now very appreciative of being back in Dubai because I feel free. Lockdown in South Africa restricted me in many ways. In this time, I truly believe Dubai is the best place to be. Even with restrictions in place, life and work is still possible here.

Who have been some of your favorite collaborators so far in the industry?

QUEN Wessendorf. For Kimonos and Kaftans.

Ivy Kep Peralta, an outstanding MUA and concept creator in the industry.

Aaronic Atelier, an amazing designer who also works on many magazine shoots along with Darwin Perez, Hair & MUA. GAZAM Photography, who does amazing editorial and fashion shoots.

Paris Boutique, an exceptionally gifted and experienced jewellery designer.

Working with The Watch Meister.

Shooting with Markus Mansi for Raf Camora’s brand Karneval Vodka, from Austria, Vienna. Long-time friend The Camera Click.

What first piqued your interest in fashion and modeling?

The Victoria’s Secret Models and Fashion Show. I have always been a fan. For my 30 th birthday I bought myself Victoria’s Secret lingerie and perfume from the store in China simply because I wanted to experience it. Plus, I love the packaging. I am also a big fan of Candice Swanepoel. Following various photographers like Fadil Berisha, who captures Miss Universe and many beauty queens, have also inspired my vision and creativity in many ways. Fashion wise I am inspired by Olivier Rousteing, Balmain and Chanel.

What is fun and rewarding about modeling? And what is not?

What’s fun is definitely getting to experience the different locations all over Dubai and capturing that in a professional portfolio while looking your best. Meeting amazing talented makeup artists, hairstylists, designers and photographers is also a plus. Having the opportunity to put their name on my portfolio is literally a dream come true. It’s amazing to become connected long term and to form a partnership with these people.

We are truly a team. The bonus is that I almost always get gifted with one of their designs as a token of appreciation…somewhat of a special memory for me. I feel very much taken care of in the industry. What is stressful sometimes is the traveling and transportation especially if it’s a new destination. I always want to be on time and professional. But not to worry…I am manifesting my very own Ferrari…hahaha…soon!

What is the biggest highlight of your career so far?

I would say this feature with HP Magazine Arabia is one for the books. This would be my first feature in Dubai and I am truly thankful and proud! It reminds me once again that anything is possible.

Do you have a favorite designer or high street brand?

Yes! BALYSAH and Balmain by Olivier Rousteing. Sissy Boy Jeans from South Africa.

Steve Madden. Especially Steve Madden shoes. And Chanel. Chanel Perfume…addicted!

How has your style changed over the years?

From Drama student to Model. I would say from girl to Woman. During my studies I used to wear a lot of leggings and sweaters. Then it transitioned into mostly party dresses when I was working in live bands. Now I opt for a nice matching gym set with trainers in the day especially when traveling with the metro, or some stunning tight jeans with a bodysuit and heels or boots.

What is your greatest strength?

I am always kind. Kindness goes a long way. Positive. Attentive to detail. Team Player.

Thankful to the team.

What are your goals as a model?

To become the face of a high street brand and be featured in a campaign worldwide. Be it fashion or jewellery. I also dream of modeling for Balmain, Balysah and Victoria’s Secret. And to be featured on a billboard in Dubai is also a goal.

How do you imagine a typical day in work?

Responding to enquiries regarding photoshoots or video shoots for fashion designers, jewellery designers and various brands have become a daily task of mine. Modelling wise every day and each project is different and I love that. I love creating something new. Being productive. Every day is a new memory to be captured through the lens of an amazing photographer. I can put that in my portfolio forever…thisdate…creative content…teamwork…this moment belongs to me forever. I am very proud of my work. I consider myself an artist. Traveling…makeup and hair…photoshoot…coffee! And repeat!

What are your greatest accomplishments so far?

Having the opportunity to do so many versatile shoots all over Dubai is truly an accomplishment. Every single shoot has been handled so professionally with a whole team involved who are all experienced and passionate to create. The best places and people really are in Dubai! Being here and being acknowledged as a model is an accomplishment. Being in demand is an accomplishment. Word of mouth is a thing!

