Ohlala Abu Dhabi November 2016

THE ESSENCE OF STYLE Abu dhabi

Style Icon Roger Vivier’s Exhibition At The Galleria Mall

The Accessories Edit Opulent Necklaces, Minimal Earrings, Silky Scarves, Fabulous Hats & Much More... www.ohlala-magazine.com

www.ohlala-magazine.com November 2016 | Issue 13 Abu dhabi | AED 20

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Cosmic Clutches: Nathalie Trad’s Best Collection Yet

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Yas Mall, Abu Dhabi, UAE Tel. 025650724 www.ohlala-magazine.com

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The Essence of Luxury From your first steps, we invite you to experience the essence of The Galleria’s exquisite fashion, fine jewellery and watch boutiques together with our award winning restaurant options - The Galleria

Bulgari | Cartier | Dior | Gucci | Louis Vuitton Prada | Van Cleef & Arpels | Roberto’s | Zuma

thegalleria.ae www.ohlala-magazine.com

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Contents Ohlala

Cindy chao

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The Tidbits Let’s Talk Accessories Minimal Magic: Editor’s Letter Take A Bow: Style Icon

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The Edit Everyday Glamour: On-The-Go Lovely Headgear: Berets & Co. Moonlight Decadence: Evening Sparkles

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The Interviews Piece By Piece: Noor Fares Blogger To Brand: Anine Bing Pearly Whites: Dr. Rocco

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The Life Travel Escapes: Paris Health Files: Remède Spa About Town: Shot On Site

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DUBAI: MALL OF THE EMIRATES, BURJUMAN

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ABU DHABI: MARINA MALL

FACEBOOK.COM/RITUALSCOSMETICS

OPENING SOON IN OMAN & QATAR

THE TRADITION OF GIVING give from the heart Only by giving do we receive more than we already have.

Because when we give from the heart, the joy of giving becomes its own reward. Discover our new collection of luxury keepsake giftboxes for him and her.

Y O U R B O D Y. Y O U R S O U L . Y O U R R I T U A L S . www.ohlala-magazine.com

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november 2016 issue 13

Chief Executive Officer Greg Hughes Publishing Director Edward Smith

Editor-in-Chief Georgie Bradley

Editor

Creative DIrector

Regional Sales Directors

Angela Beitz

Paula Leal

Kirsty Edwards-Harris

Managing editor

Graphic Designers

Rami Khalil

Shabana Adam

Jyoti Rawat Rashed Bindaina

SAles Coordinator

Contributors Sofia Graniello Victoria Bridget Gleeson

Renie Simplina

Production Manager

Photographers

WEBSITE

Neil Mahmood

Rashed Bindaina

Melek Yildirimtekin

Distribution Manager

Sunder Pratap Singh

Ajit Kumar

Accountants COVER Image Izaak Azanei

Credits image Cindy Chao

Gigimon Thankachen Praveen Alexander

Distribution Team

Printing Press

Distribution

Jayapragash Ganesan

United Printing Press

Bahrain – Al Hilal Qatar – Dar Al Sharq

Rajesh Abdul Kadar

UAE – GLS, Tawseel Distribution & Logistics Enquiries

Editorial: georgie@ohlala-magazine.com | Advertising: chelsea@nansgroup.com General: admin@ohlala-magazine.com | Telephone: (Bahrain) +973 1721 6099 | Postal Address: Ohlala Magazine, The Nans Group, P O BOX 30378, Budaiya, Kingdom of Bahrain. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher. All Rights Reserved. The views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily the views of the publisher. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication. However, FACT M.E. Publishing and all of its publications cannot accept legal responsibility for any error, content or omissions.

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ABU DHABI MARINA MALL DUBAI THE DUBAI MALL

YAS MALL

MALL OF THE EMIRATES

SAUDI ARABIA

THE GALLERIA

AL AIN MALL TRYANO YAS MALL

DEIRA CITY CENTRE

QATAR

MIRDIFF CITY CENTRE

BAHRAIN

OPENING SOON:

DUBAI MARINA MALL

KUWAIT www.ohlala-magazine.com

KSA HAMRA MALL, OUTLET RIYADH, MALL OF ARABIA QATAR DOHA FESTIVAL CITY

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tom ford

s ’ r o t er i Ed ett L

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t used to be that statement necklaces were what defined my style. Every special occasion: birthdays, the all-important name’s day (my Greek side), passing my driver’s test and any other reason to give gifts, saw yet another Bohemian imbued, endlessly embroidered necklace added to my burgeoning collection of junk jewels. I was completely obsessed, to put it mildly. If it didn’t have a chunky core, it wasn’t going around my neck. And it wasn’t just my décolletage that was decorated; every patch of skin was adorned with rings, bracelets and earrings – airport security was always fun for all involved. As much as I love an in-your-face necklace, I’m now a convert. A few years ago, I started to embrace the barely-there necklace – my hunchback thanked me for it. I shook off the shackles of my youthful (and kitschy) penchant for gratuitous accessories and found a subtle sexiness in minimal jewellery. I’ll always have time for the glamour of a dazzling piece of jewellery but I now realise how even the smallest of things have the most impact sometimes. Whatever your choice of accessories, they perfectly articulate the drama, power, sensuality and playfulness of the wearer.

