Emirates Woman - April 2024

Page 1

THE ABUNDANCE ISSUE

A Full Life

emirateswoman.com DHS25 RO2.70 BD2.60 KD2.10 SR25 A MOTIVATE PUBLICATION APRIL 2024

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Obaid Humaid Al Tayer MANAGING PARTNER AND GROUP EDITOR Ian Fairservice

EDITOR/ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Amy Sessions amy.sessions@motivate.ae

SENIOR ART DIRECTOR Olga Petroff

DIGITAL EDITOR Ruman Baig DIGITAL STYLE EDITOR Sarah Joseph FASHION EDITOR Camille Macawili

JUNIOR DESIGNER Charissa Canlas EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Londresa Flores

GENERAL MANAGER PRODUCTION Sunil Kumar

PRODUCTION MANAGER Binu Purandaran

PRODUCTION SUPERVISOR Venita Pinto

CHIEF COMMERCIAL OFFICER Anthony Milne GROUP SALES MANAGER

Chaitali Khimji chaitali.khimji@motivate.ae

SALES MANAGER

Daniela Mihai daniela.mihai@motivate.ae

GROUP MARKETING MANAGER Joelle Albeaino WEB DEVELOPER Firoz Kaladi

CONTRIBUTORS

Joëlle Albeaino, Izzy Turner, Mark Mathew, Ahmed Abd El-Wahab, Varun Godinho

HEAD OFFICE

Media

One Tower, Dubai Media City, PO Box 2331, Dubai, UAE, Tel: (+971) 4 4273000, Fax: (+971) 4 4282261, E-mail: motivate@motivate.ae DUBAI MEDIA CITY SD 2-94, 2nd Floor, Building 2, Dubai, UAE, Tel: (+971) 4 390 3550, Fax: (+971) 4 390 4845 ABU DHABI PO Box 43072, UAE, Tel: (+971) 2 677 2005, Fax: (+971) 2 677 0124, E-mail: motivate-adh@motivate.ae SAUDI ARABIA Regus Offices No. 455 - 456, 4th Floor, Hamad Tower, King Fahad Road, Al Olaya, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Tel: (+966) 11 834 3595 / (+966) 11 834 3596, E-mail: motivate@motivate.ae LONDON Acre House, 11/15 William Road, London NW1 3ER, UK, E-mail: motivateuk@motivate.ae

Welcome to The Abundance Issue.

Editor’s Letter

For this cover, we partnered with Louis Vuitton, as Nicolas Ghesquière plays with abundant layered volumes to create airy silhouettes and tailored lines for SS24 in Audacious Abundance on page 16.

In this issue, Creative Director of Etro, Marco De Vincenzo discusses delivering detail, scaling in luxury and never compromising on quality in A Master of Opulence on page 28; Otiumberg who have quietly made name for themselves as the go-to label abundant with elevated everyday jewellery speaks on building a brand in Bold Simplicity on page 48; Founder and Creative Director of René Caovilla, René Fernando Caovilla, shares the joys and challenges of continuing a legacy brand in An

Abundant Legacy on page 54 and we take note of pioneering Kuwait’s jewellery industry from Duha AlRamadhan in Abundant Vision on page 70.

CULTIVATE AN ABUNDANT MINDSET

Beauty and wellness wise Jacques Cavallier Belletrud, Louis Vuitton’s Master Perfumer, discusses the art of creating a bespoke fragrance using the finest quality ingredients in A Perfumer’s Dream on page 94; RTT founder Marisa Peer shows us how to move towards an abundant mindset in A Magnet for Abundance on page 100 and Courtney Black explains how she is revamping the fitness industry with a newly launched app in Core Strength on page 104.

Cultivating an abundant mindset is key to championing others success and reaching your own.

Amy Sessions

EDITOR

6 emirateswoman.com
Le Loafer leather loafers Dhs3,288 Saint Laurent The Retinol Serum, 30ml Dhs1,204 Augustinus Bader Vasco angular-frame metal sunglasses Dhs2,353 Jacques Marie Mage available at MATCHES THE HERO BUYS
/ ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER
Shearling coat Dhs6,656 Nour Hammour Fabulous Face Oil, 25ml Dhs190 Aesop
Being one of the most influential hotel chains in the world means having much more than hotels.

EXPERIENCES, BEAUTY, LUXURY, EXCELLENCE, COMMITMENT, KNOWLEDGE, STRENGTH, GRATITUDE, DEVOTION.

MEXICO · DOMINICAN REPUBLIC · JAMAICA · BRAZIL · SPAIN · ITALY · USA
8 emirateswoman.com The Monitor Monitor News p.12 Social Listings p.14 Audacious Abundance –Cover Shoot with LOUIS VUITTON p.16 CONTENTS April 2024

An Abundant Legacy – Founder and Creative Director of René Caovilla, René Fernando Caovilla, shares the joys and challenges of continuing a legacy brand p.54

A Different Cut – An interview with Hala Abdallah, founder of Saudibased jewellery brand Ofa p.68

Fashion

The Edit p.26

A Master of Opulence – An interview with Creative Director of Etro, Marco De Vincenzo p.28

An Optical Mirage –Louis Vuitton unveils the LV Mirage capsule collection p.34 Embellish p.40

Abundant Growth –Co-founder of Heavenly London, Maddy Sangster on scaling the business and an abundant mindset approach to change p.44

Well Sourced – Founder of The Sourced

Collection, Lois Smith, on abundant creativity and a business mindset p.46

Bold Simplicity –An interview with the Otiumberg founders p.48

Dream Big – Aisha BinHendi, founder of Dubai-based fine jewellery brand Toi Fine Jewelry on carving a niche in the industry p.64

Abundant Vision –Pioneering Kuwait’s jewellery industry is Duha AlRamadhan p.70

Absolute Ease – An interview with FFORME Creative Director Paul Helbers p.74

Luxe Layering –REPOSSI p.78

Ethereal Elegance –Exploring Cartier’s High Jewellery collection p.84

Positive Impact – Shahd AlShehail, Founder of Abadia on representing Saudi Arabia on a global stage p.86

A Visual Feast – An interview with EVP and Chief Creative Officer at Judith Leiber, Jana Matherson p.90

9 emirateswoman.com
Abundance in Simplicity – The Léonce joins Delvaux’s rich archive of emblematic creations for SS24 p.58

CONTENTS

Beauty / Wellness

Hot New Buys p.92

An Ode to Nature –General Manager Reyes Lezcano takes us on L'Artisan Parfumeur's olfactory journey - from its early beginnings to recipe development p.98

A Magnet for Abundance – We discuss the feeling of something that is not available to us and how we move from this to an abundant mindset with

RTT founder Marisa

Peer p.100

High Value – The best of abundant beauty p.102

Core Strength – How fitness instructor

Courtney Black is revamping the fitness industry with her own personal journey p.104

Beauty Shelf – Duha

AlRamadhan, founder of fine jewellery boutique

Aubade p.106

AM/PM Beauty –Designer Marina

Raphael p.108

A Perfumer’s Dream – Jacques Cavallier Belletrud, Louis Vuitton’s Master Perfumer, has created a perfumer’s dream using the finest quality ingredients p.97

An Abundance of Space – The first-ever ultra-luxury urban vertical resort in Dubai, One&Only One Za’abeel p.124

Lifestyle

Abundance – Inspiring women on approaching life with an abundance mindset p.110

Striking Elements –Go inside the Burj Al Arab with Londonbased designer Khuan Chew p.112

Personal Space – In the office with Reyes Lezcano, General Manager at L’Artisan Parfumeur p.114

An Abundant Mindset – Founder of Darcey Flowers, Albert

Tranquilino, on scaling creativity with an abundant mindset p.118

A Lavish Sojourn –Nestled within a tranquil golden landscape, Bab Al Shams Resort is the ultimate city getaway p.120

Body of Work –RIMOWA p.128

The Wanderlust – Jaipur holds an abundance of colour, beauty and history p.132

10 emirateswoman.com
Louis Vuitton
April 2024

The Classics

The latest launches, new openings and hero buys

A PRECIOUS LAYERING

Cartier traces back to the ancient sources of perfumery and now offers us the opportunity to rediscover the power of perfume in the form of this precious oil. Each product in the collection contains an oil with a unique ingredient – Peregrina oil – which is derived from the Moringa Peregrina tree which grows in the AlUla region of Saudi Arabia.

THREE TO OWN 3

12 THE MONITOR emirateswoman.com
IMAGES: SUPPLIED THE HERO BUYS
Le Petit Calino Mini Leather Tote Dhs4,095 Jacquemus Alda Double-Breasted Cady Blazer Dhs8,832 The Row Tor Pleated Cady Wide-Leg Pants Dhs6,121 The Row Oval-frame gold-tone sunglasses Dhs1,392 Saint Laurent Eyewear Limited Edition Eau de Toilette Do Son, 100ml Dhs570 Diptyque
12
Extreme MascaraRaven Dhs204 Tom Ford Beauty Leather Belt Dhs1,650 Loewe

Choose from our extensive range of authentic Thesiger photographs.

PERFECT DECORATIONS FOR HOTELS, OFFICES

AND HOMES.

Framed or unframed prints available exclusively from The Arabian Gallery

A curated guide of accounts to #follow on Instagram Social Listings

COMPILED BY: SARAH

14 emirateswoman.com THE MONITOR
@abadiaofficial This ethical luxury brand supports artisans and celebrates culture. @otiumberg The ideal pieces for layering. @thesourcedcollection__ High-quality key pieces with an edge. @lartisanparfumeur Fragrances crafted with artisanal finesse. @aubadejewelry Kuwaiti-founded fine-jewellery boutique with a cool eye for detail. @babalshamshotel A rare desert property captivating the unending beauty of the UAE. @jewelrybytoi The first Emirati fine jewellery line to be worn at Cannes Film Festival. @louisvuitton The legend. @ofaofficial Luxurious pieces created in collaboraion with Dubai’s best artisans.

Audacious

ABUNDANCE

Nicolas Ghesquière plays with layered volumes to create airy silhouettes and tailored lines for SS24

WORDS & CREATIVE DIRECTION: AMY SESSIONS PHOTOGRAPHY: ŽIGA MIHEL I
18 emirateswoman.com COVER STORY
Previous page: Padded double-breasted jacket; Louis Vuitton; This page: Bustier, Vanity chain pouch; all Louis Vuitton; Right page: Buttoned frock jacket, Bustier, High-waist pants, Vanity chain pouch; all Louis Vuitton

Both pages: Two-tone oversize jacket, Double layer long skirt; all Louis Vuitton

20 emirateswoman.com COVER STORY
23 emirateswoman.com COVER STORY
Left page: Padded double-breasted jacket, Structured skirt with buttoned strap; all Louis Vuitton; This page: Double layer two fabrics dress, Choker LV Prestige necklace; all Louis Vuitton Both pages: Double-breasted jacket, Double layer long skirt; all Louis Vuitton
25 emirateswoman.com COVER STORY
FASHION EDITOR: CAMILLE MACAWILI; MAKEUP & HAIR: KASIA GAJEWSKA AT MMG ARTISTS; VIDEOGRAPHER: MARK MATHEW; MODEL: BRENDA SANTOS AT DUO MANAGEMENT; LOCATION WITH THANKS TO ONE&ONLY ONE ZA'ABEEL

Cuffs to layer for full impact

in SS24 WORDS & STYLING: AMY SESSIONS
THE EDIT
27 emirateswoman.com FASHION
Rigid Leather Cuff Dhs149 Zara Semi-circle Cuff Dhs149 Zara Bombe gold-tone and leather cuff Dhs5,126 Alaïa Blooma gold-tone cuff Dhs4,308 Chloé available at NET-A-PORTER Cushion leather cuff Dhs3,505 Saint Laurent Screw gold-plated cuff Dhs1,137 Miansai available at MATCHES Bumpy resin cuff Dhs2,995 Saint Laurent
THIS PAGE (FROM TOP):
ZARA, ALAÏA; OPPOSITE PAGE: SAINT LAURENT

A MASTER

28 emirateswoman.com FASHION

WORDS: AMY SESSIONS

OF OPULENCE

29 emirateswoman.com FASHION

We discuss delivering detail, scaling in luxury and never compromising on quality with Creative Director of Etro, Marco De Vincenzo

31 emirateswoman.com FASHION

What do the first 30 minutes of your day look like, your morning routine? Whatever commitments I have, I try to respect the thing that most reconnects me with the world: breakfast. Those precious 20 minutes regulate my energy for the whole day.

What is an abundant mindset to you and how do you cultivate it personally? Solving problems, removing doubts, reaching goals – I know that every day is a game full of surprises. But I consider myself an optimist, and optimism is an important skill for living better.

What is the DNA of Etro and how do you build on this season after season? I am fascinated by the Etro code of eclecticism: dressing not to go unnoticed, but to communicate our own curiosity to the world. Etro dresses travellers and collectors of experience. How have your previous roles and your second current role as Leather Goods Head Designer of Fendi supported the role you have at Etro? I consider apprenticeship and

“To enjoy achievements more, I have always been someone who, once he has achieved a goal, immediately relaunches with a bigger one”

training to be very important. Having worked in fashion for more than 25 years, this experience certainly helps me manage this important creative direction.

How did you end up working for two incredible maisons? I would say fate played a role. I was certainly prepared and ready, but there are opportunities you cannot plan for.

Etro’s FW24 collection has received much acclaim – what was the inspiration behind this? I started with Greek myths and mixed them with more urban accents. I prefer collections that remain open to multiple interpretations. How do you partner with the commercial side of the business without compromising on quality and creativity? Fashion today is more than ever a compromise between creativity and business. It is up to each of us to balance the two without one stifling the other. I often wonder what it would be like to work without pressure, but I can’t find an answer. Would it be wonderful, or would it lack a bit of adrenaline?

What have been the biggest challenges to date and how did you overcome them? The significant challenge when designing for a brand that isn’t your own is how to respect its codes without losing your own identity. I’ve reached some important milestones and feel more comfortable, but I understand there will never be a definitive endpoint, especially because I am very critical of my work.

Have you had any mentors in your career path and if so, how did they support you? Fendi was definitely the company that believed in me and my ambition the most. If it hadn’t allowed me to start my own project (the Marco de Vincenzo brand) 15 years ago, I wouldn’t be where I am today.

What advice would you give to your younger self? To enjoy achievements more, I have always been someone who, once he has achieved a goal, immediately relaunches with a bigger one. This is The Abundance Issue – what is valuable to have in abundance and what is valuable to give in abundance? Kindness: the more you give, the more you receive. It is a magical circle.

32 emirateswoman.com FASHION IMAGES: SUPPLIED
WORDS: AMY SESSIONS
Louis Vuitton unveils the LV Mirage capsule collection, combining

craftsmanship and creativity

Louis Vuitton presents LV Mirage, a capsule collection conceived for special occasions and moments of togetherness that span day to night. Highlighting elegance, craftmanship and modernity from each of the metiers, the selection spans ready-to-wear, leather goods, shoes, accessories and fragrances. Across the collection, pieces can be assembled as total looks in a soft palette of burgundy, rose and gold that convey timeless style.

Bags are represented by iconic styles in distinctive animations. Key shapes for day include the Coussin BB and the Loop half moon shoulder bag in Bordeaux patent leather. The Capucines BB is offered in both natural beige Epi leather and golden grained leather, while the Twist West in deep burgundy Epi leather is a perfect day-tonight size. The capsule also showcases the Alma in Malletage leather with its toasted effect and

the Cluny Mini with its textile strap that features a lustrous floral motif. Evening bags are crafted with exquisite details. The Capucines Flower Crown and Twist West are both adorned with crystal-embroidered metal hardware, while the Petite Malle and Capucines Mini sparkle with all-over crystal embroideries that interpret the Monogram clover.

The ready-to-wear draws inspiration from the SS24 collection. Airy volumes combine polish and ease. Belted shirtdresses in varying lengths make a feminine statement while longer tiered skirts give off a subtle allure. Several pieces such as a classic shirt and a sculpted blouson boast the Monogram within a sumptuous, overdyed silk toile. Decorative embroideries, meanwhile, add a festive touch. Separates such as drawstring trousers and relaxed tops shine softly in laminated silk knit and can be worn throughout the year.