But one of my greatest accomplishments have been to personally meet and sing for the renowned actor and musician Steven Seagal.

What sorts of settings/clothes/brands do you prefer to shoot for or wear?

I love doing beach shoots in Dubai…it’s like out of a magazine. Literally picture perfect. I can never perfectly describe the moment because to understand Dubai and its surroundings you really have to be here in person and experience it for yourself. I love to just be barefoot on the beach or in the sand…wearing a simple jersey or a bodysuit with loose flowing hair and statement earrings. I find that the simplest things create the sexiest looks. Natural yet glamorous.

I also love color. Wearing colorful designs always delivers amazing content!

No matter what I wear or where I shoot I always love to make a statement and leave my mark.

We are huge fans of your Instagram. Do you have any tips or tricks for achieving an aesthetically awesome Instagram page?

Just be authentic! Lead by example and show people how it is done and that any vision is possible. Most people are attracted to the visual. Therefore, I love to do projects I haven’t done before so that my content shows my versatility as a model. It is quite literally my portfolio. Secondly, always respond in a kind manner to the people who truly support you. Respond to your followers and acknowledge them in a kind way.

What’s the one habit you have that changed your life for the better?

Always being positive.

What’s something people would be surprised to learn about you?

I have my Degree in BA Drama & Film from the University of Pretoria. I have a Mandarin teacher and Mandarin classes with her on a weekly basis. Learning a new language is a goal I have set for myself in my thirties. Lastly, I am addicted to coffee!

Lady Gaga on Collaboration, Creativity, and Her Mission to Give Back

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FASHION

Lady Gaga doesn’t do things by halves; with each new endeavor, the superstar pushes the boundaries of expression via unexpected visuals and alliances with likeminded creatives. Today’s launch of her latest project, a collaboration with the iconic Champagne brand, Dom Pérignon is proof of that fact. The Nick Knight–directed clip revealed the partnership and a peek at the bottle of rosé and sculpture Gaga designed especially for Dom Pérignon. Its trippy visuals of crystal castles which morph into catwalks and an endless party where Gaga and her pastel-clad entourage dance to the sound of her Chromatica hit, “Free Woman” before the singer is transformed into one of Knight’s silhouette portraits are an appropriately surreal introduction to an unexpected team up.

A host of Haus of Gaga mainstays teamed up on the project, including Knight, longterm collaborator and creative director Nicola Formichetti and Haus of Gaga makeup artist Sarah Tanno, and hair stylist Frederic Aspiras. You have them to thank for all that eerie Born this Way album art, but this go-round, they went in a completely different direction. Envisioning a celebratory atmosphere with the effervescence of a sip of rosé, they created a “Queendom” ruled by Gaga and her fans. “We wanted to express the power of creative freedom and inhabit a world where this is possible,” shared Gaga from Rome, where she is filming Ridley Scott’s House of Gucci.

Seeking visuals that felt “inspiring, collaborative, and free,” Gaga and the entire Haus of Gaga team prioritized innovation. Knight’s surrealist style and wealth of fresh ideas made him the ideal choice for the project. “Every time we work together, we find a way to do something we’ve never done before, and this collaboration is no exception,” Gaga says. “And of course, there are my creative collaborators from the Haus of Gaga, including Nicola, [choreographer] Richy Jackson, Freddie, and Sarah. There’s a certain alchemy that happens when we create together.”

That magic is evident in the video’s fashion. We expect drama from a Lady Gaga look, but her custom gown by Thom Browne alum Jackson Wiederhoeft is a showcase for some of fashion’s most inventive new talents. The frothy pink lamé piece covered in ruffles and pleated was put together with help from Brazilian artist Carla Maldonado; New York designer, Sintra Martins’s label, Saint Sintra; and Y. Hadari, a fellow at the Alexander McQueen Sarabande foundation. At once futuristic and classical, it had the timeless vibe Gaga, Formichetti, and stylist Marta del Rio were going for. “The fashion style reflects that mood because it doesn’t identify with just one era or look. It has historical details evoking a queen’s dress, but with a modern influence,” Gaga explains. “[It is] all about casting aside conventions, pushing boundaries, and having the freedom to explore.”