You’ll find our issue offers a complete guide on the it-pieces to buy, how to wear them and why you should go outside the box, too. And while exploring the fresh-from-the-catwalk knowledge of this season’s accessories, we interview blogger turned designer, Anine Bing as well as Middle Eastern icon, Noor Fares.

Lastly, as the final chapter of the fashion weeks closed last month, I can’t tell you how much I enjoyed being in Paris again this season. I was honoured to meet and chat with Ines de la Fressange, the brand ambassador to Roger Vivier during the SS17 presentation. She spoke about the ‘Icons Connected’ exhibition held at the Galleria Mall last month and her love for Middle Eastern style and how it is heads and shoulders above the rest – even Parisian style. But beyond the thrills and frills of fashion, my stay at the Hotel Sofitel Paris Le Faubourg, in the sartorial epicentre of the city of light, shone oh so bright.

Georgie Bradley 16

www.ohlala-magazine.com

Editor in Chief

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©2016 The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C.

AbadiMTStd-LightItalic_abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz`1234567890-=[]\;’,./ ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ~!@#$%^&*()_+{}|:”<>? å∫ç∂´ƒ©˙ˆΔ˚¬µ˜øϖœ®ß†¨√∑≈¥Ω`¡™£¢∞§¶•ªº–≠“‘«…æ≤≥÷ ÅıÇÎ´Ï˝ÓˆÔÒ˜Ø∏Œ‰Íˇ¨◊„˛Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿ Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿|áéíóúâêîôûàèìòùäëïöüÿãñõÁÉÍÓÚÀÈÌÒÙÄËÏÖÜŸÑÃÕÂÊÎÔÛ ”“’‘ '" $‚Ǩ¬£¬•‚Ç©‡∏ø—Ä—É–± AbadiMTStd_abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz`1234567890-=[]\;’,./ ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ~!@#$%^&*()_+{}|:”<>? å∫ç∂´ƒ©˙ˆΔ˚¬µ˜øϖœ®ß†¨√∑≈¥Ω`¡™£¢∞§¶•ªº–≠“‘«…æ≤≥÷ ÅıÇÎ´Ï˝ÓˆÔÒ˜Ø∏Œ‰Íˇ¨◊„˛Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿ Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿|áéíóúâêîôûàèìòùäëïöüÿãñõÁÉÍÓÚÀÈÌÒÙÄËÏÖÜŸÑÃÕÂÊÎÔÛ ”“’‘ '" $‚Ǩ¬£¬•‚Ç©‡∏ø—Ä—É–±

Start the weekend in an atmosphere of elegance and sophistication with Giornotte's new bubbly Friday brunch.

Re-launching with a new bubbly package, Giornotte’s Friday brunch at The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal shines with over 30 masterfully presented live cooking stations as well as a dedicated dessert room in Dolce café.

Linger longer with an after-party at Sorso bar with a selection of handcrafted beverages and resident DJ on the decks. Starting at 295++ per person.

For more information and reservations, please contact +9712 818 8282 or email abudhabi.restaurants@ritzcarlton.com.

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Cut to Redeem

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all images by Christian Louboutin, Glam Rock, photography by Sofia MaurO

the accessories edit We bring you the ultimate guide on how to complete your look with the right heel, earring or tote for all occasions. Plus: jewellery chat with Anine Bing and Noor Fares

www.ohlala-magazine.com

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Style

Focus

It’s all in the details

karl lagerfeld

Isabel marant

Gucci

The tote bags, the statement jewellery, the effortless scarves and the ribbon belts – let us guide you through our edit of the season’s most desirable pieces to complete your outfits

Belt It

Fabulous Functionality & frivolity

Cinch your waist with heavy-duty leather belts or something more slapdash.

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amanda wakeley

alex

On-the-go

Run around in flats but still keep your style in check.

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Easy come, easy go slip-ons

chanel aw 15

Boyish charm & full on swag chu

sty

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Daytime Glamour

aurelie bidermann www.ohlala-magazine.com

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leb

Jewellery is not only the reserve for nightly engagements, but for sunlight mornings too.