36 emirateswoman.com FASHION
ALL AVAILABLE AT LOUIS VUITTON

EMBELLISH

COMPILED BY: CAMILLE MACAWILI

Abundant additions that deliver serious style impact

40 emirateswoman.com FASHION
Suzanne Shoulder Bag Dhs13,039 Saint Laurent Minette Flats Dhs3,655 Christopher Esber Above: Mini Bag with Bow Dhs269 Zara; Left: Mia Top Dhs1,134 New Arrivals This page: Marcel Off Shoulder Diamante Maxi Dress Dhs621 Meshki
42 emirateswoman.com
Above: Leila Leather Clutch Dhs9,568 Magda Butrym; Top right: Feather Midi Skirt Dhs499 Zara Giorgia CrystalEmbellished Denim Sandals Dhs4,905 Amina Muaddi Villus FeatherTrimmed Draped
FASHION
Top Dhs2,525 Christopher Esber RhinestoneEmbellished Wool Blazer Dhs7,521 The Attico available on FARFETCH
43 emirateswoman.com FASHION
Left: Straight-Leg Denim Pants Dhs21,610 Alaïa; Below: Diamante Pouch Dhs1,636 Self-Portrait Chain-Embellished Straight-Leg Jeans Dhs5,700 Loewe availale on NET-A-PORTER Crystalembellished Trench Coat Dhs3,754 Self-Portrait Sequin Fringed Midi Dress Dhs33,975 Jil Sander

ABUNDANT GROWTH

We discuss scaling the business and an abundant mindset approach to change with co-founder of Heavenly London, Maddy Sangster

Is it important to have an abundant mindset in business - how do you cultivate this when you’re not feeling that way? Such a great question. For me, adopting an abundant mindset is essential. It’s embracing growth and possibility rather than scarcity and reliving my shortfalls or mistakes. To cultivate this mindset, I try to focus on gratitude (being grateful for where we’ve come) positivity, and collaboration, even during challenging times.

How has the business evolved and scaled and has this been an organic slow growth or have there been key times you saw it peak and if so, why? Our journey has seen moments of thrilling peaks, particularly when unexpected figures, like members of the royal family and others in the public eye, wear our pieces, or through exciting collaborations. However, since defining our niche, we’ve experienced a consistent upward trajectory, marked by steady growth.

How important is trial and error in business?

Trial and error is paramount in business –it’s the cornerstone of growth and innovation. Embracing failures, as Elizabeth Day advocates, fosters invaluable learning experiences. Just as children learn through their mistakes, businesses thrive by taking calculated risks and learning from the outcomes. As owner drivers, we understand the necessity of risk-taking, recognising that it’s often through trial and error that the greatest successes emerge.

Do you think it’s important to have a few designs which work well in business or a broader offering? It’s a balancing act between having a few signature designs that anchor our brand and offering a broader range to cater to diverse tastes. Look at Chanel or Hermès – they excel in maintaining their classic pieces while their new ‘trend-led’ pieces divide the critics much more. Stagnation risks complacency and opens doors to imitation. For us, focusing on timeless classics while periodically introducing new collections keeps our brand fresh and innovative without straying from our core identity.

What has been the biggest part of the business you’ve had to invest in and how did you decide to take the leap? We took a leap last year when we decided to launch our first fine lab-grown diamond collection with Laura Wills of The

44 emirateswoman.com FASHION

WORDS: AMY SESSIONS

Fashion Bug Blog. Fortunately, the decision paid off, with our lab-grown diamonds proving immensely popular and often selling out within 24 hours of being listed on our site. This year we are also looking at investing more in traditional PR. I think it’s important to have other communication avenues besides social media as its landscape is constantly changing at speed. You’re an incredibly generous person – is this abundant mindset something you have always carried with you and where did you learn it? First of all, that’s very kind of you to say. I very much believe in karma and the principle of giving what you wish to receive. Our jewellery is all handmade and goes through rigorous quality control and craftsmanship, which could have led us down a path of exclusivity, but that’s never been our ethos. We believe in creating pieces that don’t discriminate by price, allowing everyone to indulge in the joy of wearing beautiful and abundant jewellery. What is important to have in abundance and what is important to give in abundance? Grace and kindness. I was always taught to be gracious and it’s something ingrained in both my family and my business. It’s what trickles down to our customers and I love reading their reviews about their positive interactions with a member of my team. I always think of Maya Angelou who says that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel. It’s this essence that we strive to cultivate abundantly at Heavenly not just through our jewellery, but the customer service too. And it’s imperative to go that extra mile with an online business where you can’t physically talk to your customers.

Tell us about the difference between naturally occurring and lab-grown diamonds. Of course. A lab-grown diamond is made from a seed of a mined diamond and is physically, optically and chemically identical to a mined diamond. A mined diamond is made naturally over millions of years and is extracted from the earth’s surface in deep mines (some of which are visible from space). Lab-grown diamonds are created in laboratories using a heat and pressure chemical process.

Lab-grown diamonds use less energy and water than mined diamonds and are produced in controlled environments that reduce the risk of unethical labour practices. Mined diamonds have origins that are more difficult to trace than lab-grown diamonds which also have a smaller impact on local communities. It is for this reason that lab-diamonds are a sustainable and ethical alternative to natural diamonds. It’s also interesting to note that the introduction of lab-grown diamonds has significantly shaken up the diamond industry. You only have to look at De Beers’ acquisition of Lightbox lab-grown diamonds to see that they are a real challenger that are here to stay. This is The Abundance Issue – what does living an abundant life mean to you? Fostering an abundance of positive connections and experiences both personally and in business. It’s about growing through trial and error, seizing opportunities, and sharing in the joy with others. And of course, indulging in a little abundance of jewellery along the way.

45 emirateswoman.com FASHION
IMAGES: SUPPLIED

WELL SOURCED

We discuss abundant creativity and a business mindset with founder of The Sourced Collection, Lois Smith

46 emirateswoman.com FASHION
WORDS: AMY SESSIONS

Is it important to have an abundant mindset in business and how do you cultivate this when you’re not feeling that way? I believe an abundant mindset is very important and by having a positive outlook on opportunities, resources, and possibilities it can be highly beneficial to your business. I believe that there are enough opportunities, customers, and success to go around for everyone.Cultivating an abundant mindset, especially when you’re not feeling that way, can be challenging but is definitely possible by putting certain practices in place. For example, practising gratitude, focusing on solutions, embracing learning and growth, and celebrating not just your own but other people’s success. How has the business evolved and scaled and has this been an organic slow growth or have there been key times you saw it peak and if so, why? My brand definitely grew organically. The Sourced Collection was created off the back of my luxury personal shopper business that organically evolved into styling and allowing my more creative side to come out. I began to design one-off pieces for clients that they hadn’t seen before and they couldn’t get anywhere else. From there the product line evolved into me being able to create more high-quality key pieces that I wanted to offer people in general and clothing that I felt would empower my customers. How important is trial and error in business? I like to embrace learning and growth, I see setbacks or failures as opportunities to learn from and grow so that it can be done better the next time I attempt something. I think it is really important to embrace a mindset of continuous learning, improvement, and adaptation in your business endeavors and I’m not afraid to ask for help if I think i need it. Do you think it’s important to have a few designs which work well in business or a broader offering? Our range is diverse allowing us to appeal to everyone. I have created pieces that range from chic evening wear to versatile everyday essentials and I think it’s important to give our customers a variety of items that can be worn differently to suit their unique style or occasion. What has been the biggest part of the business you’ve had to invest in and how did you decide to take the leap? I would have to admit that the decision to invest in higher quantities of stock to meet demand was one that came with the most risk. I had been focused on designing and creating one off pieces, made to order but then found a space where I was able to create more designs that still were high quality and inspire confidence and individuality to my customers. Once I started to put these out there into the market the response was overwhelming and I was truly humbled. You’re an incredibly generous person – is this abundant mindset something you have

always carried with you and where did you learn it? Thank you! That’s very kind of you. An abundant mindset, I think, is rooted in positive psychology and personal development principles rather than being a specific trait or quality. It’s also a mindset that can be developed over time through learning, experiences, and intentional practices. I was able to learn and develop this through books, seminars, mentors, or personal experiences and most importantly through my family, they have always taught me to have gratitude and resilience, but most importantly nothing comes without hard work and the willingness to learn.

What is important to have in abundance and what is important to give in abundance? I think it’s important to appreciate opportunities, resources, and possibilities available to you. What you give in abundance by showing gratitude, kindness, opportunities, and generosity I believe comes back to you somehow both in what you have and what you give, you can literally create a positive environment for yourself and those around you.

Tell us about how you designed your embel-

lished jeans – we love them! Thank you - they are my favourite piece so far! Our brand is already gaining huge traction with this item, with product placement and becoming staple items for tastemakers and influencers. Creating these jeans was so much fun! The fabric used is part of our previous collection and gained so much attraction we knew we needed to invest more time into this piece! I feel very passionate about sustainability and reworking key items that never go out of fashion. By reworking vintage Levi's jeans, I’ve added a custom style into a ripping of the jeans and adding a material giving them a complete innovative transformation that elevates any look whether its a red carpet event, a festival or even just a girls night out! This is The Abundance Issue – what does living an abundant life mean to you? Living an abundant life for me, encompasses an approach to self wellbeing, fulfilment, and growth across various aspects of my life both personally and in business. It allows me to nurture meaningful connections and experiences that contribute to a fulfilling and positive life journey!

47 emirateswoman.com FASHION
IMAGES: SUPPLIED

BOLD

SIMPLICITY

WORDS: CAMILLE MACAWILI

51 emirateswoman.com FASHION
Otiumberg has been quietly making a name for itself as the go-to label abundant with elevated everyday jewellery. Founded by sister duo Rosanna and Christie Wollenberg, the London-based label delivers timeless pieces with an enduring appeal of minimalism and modernity

Whilst our different experience makes us stronger, I also believe that our shared values and close relationship as sisters is the glue that really binds the brand. Not only do we share a value system from having grown up together, but we’re able to have honest conversations that cover business and important personal issues that might be more difficult with a colleague. When you run a business, it really can take over, so it’s been so valuable to have this bond, trust and understanding of each other throughout our journey. We’ve realised over the years just how important having a strong co-founder relationship is and I couldn’t think of anyone better to do it with.

What do the first 30 minutes of your day look like, your morning routines? Christie Wollenberg: I have three young children so the morning for me is getting the kids fed and ready for school and nursery. My cup of coffee is an absolute must and really brings me so much joy. Rosanna Wollenberg: I’m yet to have children so my morning is a lot less manic! I’ll try to take a cold shower and then make a coffee before running over my emails and itinerary for the day. I sometimes enjoy getting up a little earlier to do some guided breathing if I know that the day ahead is likely to be challenging.

As sisters, what inspired you to go into the jewellery business collectively? Was the goal always to start something together? We’ve always been very close as sisters and the idea for Otiumberg came about when we were working in creative industries and living together in London. We very naturally fell into the jewellery industry as we both had multiple piercings and always sought out jewellery as a means of personal expression. In those days we only had the options of high-street low-quality jewellery or inaccessible fine jewellery collections. Neither of these interested us, so we decided to try and create our own pieces.

On that journey, we initially focused on crafting jewellery for our own personal collections that we could wear every day, but still felt special and bespoke. That’s why we were so drawn immediately to craft pieces in precious materials such as gold vermeil and 9-karat solid gold, both of which at the time were completely new to us. We loved how these materials gave us the finish and qual-

What defines the Otiumberg aesthetic? The collection is a very personal reflection in jewellery, an ode to understatement and effortless style. We are always focused on crafting pieces that hold a timeless perspective with subtle details and touches that make the piece feel special and tactile.

How has the brand evolved since it launched in 2016? The brand has evolved organically as we ourselves have evolved as designers and women over the last seven years. I think our point of view has become clearer and our values more defined. A good example of this is our personalised collection which I created after the birth of my children, as I wanted to wear their names in a way that was subtle and classic. Our name bracelet and name pendants have since become bestsellers and are a signature of the brand.

Sustainability has been a pillar of Otiumberg since its inception. How does it feel to have a consciously made jewellery brand? It was never a goal to become known for being responsible, but rather a personal desire to have a business that we can be proud of. There’s no denying the impact the industry has and so we wanted to make sure we were conscious of our role within that and what we could do to lighten our impact. I do think that coming to the jewellery industry as outsiders made us question everything and installed in us a desire to do things differently. We recently acquired B Corp certification, and it was wonderful to see the work we have put in to become a responsible brand over the years receive formal recognition. It gives us a great framework to grow in the future and we look forward to seeing where that takes us.

ity we were looking for whilst remaining attainable. At first, we were just excited about creating for ourselves, but once our friends and wider community took interest, we built Otiumberg slowly from there. To this day we guide the business together without external investment, which allows us to keep that creative freedom and listen to our intuition. Coming from different work backgrounds, was it an advantage to build a brand and start a career with a clean slate? RW: Our previous roles fostered very complementary skill sets which have been invaluable for building Otiumberg together. Christie, coming from luxury fashion with roles at Louis Vuitton in Dubai and Burberry in London, has a strong eye for design and a deep care for craftsmanship. My experience on the other hand working in the arts and brand strategy in London and New York brings an understanding of brand positioning, values and a strong visual aesthetic.

Your pieces are timeless and seasonless. How do you approach creating consistently well-made collections and where do you get inspiration from? It’s always felt very clear to us that the jewellery we design should be a reflection of our personal style and

“I do think that coming to the jewellery industry as outsiders made us
52 emirateswoman.com FASHION

an expression of who we are. We don’t follow trends and are instead inspired by the people and world that surrounds us – that could be our family, our friendship groups, or a painting or antique piece we discover.

Our design ethos is about creating pieces you want to live in, that you soon feel naked without. We never want our designs to overpower rather we want them to be tactile, subtle and intimate with considered touches and detailing that make them feel special.

There’s a consistency to the designs because of this and the fact that we stay true to ourselves, and how we wear jewellery. Which pieces would you recommend for the Middle Eastern consumers? We see our Middle Eastern customers drawn to our signature Tiny Diamond Initial Tag and Diamond Quotidien Hoops, which look amazing stacked up an ear. Many have also invested in our solid gold Name Pendant as gifts, or simply to cast in gold the people in their life they love the most.

You’ve had collaborations with Hunza G, Camilla and Marc and Alex Eagle. How do you choose the brands to work with? All of our collaborations came about organically through getting to know other founders. It’s been a great way for us to reach new audiences as well as develop our aesthetic through the process. Alex has been a great supporter of the brand since day one and having sold well in her stores, we decided to create a capsule that resonated with her ready-to-wear collection and brand ethos. Similarly with Camilla and Marc, our pieces did exceptionally well with their clients, and we realised the potential in crafting a capsule to pair seamlessly with their timeless tailoring and refined collections. It was such a fun project that saw us expand on our ear cuff aesthetic, which is now at the heart of our collection. With Otiumberg, we never do anything that doesn’t feel authentic or right in our intuition, I think you can spot those purely commercial collaborations from a mile off.

How would you like to develop your brand? We are focussed on growing internationally

this year and building on the momentum we have been experiencing. We are also opening a new headquarters with a boutique in West London, where we will be able to host our customers in a beautifully intimate setting. This is The Abundance Issue – what does being abundant mean to you and how do you cultivate that mindset? RW: I think you must have an abundant mindset as an entrepreneur as there are so many setbacks and challenges along the way. So, from that standpoint it’s

about embracing these tough moments as an opportunity to grow, learn and change.

CW: Having my children at the same time as launching and growing the business has been one of the hardest things. However, this has also made me realise the absolute joy in the everyday and has truly allowed me to appreciate the journey as a mother and as a founder. I’ve definitely become very aware that when you put your mind to something, you can achieve it.

question everything and installed in us a desire to do things differently”
53 emirateswoman.com FASHION

AN ABUNDANT LEGACY

Founder and Creative Director of René Caovilla, René Fernando Caovilla, shares the joys and challenges of continuing a legacy brand

What do the first 30 minutes of your day look like, your morning routine? I always get up early in the morning, at 7. I do physical activity, have breakfast, and then read the newspapers. I exercise for 30 minutes, four days a week. My routine starts with half an hour of walking outdoors or on the treadmill, followed by some aerobics. Even my breakfast doesn’t change: coffee, toast with honey from my estate in Tuscany, yogurt and fresh fruit with some dried almonds. I go to work by car at my headquarters in Fiesso d’artico, arriving around 8.30. Every day the first thing I do is go through all the outstanding questions with my assistant and my creative team.

The brand debuted the Cleo sandals more than 50 years ago. Was it as predicted it would be such an iconic footwear? More than 50 years have passed since its debut. It was 1973, after a visit to the Archaeological Museum of Naples, seeing a gold bracelet from the 1st century BC. The idea of creating these sandals came to me in the shape of a snake. Since then, it has been exhibited at the MoMA in New York. In all these years it has been renewed but its essence has remained unchanged. So, it became iconic.

What are your main passions in life and does that influence your creative process? The company was born from dreams, and I live to create dreams. My shoes bring me joy, yes, just like that. How can you not rejoice in the face of beauty? Well, I feel the same emotions about my shoes as I do about a work of art. The secret is passion. I never get tired of researching, ideas come to me on their own. Even before, I observed the detail of an ancient door and the inspiration for a new model came to me. And it was precisely in this way that the sandals were born, inspired by the details of Murano chandeliers, the mosaics of the Basilica of San Marco, the lace of ancient Venetian fans, the lace of Burano, portraits of ladies or, again, the Gothic three-light windows of the palaces from Venice.

What do women look for in shoes today and how has that changed over the years? Women have the pleasure of chan-ging. History repeats itself, every 20-30 years. The heel grows, gets shorter,

“Abundance is creating completely handmade couture shoes for decades with unparalleled excellence”
54 emirateswoman.com FASHION
55 emirateswoman.com FASHION
“...it is the cornerstones of style that become even more special because we tend to purchase pieces that have already passed the test of time unscathed, dedicating themselves to iconicity”

then rises again. We just make high heels and low heels, but we make them precious. How do you achieve a deft balance between staying relevant and true to the brand’s DNA?