Still, the pièce de résistance may be the sculpture that Gaga and Formichetti created just for the project. An arresting take on the crystal ball, it features prominently in Knight’s campaign film. “We created something that captures a moment in time, full of life and energy. Nicola describes it as the essence of Dom, mixed with me, warped in time,” says Gaga.

More than being beautiful, the piece also has a philanthropic component, one dear to the star’s heart. Profits from the limited edition replicas of the sculpture will benefit the Born This Way foundation, which Gaga founded in 2011 with her mother, Cynthia Germanotta, and connects young people to mental health resources.

Still, the pièce de résistance may be the sculpture that Gaga and Formichetti created just for the project. An arresting take on the crystal ball, it features prominently in Knight’s campaign film. “We created something that captures a moment in time, full of life and energy. Nicola describes it as the essence of Dom, mixed with me, warped in time,” says Gaga.

“What I love most about this sculpture is that it is made with a deep purpose,” says Gaga.

“The foundation supports the well-being of people and works with them to create a kinder and braver world. The donation will help build programs and campaigns that increase access to treatment, drive action, and build community. There’s nothing more important than showing kindness to one another and giving back [and] creating a world where everyone is seen, heard, and loved.” It’s fitting then that Gaga’s Champagne fantasy will have a meaningful impact in the real world.

The Story Behind Amanda Seyfried’s Stunning Oscars Gown

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FASHION

At tonight’s 93rd annual Oscars, actor Amanda Seyfried ended her awards-season run with a vibrant Armani gown that couldn’t help but steal the spotlight on the red carpet. Designed

by Giorgio Armani himself, the strapless gown was inspired by hibiscus flowers and continued Seyfried’s winning streak of classic, Old Hollywood style.

Over the past few weeks, the Mank star and nominee for best supporting actress has worn creations from Oscar de la Renta, Miu Miu, and Christian Dior. With each look, she’s proved she has a real penchant for the classic glamour she channeled as Jazz Age star Marion Davies in the film. “I trusted the looks and never let anything wear me,” says Seyfried. “[My stylist] Elizabeth Stewart and I have been working together for over a decade, and there’s an instinctive, shared vision that exists between us. She sends options that fit my body and my style without fail. That confidence does a lot to how I wear the clothes.”

Armani’s floral inspiration is translated clearly through the dramatic silhouette. “I wanted to highlight Amanda’s personality with this dress, which gives shape to passion,” Armani tells Vogue. “Finely pleated, it forms into a petal shape like an upside-down flower, enhanced by a hibiscus red hue.” Seyfried was instantly a fan of its arresting color. “The red is rich and is a great contrast to Mank’s black and white,” she says. “The style looks as though it could float away.” She accessorized the look with Forevermark diamonds, which the star describes as “crystal clear and don’t feel like they weigh me down.”

Though she’s certainly not dressing down this year, the actor says she’s a fan of the smaller ceremony. “This ceremony style feels like it’s tailored for me because it’s intimate, which I hope makes it feel more casual than other years,” says Seyfried. “Less trains to step on too.”

While her Oscar look is a winner indeed, only time will tell tonight if she picks up a trophy for Mank this evening. Looking back on the project, the actor says she will always have fond memories of her time on the set. “The entire experience from rehearsal to today has made a pretty substantial impact on how I walk through the world as an actor,” says Seyfried. “The inherent trust in myself has been dusted off, and I know I’m capable of pushing my limits.” As for what Seyfried will be doing once the Oscars are finished? She’ll be partaking in some much-needed relaxation, including her beloved hobby, crocheting.