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rch

Wear on the inside of a classic white blouse

For entrance-making purposes, these have a lasting impression

A silky ribbon tie is simple yet sophisticated

maison margiela @ stylebop balmain etro

mulberry

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delfina delettrez

and

alexis bittar @ stylebop

jil s

roberto cavalli

For the Modern Middle-Eastern Woman

THE ESSENCE OF STYLE ABU DHABI

Style Icon RogeR VIVIeR’S exhibition At The galleria Mall

The ACCESSORIES Edit Opulent Necklaces, Minimal Earrings, Silky Scarves, Fabulous Hats & Much More...

WWW.OHLALA-MAGAZINE.COM NOVEMBER 2016 | ISSUE 13 ABU DHABI | AED 20

Cover_Ohlala Abu Dhabi November 2016.indd 1

COSMiC ClutCHES: Nathalie trad’s Best Collection Yet 10/30/16 4:33 PM

November Edition available now on issuu.com www.ohlala-magazine.com

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Style

balenciaga

Focus

A fun pack for that inner schoolgirl Anya Hindmarch

aigner

max mara

Tote-ally Practical

Prada marni

Put your lifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s worth of things in these timeless icons and be grateful for their depth. loewe

gucci

DOlce & GAbbana

Fendi BO Play @ net-a-porter.com

Smythson @ Stylebop

All eyes on your art attack wallet Smythson @ Stylebop

Salvatore ferragamo

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Because your iPad needs a fashionable accessory too

Master Dynamic @ Stylebop

My life

Get organised with these list-making essentials and card-holding pouches.

Good GAdgets

A modern woman requires modern devices. Dress up your devices and look painfully cool with oversized headphones.

Indulge Instantly with a 25% discount For our loyal Golden Circle Members, Shangri-La Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi is offering 25% discount when you dine with us in any of our award winning restaurants and bars.

If you are not a member, join Golden Circle today and unlock rewarding benefits including: Earning award points on all transactions after discount is applied Redeeming award points for food and beverage after discount is applied Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter and tag your favorite dishes and dining experiences with #FromTheTable #ShangriLaAbuDhabi #ShangriLaFoodies

Join today by visiting: golden-circle.com/thetable/ Terms and conditions as follows: Discount applies to a maximum of 12 people per check Discount is not applicable in conjunction with any special promotions discounts as published by Shangri-La Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi Discount is not applicable on Public Holidays and Festive Dates such as Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, New Year’s Day, Eid Al Fitr, Eid Al Adha, Valentine’s Day and UAE National Day Discount is for food and beverage only, excluding shisha and tobacco products Dis

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Focus

BOotiful woman Create high impact with statement boots – whether they’re biker, sky-high or adorned with butterflies.

cy @ trea r.com Philipa-porte net-

ur colon n i i k Star nd chic on’t a e – d ilt stylget to t for

alice & Olivia

Charlotte olympia

Style

chloé

melissa odabash @ stylebop

gucci

maison michel @ stylebop

Headstrong

carven

From felt to turban to beret, a hat is a perfectly versatile accessory. And not forgetting how they resolve a bad hair day. chanel

missoni mare

This historic headwear is glamour in all the right places

Make your bag Insta-happy 26

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kenzo valentino

karl lagerfeld

edun

Update your everyday bag with an haute keychain and make it an IT bag.

Carven

Diane von furstenberg

anya hindmarch

Chain reaction

burberry

balmain

Thigh-high is all strength and seduction

Experience the magic of the festive season Join us on the 6th of December, from 17:00 onwards to celebrate our tree lighting tradition and indulge in festive delights. Take the time to shop at the annual Swiss Christmas Market, take a photo with the gingerbread train, enjoy our festive high tea with family and friends, or take advantage of our festive pamper packages.

To find out more pick up a festive brochure at the hotel, contact us on +971 (0)2 697 9011 or visit rotanatimes.com Whatever your choice, treasured times await you at the Beach Rotana Abu Dhabi.

Al Zahiyah, P.O. Box 45200, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

T: +971 (0)2 697 9000, F: +971 (0)2 644 2111, beach.hotel@rotana.com

rotana.com www.ohlala-magazine.com

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Style

Focus carolina Herrera

Lady Fingers Long gloves have always been a mark of etiquette and elegance. But we love the subtle leopard variety for some punk power too.

Charlotte olympia

Clau die P ierlo t

Give a neutral outfit an injection of artsy colour

Alexander Mcqueen

Show off some micro animal instincts

Anya Hindmarch

Marni

fendi

Marni

Wrap around

Scarves are a passionate tool.

Set your pulses races with these tantalising pieces.