From the first Rita model to the iconic Cleo sandal, the history of the maison is solidly based on three fundamental values: passion, creativity, excellence. Traditional know-how therefore represents the soul of the company, made up of true artisans, lovers of shoes and women. But artisanal know-how needs to constantly be nourished by new blood and only thanks to constant research and the integration of new technologies can manual art evolve and keep up with the times. From the complementary union between innovation and centuries-old tradition, footwear is born that combines beauty, quality, and the avant-garde. The real strength lies in the young people: on one hand, the kids who have taken their parents’ place in the factory, on the other, the very young people who can afford these shoes. The first are between 35 and 45 years old and are all specialised professionals: from those who follow the style office to the artisans who fix the decorations one by one, it is thanks to them that the generational change was successfully accomplished. On the other hand, the average age of Caovilla’s customers is between 20 and 30 years old, once upon a time it was mothers who wore my shoes, now it’s daughters. What are your favourites from the SS24 collection, and which styles sell out season after season in the Middle East? My favourite model for the season is the new Floriane, which shows all its precious regal charm: transparent lace expertly embroidered with decorations and crystals cover the toe of these tapered shoes. Richness, which tells the story of the company’s heritage: lace, flowers, crystals, embroidery. The Floriane

décolleté encompasses the entire René Caovilla universe and enhances it in a triumph of craftsmanship and refinement.

The model that is always successful in the Middle East is undoubtedly our Chandelier, an expression of the highest glamorous sophistication, the sandal characterised by a series of hand-stitched teardrop crystals that recall Venetian chandeliers.

René Caovilla’s footwear styles are truly unique. How does it feel to be at the forefront of shoe design? I can consider myself sincerely satisfied. On the other hand, in times of change like the ones we are experiencing, in which we are witnessing a progressive crumbling of points of reference, we instinctively navigate in search of safe havens, in fashion as in every other field. And so, it is the cornerstones of style that become even more special because we tend to purchase pieces that have already passed the test of time unscathed, dedicating themselves to iconicity. Your father has definitely made his mark on the world of footwear. Through his philosophy, how has he shaped your point of view on design? Dedication certainly, he made me work under one condition: work for ten hours a day, but you have to arrive early and leave later than anybody else. And there are no Saturdays and Sundays. He tried to fix three principles in my head: passion, spirit of sacrifice, consistency. After the evening schools for the drawing and modeling courses at the Royal Palace of Stra, he sent me to Paris to learn how to draw well, because France was the fashion capital, and to London to learn English, because it was the language of the world of business.

What are the defining moments and milestones for you in your career? When I began my relationship with luxury brands, the first one I met was Valentino Garavani. I was the

one looking for him. I wrote to him: you make dream clothes; I think I have some shoes that could fit them. A relationship was born that lasted 30 years, so much so that Valentino himself chose me as a designer for the accessories of his haute couture line, giving life to cult objects and fetish creations sealed with the Valentino emblem by René Caovilla. Formidable years, marked by an inexhaustible creative energy, by overwhelming friendships, and by the desire to experiment. Subsequently, the collaboration, which lasted several years, also began with another legendary maison, that of Christian Dior, with John Galliano, with whom dreamlike, imaginative creations were created for the Paris catwalk. It was then Chanel’s turn and contact with the stylistic genius of Karl Lagerfeld. The year 2004 marked the inauguration of the first Rene Caovilla flagship store in Milan, which was followed in subsequent years by Paris, Venice, London, Dubai, and Macao. But whether I was in London, Paris, New York, or Tokyo, I always knew who I was, the heir to the historical tradition of great Venetian craftsmanship. There has always been Venice with its wonders in my eyes, in my heart, in my hands.

This is The Abundance Issue – what does it mean to you and how do you cultivate that mindset? Abundance is creating completely handmade couture shoes for decades with unparalleled excellence. Every single shoe is handmade by our artisans in our factory. Whether they are 12 heel pumps or floorlevel ballerinas, padded ankle boots or jewelled sandals doesn’t matter. It is enough to recognise that shoes are not an accessory, but an object with a strong social value that transcends itself, becoming a fetish, symbol, declaration of intent, and, increasingly often, an object of worship.

56 emirateswoman.com FASHION

ABUNDANCE IN

SIMPLICITY

WORDS: CAMILLE MACAWILI

THE LÉONCE JOINS DELVAUX’S RICH ARCHIVE OF EMBLEMATIC CREATIONS FOR SS24. A PURVEYOR OF QUIET LUXURY, THE BELGIAN LABEL REINFORCES A ‘LESS IS MORE’ PHILOSOPHY EXPRESSED THROUGH ITS VINTAGE-INSPIRED SILHOUETTE AND SLENDER STRUCTURE

ALL AVAILABLE AT DELVAUX

Dream Big

65 emirateswoman.com FASHION
WORDS: SARAH JOSEPH
Aisha BinHendi, founder of Dubai-based fine jewellery brand TOi Fine Jewelry discusses carving a niche in her industry

What do the first 30 minutes of your day look like, your morning routine? As a mother, my priority is my family. Motherly duties are a part of my everyday routine and then I get involved in the day-to-day activities of TOi.

What inspired you to launch Toi Fine Jewelry? I wanted to create unique authentic jewellery that speaks for itself and the sparkle signature collection is exactly that. I also wanted to design pieces that can be worn everyday as I believe every day is a celebration. Talk us through your creative process. My creative process begins as soon as I see anything that inspires me.

As soon as I see something that inspires me, I will instantly sketch and that marks the beginning of a TOi creation. TOi was the first Emirati brand to be showcased at the Cannes Film Festival –tell us more. A lot of TOi moments have happened organically. Going to Cannes, for TOi, was more about showcasing our jewelry on a global platform. Once we got there and the coverage came out, we discovered that TOi was the first Emirati brand to showcase in Cannes; and this is what Cannes had in store for TOi. When you think about customisation of a ring or jewellery piece, what gets you excited? At TOi, we only offer customisation in our TOi et MOi collection, where our customisation allows you to celebrate yourself and your loved ones.

What are some of the biggest trends you’re currently seeing in the jewellery industry in the Middle East?As a designer, I do not believe in following trends, rather I create pieces that I believe resonate with me and that I truly love. Anything can inspire me and in turn I create jewellery that comes from the heart.

Many female celebrities on the red carpet have been dressed in your jewellery – name a few. TOi has had the honour of adorning influential women on the red carpet, including notable celebrities whose grace and elegance resonate with the brand’s essence. A few include Sasha Ray, Zara McDermott and Sofia Saidi. What advice would you give to your younger self? Embrace who you are; be authentic don’t try to be like anyone or even compare yourself. Your authenticity makes you stand out. Also, if you want something, just believe in yourself and start. It’s always you versus you, and you can do it.

What lies ahead for the future of the brand? As I always say, Dubai is the world. I have recently showcased in Gstaad and I look forward to seeing where the brand can pop up next. This is The Abundance Issue – how do you focus on an abundance mindset? I believe abundance comes from being grateful for what you already have. The more you appreciate, the more you receive.

66 emirateswoman.com FASHION
IMAGES: SUPPLIED
“I believe abundance comes from being grateful for what you already have.”

What inspired you to launch Ofa? My architecture background mixed with the limited options of designer jewellery back then inspired me to launch my brand. I knew I am capable of doing something great, I didn’t know where to start but eventually figured it out.

You collaborate with Dubai’s best artisans to create handcrafted jewellery – tell us about the key collections. Our Core collection is inspired by the Arabian sword, a symbol of pride and strength. We named it “Etincelle”, it means a spark of a new idea in French. The main idea was for the pieces to look like sparkles and it fit perfectly with what this collection meant to me. “Fouq” is our Saudi dedicated collection, it’s full of beauty, pride, and it’s – in its essence – a show off of our design and craftsmanship. We do drops for different occasions like Valentines, Eid and more.

creative process. Personally I go off of things that means something to me. The process is derived by true love for these meanings and I don’t know any other way to do it.

First, I do what I love, sports, art and more. I make sure I have times where I’m doing nothing, because with feeling good plus doing nothing, I get all my design ideas, hence I design mostly on weekends. I have a sketch pad and sticky notes in every room and every bag – it’s crazy. Whenever I see something I sketch what I see in my head on the nearest pad. After I sketch it all and create a design brief, my team will draw the 3D renders and print models for me to see the final result, before we order the first sample. This stage has a lot of back and forth. But once the wax model looks right, we order a gold sample. You create bespoke pieces – can tell us about the customisation process. When we receive a request through email from clients requesting changes to existing pieces, we provide them with a 3D render and a quote, once approved the process takes around three to six weeks. The highest quality of gemstones and materials are sourced – tell us more. All of our stones are natural and sourced from all around the world. We provide a certificate with all our pieces. And unlike any other brand, our boxes are made out of wood and faux leather. Completely a decorative piece to be used forever, too.

What piece of advice would you give to your younger self? Don’t try to fit in. Be ok with people not liking you for no reason. Listen more than you talk.

How would you best describe the Ofa aesthetic? Elegant and modern. It is very eye catching even though it’s not the biggest, however, it creates impact. We have been copied by many brands on Instagram and we take it as a compliment.

How does Ofa reflect your personal style? It’s directly inspired by my style, as I design what I want to wear. With the bigger pieces I designed what I wanted to buy.

You design every piece from the original sketch to the final result – talk us though the

How do you empower women through your jewellery? Women are powerful already. Her buying her own jewellery from another woman who started her own jewellery brand is a beautiful exchange of women power. What lies ahead for the future of the brand? More of everything. More designs, more points of sales, stronger ties with our clients, and a bigger team. This is The Abundance Issue – how do you focus on an abundance mindset? I operate fully on an abundance mindset in everything I do. I make sure to go out of my way to help if someone is in need. I share my resources and connections with anyone who asks. I don’t gatekeep, because I want to always feel that I’m doing well because I’m high on positive energy, not because of a secret I’m hiding from my circle. I make sure I support entrepreneurs, even those who never supported me, because I know it comes back to me one way or another, even if it’s not through them.

A Different Cut

Hala Abdallah, founder of Saudi-based jewellery brand Ofa, is making waves in the industry
68 emirateswoman.com FASHION
69 emirateswoman.com FASHION IMAGES: SUPPLIED

ABUNDANT VISION

70 emirateswoman.com FASHION
WORDS: RUMAN BAIG

Pioneering Kuwait’s jewellery industry, Duha

AlRamadhan’s trailblazing approach to fine jewellery is an example of leading with creativity, strategy and an abundant vision

71 emirateswoman.com FASHION

What do the first 30 minutes of your day look like? I always start my day by checking my phone (which is an extremely bad habit, I know!). I then have some water, a few dates, put on my workout gear, and I go exercise or run. If I don’t exercise first in the morning, I never get it done.

What inspired you to start Aubade Jewellery? My lifelong passion for jewellery! Some people are obsessed with shoes, others collect bags. For me, it was always jewellery. The fact that jewellery stays on you no matter the time or occasion makes it the most intimate piece a person can own. I love how each piece tells a story and can hold such sentimental value, and that’s why it resonates with me so much. However, I really felt the jewellery options in Kuwait were limited, so I was inspired to start my own business to showcase all of my favourite jewellery brands that were not easily accessible in the region.

“I love how each piece tells a story and can hold such sentimental value”

What strategies have you implemented to cater to the diverse markets in Kuwait and Dubai? Clients in the region are very well-informed and up to date with the fashion world and new releases. They’re also very well-travelled, which means they can confidently shop abroad or online. To ensure we cater to such clients, we must constantly diversify our offering and be up-to-date with the newest brands and trends. We are also always looking for ways to create unique experiences for our clients, whether its hosting trunk shows so they can meet our designers or inviting them to VIP dinners.

How do you stay ahead of trends in the jewellery market, and what recent trends have you observed, particularly in the Middle East? Since jewel-

lery is my passion, I can assure you it’s what I look for and read up on all day! I’m constantly keeping an eye out for new brands and trends because nothing excites me more than stumbling across a jewellery brand I’ve never encountered before. Instagram has honestly been the best channel to stay updated on that front. When it comes to recent trends, bigger is definitely better lately. Clients are going for chunkier chains, colourful enamel, and statement pieces they can stack all year long. What are the differences between the Kuwait and Dubai markets, and how do these differences influence your business strategy? The markets in Kuwait and Dubai couldn’t be more different. While Kuwait is a mostly local community, the highly-touristic Dubai means the clientele is so diverse. With Kuwait, I was and mostly still lead with my heart. As I am part of the same society that shops with us, I have an instinct as to what will and won’t work in the store. With Dubai, I have had to lead with my head, focusing more on numbers, marketing events and activations, and analysing client behaviour to get a better understanding of the market and its needs.

With the launch of your new website and the success of your flagship stores, what are your plans for further expansion, both domestically and internationally? At the moment, the website continues to be my main priority. I hope to grow our reach and expand our presence in the region by having shipping hubs and offices in most of the GCC countries to enable same-day delivery. Beyond that, I hope to do more activations in the region through pop-ups and immersive experiences for our clients to enjoy.

How do you balance your intuition and market research when making business decisions, particularly in regard to product selection and expansion? I started the business purely on intuition! I didn’t even do a feasibility study; I just went with my gut. Now, as the business has grown, my passion and intuition still continue to play a role in my decisions, but I’ve definitely had to lean on market and data analyses as well. Personally, I believe any business should start off with a passion, but passion can only take you so far.

Once you have a steady and stable business that’s ready to grow, numbers and financials definitely need to come into play.

What advice would you give to aspiring female entrepreneurs, especially those looking to enter the jewellery industry or start their own retail business? Passion and determination. Passion is always the driving force behind any business, and then you need to have determination and persistence to keep going, especially as you’ll go through plenty of highs and lows.

What does abundance mean to you? Abundance to me is all about contentment. To be content with what is given to you and to see your life’s blessings as more than you can ever ask for. We all have an abundance in life if only we looked beyond material things and appreciated all the small joys.

72 emirateswoman.com FASHION IMAGES: SUPPLIED
73 emirateswoman.com FASHION

ABSOLUTE

With an abundance of design experiences up his sleeve, FFORME

What do the first 30 minutes of your day look like? I like waking up extra early, before having breakfast and before the 'rest of the world' wakes up. Silence is a strength and a form of concentration. To be in the state between sleeping and waking up makes you dream. It's a combination of starting the day with optimism and clear thinking without being too troubled by reality, it’s a moment for myself.

What are the core DNA pillars that define the brand? A thoughtful approach to timeless clothes, understated yet expressive – with the belief that what you wear is all about letting your

personality and individuality shine through. Exuding a calm sense of assured sensuality celebrating the female shape, through studies in form concentrating on unconventional essentials, wardrobe statement pieces and uniquely crafted underpinnings. A bold and structured femininity driven by real life. A reduced aesthetic, a stripped-down, put-together elegance with a back-to-fabrics mentality where the touchable aspect and the very desirability of wearing and living in such materials are at the forefront, making ease a second nature. Carrying a curatorial and curious eye finding visual rhymes and resonance which reflects today's cultural diversity across all generations of women, allowing them to find an elegant proportion working in harmony with their body.

How do you balance the creative demands and the commercial rigor of the fashion business? Creativity is about desire and intuition. Intuition is the avant-garde within us, we put the women who wear our clothes at the center of our thinking and this way we try to find answers to their needs.

76 emirateswoman.com FASHION
IMAGES: SUPPLIED; FFORME IS AVAILABLE AT NET-A-PORTER.COM

Creative Director Paul Helbers stays true to form as

he continues to build on the emerging brand’s sartorial foundations

From your past experiences at Maison Margiela and Louis Vuitton, how did that lead to the start of FFORME? The more you make and produce ideas, the more you find your own voice. Having had the privilege to work with artisans and skilled teams has been an incredibly rich experience shaping my vision, finding myself and it has contributed to formulate FFORME.

What is most important to you when starting a new collection? To find beauty and strength through simplicity.

Who is the FFORME woman? A woman who recognises the importance of self-expression, inspiring other women and the moves they make. Now that FFORME has grown into a major emerging brand, how do you maintain an independent attitude? We are too busy building the brand and working from a unique perspective which is sculpting the clothes directly on the body. Our focus is very much introspective and experimental,

it reinforces our goals, but it also keeps us curious. We consider our collections as a body of work; it grows and it’s about building a library of shapes over time. The exchange with our clients enriches this process and delivers back to the client what we have learnt. The wardrobe we create is characterised by discipline and restraint and the flexibility of modularity. Within this lies our outcome, regardless of how the outside world looks at us. How do you create and maintain authenticity for yourself? Authenticity means for me knowing what your principles are and staying true to them, it’s about a longer vision. We are a forward-thinking design company devoted to those who are cultured, discerning and expressive. We focus on clothing designed to celebrate ease and movement, driven by obsessive details, couture techniques and sculptural forms. We create a product with longevity. We will remain faithful to our craft, our planet and our women.