VERSACE

Dakota Johnson Will Play Her First Jane Austen Heroine In A Netflix Adaptation Of ‘Persuasion’

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LUXURY

Does the world really need another Jane Austen adaptation? As it turns out, yes. Having wrapped filming on Maggie Gyllenhaal’s take on the Elena Ferrante novel, The Lost Daughter, alongside Olivia Colman, the 50 Shades Of Grey alumna has teamed up with another powerhouse female director, Carrie Cracknell, to adapt Jane Austen’s Persuasion for Netflix. A highly respected name in British theatre, Cracknell has helmed productions at both the Royal Court and the Young Vic, and recently directed Jake Gyllenhaal in Sea Wall/A Life on Broadway. Persuasion will be her film debut.

According to Netflix, the movie will remain true to the novel, but will comprise a “modern, witty approach” to Austen’s final book. “Living with her snobby family on the brink of bankruptcy, Anne Elliot is an unconforming woman with modern sensibilities. When Frederick Wentworth – the dashing one she once sent away – crashes back into her life, Anne must choose between putting the past behind her or listening to her heart when it comes to second chances.” Production is due to begin this summer.

Notably, Cracknell’s film is actually one of two high-profile adaptations of Persuasion happening this year. Director Mahalia Belo has also signed on to translate Anne Elliot’s story for the big screen, with Succession’s Sarah Snook due to star opposite Game of Thrones’s Joel Fry in the lead role. What would Logan Roy say?

PRABAL GURUNG

The dramatic and enduring design of the OMEGA Constellation is characterised by its famous half-moons, “claws” on the case and mono-rang bracelet.

At the heart of this timepiece is the OMEGA Co-Axial Master Chronometer Calibre 8700, visible through the domed scratch-resistant sapphire crystal.

This 29 mm 18K Sedna™ gold and stainless steel model features a diamond-paved bezel, pearled mother-of-pearl dial with diamond hour markers and a date window at the 6 o'clock position. The hands, OMEGA logo, Constellation star and diamond holders are also in 18K Sedna™ gold.

Inside this timepiece are the revolutionary components that guarantee the highest standards of performance. From the Co-Axial escapement for long-lasting precision, to the silicon balance spring for superior anti-magnetism, OMEGA has conquered every challenge that matters.

CHOPARD

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MAA Releases New Photographs Of Istanbul's Supertall TV And Radio Tower As The Tower Opens In Spring

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ARCHITECTURE

MAA - Melike Altinisik Architects, led by Melike Altinisik, has released new photographs of Istanbul's futuristic supertall TV and Radio Tower, the hotlyanticipated project has been completed and has started its main telecommunication functions in November 2020.

Set to be opened to the public in late Spring, a set of latest images shows details from interiors of the tower and different perspectives in the landscape within it is situated.

Reaching at 369 meters in total, the tower, photographed by London-based architectural photography studio NAARO, reveals that how its rippling form creates a sense of motion and rhythm within its silhouette that changes when viewed from different directions around Istanbul.

On the top of the tower, a two-storey restaurant and observation deck, situated within the top 13 levels, will provide a 360-degree view across Asia to Europe. The project will also host a public foyer, café, exhibition and mediatic areas inside the entrance podium.

Designed with an organic structure, which is not familiar within the urban fabric of Istanbul, the key design principle of design is to reflect these inputs like wind direction, local topography, and the sceneries in the form of the tower.

"Its architectural formations combine elegance and beauty with math and geometry, whose innovative concept allows inhabitable spaces to be attached to the whole of the tower’s core," said MAA in its project description.

During construction, in a such a unique design, "the construction required advanced engineering techniques both in terms of architectural design and construction methodology," as the team of MAA highlighted. The interior design of follows the traces of the same, outer architectural language and character of the project. Rippling surfaces span the entrance foyer, while these surfaces partly become ceiling, partly become furniture. MAA said that "the interior design was developed based on the fact that the building includes unique spaces that offer a new experience and contain futuristic design characters." "The main purpose is to create surprising encounters by establishing strong relationships with where it is located, using light, nature, and spatial spaces; so that it may change people’s perspective, and courage them think differently," the studio continued.