Add a tinge of nighttime excess with a stole

TOP View

Larsson & Jennings @ Net-a-porter.com Michael Kors

Put everything into sharp focus with largerthan-life or mirrored sunglasses.

Blancpain

urent saint la

loewe

Luxury & classic in one go. Invest

Marni

Timely fashion

A solid watch can be the best kind of arm candy. And sometime finding the best watch is like finding true love.

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Feline and glinting charm. These frames are beguiling

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Paule ka

dolce & gabbana

elizabeth & James @ Net-a-porter.com

chanel

marc jacobs

veny x@n et-aporte r.com

Focus

Alexander wang

Style

moonlight elegance

sim @S one tyl roc ebo ha p

ro sa nt ica

balmain

Bright sparks to enchant everyone in the room

Kenneth jay lane @ stylebop

Add a magic touch to your evening with these spellbinding numbers. After dusk jewellery can be so endearing.

dolce & gabbana

a ban gab & ce dol

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Spread all your sparkly brooches together to create a work of art

Pin it Add a brooch to an already overloaded outfit to seal the max factor. Vintage pieces are always stunning.

c pie laud rlo ie t

ken @ neth sty ja leb y la op ne

marc jacobs

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Focus

miu miu

Style

Rodarte

tte rlo cha ia mp oly

Fancy Feet

Your twinkle toes will do all the talking in these beautiful works.

Stride strong and tall.

Rodarte

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vivienne ery in morgan mill

@ philip treacy.com net-a-porter

a mpi oly tte rlo Cha

Pompom touches for a bit of play

hair care

stu ar tw eit zm an

el maison miebchop @ styl

Give yourself an ethereal look with jazzed up bobby pins and crown-like headbands.

karl lagerfeld

Lâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;afshar

inge christopher

With that clock feature, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll never be late for that important date

clutching at style Let these ultimate clutches be your best date on your night out. From minimalist clean to elaborate and striking.

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Artisan craftsmanship comes in the form of velvet-trim ruffles

een qu mc r de an ex al

Get your daily dose of Ohlala online now THE ESSENCE OF STYLE ABU DHABI

THE BEST REGIONAL DESIGNERS TO KNOW Our Picks Of The Crème De La Crème

WEDDING SPECIAL

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Inside Valentino’s Magical AW16 Collections

Abu Dhabi’s Chicest Venues

New SEASON STYLE An Updated Look At Fashion

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BEAUTY: How To Master Bright Colours

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Ines de la Fressange - Benoit Peverelli, 2016

Monsieur Roger Vivier©Ian Patrick

Timeless Treasures

‘Icons Connected’ Journey in Seoul, South Korea

Brand ambassador to Roger Vivier, Ines de la Fressange, sits with Georgie Bradley and sheds light on the ‘Icons Connected’ exhibition at The Galleria Mall and talks through the exquisitely curated pieces of the collections On a crisp and colour-changing autumnal day, inside the

historically Parisian, Maison de L’Amérique Latine, where the chandeliers drip with diamonds, the 18th century pillars have ornate finishes and the ceilings beam with allure, the SS17 presentation for Roger Vivier is a dazzling affair. The cultural heritage of the space is akin to the brand’s championing of old-time glamour meets contemporary decadence. Each room is awash with cult shoes – notably the thigh-high guipure boot sandals and the sensuously pointed ankle boots alongside some indulgent multi-coloured stone trainers.The set up is eye-catching (not least through the piercing crystals) and energetic, creating conversation about the travelling woman; a woman who moves from day to night and around the world with a compelling sense of style.

All the while Ines de la Fressange, brand ambassador to Roger Vivier, in all her leggy, androgynous charm, threads in and out of the ubiquitous media and fashion elite – if she wasn’t so tall, you’d think she was merely passing 34

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‘Icons Connected’ Journey in Seoul, South Korea

through – but she commands the space with a subtle yet prominent flair. Cutting a feminine and strong dash, she sports drainpipe white trousers, silver kicks and a svelte navy blue suit jacket. Her ear-length hair flicks in playful disarray and her fine-boned features are endearing. She represents the elegance, sophistication and modernity of today’s woman.

As we sit in our upholstered emerald armchairs, next to the floor-to-ceiling sash windows overlooking an abundant garden where the autumn hues begin to unfurl, Ines puts out a disclaimer: “I apologise in advance if we get interrupted.”

Being that it’s press day, this is standard. But as an evident master of multi-tasking,

Designer

Focus

THE AW16 COLLECTION Our Favourite pieces

Roger Vivier’s Boutique, The Galleria Mall

she gives her undivided attention like we go way back.

Since 2003, Ines has been immersed in the world of Roger Vivier.