77 emirateswoman.com FASHION

WORDS: AMY SESSIONS

XE
LU
LAYERING

Alanoud Al Turki showcases pieces from the exquisite and culturally inspired Serti sur Vide, Antifer, and Blast collections curated for Ramadan by REPOSSI

83 emirateswoman.com FASHION ALL AVAILABLE AT REPOSSI

ETHEREAL ELEGANCE

Exploring Cartier’s High Jewellery Collection: A journey of creativity and responsibility

WORDS: RUMAN BAIG

84 emirateswoman.com FASHION

Step into the world of Cartier's High Jewellery Collection: Le voyage Recommencé, where each piece is a testament to the maison’s relentless pursuit of beauty and innovation. From the depths of the sea to the lush landscapes of nature, Cartier’s artisans and designers embark on a perpetual journey of exploration and creation. But beyond exquisite craftsmanship lies a commitment to responsibility and sustainability, as Cartier leads the charge towards a more ethical and inclusive industry.

YFALOS NECKLACE:

The Enchantment of the Sea Cartier’s Yfalos Necklace invites us to dive into the ocean’s depths, where the azure blue of turquoise meets the warmth of coral and the allure of emeralds. This masterpiece evokes the mysteries of the sea with its rare and precious materials, weaving a narrative that transcends mere adornment.

PANTHÈRE CONFIANTE NECKLACE:

A Vibrant Tribute to Tradition

In a vibrant ode to tradition, Cartier’s Panthère Confiant Necklace breathes new life into the iconic panther motif. With meticulous attention to detail, the designers have crafted a symphony of colours and textures, paying homage to the maison’s rich heritage while embracing modern sensibilities.

PILEO RING:

A Captivating Dance of Light

The Pileo Ring’s design is inspired by the intricate patterns of a sea urchin. A testa-

ment to Cartier’s mastery of form and texture, this ring dazzles with its play of light and shadow, embodying the eternal beauty of the ocean’s depths.

SPINA NECKLACE:

A Symphony of Geometry

Cartier’s Spina Necklace is all about the interplay of lines and shapes, evoking the dynamic energy of a breaking wave. From dazzling diamonds to vibrant sapphires, this piece showcases the maison’s unwavering commitment to precision and balance.

Beyond the realm of creativity lies Cartier’s steadfast commitment to responsibility and sustainability. Through initiatives like the Coloured Gemstones Working Group and the Responsible Jewellery Council, Cartier is leading the charge towards a more ethical and inclusive industry, ensuring that beauty is not just skin deep, but rooted in integrity and compassion.

85 emirateswoman.com FASHION IMAGES: SUPPLIED

IMPACT

Shahd AlShehail, founder of Abadia, on the responsibility of building an ethical luxury brand and representing Saudi Arabia on a global stage

knew there had to be a better way, a way that we could create while respecting people and the environment.

What do the first 30 minutes of your day look like, your morning routine? My day always starts early, usually around 5.30 or 6am.

Those first 30 minutes are sacred family time for me, I spend this time with my family and my two kids. Despite the temptation to check work emails or engage in social media, I consciously resist, focusing on being fully present and setting a positive tone for the day ahead.

How has your background in business and global development shaped your approach to building an ethical luxury brand? In 2013, I was a Global Fellow with Acumen, a nonprofit focused on changing the way the world tackles poverty, as part of my fellowship I was sent to India for a year to work on one of their projects. That same year Rana Plaza, a garment factory in Dhaka, Bangladesh collapsed, killing more than 1,100 people. It was a rude awakening; here I was leaving everything behind to do my part in alleviating poverty and bringing dignity to people where something like the shirt on my back could be causing poverty or death somewhere else in the world. It didn’t make sense. It felt hypocritical. From there, I started researching the fashion industry deeply, learning about the realities of fashion supply chains and how broken the system is, from child labour to the terrible environmental practices. I

Can you elaborate on the significance of incorporating local artisans into the crafting process of Abadia? At Abadia we recognise that traditional crafts are intrinsically linked to culture, and we value the knowledge and stories of the artisans that practice them. Our mission is to preserve this craftsmanship and to generate sustainable income for the artisans, so they are more likely to pass their skills on to the next generation. We work closely with artisan groups, developing and incorporating handmade pieces into our ethically made, timeless designs.

You focus on sustainability and ethical practices. How do you navigate balancing these with the fast pace of the fashion industry?As a luxury brand that is committed to being ethically run, it is important to us that in making decisions – big or small, we are guided by our core values and be transparent in how we do it. While we are not perfect, we do our best to continuously improve and be honest and grounded in our approach. We think about our entire cycle from material choices to how the item is made, to our inventory and waste management.

How do you balance localisation with global relevance as a brand? From the start, our goal has been to put fashion and craftsmanship from the Arabian Peninsula on the global map. We believe we have a unique point of view that can appeal to women worldwide. We always have the global woman in mind; a multidimensional woman whose fashion choices echo her personal values and lifestyle. She is one who seeks out unique pieces, who cares about the impact of her decisions on people and the environment, and who takes pride in her personal and cultural stories. This is what drives our design process and I think is what makes Abadia unique.

Can you share more about the inspiration behind Abadia’s traditional-yet-modern designs and the collaborations which have evolved? Our iconic product, the farwa, is a perfect example of connecting our past and present Saudi identities. The farwa is an oversized floor length coat traditionally worn by men to survive the cold desert winters. Often made with dark-colored wool, and lined with sheepskin, it’s a winter staple for bedouin men. At Abadia we’ve reimagined the Farwa from a menswear garment to a contemporary luxury coat for the modern woman. Each design incorporates traditional handcrafted details created by highly skilled Saudi artisans but the silhouette, the luxury fabrics and the sustainability ethos are very contemporary.

Being featured in events like Paris Fashion Week and worn by influential figures like Queen Rania Al Abdullah elevates our brand’s visibility and credibility, showcasing the richness of Saudi design and craftsmanship to a global audience. These opportunities not only validate our mission but also serve as powerful platforms to advocate for cultural representation and celebrate the talent within Saudi Arabia’s fashion industry.

We are also honoured and excited to be on NET-A-PORTER. It’s an exciting opportunity for us to showcase Abadia’s unique designs to the world and highlight the creativity and innovation of Saudi fashion. We can’t wait to share our vision and style with a broader international audience. What are your goals for growth? We strive to make a positive impact on the fashion industry by promoting ethical practices, and to reach a diverse audience worldwide, showcasing the richness of Saudi design and craftsmanship. We strive to foster cultural exchange, inspire creativity, and contribute to a more inclusive and interconnected global community through our brand.

“Each design incorporates traditional handcrafted details created by highly skilled Saudi artisans but the silhouette, the luxury fabrics and the sustainability ethos are very contemporary”
88 emirateswoman.com FASHION

A VISUAL FEAST

Judith Leiber Couture collaborated with Mott 32 Dubai to showcase its curated Year of the Dragon collection that brims with an abundance of embellishments and auspicious symbolisms. Here, EVP and Chief Creative Officer, Jana Matherson, talks about this fashion-culinary crossover, creativity and crafting lasting fashion memories

90 emirateswoman.com FASHION

What do the first 30 minutes of your day look like, your morning routine?

My first 30 minutes of the day include a cup of coffee while listening to the news and reading: Emails, Slack, WhatsApp, and texts and if there’s time, an Instagram scroll. What are the defining DNA pillars of the brand and what inspired it?

Whimsical evening couture.

Mott 32 Dubai echoes the elegant design of Judith Leiber Couture. Was this an organic partnership from the outset? Mott 32 was the perfect location to celebrate the Lunar New Yearocusing on our Year of the Dragon capsule collection. The elegant ambience, sparkling view, and incredible food were the perfect pairing for the handbags.

Guests dining at Mott 32 can explore an edit of bejewelled accessories and further explore the collection via QR codes. Can you expand on this experience? We have a few Asianinspired archival pieces available to view in the dining room. The menu also includes several exclusive dishes inspired by the collection.

What are the key styles in the Year of the Dragon 2024 collection and do you see buying patterns within the Middle East in terms of sales?

The Year of the Dragon 2024 collection highlights key styles with dragon motifs, auspicious symbols, and vibrant colours, showcasing the significance of the dragon in Chinese culture through luxurious materials and intricate craftsmanship.

Regarding buying patterns in the Middle East, Judith Leiber Couture bags attract consumers seeking opulence, sophistication, and exclusivity. With their intricate designs and high-quality materials, they align perfectly with the preferences of Middle Eastern shoppers who truly value elegance and prestige. You see the fun in fashion. Do you believe that luxury and playfulness can co-exist in a brand? Judith Leiber bags are both art and fashion. Luxury and humour are not two separate concepts. It seems to me that luxury should never be about taking yourself too seriously. In fact, perhaps one of life’s greatest luxuries is having a good laugh with friends or family, right? Art, fashion, and even interiors may be suffused with luxury, but the greatest pleasure is when they invoke a thought, sur-

prise you, or even bring a smile or a sense of delight to your lips. When I have an idea for a new bag that makes me laugh, I know it will be a hit.

Who is the woman you create for and how do you evolve the Judith Leiber woman while keeping true to the brand’s DNA? We have a diverse range of clients. We are a global brand, and our consumers are citizens of the world, many of whom are very savvy collectors. There is not a specific, easily defined profile for a Judith Leiber collector. It is often someone who is fearless, whimsical, and loves surrounding themselves with wild and wonderful things. Whether they collect fashion, art, furniture, or couture handbags, a sense of humor is a must. How do you balance the creative and commercial sides of the business, and do you feel more drawn to one than the other? Creativity always wins; products need to be fresh and innovative; each style needs to stand alone; and most of all, they need to spark joy. Merchandising falls into place with our strong baseline of classics as the collection is built each season. We always offer a range of price points and shapes for collectors.

How would you style evening bags to be worn during the day? Day-nightstyle combos. Combining a traditionally dressy item with sweats and sneakers is the ultimate fun surprise. I also love the mix of textures with crystal, denim, and boucle blazers. Finding the unexpected in a simple outfit is what can make it look great. You have a strong band of celebrity fans. Why do you think this is and how did you cultivate it? Our celebrity fanbase is a testament to the allure and reputation of our brand in crafting unforgettable fashion moments. Our glamorous evening bags and crystal minaudieres effortlessly captivate celebrities, VIPs, and beyond, ensuring appeal among elite clientele at prestigious events like the Met Gala. Through our presence in high-profile settings and association with influential figures, we’ve deepened our connection with those who appreciate our style. Our unwavering commitment to impeccable craftsmanship, iconic designs, and strategic collaborations solidifies our position as their preferred choice for leaving a lasting impression.

91 emirateswoman.com FASHION

Hot New Buys

The latest beauty products worth adding to your routine

Neroli Notes

Musky notes of ambrette with Celine’s haute musky parfumerie notes. Eau De Cologne Dhs1,129 Celine

FRAGRANT LOCKS

This delicate perfume infused with cardamom oil refreshes the hair with the signature Balmain scent. Cardamom 1974 Hair Perfume Dhs700 Balmain Hair

CHEEK ENHANCER

The perfect dew-finish multi-use lip and cheek balm with a reddishbrown tint. The Blushy Lip & Cheek Tint Dhs141 Chapman & Beauty Pie

92 BEAUTY emirateswoman.com
IMAGES: SUPPLIED

Ultra-Rich Formula

Beyonce’s hair repair in a jar reduces damage with its Bioactive Keratin Ferment to improve texture. Moisturizing Deep Conditioner Dhs142 Cécred

A BOLD POUT

Imparting a sophisticated matte finish that doesn’t leave lips feeling dry. Monochrome Hyper Matte Lipstick Dhs164 Prada Beauty

CREAMY BASE

Natural Sculpting

The unique, curved, comb-like applicator targets each lash to separate and lengthen, creating a high-impact finish without clumps. Lash Sculpt Dhs96 Refy

A buildable cream-to-powder shadow for a soft wash of colour. Solo Shadow Matte Eye Colour Dhs88 Merit

PURE RETINOL

This skin-perfecting serum delivers facial-grade actives diminishing bumps with each application. The Body Retinol, 150ml Dhs245 Nécessaire

93 BEAUTY emirateswoman.com

A PERFUMER’S DREAM

Jacques Cavallier Belletrud, Louis Vuitton’s Master Perfumer has created a perfumer’s dream using the finest quality ingredients

The Pure Perfumes were born of a perfumer’s dream: “I wanted to share the most beautiful raw materials in my palette, in their purest form,” says Jacques Cavallier Belletrud. With oud, sandalwood and amber, Louis Vuitton’s Master Perfumer realised a genuine compositional feat, capturing three of nature’s treasures in all their unadulterated beauty. Three emblematic perfumery ingredients, intrinsically linked to the history of humanity, that have journeyed through eras and cultures since the dawn of time. Three raw materials steeped in magic, seduction, and mystery make a statement in their own right through these virtuoso fragrances.

With The Pure Perfumes, Jacques Cavallier Belletrud pays homage to an emblematic tradition in the Middle East: layering. “I’m fascinated by that ritual because it lets everyone create their own olfactory universe and wear a fragrance trail that is theirs alone,” the Master Perfumer observes. Now adopted by perfume lovers around the world, layering resonates deeply with the DNA of a maison that, since its founding, has offered its clients the possibility of personalising creations. Now, with The Pure Perfumes, Louis Vuitton offers them a dedicated gesture of absolute delicacy. The ultimate expression of a fragrance trail: uniqueness.

The incomparable The Pure Perfumes collection expresses the quintessence of three legendary perfumery ingredients in highly concentrated fragrances. “The greatest raw materials are perfumes unto themselves. They are concentrates of emotion in which you can immerse yourself with delight, because you’ll always discover an aspect you didn’t realise existed,” notes Jacques Cavallier Belletrud. That richness is precisely what he set out to reveal in three highly concentrated compositions that give each ingredient pride of place.

Oud, amber, sandalwood: imbued with spirituality, these three ingredients are endowed with a timeless beauty. Universal: they are nature’s treasures, of which The Pure Perfumes offer an unprecedented expression. Spun from exceptional essences, they create an olfactory experience of rare intensity, that goes right to the heart of the matter. They promise a unique trail, with scents of extraordinary quality and nobility. A dream come true for perfume lovers everywhere.

PUR AMBRE

Ambergris has fascinated and enchanted mankind forever. The origins of this legendary raw material brimming with adventure and mystery have long been uncertain: whence come these blocks sometimes found washed ashore, resembling light stones yet redolent of a rising, incense-like odour that is both wonderfully sensual and reputedly aphrodisiac? In reality, ambergris is a material naturally released by sperm whales, that drifts in the sun for many months before reaching land. Carried by the waves, it develops its unique animal, honeyed, and slightly iodised scent over time.

A traveller par excellence, amber dictates its own rhythm and destination: one doesn’t go to it, it comes to us. The small quantities available explain why it is one of the rarest and most expensive raw materials in the world. Essential to the Louis Vuitton fragrance palette, it mingles with Ambroxan, a molecule synthesised from clary sage since the 20th century –which became known as “vegetal amber” because it shares the

94 emirateswoman.com BEAUTY

velvetiness and sensuality of ambergris. A loving homage to the eternal fascination for these ingredients, Pur Ambre weaves an infusion of natural ambergris with the woody, musky vibrancy of Ambroxan.

“I wanted to recreate this delightful scent, which literally transcends perfumes to radiate sensuality and unparalleled sophistication,” says Jacques Cavallier Belletrud, who entwined their intimate, understated scents in a composition poised between tradition and modernity. Worked in an exceptional 40 per cent concentration, its pared-down formula reveals raw amber while bringing it intense radiance and immediate seduction. On the skin, amber makes its presence known with a surge of crystalline, almost sparkling freshness, then gradually ebbs to reveal the complexity of its scent. A profound note shimmers with luminous, animalic, woody and iodised facets. This subtle, virtuoso fragrance recaptures the greatest mystery of ambergris: its almost magical ability to live on the skin, imparting the absolute sensuality of its scent in successive waves.