How Margot Robbie Got Ready for the 2021 Oscars, From Fresh Bangs to Romantic Makeup

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BEAUTY

Margot Robbie’s beauty moments are often a study in goddess-like glamour that feel fine-tuned for each occasion. Her look at this evening’s Oscars—which she attended alongside nominated Promising Young Woman producer Josey McNamara, Robbie’s partner at LuckyChap Entertainment—was no exception, communicating a sense of siren-call softness effortless in its allure. That was makeup artist Pati Dubroff’s goal, after all: to offset the striking drama of the producer’s custom Chanel Haute Couture gown, a slinky black mermaid silhouette bedecked in silver-foiled floral, selected after Robbie spotted a similar fabric at the Fall-Winter 2019/20 Haute Couture show in Paris.

“It was really not about doing anything tough or hard,” says Dubroff, who helped Robbie get ready at the Edition West Hollywood hotel. “I just kept thinking ‘open optimism and sunshine-y days.’ And Margot is like a ray of sunshine, so it was really leaning into that.” Along with a fresh set of fringe and a low and loose golden tie-back (executed by hairstylist Bryce Scarlett), Robbie’s naturally romantic look was defined by an assemblage of Chanel makeup, with Dubroff relying heavily on the Palette Essentielle in Caramel. “It's kind of like an everything palette—and that was what I used on her cheeks, as a bronzer, as a sneaky contour, and around her eyes,” says Dubroff, who suggests using the same warming bronze on tone on cheeks and eyes for those desirous of a similar harmony in their own sun-kissed aesthetic.

A gaze-framing coat of Inimitable Mascara offered a bit of elevation, along with a covert application of tightliner for some added depth. But ultimately, the above-neck styling was a pared-down affair. “It was really about pure beauty—just keeping it simple,” says Dubroff. “I think that maybe that’s something that we all came out of this time appreciating: simplicity.”

HOUSE OF GARRARD

ALBINA DYLA

Every show-stopping outfit from the 2021 Oscars after party

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CULTURE

True loyalists know that Oscars fashion doesn’t stop with the preawards red carpet. For the last 27 years, the Vanity Fair after party has played host to Hollywood’s most late-night-ready outfits, as celebrities slip out of their white tie clothes and into pieces more suitable to an early morning on the dance floor.

While this year’s event has been cancelled due to Covid-19 restrictions, plenty of private parties are still going ahead, including Best Actress nominee Andra Day’s exclusive gathering in Beverly Hills, and Elton John and David Furnish’s virtual charity show.

Unlike the heavily vetted Academy Awards red carpet, open only to nominees, dazzling newcomers and the industry’s most reputable, the after party gives everyone the chance to doll themselves up and throw a good old fashioned celebration. That means actors, directors and film professionals will find themselves in the company of your favourite models, television stars, athletes and musicians.

This year, the Oscars red carpet was an ode to opulence. Stars opted for volume, choosing princess gowns of the highest calibre. Red and gold hues dominated the crimson floor—Carey Mulligan in two-piece, sequinned Valentino was a particular show-stopper, and Amanda Seyfried’s strapless Armani Privé was a toast to classic glamour. Zendaya’s yellow Valentino piece and Vanessa Kirby’s pale pink Gucci wonder were just two of the dresses featuring a midriff cut-out, one of the breakout trends of 2021 red carpet and street style alike.

Dua Lipa, the star performer at Elton John’s virtual show (thrown to support his namesake AIDS foundation) gave us not one, but two, high-necked Balenciaga creations: the first, a dress dripping in silver-blue crystals, the second, a black velvet gown with a dramatic bubble hem. The cast of hit TV show It’s A Sin also made an appearance, each wearing a red ribbon on their breast as a token of their support. Andra Day turned up to her own event in a silver version of the gold, torso-baring Vera Wang she had worn on the red carpet, while model Winnie Harlow joined in sky blue, sculptural Georges Hobeika.

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