The combination of her imitable style, sharp sense of self and Parisian etiquette, makes her a natural fit as the protagonist of the house. Over the years, she has walked and talked Roger Vivier the world over and has been at the helm of its evolution.

Last month saw the travelling exhibition, ‘Icons Connected’ visit the Galleria Mall on Al Maryah Island. Ahead of her trip to Abu Dhabi, she explains the importance of linking the past with the present. “When we first did the exhibition in Paris a few years ago, it was a huge success and I wanted the rest of the world to discover this patrimony. Figures like Audrey Hepburn and Jackie Onassis, Queen Elizabeth II are icons connected by their feet,” says Ines.

The exhibition celebrates the history of the venerated house and charts its expansion from a carriage trade shoe brand to a sophisticated, contemporary Parisian brand. The aim is to evoke “another time” while showing reverence to the past for the way it’s shaped the present. “It’s not possible to turn away from the past in the world of fashion. Our roots are important. When we travel, fashion is a very small world,” she adds.

Social media has a lot to answer for when bringing the past to life, or indeed with having a preoccupation with the past. “People find old photographs of celebrated artists, filmmakers and intellectual creatives and lift them onto the Internet. It’s no longer difficult to find archives, it’s all available.” Roger Vivier’s deep-rooted lineage sparks interest from the outset. The aforementioned clientele lends credence to its status as a leading luxury accessories brand, which definitely has a firm place in the Middle Eastern fashion scene.

The Middle Eastern woman, when it comes to fashion has come a long way. “For a long time they liked statement-making, excessive pieces but this is becoming a false stereotype now. Middle Eastern women move around the world so much nowadays, they are more informed about fashion than Parisians!”

Roger Vivier is never conventional. The pieces are transformative. “I have a simple sense of style, but a Vivier shoe gives my outfit a touch of glamour,” she claims. The beauty and technical ingenuity imbued into every last piece is what makes a Roger Vivier purchase all the more prized - that and the fact that “in life, we need frivolity,” says Ines.

“It’s not possible to turn away from the past in the world of fashion. Our roots are important” A-List Clientele From royalty to Hollywood legends Queen Elizabeth II in her coronation robes,1953

Cate Blanchett

Brigitte Bardot

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Designer

Focus

Piece

by Piece Lebanon has always been synonymous with strong designers. When it comes to fashion, the Lebanese have it naturally. Noor Fares is no exception. In fact, she represents the Middle Eastern designer who approaches their craft with a sense of preserving cultural roots but with international vision. From a young age Noor was drawn to jewellery via her mother and grandmother’s astute sense of style. Now, she is at the helm of her eponymous brand which sees superb sculptural designs steeped in geometry and finesse. Having grown up in Paris, it’s evident she has that delicate flair so emblematic of Parisian fashion sensibility. But her heritage never goes unnoticed. It’s what allows intrigue to spark.

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Designer

Focus

How has your background in Paris, THE style capital of the world, informed your love for jewellery and why you started your collections?

Paris has such a rich culture and growing up there allowed me to be introduced to the arts from a very young age. My aunt and mother are very creative and gave me my first foray into the world of design.

From this I started making bespoke jewellery for friends and family that later turned into the Noor Fares brand we know today.

You grew up surrounded by strong women like your mother. How did she accessorise?

My mother has a wonderful sense of style and alters pieces to match it all the time. She will often wear lots of layers of necklaces along with a statement pair of earrings.

Do you have a most treasured item in your personal jewellery collection?

My grandmother’s engagement ring is very special to me.

Tell us about the creative inspiration for your collections?

I spend a few months making mood boards and researching my inspiration before applying it to designs. It is often whilst travelling that I am at my most creative, so I return home and put my ideas in motion.

What materials do you love using?

I love discovering new materials. For ‘The Fly Me to the Moon’ collection I launch a series of new material earrings twice a year. We currently have over 30 different materials that we use. At the moment I really love Opal and Topaz.

“Jewellery can be viewed as objects of art in the same way that buildings are” Is there anything new you’d like to try and use? Something unusual and unexpected, perhaps?

Yes, but you’ll have to wait and see!

Jewellery is a lot more architectural and geometric nowadays. Why do you think that is?

I think that architecture nowadays is built with humans in mind, in terms of how it will affect the people who view it or live/work inside it, so it becomes something inspiring. I also feel that jewellery can be viewed as mini sculptures or objects of art in the same way that buildings are.

Where would you say Noor Fares sits between minimalism and standout statement pieces?

I try to create pieces with clean geometric lines but add colour to ensure it makes an impact.

What’s your future vision for the brand?

I hope to continue to design collections that women want to wear and to inspire young designers to follow their dreams.