PUR SANTAL

Used in religious rites across cultures, sandalwood is one of humankind’s oldest commodities. Burned in prehistoric times and used in ancient Egypt for embalming, this wood combines medicinal and sacred properties with exceptional olfactory qualities; its velvety, woody scent knows no borders, reveals itself as both powerful and delicate, and at times evokes the smell of the skin itself. A part of humankind’s most time-honoured heritage, this scent is one that Jacques Cavallier Belletrud loves for its incomparable sophistication. For Louis Vuitton fragrances, he sourced an essence of santal album from a Sri Lankan grower committed to fighting deforestation. Produced from sustainable crops, this essence respects the lifecycle of sandalwood, which requires a minimum of 25 years before it can be harvested and distilled. Already present in some of the maison’s fragrances, this exceptional ingredient brings forth the powerful sweetness that is sandalwood’s distinctive hallmark. A star ingredient in perfumers’ palettes, sandalwood exudes a white, creamy, enveloping woody note, capable of giving any composition depth, sophistication and hold, yet without necessarily standing out. “It’s a wood that’s powerful yet calm, that knows how to enhance other ingredients, but which is not always recognised. I wanted to offer it a showcase to reveal its majestic personality,” says Jacques Cavallier Belletrud. To elevate it and make it perceptible from the outset, Louis Vuitton’s Master Perfumer combined sandalwood with Hedione and Ambrettolide, two ethereal floral and musky notes with exceptional diffusive qualities. Plucked from the other end of the olfactory spectrum, these luminous ingredients oxygenate the wood, “lifting” it and lending it their unrivalled power of projection. Thanks to their radiant, galvanising presence, sandalwood reveals its incomparable elegance of character.

a certain strain of fungus — which only affects one per cent of trees. The wood then turns from white to black, producing a resin-like substance with a fragrance of exceptional depth. In addition to its rarity, oud is the result of a very long process, requiring at least 30 years from planting to harvesting. Veritable “black gold”, its most beautiful essences are reserved to a lucky few... For Louis Vuitton fragrances, Jacques Cavallier Belletrud sourced an extraordinary essence of Assam oud. For centuries, this essence has been cultivated by a family of growers in Bangladesh, who are now exclusive suppliers to the maison. Through a long-term reciprocal commitment, the family reserves for Louis Vuitton the entire yield of an essence whose extraordinary olfactory qualities are the result of ethical practices that respect nature and people, yesterday’s traditions, and the world of tomorrow.

“I wanted to share the most beautiful raw materials in my palette, in their purest form”

To exalt this exceptional ingredient’s raw beauty, Jacques Cavallier Belletrud orchestrated an almost paradoxical encounter between the dark character of oud – concentrated in an outsized proportion of 10 per cent of the formula - and the luminous softness of two so-called “white” musks: Helvetolide, with its caressing, slightly fruity notes, and Ambrettolide, with its plush, cottony effects. A concise formula, pared to the essentials: “Three ingredients, that’s it,” summarises the Master Perfumer. Seemingly melted within an enveloping, textured cocoon that unobtrusively bolsters it, oud exhales powerful woody notes as deep as eternity. It unfurls all the richness of its animalic undertones. The mysterious seduction of amber scents tinged with spicy accents. Shimmering in all its nuances, oud evokes a diamond sublimated by perfect light. It reveals absolute beauty that stands on its own.

AN INVITATION TO FREEDOM

Through their perfect simplicity, The Pure Perfumes beckon creativity and freedom. Applied as the final touch in a perfuming ritual, they enhance an olfactory facet already present in one of the maison’s fragrances, or add a new one, without risk of a false note. “I wanted those who wish to layer to be able to accentuate certain effects of their perfumes, with as much certainty as possible,” explains Jacques Cavallier Belletrud. For example, the Master Perfumer recommends combining Pur Santal with Imagination, to which it brings a new woody facet, or with Attrape-Rêves to amplify the fluidity of its trail and its hold. Pur Oud marries particularly well with Ombre Nomade, whose woody depth it intensifies, or with Matière Noire, Nouveau Monde and Orage. Pur Ambre amplifies the amber facet of Imagination, takes L’Immensité to incredible new heights, and raises the vibration of Les Sables Roses. But, as Jacques Cavallier Belletrud points out, it’s up to each wearer to find the combinations that work best: “There are no absolute rules to layering. It’s a very personal practice: you must listen to your feelings, experiment, and accept that the occasional mistake is part of the process. But once you’ve got it, it’s yours forever.”

PUR OUD

Said to be the scent of paradise. Derived from the Arabic al-oud, meaning wood, oud is an absolute ingredient. A raw material with a scent so deep, so faceted, that it seems to contain all the others. A treasure of nature that in many cultures connects mankind to the divine – past and present. Oud essential oil is distilled from the wood of the Aquilaria species of tropical tree after it has been infested by

THE PURITY OF A MADE-TO-MEASURE FLACON

The Pure Perfumes are presented in the emblematic Louis Vuitton perfume bottle, now reworked in opaque black for the occasion. Dense and profound, this unprecedented shade accentuates the flacon’s perfectly pure lines, achieved through hand-polishing to erase any imperfections. A vessel of rare purity, born of excellence in glassmaking techniques.

97 emirateswoman.com BEAUTY
IMAGES: SUPPLIED
98 emirateswoman.com BEAUTY

AN ODE TO NATURE

French niche brand, L’Artisan Parfumeur, is a fragrance oasis abundant with botanical-inspired scents. General Manager Reyes Lezcano takes us on the brand’s olfactory journey – from its early beginnings to recipe development

What are the DNA pillars that define the L’Artisan Parfumeur as a brand? Founded in 1976 by Jean Laporte, a visionary ahead of his time, he established one of the very first niche perfume brands. His innovative creative approach was based on freedom, a deep passion for exquisite raw materials and ingredients, and a fascination with craftsmanship. Since we’ve taken the responsibility, we aim to pay tribute to his spirit and vision. We’ve returned to the fundamentals: working hand in hand with the perfumer, in a wholly organic way, respecting olfactory creation, and pursuing thoroughness in our ideas.

L’Artisan Parfumeur is a brand committed to celebrating various artisanal professions: the perfumer’s craft, as well as that of the artisans, architects, and artists. Every form of craftsmanship has a place with us. Ultimately, it’s this heritage and innovative character that we aim to perpetuate through our creations at L’Artisan Parfumeur. What goes into the creation of a new fragrance – does it start with a story or from a material? Our creative process with perfumers is organic and natural, allowing each project to evolve naturally. This approach results in some projects, like À fleur de Pêche, coming to fruition quickly due to the spontaneous emergence of ideas. On the other hand, some projects require a more extended exploration of notes, as was the case with the Potager collection. This was our first time emphasising these particular olfactory signature notes so strongly in a perfume. We don’t adhere to a systematic method but prefer a more or-

ganic and unstructured approach, respecting the perfumer’s choices and the natural progression of the creative process.

Is there a common fragrant thread that connects all the scents at L’Artisan Parfumeur?

The house values time, the human touch, and know-how. We seek to bring together fragrance expertise in all areas of the creative process, and work with the best noses, and with the highest quality ingredients in a way that remains close in spirit to this centuries old craft. Our perfumers have carte blanche to express their own vision of nature and its evocative scents. This makes the

“Our perfumers have carte blanche to express their own vision of nature and its evocative scent”

brand singularly experimental and creative, inventing new accords and taking a novel spin to familiar riffs.

Why and how did the brand decide to open a boutique in the UAE? Attentive and receptive to his surroundings, Jean Laporte, our founder, was enriched by all the experiences

he had during his many journeys on the perfume routes, which, of course, includes the Middle East. Today, we share with Jean Laporte the same love for these fragrant sunsoaked regions. The UAE has become an essential destination for perfume connoisseurs and enthusiasts, a fact that aligns perfectly with our brand’s proposition. We feel a strong connection with customers who value quality ingredients, exquisite raw materials, and fine craftsmanship. This shared appreciation undoubtedly strengthens the bond between L’Artisan Parfumeur and the UAE. Which scents are driving sales in the Middle East? We have a global bestseller that not only is performing well in the Middle East, but also worldwide: Abyssae. This fragrance takes you to the depths of an unseen underwater realm. It belongs to our La Botanique collection, a collection that is about fantasised nature that awakens in the night. Another performing collection in the Middle East is Les Merveilles, which pays tribute to the traditions and cultural heritage of the Orient.

What are your top tips in finding a signature scent? In our boutique, we are proud to have a team of highly skilled professionals who are not just experts, but connoisseurs in the realm of perfumes. Their profound knowledge and understanding of fragrances is unparalleled. They specialise in guiding customers on a sensory journey to discover their unique signature scent. We cordially invite everyone to experience this personalised fragrance consultation at our boutique located in Dubai Mall.

99 emirateswoman.com BEAUTY
IMAGE: SUPPLIED

A Magnet for Abundance

We discuss the feeling of something that is not available to us and how we move from this to an abundant mindset with RTT founder Marisa Peer

What is an abundant mindset to you and how do you cultivate it personally? Having an abundant mindset really is the needed ingredient for true success and fulfillment. It’s about believing deep down that everything we want is available to us, and that there’s more than enough of it – whether it’s money, love, or opportunities.

One way to get into this mindset is by embracing gratitude. A great way to do this is to start a gratitude journal. Take some time each day to jot down five things you’re grateful for. It doesn’t have to be big things – sometimes it’s the small things that mean just as much to us and fill our hearts with joy. Affirmations are another powerful tool to grow that abundance mindset. Repeat positive statements daily such as ‘I am more than enough’, ‘Everything I want is available to me’, ‘I attract abundance effortlessly’. Write them down and put them in a place where you will see them and don’t just state them out loud, but affirm and embody them in front of a mirror to embed them in your mind. If you want to attract more abundance into your life, you also need to get crystal clear on what abundance means to you – is it more time, love, money, health, success – or maybe all of them? Close your eyes and picture yourself living your life of abundance in vivid detail because this gives your mind focus and helps to bring this vision into your reality. Abundance isn’t just about receiving, it’s about giving too. So be generous with your time, your resources, and your support because the more you give, the more comes back to you. It’s the Law of Attraction in action! Of course, life will always throw you curveballs, but in challenging times, focus on finding solutions instead of getting bogged down by the detail and problems and instead see these times as opportunities for growth. Is this mindset like a muscle which gets stronger with practise? Absolutely! Think of an abundant mindset like a muscle you can

strengthen through practise – the more you exercise it, the stronger and more resilient it becomes. Your mind learns by repetition, so set yourself daily practises that will build this abundance mindset over time and rewire it for success.

Just like hitting the gym regularly builds your physical strength, consistently practising gratitude, positive affirmations, and visualisation exercises strengthen your mental muscle of abundance – reinforcing the belief that abundance is not only possible and available to you but is also inevitable. Then take a step back and watch as more opportunities flow into your life!

‘Something is not available to me’ is one of the three key issues people have – how does this show up in their lives? Many of my clients come to me with amazing ideas, drive and determination, but for some reason they feel stuck or are struggling to take their careers or relationships to the next level.

When we investigate the root cause of what is holding them within a Rapid Transformational Therapy (RTT) session, many have this ingrained belief, often formed in childhood, that somehow success, happiness or love is simply not available to them.

This belief then manifests in their lives in different ways –from career and business to relationships and love – and usually ends up with them holding themselves back, missing out on life-changing opportunities, being scared to take risks, and never reaching their full potential. For instance, in relationships, someone holding onto this belief may struggle to find love or maintain fulfilling connections because they believe that true love or genuine connections are not available to them, resulting in self-sabotage, fear of vulnerability, or settling for less than they deserve. Similarly, in career or business, people with this belief may hold themselves back from pursuing their dreams or taking risks be-

100 emirateswoman.com WELLNESS
IMAGE: SUPPLIED

cause they feel that success or abundance is not within their reach, so they shy away from opportunities for growth and limit their potential for achievement. What is often the root cause of feeling something is not available to us and how can we change this with RTT? The feeling that something isn’t available to us is closely linked to the beliefs we carry about ourselves and the world, which are often formed in childhood and can make us think we’re not good enough, capable enough, worthy enough, or that opportunities are scarce. This is where RTT is so effective, as it goes deep into the subconscious mind to uncover where these beliefs came from, giving us the power to challenge and change the script and rewire the mind with more empowering beliefs which will help you to move forward.

In an RTT session we acknowledge and reframe negative beliefs and code in more positive constructive beliefs so that thoughts like “I’m not good enough” or “I’ll never make it” become “I am worthy and deserving of everything I want from life” and “Success comes naturally to me”. With this fresh mindset, we open ourselves up to a world bursting with possibilities and opportunities, where everything we desire is within our reach, and we know we are worthy and deserving of it all. Is it possible that feeling that something is not available to us can affect one area of a person’s life while in others it does not? It’s possible for the belief that something isn’t available to us to affect just one part of our lives because our subconscious is like a rich tapestry woven from our past experiences and beliefs. Some beliefs are deeply rooted in certain areas, while others are more flexible.

For instance, someone might feel confident and successful in their career, believing opportunities are abundant and success is within their reach, but when it comes to relationships, they struggle with feelings of worthiness, or a belief that true love is not available to them. Society and culture also shape our beliefs. Take money, for example. Many clients I work with grew up hearing negative stories and statements about money such as “money is a dirty word”, “filthy rich” or “money doesn’t grow on trees” and these beliefs can then make them feel guilty for wanting wealth, distancing themselves from it and feeling that it shouldn’t be available to them.

The key is to identify these beliefs and address them at their core. That’s where Rapid Transformational Therapy (RTT) is so effective, as it helps uncover and reframe these limiting beliefs, allowing us to instill better, more constructive beliefs which allow us to move forward and experience abundance and fulfillment in all areas of life. Do you have a particular case which stands out to you as an example of this? One of my clients recalled her father always saying people like us don’t have money, good people have to go without and rich people have sold their soul to the devil. He told her all the time that she should never have more than the poorest person, so at Christmas and at birthdays she would get very little. As an adult she became seriously ill and my husband, myself and friends fundraised to get money for the treatment she needed. I was so surprised when she said “I want someone more deserving than me to have this money”. There was no one more deserving than her, but she found it very hard to receive as all of her life that had been denied to her. She had lived all her life without abundance until she believed it, it would never be available to her. Once I had her look at this, she was finally able to let this go for good and get fully involved in recovering from her illness, while allowing others to pay for it because they loved her.

How can we focus on cultivating an abundant mindset amid a crisis or at a time when we do not feel our best? Focusing on nurturing an abundant mindset, especially during tough times or when we’re feeling low, is super important because our mindset can really make a difference in how

we handle challenges and bounce back from them. As I’ve mentioned, practising gratitude is key. Even when things seem bleak, there’s always something to be thankful for. Take a moment each day to count your blessings, no matter how small. Gratitude has this amazing ability to shift our perspective and remind us of all of the good things we have in our lives, even in hard times. What really helps me is to imagine if my problem could be someone else’s fantasy dream come true e.g. a baby who won’t sleep, a demanding job etc. When we’re feeling down, it’s easy for that little inner critic to take over and start chirping away with negative thoughts. But try to catch those thoughts and replace them with positive affirmations.

Remind yourself of your abundance and strength – and remember that the only thing any one of us actually has any control over, is our own thoughts – so take charge and change them to work with you instead of against you. Take some time to visualise yourself overcoming challenges and thriving. Picture yourself living a life full of abundance and success, and learn from any bumps in the road along the way.

And lastly, be kind to yourself. Cultivating an abundant mindset isn’t something that happens overnight, especially when times are tough. Give yourself space to just be and acknowledge your progress. You’re capable of more than you realise, so make sure you celebrate your victories and resilience along the way.

This is The Abundance Issue – what is valuable to have in abundance and what is valuable to give in abundance? Love is one of the most precious things we can have in abundance. Love for ourselves, love for others, and love for the world around us. When we have an abundance of love in our hearts, we radiate positivity and attract more love into our lives. Having an abundance of gratitude is like having a superpower. When we’re grateful for what we have, we attract more blessings into our lives. Gratitude opens the door to abundance and allows us to see the beauty in every moment.

Let’s not forget about kindness – an abundance of kindness in our hearts can truly change the world. When we’re kind to others, we create ripples of positivity that spread far and wide. Much needed in a world where we are bombarded with bad news, crises, fear and negativity. Generosity is one of the most beautiful things we can give in abundance. Whether it’s our time, resources, or love, giving generously to others not only enriches their lives, but also fills our own hearts with joy. Empathy is another invaluable gift to give in abundance. When we have empathy for others, we create deep connections and foster understanding and compassion in the world.

Finally, let’s not forget about encouragement. Giving encouragement in abundance can lift others up and help them realise their full potential. So, remember to give love, gratitude, kindness, generosity, empathy, and encouragement in abundance, and watch as your life and the lives of those around you are transformed in the most beautiful ways.

101 emirateswoman.com WELLNESS

HIGH VALUE

102 emirateswoman.com BEAUTY
111SKIN X AMAN AND SUPPLIED
IMAGES:
The best of abundant beauty

WORDS & STYLING: AMY SESSIONS

103 emirateswoman.com BEAUTY
Above: Eau de ParfumBlack Orchid Gold, 100ml Dhs768 Tom Ford Beauty; Diamond Cocoon Enzyme Cleanser, 100ml Dhs 330 Natura Bissé; Right: Nano Gold Energizing Face Cream, 50ml Dhs1,606 Chantecaille Above: Gold Lust Repair & Restore Conditioner, 200ml Dhs222 ORIBE Left: Rose Gold Illuminating Eye Mask x 8 Dhs330 111SKIN Right: Re-Nutriv Ultimate Diamond Transformative Energy Eye Creme, 15ml Dhs1,025 Estée Lauder; 24 Karat Gold Firming Moisturizer, 50ml Dhs1,136 Chantecaille; Rose Gold Brightening Facial Treatment Mask, 5 x 30ml Dhs 392 111SKIN
104 emirateswoman.com BEAUTY IMAGE: SUPPLIED

Core Strength

How fitness instructor Courtney Black is revamping the fitness industry with her own personal journey

What do the first 30 minutes of your day look like, your morning routine? I wake up super early, some mornings before 5am. I love waking up before anyone else has started their day and making the most of my mornings. I find such calm in knowing I can get my workouts filmed, have a coffee, plan my day ahead and not have any interruptions. How did you get into personal training? I first went on my personal training course to learn how to lose more weight. This was at the height of my eating disorder. I struggled in my relationship with food for many years and used fitness as punishment. Under-nourishing my body and constantly seeing fitness as a way to out work any food I had ate. I lost so much of my spark, my personality, and my joy for life. I knew I needed to make a change and when I started to study fitness and nutrition, I realised just how little I knew. I wanted to be the best version of myself and help women become the best version of themselves too. What makes your programme different to all the ones out there? I focus on getting fit and feeling your best. Feeling happy and healthy with me by your side every step of the way.