Jewellery pieces from the Akasha collection 38

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THE PIECES

Tilda Swinton

Gorgeous numbers where gold accents meet polychrome play

“For her daring sense of style”

noor’s icons

“At the moment I really love Opal & Topaz”

Gayatri Devi “For her classic elegance”

Gucci

“Everything they do at the moment turns to magic”

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Designer

Focus

Blogger to brand

Anine Bing is one to watch. The L.A. dwelling, Scandinavian native is a style influencer who can balance it all.

Her world consists of many roles: mother, designer, blogger and all round fabulous person – she’s our kind of woman. Among her many collections is her jewellery line which celebrates her minimalist roots. We talk to the ethereal, can-do-anythingdesigner about her inspiration for her jewellery and the main differences between Scandinavian and Middle Eastern style How did you go from blogger to full-fledged brand?

It has been a natural step combining the two worlds. When I started the brand I used social media to promote it and throughout the years the collection has grown into becoming a full-scale brand.

Why do you think barely-there jewellery has as much appeal as it’s got?

I love to layer jewellery and with delicate pieces it’s possible to wear multiple rings, bracelets and necklaces. It gives room to be playful with your jewellery, which I really like.

What was the inspiration for your jewellery collection?

My grandmother loved jewellery and she has always been a great source of inspiration for me. I also love going to flea markets to look for vintage pieces.

What are your key pieces from the collection?

I’m in love with the beaded necklace from this year’s autumn collection. It adds so much personality to an outfit. Another piece that I really enjoy is the gold ring with a diamond star – I wear it on my pinkie finger.

What similarities are there, do you think, between Scandinavian and Middle Eastern fashion?

I feel like both people from Scandinavia and the Middle East have really proud historic cultures that we like to showcase through fashion. We are thorough with the fabrics we use and how we combine and layer different silhouettes and textures.

Why do you think Middle Eastern women will take to your minimalist jewellery?

I’m proud of the high quality and the fact that all pieces are handcrafted here in L.A. I also think that the design is appealing and that they are easy to mix in with other jewellery pieces.

What’s the main difference in designing clothes versus jewellery in terms of the process and how much you enjoy it?

I love them both equally. I feel jewellery is like the icing on the cake to an outfit and that a great piece of jewellery can make a simple outfit stand out. The process is quite similar in the sense that I start by creating a mood board with pieces that I would like to be included in the line. My team and I put together sketches and show them to our local jeweller who then makes samples that I can try on and make changes to. Once approved we go into production and launch on the website.

Shop the collection: aninebing.com

“I feel jewellery is like the icing on the cake to an outfit and that a great piece of jewellery can make a simple outfit stand out”

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Beaded necklace gold ring with diamond star

â&#x20AC;&#x153;I love going to flea markets

to look for vintage piecesâ&#x20AC;?

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Out Of This World

Shell is always a base material for any Nathalie Trad clutch.

That and a treasure trove of unique materials which, despite their haphazard source, always seem so effortlessly combined. As she leaves behind Miami’s south beach from her last collection, she’s gone out into the universe with Utopia 2.0. Questioning the more surreal notions of life as we know it, this collection is dramatic, full of accents and more than ever, edgy. Follow the narrative of Utopia 2.0 and take in the mesmeric aesthetics “We set off from an almost uninhabitable earth on an exploratory voyage through a wormhole, through space, through time, across the cosmos, emerging at the other end, on the outer edge of the Milky Way”

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;The new world rolls into view: a desolate world of eroded mountains and charcoal peaks, coated with a layer of black powder and rocksâ&#x20AC;?

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;Towering monoliths preside over the abandoned metropolis with strong streamlined forms. Bold lines and pure black surfaces, contrast with shining metallics of steel and goldâ&#x20AC;?

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;These industrialised art deco structures command the city with an air of futuristic machine age architectureâ&#x20AC;?

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;Utopia 2.0 is a depiction of every step of our transcendental journey from earth through intergalactic skies, finally stumbling across an unfinished city swathed in unrealityâ&#x20AC;? www.ohlala-magazine.com

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Cosy Up Urban chic can mean whatever you want it to mean. In this case, Izaak Azanei prompt you to ramp up the heat with a nod to trim fur for a flirtatious finish to your look. Sisters Karishma, Roshni and Deeya Khemlani, have created a heavenly union between day and night dress, where you can wear your tricoloured racoon cuff sweater during office hours and then at a chic soirĂŠe. And if youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re not hot on fur, Izaak Azanei gives you faux-options too 48

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Beauty Buzz

chocolate obsession Deep chocolate burgundies, a clean face and a set of power brows have got our pulses racing.

Get the look like a pro with these products

Vamp Kiss

colour duo eyeshadow, tom ford

Go dark with this ultra chic product, plus its package screams glam.

Burgundy and plum are in for the season. Get that pout working and make it the centre of attention. And remember; clean any mistake with concealer and a small brush.

lady page noirs, nailpolish, Christian Louboutin

Mr.Ford

Have a minimal approach with your lids and add the darkest shade into your socket to create dimension on the eyes.

Noir Pages

lip cuddle tooth stain, wow by wojooh Rodarte

Noir Vision

It’s All About That Base

Take that black liner you’ve been waiting to use and start lining the upper and lower lash line and smudge away. Use your fingers to smudge, or apply a cotton bud.

everlasting foundation, clarins

Start clean with a foundation that will hydrate your skin, especially in these cooler months ahead.

dipbrow, ash brown, Anastasia Beverly Hills

black moon velvet eyeliner, nars

zoulou matte, lipstick christian louboutin

melin contour blush, nars

High Brow

The PowFactor

Create defined cheeks with one shade darker than your skin tone and get that runway feel.

Suffer from redness, or purple discoloration?

Add a touch of this magic corrector to areas of hyper pigmentation.

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Black Cedarwood & Juniper, Jo Malone Color Correcting Fluid, Lavender, Urban Decay

Erase & Rewind

Glorious Scent

Feel fresh with this infusion of scents for a long-lasting touch.

Alternative Route

If a dark vibe isn’t your thing opt for a matte finish for a more toned down hue.

black mascara, chanel

Let untamed brows take their course as you fill them in with the dipbrow. Comb them upwards and get that feline feel.

Spider Lashes

Thick lashes are not exclusively for overthe-top drama, they are mainstream and we love it.

moschino

nicolas degennes

dolce & GabbanA

Beauty Talk

rouge, christian louboutin

Moodboard

lady in red Red is always a mainstay; from

ni

mar

and ethereal gowns, we unveil our

Marchesa A/w 16

coveted pieces

carolina herrera

dolce & gabbana

versace

versace

glittery pout

Le rouge, heroic red, givenchy

deep red lipsticks to glittery pouts

chanel

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Pearly Whites

Looking for the perfect smile? We speak to Dr V. Rocco Arzoumanian, DDS, MS, FAAID, CTC who has made a name for himself in the capital as the “Dentist to the Royals”

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Beauty Insight Nowadays one of the safest way is herbal

whitening

which is based on chlorophyll and has less

peroxide

Tell us about yourself and how you became a dentist?

Ever since I was a kid, I was always passionate about medicine. I used to cut the medical articles from magazines and collect them. When I was growing up, our family dentist was an incredible person, he was almost like a role model to me, and he used to encourage me to study dentistry. I have to admit that he had a great impact on my decision to study dentistry; also there were some other factors taken in consideration, like being more independent as a professional (not being hooked up to a hospital).

Tell us about your philosophy? What are your specialties - why should someone come to you?

My main philosophy in dentistry is “to make the patient happy” either by eliminating the pain, restoring a broken tooth or by giving them a Hollywood smile. First comes understanding the patient’s desire, and then satisfying his needs. As a consultant in prosthodontics (crowns, veneers, esthetics) from the prestigious University of Michigan, and a former clinical instructor, I do many smile makeovers, it is the field that I excel the most in. I have to admit that in my practice I have a great team of specialists. We do all the different aspects of dentistry, (family dentistry, restorative, cosmetic and implant dentistry) making it a specialised dental clinic.

How did you earn your reputation as a “Dentist to the Royals”?

During my long years of practice in Abu Dhabi, I was blessed and fortunate enough to build an

excellent reputation and be introduced to the Royal Family and get the reputation as the “Dentist to the Royals”. I have to emphasise on the fact that it is indeed more than an honour and blessing to treat the Royals.

In the past 10 years, what advances in technology and materials have changed cosmetic dentistry the most?

In dentistry, just like any medical field, there are always new materials and technology introduced.

For the last 10 years we have seen a constant evolution of veneers, ceramics and cements. The teeth whitening process has advanced extremely.

The computer dentistry (CAD/CAM) is also a field revolutionising the clinical approach. All these novelties have immensely helped the progress of restorative and cosmetic dentistry.

What are some common problems you see here in Abu Dhabi in terms of teeth and how can people fix them?

I don’t really see a common teeth problem in Abu Dhabi. Some older generation patients may have more cavities (decays) because of the lack of dental hygiene education back then, but luckily we don’t encounter much of this problem with the new generation.

What sort of cosmetic procedures can be done for a perfect smile?

It all depends on the existing clinical situation.