I focus on the personal approach to fitness and my app allows me to train in real time with my subscribers and makes one-toone personal training more affordable and easily accessible with my workouts being focused on home workouts making working out easily accessible and sustainable for the busy working woman, the mothers, the people who have gym anxiety and people who simply do not want to pay for a gym membership. I change people’s lives not only by the way they look but also by the way they feel. They love fitness and look forward to their workouts.

What advice would you give to women who struggle to stick to a diet/exercise regime because they are always on the go or because they live such busy lives? That’s exactly why I created my app. The workouts are quick, effective, and will transform your body, but they also are so easily accessible. We do not need to overcomplicate fitness. Planning your week is super important and so is prioritising time for your workouts. Sometimes things will come up and this will change but having a solid plan is so helpful. Nutrition is simple when you plan ahead of time also, prepping meals or having your favourite healthy deliveries on hands when you haven’t been able to cook. Make food choices that you know are going to help you achieve your fitness goals but also give you energy, make you productive at work and glow from the inside out!

“For me, having an abundance of health and happiness is key to living a good quality life. It will make you more productive, more energised, more open to trying new things”

you will not recover quickly and be able to perform at your best. If you aren’t eating well and prioritising high protein, high fibre and healthy fats you will not feel and look your best. You need whole foods and soul foods. Having a healthy diet is also having a balanced diet so allowing room for foods that also make you happy is key. Your fitness app Courtney Black contains everything from home workouts to healthy recipies – where do you get inspiration from? I have always loved creating new workouts that people will enjoy. Making fitness fun has always been a passion of mine so thinking of new workouts and filming for my app is so rewarding for me. Seeing the incredible life changing transformations is a bonus. I listen to my audience, I listen to what they want from their workouts, what they enjoy and how they want to feel and I work from there. I get my inspiration from my subscribers and my followers and build my workouts from there. Food has always been such a huge passion of mine, I love finding ways to make healthy food extremely delicious. This is really easy to do and that’s why I post recipes to my Instagram and my app. As a next-generation fitness instructor, what are the basic skills you want to instill in your clients? Cardio or strength training – which do you think is more important? Both are important for different reasons. Cardio keeps us fit, our hearts healthy and gives us those endorphins that make us feel great. Cardio should be done alongside strength training for optimal results. Even if your goal isn’t weight loss, cardio is so beneficial to our health (this could even be going for a walk). Strength training is what gives our bodies shape. Creating a lean body requires having muscle. Women are sometimes scared to lift weights because they are afraid of getting bulky but infact this is what is going to give the toned look. My transformative method of training includes strength and conditioning to build a healthy and strong body, a strong core and transformed physique. What is your own personal approach to health and fitness? I love pushing myself out of my comfort zones. What doesn’t challenge you, doesn’t change you. You will never progress in your fitness journey if you aren’t ready to be uncomfortable. Change is always uncomfortable. It’s also so rewarding.

How important do you think diet or exercise is to make a change to your body? Your workout is such a small percentage of your day. What you do around that workout is what matters most. If you push yourself during your workouts but you are not fuelling around them,

This is The Abundance Issue – how do you focus on an abundance mindset? You can never have enough health. You can never be too healthy. You can never focus on your health and mindset enough. For me, having an abundance of health and happiness is key to living a good quality life. It will make you more productive, more energised, more open to trying new things. Having the mindset to always feel your best is a winning mentality.

105 emirateswoman.com BEAUTY

The Beauty Shelf

Duha AlRamadhan, founder of fine jewellery boutique Aubade, shares her hero beauty buys

Lip Butter Balm Dhs88

Summer Fridays

This is my favourite lip balm.

As the name suggests, it is quite moisturising and comes in a variety of shades to add a tint of colour to your lips, but I personally love applying the clear “Vanilla” flavour as a gloss over any of my favourite lipsticks.

Dream Coat Supernatural Spray, 200ml Dhs104 Color Wow

Frizzy hair girls, this product really does deliver – you spray it on your hair after a shower and it not only leaves your hair looking glossy and shiny, but it keeps it smooth in the most humid conditions.

BY:

Leave-In Molecular Repair Hair

Mask Dhs263 K18

This product repaired my hair after colouring it. I love how it’s so easy and convenient to use – leave it on for four minutes after you shampoo your hair, and then you can go about styling your hair as usual.

Baby Cheeks Dhs176

Westman Atelier

When it comes to blushes, I prefer cream over powder. Westman Atelier’s sticks are super easy to apply and come in a variety of universally flattering colours.

Eau De Parfum, 75ml

Dhs305 Chloé

I rarely ever change perfumes and prefer to have a signature scent, so Chloe’s signature fragrance is the one. It’s light, fresh, and feminine.

I even have the travel spray version to take with me wherever I go.

The Face Oil, 30ml Dhs1,022 Augustinus Bader

If I could use one product on my skin, this would be it. I love how

rich and moisturising it is, without feeling too heavy. I also love applying it before makeup to give me the ultimate dewy look.

Lip Sculpt Dhs87 REFY

I love lip liners, sometimes I’ll use them without lipstick and just apply a gloss to finish off the look. When I discovered Refy’s Lip Sculpt, it was honestly a gamechanger for me. It’s very long-lasting and comes in the perfect range of neutral shades.

Straight Up Volumizing Peptide

Mascara Dhs107 RMS Beauty

I love when beauty products have skincare benefits! I came across this mascara on one of my visits to Sephora, and I can’t use anything else now. It’s light, doesn’t flake, and contains peptides to strengthen and thicken your lashes.

106 BEAUTY emirateswoman.com
IMAGES: SUPPLIED

ELEVATING BEAUTY

A glimpse into the innovative journey of Zieda Sharipova, founder of Zieda Clinic & Beauty Lounge

Can you share more about your journey from being a professional hairstylist to becoming the founder and Creative Director of Zieda Clinic & Beauty Lounge? Working as a hairstylist allowed me to express myself creatively, inspired by my clients. Their feedback motivated me to envision a place that embodies all my passions and education. Zieda Clinic & Beauty Lounge was born from this desire to offer comprehensive beauty services under one roof, maintaining the high standards my clients were accustomed to.

What inspired you to venture into the beauty industry? Since childhood, I’ve been drawn to various forms of creativity, from fashion to design. The beauty industry’s ability to craft and evoke reactions resonates with me deeply, fuelling my passion and commitment to my work and businesses.

How have your studies in Historical Dress Design, Hairdressing, and Architecture influenced your approach to beauty? My academic background exposed me to diverse historical and architectural influences, shaping my understanding of beauty standards and aesthetics. This knowledge, combined with insights from my clients, enriches my work, ensuring originality and authenticity.

What sets Zieda Clinic & Beauty Lounge apart from other beauty establishments in Dubai? Our establishment offers a comprehensive range of services conveniently located under one roof. From facial treatments to hair styling, we prioritise quality, efficiency, and exceptional hospitality, providing a unique beauty experience for our clients.

How do you ensure both facilities maintain the same level of excellence and reflect your vision for innovation and individuality? While operating as separate entities, both facilities uphold our shared values and standards. Our dedicated team ensures consistency and quality across all services, aligning with our vision for innovation and individuality.

How do you stay updated with the latest trends and advancements in the beauty industry? Personal and professional growth go hand in hand for me. Together with my team, we explore growth opportunities, conduct market research, and integrate new ideas into our business model, ensuring we remain at the forefront of industry trends.

What are your future goals and aspirations for Zieda Clinic & Beauty Lounge? Our goal is to become Dubai’s premier destination for all beauty needs while maintaining our exceptional service and hospitality. We aim to expand our community and introduce our services to even more clients.

How do you envision continuing to innovate and inspire within the beauty industry? By staying updated on technological and pharmaceutical advancements and fostering a culture of innovation within our team, we aim to lead the way in shaping future beauty and aesthetic trends.

107 emirateswoman.com BEAUTY
IN PARTNERSHIP

AM TO PM BEAUTY

Designer Marina Raphael shares her morning to evening beauty routine

Talk us through your morning routine. My morning skincare routine starts with washing my face with my favourite Dr. Barbara Sturm foam cleanser, I then apply a light layer of the La Mer regenerating intense moisturiser and to finish, I love the Laneige lip mask (which also doubles as lip gloss). After skincare, I usually do some very light-touch makeup – I like to keep it natural for day-to-day, and then I’m out the door.

And how about your evening routine? I try to keep my evening routine consis-

tent and as fuss-free as possible. After a long day, I wash my makeup off with the same Dr. Barbara Sturm foam cleanser – this product is just amazing for removing every trace of makeup and leaves my skin feeling so fresh but not completely stripped of moisture. Occasionally, I might do a scrub before bed if I feel like my skin needs it, I then apply the Dr. Barbara Sturm night serum on my face and neck, the Laneige lip sleeping mask, and, if my eyes are looking tired, I will apply the La Mer eye concentrate.

What are your go-to skincare products? I am a huge fan of Dr. Barbara Sturm products, her foam cleanser, the night serum and glow drops are some of my staple products. I also love the La Mer regenerating intense moisturiser and the La Mer eye concentrate, both are amazing – so hydrating yet gentle on skin.

Are you a fan of masks? Yes, since I discovered 111SKIN, I instantly fell in love with their masks and do them regularly. They are the perfect pick-me-up for when I’m feeling a little tired or puffy – their Rose

108 emirateswoman.com BEAUTY

Clockwise from top left:

Gold Facial mask and cryo de-puffing eye masks make my skin feel nourished. How would you describe your approach to makeup? I like my makeup to look natural and not too heavy as not to overload my skin. I will usually apply a little foundation – I like Tom Ford’s traceless soft matte formula, a light touch of Lancôme’s Hypnôse mascara, the Anastasia Beverly Hills brow gel, and a lick of lip gloss from Kylie Cosmetics, then I’m good to go. What can always be found in your makeup bag? I always have a Kylie Cosmetics

lip gloss, a little rouge – I love the Rare Beauty liquid blush, and my Lancôme’s Hypnôse mascara in my makeup bag. Which fragrance is your favourite at the moment? I adore Gucci Bloom and Tiffany’s ‘Tiffany & Love’ perfumes with its floral notes of natural tuberose and jasmine. For the evening, it really depends on the occasion if it’s a party, something casual, or dinner. I love to mix it up but will always opt for something more subtle and elegant that isn’t too overpowering. Talk us through your hair routine. I love the

Kérastase Résistance Bain Extentioniste shampoo and conditioner. After washing my hair, I will always apply a little Olaplex hair oil on wet hair. I am a big fan of the Olaplex range generally, especially their No.3 hair bonding mask, which I use regularly. I also take the Oase hair vitamins, which are very effective. What is the most unusual item in your makeup bag? I don’t think there is anything particularly unusual, aside from maybe my hairbrush! I also always have a mirror and cotton buds in my makeup bag.

109 emirateswoman.com BEAUTY
Face Cleanser Dhs324 Dr. Barbara Sturm; Cryo De-Puffing Eye Mask x 8 Dhs331 111Skin available at NET-A-PORTER; Traceless Soft Matte Foundation Dhs390 Tom Ford Beauty; Moisturising Soft Cream, 30ml Dhs743 La Mer; Glow Drops, 30ml Dhs572 Dr. Barbara Sturm; 011 Extra Black Hypnôse L’Absolu de Noir Mascara Dhs160 Lancôme
IMAGES: SUPPLIED

ABUNDANCE

These inspiring women share what approaching life with an abundance mindset means to them

DUHA ALRAMADHAN

FOUNDER - AUBADE

What does abundance mean to you? Abundance to me is all about contentment. To be content with what is given to you and to see your life’s blessings as more than you can ever ask for. We all have an abundance in life if only we looked beyond material things and appreciated all the small joys.

What are the key tips to harbouring a growth mindset? Don’t settle. Accept challenges, feed your mind, body and soul by constantly working on yourself. Whether it’s doing something new for your business, trying a new class or learning a new language. There are so many unique experiences in this lifetime waiting to be had that we shouldn’t take any of them for granted.

BEENISH MAHMOOD

JEWELLERY DESIGNER

What does abundance mean to you? For me, beyond the basic essentials of life like food, water, shelter and the air we breathe, lies abundance. It encompasses good health, the love of our cherished ones, our family, the meaningful relationships we cultivate, and above all, the precious time we are gifted to nurture them. This abundance forms a vast reservoir, continuously nourished by a cascade of gratitude. The more we appreciate this wealth of abun-

dance and the more we share it, the deeper and more profound this reservoir grows.

What are the key tips to harbouring a growth mindset? I try to embrace setbacks as integral to my growth journey. Instead of viewing them as failures, I see them as gateways to personal evolution. I also stay adaptable in challenging times, to explore diverse solutions. And I treasure humility as a fundamental element of my path. I think it’s essential to remember the endless expanse for learning, to be kind in our self-reflection, to trust in our intelligence and creativity and to have faith in our resilience to overcome obstacles.

MARINA RAPHAEL

FASHION DESIGNER AND FOUNDER - MARINA RAPHAEL

What does abundance mean to you? Abundance to me is about generosity of spirit, particularly focusing on how you make people feel. The ability to make people feel warmth, excitement, energy and passion creates the space for some truly memorable encounters. It is an energy that we try to distil in our designs and brand ethos. It also resonates deeply with the legacy of my family. Daniel Swarovski’s ambition to create “a diamond for everyone”, for me, really encapsulates the spirit of abundance and openness.

What are the key tips to harbouring a growth mindset? I am a very ambitious person by nature, I love to dream big and set ambitious goals for myself so, to stay in a positive, growth mindset, it is important for me to take

the time to reflect and celebrate the small victories, as well as the big ones. Growth is incremental and big things don’t happen over night so I really focus on small and consistent steps, when you look back over time you are amazed at how far you have come! Surrounding myself with people who inspire and lift me up is another key one for staying motivated to commit to those big, long-term goals and I am a big believer that a positive environment breeds growth! When I have those great days where I feel truly curious and inspired, it reminds me of the boundless potential that lies within us all and this motivates me to keep going. Finally, keeping an open mind, never think you have learned it all. When you lose your curiosity that’s when you stop growing.

LINDA HAUSSER

FOUNDER AND CEO - JANTHEE BERLIN

What does abundance mean to you? Abundance to me signifies having an excess or surplus of something, be it love, wealth, opportunities, or success. However, it doesn’t necessarily guarantee a positive impact on your life. Instead, I view it as a wildcard – a chance to create something meaningful. I believe that with abundance, especially when it arrives rapidly or unexpectedly, comes the potential for it to vanish just as swiftly. Thus, it’s crucial to treat our abundance with respect and mindfulness. What are the key tips to harbouring a growth mindset? Start by listening to yourself and ignoring distractions. Take control of your feelings and focus on what you want to achieve.

110 LIFESTYLE emirateswoman.com

Remember, you’re in charge of your life, happiness, and success. Stay positive and avoid complaining – it won’t help you grow. Treat each day as a chance to start anew. Surround yourself with people who inspire you. Remember this quote: “I’d rather be the worst of the best than the best of the worst”. Don’t be afraid of challenging situations – they help you grow.

NAT MORCOS

FOUNDER - GOSHÁ AND SKOONI

What does abundance mean to you? Appreciation and gratitude of what you have, to all the small and big things you have achieved is the ultimate way to being happy in life. The chase for bigger and better is endless and leads to emptiness as in reality there will always be something to reach on your horizon and the hunt can go on and on and on. I practise gratitude and selflove and teaching myself to feel that I am enough , I have enough. What are the key tips to harbouring a growth mindset? It’s important to fall in love with challenges, as they are part of process, courage is must, say no to fear, believe that you are guided and protected, find inspiration in success of others, learn from your failures, love them and say thank you, accept criticism, keep continuing to learn everyday and find your army of supporters and value them the most.

LINA MALAIKA

CULTURAL AND CREATIVE CONSULTANT

What does abundance mean to you? Abundance comes as a result of inner and outer work – a constant conscious effort. To create or attract abundance in your life, you need to adapt an abundant mindset, which is the belief that there are enough blessings in the world for everyone with no limits and the most crucial recipe is (gratitude) in all its forms – being grateful for whatever comes your way. Refrain from thinking and talking about what you’re lacking and what you don’t have. You need to constantly shift your perspective from a scarcity mindset to an abundance mindset by focusing on what they already have and make peace with the present moment. You need to then go out and be open to creative possibilities for abundance, there is no one way, you need to open up your landscape to what’s possible because anything you put your mind to is possible. What are the key tips to harbouring a growth mindset? To harbour a growth mindset is also constant conscious effort – there are no shortcuts or instant remedies to get there –first, you must put in the inner work to learn about who you are, once you have the aware-

ness of who your truly authentic self is, then you will be able to navigate through both your conscious and subconscious. Overall, it’s important to not fear failure, embrace challenges, recognise fixed mindset traps, continue to learn – it never stops, value effort, cultivate persistence, celebrate your small wins and the success of others, seek out constructive feedback and ask for help and finally to surround yourself with growth-minded people.

ZEYNAB EL-HELW

FOUNDER - REBORN SOCIETY

What does abundance mean to you? Abundance, in my perspective, extends beyond material wealth. It embodies the richness of love, the warmth of relationships, and the joy of shared experiences. It’s about being surrounded by healthy, beloved ones, relishing in the simple pleasures of life, and finding contentment in each moment. Living in Dubai, where extravagance often takes centre stage, abundance, to me, is finding fulfillment in the beauty of everyday life amidst the glitz and glamour of the city.

What are the key tips to harbouring a growth mindset? Cultivating a growth mindset is a journey rooted in pragmatism and resilience. For me, it’s about leveraging the diverse experiences and lessons gleaned from my corporate and influencer endeavors to fuel my entrepreneurial pursuits. This involves harnessing my knowledge and skills to navigate challenges and seize opportunities. Additionally, maintaining a busy schedule helps channel my energy positively and combat the anxieties that come with the influencer lifestyle. Ultimately, fostering a growth mindset is not just about staying motivated, but also about embracing change, continuous learning, and unwavering optimism in the face of adversity.

JENNIFER CHAMANDI

FOUNDER - JENNIFER CHAMANDI

What does abundance mean to you? To me, abundance embodies richness of life that includes fulfilling relationships, a sense of purpose, and personal growth. Abundance means having enough to share and the capacity to contribute to the wellbeing of others. It’s about experiencing gratitude for the present moment and maintaining an optimistic outlook for the future.

What are the key tips to harbouring a growth mindset? One of the most important aspects is to embrace challenges, see challenges as opportunities to grow and learn, as each challenge is a chance to expand your abilities.

Persist despite obstacles: Obstacles are part of the learning process, use them as feedback to learn and improve. Always develop a curiosity, it’s important to cultivate a genuine curiosity for learning and exploring new things.

HALA ABDALLAH

JEWELLERY DESIGNER AND FOUNDER - OFA

What does abundance mean to you? It’s believing in the infinite possibilities, the infinite love, the infinite good that is around us. Resources are endless and it never runs out, and it keeps moving around chasing the most creative of us humans.

What are the key tips to harbouring a growth mindset? It’s knowing that our perspective is nothing but a slither of reality, and it’s 100 per cent shaped and formed by our past, which means it’s completely changeable once we understand: first, how our subconscious work, and second, how does your primal survival instincts look like in your daily life as habits that limits your growth.

COURTNEY BLACK FITNESS INSTRUCTOR AND ENTREPRENEUR

What does abundance mean to you? Making the most of every situation and trying to excel in anything you try to do.

What are the key tips to harbouring a growth mindset? Growth is endless. It is hard to achieve ultimate growth but it’s not impossible. My top tip is to realise there are going to be many set backs in life and you have to be willing to find a solution to work past them.

REBECCA TRESTON

LASER SKINCARE EXPERT

What does abundance mean to you? To me, abundance means to love and to be loved totally, to have good health, to have great peace of mind, to have dreams and aspirations, to have the ability to strive and reach my goals in life, to have the financial freedom to travel and explore the world, to live without fear and to experience the joy of giving to others. What are the key tips to harbouring a growth mindset? For a growth mindset, it’s important to feel the fear but find the strength to do it anyway, to do the things that you need to do, but make you uncomfortable, by setting goals to overcome the obstacles, to embrace new opportunities and challenges as they will make you learn and grow, to value effort and persistence and to surround yourself by growth minded people.

111 LIFESTYLE emirateswoman.com

STRIKING ELEMENTS

Go inside the Burj Al Arab as Londonbased designer Khuan Chew shares her journey of designing one of the most striking designs in the Gulf

How did you get into the interiors space?

Growing up in a household where art and music were integral to one’s daily life, I was immersed in a culturally rich environment from a young age. Initially pursuing a degree in Music during my formative years in the UK, I later transitioned to Interior Design, stemming from a love of the Opera, an artform combining Music, Drama and Theatre set design. This passion for Theatre and Opera has profoundly influenced the dramatic and spectacular elements in my work. Whether creating bold and daring interiors or minimalist and understated spaces, each project reflects my passion for vibrancy and intrigue. I find equal enjoyment in crafting luxurious, layered environments as I do in designing sleek, contemporary scenes or timeless, neo-classical rooms.

112 emirateswoman.com LIFESTYLE

Inside Burj Al Arab is known for its iconic photo moments – tell us how the interiors are an ode to this? No expense was spared by obtaining rare materials. In the Burj Al Arab, every interior space is meticulously composed to evoke a sense of grandeur and spectacle. Each space tells a story. Referring to the geographical position of Dubai, situated in the vicinity of the original Silk Route, it is at the epicentre of the Earth’s map, making it a great hub. Therefore, people from the four corners of the Earth have been coming to Dubai, and especially in the last 25 years due to the Burj Al Arab, which has put Dubai on the map. While it is quintessentially designed as a modern Arabic Palace, there are decorative elements and purposeful selections of furniture, as well as entire areas inspired by different parts of the

world. The intent was to delight guests who may recognise and identify with these items when they visit the Burj Al Arab and experience Inside Burj Al Arab Tours. Likewise, if you were to visit Buckingham Palace or any affluent global tycoon residence of yesteryear, it is not unusual to see similarly eclectic collections of their possessions – displayed from their or their ancestors’ travels through the ages. As I used to say to visitors of Inside Burj Al Arab, there is a room here for each and everyone of you.

What were the challenges you faced during your design journey and how did you overcome this? You need to know that in August 1997 (the year I was appointed), the world was still reliant on fax machines. There were hardly any computers, and it was pretty much still the pre-digital age. Therefore, I relied “abundantly” on my little black book of secret sources (which I still have today) for the most exclusive materials and products on our planet! To this day, the knowledge I have gathered extends beyond the usual suppliers and agencies to the hotel industry, setting KCA apart from other interior design consultancies, as a considerable proportion of our clientele requires super luxury interiors. Having been appointed rather late in the day on the Burj Al Arab, it was truly a race against time. My team in London worked day and night. Christmas and Eid were cancelled, and we also physically travelled to different parts of the world to choose marble (e.g., Brazil, China, India, Italy, etc.), fine weaves of silk, carpet specialists, and chandelier craftsmen. In total, we had over 50 different countries involved in contributing to the interior fit-out of the Burj Al Arab. The design and construction of the interior of the Burj Al Arab took literally two years and three months. This is quite an achievement and certainly a fasttrack record in my book.

The hotel also features an abundance of design references from the Arab culture – tell us more. The four elements of water, fire, earth and air are seen throughout the property. Looking at Dubai today, you wouldn’t think of it as being in the desert. Thirty years ago, Dubai looked very different – you wouldn’t recognise it if you looked at archive photos. For the interiors, I effortlessly based the theme on the four elements of water, fire, earth, and air – they depict raw nature and the essence of life on earth. Emirati culture and life have endured the harshest of climates and environments through their understanding of nature to survive. The four elements were naturally inspirational when

we worked through spaces to reflect the perception of, for example, fire – an array of bright and deep reds, oranges, and yellows or water hues of blues and turquoises, earthly greens, and the pale translucent mists of air. The Burj Al Arab is a modern Arabic Palace. Arab culture is undeniably rich – the magical arab calligraphy and infinite geometric patterns alone are monumental references, and one is spoilt for choice as to what we could include from all over the Middle East. The twin internal swimming pools in the Burj Al Arab are modelled around a Turkish Bath experience. Patterns in carpets throughout the palace are contemporary evolutions of traditional motifs. And just like the Chinese Dining Room in Buckingham Palace, the Royal Suites at Inside Burj Al Arab have antique furniture, cabinetry, and Coromandel Screens from the Chinoiserie period of the 17th and 18th centuries. Inside Burj Al Arab was truly a fine example of an “abundance” of inspiration when we designed it. What piece of advice would you give to your younger self? You can’t please everyone. So, it is important that you please yourself. This is The Abundance Issue – how do you focus on an abundance mindset? In life there is an abundance of material, thought, influence, art and culture, and intelligence (not artificial) to draw from. Debussy once said that you should always try to escape your success, the repeat is the enemy of your art.

113 emirateswoman.com LIFESTYLE
IMAGE: SUPPLIED

WORDS: CAMILLE MACAWILI

PHOTOGRAPHY: MARK MATHEW

Personal Space

In the office with Reyes Lezcano, General Manager at L’Artisan Parfumeur

114 emirateswoman.com LIFESTYLE
115 emirateswoman.com LIFESTYLE

How long has the brand been in this space? We opened on January 30.

How does the interior reflect the brand? The L’Artisan Parfumeur boutique is a unique place where French heritage, nature and craftsmanship come together. To enter L’Artisan Parfumeur is to experience the legacy of its founder, Jean Laporte: a conversation between tradition and modernity, an ongoing exchange about fragrance and a celebration of the pure beauty of craftsmanship.

The L’Artisan Parfumeur boutiques displays rare, new, and unique items, inviting discovery, discussion and exchange about raw materials and perfume. Encouraged by the warm atmosphere of the wood that decorates the space, the curiosity of the customers is heightened by the botanical prints on the walls, as they are introduced to the scents and the beautiful raw materials of perfumery. They can also discover the craft techniques used in the workshops of L’Artisan Parfumeur: hot stamping to personalise leather pouches, the delicate engraving of bottles or the experience of carefully crafted gift packaging, thanks to the expertise of the House’s craftsmen.

116 emirateswoman.com LIFESTYLE
117 emirateswoman.com LIFESTYLE

AN ABUNDANT MINDSET

Founder of Darcey Flowers, Albert Tranquilino on scaling creativity with an abundant mindset

WORDS: SARAH

118 emirateswoman.com LIFESTYLE

What do the first 30 minutes of your day look like, your morning routine? I begin my day with meditation and reflection. This routine sets a positive tone and helps me focus on goals, ensuring that I’m centred and ready to lead Darcey Flowers to success. A brief session of light exercise follows, energising me for the day ahead.

What inspired you to launch Darcey Flowers? Darcey Flowers stems from a childhood dream I held close to my heart. It all started with a deep passion for floristry and a desire to bring beauty and joy to people’s lives through flowers. I truly believe in the transformative power of flowers to make a meaningful impact on someone.

How do you plan your floral designs? Talk us through the creative process. Our floral designs are a fusion of creativity and passion. We meticulously select the perfect combination of flowers, considering factors like colour palette, texture, and seasonality. We draw inspiration from various sources such as nature, art, and, of course, current trends. Every flower arrangement that we create tells a story, evokes emotion, and brings joy to all who behold it.

Floral designers aim to be perfectionists –how important is attention to detail when creating bouquets? Attention to detail is paramount in creating captivating bouquets.

As a seasoned floral designer myself, every aspect should be carefully put into consideration, from flower selection to placement. It’s about achieving harmony and putting personality into each creation. It’s always about quality and craftsmanship, and that elevates our arrangements from ordinary to extraordinary works.

What are the key services that Darcey Flowers provide? Darcey Flowers stands as one of the most trusted luxury flower delivery services in the UAE. Now, with a focus on weddings and events, including corporate functions, we bring our signature expertise to every occasion. With impeccable event styling, we create unforgettable moments tailored to your unique vision.

What was the largest event you have ever prepared flower arrangements for? We’ve had the honour of creating flower arrangements for the gala event of Zayed Sustainability Prize in EXPO City, attended by around 700 VIPs and dignitaries.

Are there any specific flowers that do particularly well in the UAE? Peonies stand out and are favoured by our customers here in the UAE, receiving a warm reception for their captivating beauty and charm.

“It’s about celebrating successes, nurturing a culture of positivity, and empowering others to thrive”

How has the floral industry evolved since you launched your brand? The floral industry has become a dynamic and competitive market and we have seen remarkable changes since we opened our first store in 2019. We have witnessed a shift in customer preferences, advancements in sustainability, and design trends reshaping the landscape.

What are your plans for expansion in the UAE? Looking ahead, we are eyeing a new boutique in Abu Dhabi in the future, envisioning it as another milestone in our jour-

ney, bringing joy closer to every corner in the UAE. Moreover, we’re ready to take on bigger-scale weddings and events solidifying our presence in the industry.

This is The Abundance Issue – how do you focus on an abundance mindset? As an entrepreneur, leader, and floral designer, cultivating an abundance mindset means embracing gratitude and instilling joy into every aspect of the business. It’s about celebrating successes, nurturing a culture of positivity, and empowering others to thrive.

119 emirateswoman.com LIFESTYLE

A LAVISH SOJOURN

120 emirateswoman.com
WORDS: CAMILLE MACAWILI
Nestled within a tranquil golden landscape, Bab Al Shams Resort is the ultimate city getaway retreat abundant in heritage, soulful style and experiences

THE STAY

Bab Al Shams is part of the Rare Finds collection of hospitality addresses which provides guests with a storied and luxurious experience drawn from the distinct heritage of its location. Having undergone a renovation and relaunch last year, this desertscape boasts of decor and overall vibe that incorporates hints of local cultural elements with a contemporary minimalist touch. One-hundred-andfifteen rooms and suites may sound like a lot, but the vast property has been laid out in a way that you get privacy and peace during your stay – truly a modern oasis of comfort.

THE DINING

At daytime, get whisked to the Mediterranean while dining at Zala, where they serve a selection of Turkish and Greek dishes perfect for a leisurely lunch. Come night time, Ninive Bab Al Shams brings an unique Bedouin-inspired dining experience in a vibrant and relaxed atmosphere. Savour Middle Eastern specialties featuring Iranian, Iraqi, Turkish and Moroccan influences.

THE WELLNESS

The Spa & Hammam reinforces a holistic approach to wellness offering experiences

122 emirateswoman.com LIFESTYLE
IMAGES: SUPPLIED

infused with Arabian healing traditions, drawing and healing from its surrounding dunes to rejuvenate the body, mind and spirit using organic and sustainable products from both international and homegrown brands such as Whind, De L’Arta, Bamford and Maison d’Asa.

The hero experience is the Oriental Hammam where guests tap into the timehonoured practice of sand bathing within decadent quartz and oud, warm black soap, a neroli Rassoul mask combined with an Argan therapeutic massage followed by an Arabian oud facial.

WHAT TO PACK

123 emirateswoman.com LIFESTYLE
Semi-circle Cuff Dhs149 Zara Dixie Sunglasses Dhs850 Vehla Mika Cutout Swimsuit Dhs598 Haight available on NET-A-PORTER Crew Neck Sweater Dhs369 Massimo Dutti Wide-Leg Trousers Dhs299 Mango Vinyl Leather Sandals Dhs299 Mango Woven Leather Mini Bag Dhs949 Massimo Dutti

AN ABUNDANCE OF SPACE

124 emirateswoman.com LIFESTYLE

The first-ever ultra-luxury urban vertical resort in Dubai, One&Only One Za’abeel, brings an abundance of urban energy and experiences to the city

125 emirateswoman.com LIFESTYLE
WORDS: CAMILLE MACAWILI
126 emirateswoman.com LIFESTYLE

This dual-tower vertical resort masterpiece, a collaboration between acclaimed architects and luxury hospitality leader Kerzner International, stands gleamingly tall at the crossroads of DIFC, World Trade Centre and Downtown Dubai. A breathtaking addition to the ever-evolving Dubai skyline, One&Only One Za’abeel’s towering presence sets a spectacular stage for exceptional experiences.

THE STAY

Masterminded by Jean-Michel Gathy, the interior touches draw inspiration from the desert landscape, creating a thoughtfully curated ambiance and overall, a cohesive and immersive experience.

Upon arrival, guests are welcomed by a seamless display of artistry that blends culture and creativity – from the mesmerising geometric masterpiece by American artist Steven Naifeh to an eclectic array of international and regional works. One&Only One Za’abeel offers a collection of immaculately designed rooms and suites as well as curated corner suites for business, wellness, and creative pursuits, with exceptional privileges and amenities for discerning travellers amidst the bustling cityscape. The Villa One is a re-imagined signature villa taken to lofty new heights. The 755 square-meter expanse includes two bedrooms, a majlis, an outdoor infinity pool, cinema, gym, and comes with exclusive benefits such as a dedicated host, in-villa personal trainers, spa treatments and private chef access.

THE DINING

Dramatically perched between the two towers, The Link is a futuristic boulevard floating 100 metres above the city. The world’s longest cantilever building, this culinary haven gathers immersive gastronomic experiences and the UAE’s longest suspended infinity pool, in one architectural marvel. Expect Michelin-starred French cuisine at La Dame De Pic by Anne-Sophie Pic, contemporary Moorish delights at Qabu by Paco Morales, refined modern Japanese fare at Sagetsu by Tetsuya Wakuda, and more.

THE WELLNESS

The first of its kind in Dubai, the Longevity Hub by Clinique La Prairie is where wellness takes centre stage. Dedicated to unlocking longevity and lasting vitality, the pioneering treatments combine the latest in transformative health science, cutting-

edge aesthetics, and tailored wellness solutions. This three-storey advanced wellness space combines evidence-based medicine and pioneering aesthetics to deliver ultrapersonalised wellness solutions to address the daily stressors of urban living.

Spread over three floors, The Hub comprises of 29 treatment rooms for wellbeing

and clinical therapies; a Movement Studio with state-of-the-art gym facilities; a Longevity Bar; and the region’s first Longevity Index Lounge, which boasts cutting-edge solutions including the Neuro Wave Stimulation – a tech-guided acoustic and vibrational therapy that enables even the busiest of minds to enter a deep state of relaxation.

127 emirateswoman.com LIFESTYLE

BODY OF WORK

RIMOWA looks into its rich archival past to bring forth and unveil its iconic limited-edition collection, Hammerschlag

129 emirateswoman.com LIFESTYLE
WORDS: CAMILLE MACAWILI
130 emirateswoman.com LIFESTYLE ALL AVAILABLE AT RIMOWA

THE WANDERLUST

Jaipur holds an abundance of colour, beauty and history. From majestic stays to magical heritage sites, revel in the sights and sounds of the charming pink city

THE STAYS VILLA PALLADIO JAIPUR

Decked in varied hues of red, Villa Palladio Jaipur is a striking structure that marries rococo exuberance with the decadence of the maharajas in a uniquely joyful style, both equally at home in Italy as it is in India. Its painted verandas and scalloped arches open onto lush Mughal gardens of red roses, strict geometries and central water fountains. Canopied beds, embroidered bedsheets, inlaid marble floors and hand-carved marble latticed screens in the nine uniquely decorated rooms and suites further enhance the sense of exquisite craftsmanship (the entirety of VP furnishing was fabricated bespoke in Jaipur).

Hidden behind hedges of blossoming hibiscus is a Mughal arched pool house accented with candy striped sunbeds. Wellness amenities include a spa offering purifying, nourishing and grounding rituals, a garden-side meditation and yoga room alongside a scarlet library, a boutique stocking holiday essentials and designer threads, as well as a stable of six Marwari horses.

From breakfast served on the delicately painted floral balcony, snacks served in the striped Pool House to a lavish lunch and dinner at the charming Garden Verandah overlooking landscaped gardens, dining at Villa Palladio is a feast for the senses. The menu, perfected over several months by the Italian-Swiss owner Barbara Miolini, champions the robust flavors of southern Italy and, of course, a selection of subtly spiced Rajasthani classics. villa-palladio-jaipur.com

THE JOHRI

A 19th-century home restoration in the midst of Old Town Jaipur that captures the elegance of a bygone era for a new generation of travellers. Nestled in the heart of Jaipur’s iconic jewellers’ bazaar, The Johri tastefully masters old-world charm featuring a well-curated mix of antique furnitures, textiles and art – a haven of relaxed splendour for design and culture enthusiasts. It houses five spacious suites overlooking a traditional charming in-

133 emirateswoman.com

Previous page: Villa Palladio Jaipur; This page: (from top) Bar Palladio Jaipur; The Johri; Right page: (from left) Villa Palladio Jaipur; Leela Palace Jaipur

ner courtyard named after precious gemstones: Manek, Neelam, Sona, Panna and Moti. thejohrijaipur.com

TAJ RAMBAGH

PALACE

If only the Rambagh Palace’s old walls could talk, it would tell stories from its royal past. From 1835 until today, it continues to play the role of a gracious host to prominent figures and illustrious guests. Through the years, the palace has retained its splendour, extravagantly decorated with elaborate detailings and latticework, sandstone balustrades, cuplos and cenotaphs. tajhotels.com

LEELA PALACE JAIPUR

Located in a peaceful area away from the buzz of the city, The Leela Palace Jaipur wows with true Indian luxury. Can’t-miss quintessential experiences include Rajasthani folk dances, expeditions to the elephant village, holistic spa treatments, cycle tours of the sprawling garden and more. theleela.com

ANOPURA

Backdropped by the Aravalli mountains, Anopura is a charming stay in Jaipur’s countryside. Nestled in an estate garden and flowering meadows, the property is surrounded with pomegranate and frangipani trees perfect for a slower pace for your holiday. Its serene minimalist interiors takes on modern Jaipur influences, while the corners of Anopura are individually decked with antiques, art and fabrics sourced across Rajasthan. anopura.com

THE SIGHTS & SPOTS

A visit to Jaipur is not complete without stepping foot inside majestic historic landmarks such as Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds), a five-story extraordinary architectural marvel with a beguiling facade, and The City Palace. Built in the 17th Century, The City Palace located in Old Jaipur is home to smaller structures like the

134 emirateswoman.com LIFESTYLE

Chandra Mahal, Mubarak Mahal, Shri Govind Dev Temple, and the City Palace Museum. Within The City Palace Museum lies Baradari where royal history meets fine dining – a culinary destination serving contemporary dishes with local flavours. For smaller bites and sips, Bar Palladio is a cool hangout spot located with Narain Niwas Palace Hotel that serves Italian cuisine and beverages. The restaurant and lounge, designed by Dutch designer Marie-Anne Oudejans, is a maximalist wonderland with wandering peacocks and lush gardens.

Amrapali Museum is home to rich heritage of Indian handicrafts, decorative crafts and exquisite jewellery. Founded in the 80s by Rajiv Arora and Rajesh Ajmera, the displays pay homage to India’s insurmountable craftsmanship that have shaped India’s jewellery narrative.

For those looking to bring home a piece of Jaipur, Parampara is a multibrand concept store with a made-inIndia verve – a shopping haven with a kaleidoscopic of local threads with an international flair.

THE TASTEMAKERS

ANITA DONGRE, FOUNDER AND CHIEF CREATIVE OFFICER AT ANITA DONGRE

A hidden gem: I love spending time at The Colannade overseeing the beautiful lawns at The Rajmahal Palace. With its vibrant wallpapers and candy pink artdeco facade, the 19th-century palace hotel truly celebrates the modern heritage vibe of Jaipur. A can’t-miss experience: Next time you are in Jaipur, you must spend a day with the craftswomen of the Princess Diya Kumari Foundation, learning their arts, culture, and life stories, at Badal Mahal in City Palace Jaipur. The economic empowerment of rural women has incredible positive ripple effects in their families, communities and society as a whole.

BARBARA MIOLINI, FOUNDER OF VILLA PALLADIO AND BAR PALLADIO

A hidden gem: Gyan Museum, located a little outside of the city. This is the private collection of a jewellery family

built in honour of their late father. The collection comprises gorgeous miniature paintings (the display of which is genius), stunning objet d'art, and a charming display of decorative hookah spouts. The space is incredible – a brutalist cave reminding one of a cavern of treasure. After a visit to the museum, guests are treated to private viewings of the family's contemporary collection of outrageous diamonds, sapphires and rubies. As it is located a bit out of the way, not many people know about this incredible place, but it is well worth the trip. A can’tmiss experience: A beautiful experience in the city (and located on the way to Villa Palladio) is a visit to Khanoom Jaipur. A labour of love built between Simon Marks, a fabulous artist dedicated to handicraft and lost traditions, and Priyamvadha Golcha, an incredible aesthete and businesswoman looking to pave a new future for craft development in Rajasthan, Khanoom is an incredible and gorgeous ceramics workshop. The collection of tableware is actually stunning, entirely hand painted by a talented cadre of miniature painters. Plus, they often host workshops open to the public.

135 emirateswoman.com LIFESTYLE
IMAGES: SUPPLIED;
BAR PALLADIO JAIPUR/HENRY WILSON

THE DIRECTORY

A

Accessorize (04) 3399098

Adidas (04) 2325690

Aerin (04) 4098888

Aesop (04) 3293030

Agnès b. (04) 3520391

Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons (04) 3398881

Aigner (04) 4341333

Alberta Ferretti (04) 3398957

Aldo (04) 2328162

Alex Perry +44(0) 2039622362

Alexander McQueen (04) 3398760

Alexander Wang +44(0) 2039622362

Alexandra Rich (04) 4098888

Alexandre Vauthier (04) 409 8888

Alexandre Birman (04) 3951200

Alighieri +44(0) 2039622362

Altuzarra Online at Farfetch

Anita Ko +44(0) 2039622362

Amina Muaddi (800) 5383573

Antik Batik (04) 4343080

Areej (04) 3405223

Armani Exchange (04) 3399472

Assouline (04) 4384546

Aquazzura (04) 3882367

Ayesha Depala (04) 5136415

B

Banana Republic (04) 3398462

Balenciaga (04) 3951769

Bally (04) 3231643

Balmain (056) 1883796

Bambah (055) 224 1538

Baruni (050) 4579249

Ba&sh (04) 3854557

BCBG Max Azria (04) 4340627

Benefit Cosmetics (04) 3951978

Blaze Milano (800) 044 5703

Bloomingdale’s Dubai (04) 3505333

Bottega Veneta (04) 3951201

Boucheron (04) 3410039

Boutique1.com (04) 3951200

Burberry (04) 3998243

Bulgari (04) 3308834

Byredo (800) 74676277

BySymphony (04) 3106900

C

Cartier (04) 3951000

Carolina Herrera (04) 3398132

Catherine Malandrino (04) 3398102

Céline (04) 3410585

Chanel (04) 3818400

Chantecaille (04) 4098888

Charles & Keith (04) 3398713

Charlotte Olympia (04) 3994122

Charlotte Tilbury (04) 4190100

Chaumet (04) 3398758

Chloé (04) 3300700

Chopard (04) 3414545

Christian Dior (04) 3235322

Christian Louboutin (04) 3990998

Church’s (800) 5383573

City Walk 800 637227

Claudie Pierlot (04) 3253798

Coach (04) 3398670

Cos (04) 4190858

CVC Stones (800) 044 5703

D

Damas (04) 4459468

De Beers (04) 3412121

Deira City Centre (04) 2093105

Diesel (04) 3398615

Dermalogica (04) 3398250

Diane von Furstenberg (04) 3232257

Dior (04) 3308739

Diane Cordas (800) 74676277

Dione Lee

Online at Farfetch, Ounass

DKNY (04) 3414343

Dolce & Gabbana (04) 3308566

Dune (055) 2136194

Dubai Mall (800) 382246255

Dr Sebagh Online at noon

E

Elie Saab (04) 3951600

Ellery (800) 74676277

Emilia Wickstead (04) 3106900

Emilio Pucci (04) 3398525

Emporio Armani (04) 3951373

Escada (04) 3279191

Estee Lauder (04) 2995600

Etoile ‘La boutique’ (04) 3414166

Etro (04) 3411014

Eugenia Kim (800) 74676277

136 emirateswoman.com
All Saint Laurent SS24

F

Fendi (04) 3399782

Farfetch (800) 0320327

Forever 21 (04) 3277488

Fornasetti (800) 74676277

Francesco Russo (800) 5383573

French Connection (04) 2273848

Furla (04) 3410285

G Galeries Lafayette (04) 3399933

Galleria Mall (04) 3444434

Gap (04) 3850988

Gérard Darel (04) 3399780

Giambattista Valli +44 (0) 2039848044

Gianvitto Rossi (800) 5383573

Giorgio Armani (04) 3951373

Giuseppe Zanotti (04) 3413117

Givenchy (04) 4227073

Globe Trotter

Online at matchesfashion

Golden Goose (04) 3355218

Gucci (04) 3398576

H

H&M (04) 4190346

Harry Winston (04) 3398972

Harvey Nichols – Dubai (04) 4098888

Hermès (04) 8181390

Hervé Léger 800 382246255

Holland & Barrett (04) 3882401

I & J

Ibn Battuta Mall (04) 3621900

Inglot (04) 2228344

Jacquemus (04) 3951200

Jaeger (04) 2840840

Jaeger-LeCoultre (04) 3398769

JetSet (04) 3995005

Jimmy Choo (04) 3398925

Jo Malone (04) 4190287

Joseph (04) 8803433

Juicy Couture (04) 3475591

K

Karen Millen (04) 3398608

Kate Spade (058) 1030866

Kenneth Cole (04) 3555872

Kenzo (04) 3308455

Khalil Al Sayegh (04) 2276555

Kiehl’s (04) 2886376

Kristina Fidelskaya (04) 3627500

Kurt Geiger (04) 3413883

L

Lacoste (04) 3410575

Lanvin (04) 3555310

Le Labo (04) 4190953

Level Shoes (800) 5383573

Loewe (04) 3253754

Loquet Online at thelabelhunter

Louis Vuitton (04) 3950431

Lucas Hugh+44 (0) 2039622362

M

MAC Cosmetics (04) 4190856

Maje (04) 8815988

Maison Des Fleurs (04) 2765886

Maison Michel +44 (0) 2039622362

Mall of the Emirates (04) 4099000

Mango (04) 3414663

Manolo Blahnik (04) 3398122

Marc Jacobs (04) 3951281

Mark Cross +1 8885509675

Marks & Spencer (800) 62637

Maria Tash (04) 8817885

Marni (04) 3549417

Marysia (04) 3951200

Massimo Dutti (04) 3399070

Max Mara (04) 3882070

Messika (04) 4255575

Michael Kors (04) 3253491

Missoni (04) 3951400

Miss Selfridge (04) 3398016

Miu Miu (04) 3249276

All Things Mochi (04) 4433451

Moncler (04) 3300280

Moschino (04) 3398079

Montblanc (04) 3304810

Monica Vinader (04) 3951700

N

Namshi.com (800) 626744

NARS (04) 4227531

Natura Bisse (04) 2993090

New Look (04) 4340740

Next (04) 4190522

Nike (04) 4342683

Nina Ricci (04) 3308789

Nine West (04) 3410244

OO Concept (04) 3455557

Off White (054) 4541546

Oscar de la Renta (04) 3399005

Ounass 800 686277

P

Paris Gallery (04) 3308289

Pandora (04) 3235607

Pastels Salon (04) 3883534

Parfois (04) 4343167

Paul Smith (04) 3951742

Paule Ka (04) 3882384

PE Nation (04) 3951200

Piaget (04) 3398222

Pomellato (04) 3882036

Prada (04) 3049700

Proenza Schouler (04) 448344

R

Ralph & Russo (04) 874 8593

Ralph Lauren (04) 3308347

Rami Al Ali (04) 3945607

Reiss (04) 3410515

Rene Caovilla (04) 3253677

Repossi (04) 2771392

River Island (04) 3399415

Rivoli (04) 3413121

Roger Vivier (04) 3475695

Roland Mouret (04) 5519356

Rolex (04) 3627500

S Saint Laurent (04) 3410113

Salvatore Ferragamo (04) 3411022

Sandro (04) 3951281

Samsonite (04) 3398690

See by Chloé (04) 3951880

Sephora (04) 3951978

Sergio Rossi (04) 3324829

111 Skin (04) 4068800

Smythson (800) 589

Sonia Rykiel (04) 3308464

S*uce (055) 3447270

Stella McCartney (04) 3399179

Sunglass Hut (04) 3995824

Swarovski (04) 3685573

T

Tabitha Simmons

Online at Farfetch

Tata Harper (04) 5245555

Ted Baker (04) 3997377

Temperley (04) 3398169

Temperley London (04) 3339943

The Attico (04) 4483444

The Body Shop (04) 3410551

The Nail Pavillion (04) 4229791

The Nail Spa (600) 544001

The Dubai Mall (800) 382246255

The Outlet (04) 4264900

The Row (04) 3951200

Tiffany & Co. (04) 3398350

Tips & Toes (04) 3412020

Tod’s (04) 3413033

Tommy Hilfiger (04) 3410260

Toni&Guy (04) 3303345

Topshop (04) 3399802

Tom Ford (04) 3400347

Tory Burch (04) 3253670

V

Vacheron Constantin (04) 2406323

Valentino (04) 3471890

Van Cleef & Arpels (04) 3398001

Valextra (04) 3308030

Veja (800) 74676277

Versace (04) 3398285

Versace Jewellery (04) 4341570

Victoria Beckham (04) 3951200

W

Wafi Mall (04) 3244555

Whistles (04) 3410951

Wolford (04) 4232832

X, Y & Z

Yves Salomon (04) 5245555

Zadig & Voltaire (04) 3399186

Zara (04) 3308567

Zayan The Label (04) 3440104

Zimmermann (800) 74676277

137 emirateswoman.com

ADORN

Classic knot detailing delivers next level chic

WORDS: AMY SESSIONS

138 emirateswoman.com MOST WANTED
Earrings Dhs75 Mango
Elevate your content strategy mmgsocial.com

A magical

SCAN TO EXPLORE LONGBEACH CAMPGROUND
Glamping Destinati

Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.