Sometimes we have to consider doing braces (orthodontic treatment) in order to beautifully align the teeth. Sometimes we have to be more aggressive and consider doing esthetic restorations like veneers or crowns in order to create a stunning smile. There is a big variation of type of veneers or crowns that the doctor will choose according to the given clinical situation and according to the patient’s desire, all in order to create the perfect smile.

What is the safest way to get your teeth whitened?

Nowadays one of the safest ways is herbal whitening, which is based on chlorophyll mostly (extracted from the plants), and has less peroxide.

What types of food/diet are good for oral health?

Any food is fine as long as it releases less sugar (to prevent cavity formation) and less citric acid in the mouth - in order to avoid teeth erosion.

Do you have any quick, simple health tips that people can incorporate into their daily routine?

A simple quick tip would be to drink water or to rinse with water after anything you eat or drink within 15 minutes, in order to clean and reduce the ph (acidity) in your mouth.

Visit Dr V. Rocco Arzoumanian at Al Muhairy Shopping Centre, Khalidiya, Abu Dhabi or call: 2633 2900 www.ohlala-magazine.com

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Toss A magic eraser is now on the market, ladies. Yes, a beauty product that will reduce the appearance of your unwanted

wrinkles and fine lines is now your confidence booster thanks to the ever reliable Bobbi Brown.

Apply before or

that

Beauty Focus

confidence

after makeup creating a blurring effect, offering a smoother texture that will also absorb excess oil.

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Beauty Column Use a moisturising cleanser

If you only make one change to your skin-care routine, change up your face wash. Swapping a foaming cleanser for a creamy one is a valuable step to help skin adjust to colder, drier weather. This will ensure you don’t strip your skin of valuable oils as you cleanse. Typically cream or oil-based cleansers are the go-to and they will still work just as well to remove make-up and get your skin clean. We love NUXE Cleansing Milk with Rose Petals.

Boost your exfoliation

This goes for your body and your face. The combination of dry air and hot showers will really dry your skin out so it’s super important to scrub away the dead skin cells at least twice a week. You can also mix your cleanser with a small amount of an exfoliator for a more gentle scrub if your skin is sensitive. Fresh skin cells are better able to absorb products, giving you more bang for your skincare buck. There’s no point putting your beautiful La Mer face cream onto skin that isn’t exfoliated. That is a beauty crime and you may as well be pouring it down the sink. Try Rub Rub Rub Shower Scrub from LUSH for your body and Filorga’s Scrub & Mask for your face.

Make serums your new BFF

winter is coming

Angela Beitz explains the importance of changing up your beauty routine for the cooler months It’s that glorious time

in the Gulf where the temperatures have finally dropped and we’re heading into winter. Being able to sit outside and wear a light cashmere sweater is now top of mind and everyone’s moods have instantly changed. But in terms of beauty, winter can wreak havoc on your skin the same way that the summer can. So no matter what skincare you are using now, you need to change your regime.

There’s nothing better than the feeling of liquid serums sinking into your skin, especially if you’ve been exfoliating in the aforementioned way. If you’ve never used a serum before (shame on you) it’s basically a lightweight moisturiser that penetrates deeper into your skin by delivering active ingredients. I love a good Vitamin C serum followed by an Anti-Ageing serum especially when applied before bedtime so it can do its thing while you get your beauty sleep. Go for Super Corrective Serum from Shiseido and Advanced Night Repair from Estée Lauder.

Moisturise like your life depends on it

Look for products that are designed to hydrate and will feed your complexion with moisture for 24 hours. You may also need to switch to a heavier cream especially at night so your skin can rejuvenate itself. It’s essential to use hydration masks (twice a week is perfect) and be sure to slather on body cream as soon as you step out of the shower. Try Super Supreme Body Butter from Sephora, Abeille Royale Cream from Guerlain and Skin Republic Sheet Masks.

Use sunscreen

It’s easy to become lazy when it comes to winter and sunscreen. You can still burn and cause damage to your skin (especially in this region) so you won’t do yourself any favours if you ignore sun protection in winter. CC Creams are fabulous for winter as they help correct, soothe, moisturise, protect and perfect the complexion. We live by Clarins Mineral Sunscreen and CHANEL CC Cream Spf 50. www.ohlala-magazine.com

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from paris with love The most luxurious hotels where fashion abounds, haute cuisine is for breakfast and the settings are as sleek as they come

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Travel Escapes

The High Life Georgie Bradley stays in a stylish retreat and experiences the eternal allure of Paris If you were to equate Paris’ properties in terms of a fashion show seating arrangement, the Sofitel Paris Le Faubourg is all FROW. Not only does it sit within skipping distance to Place de la Concorde, but the sisterhood of Dior, Chanel, Gucci and co, (where only the well-heeled prance) skirt around the 1st arrondisement – the most prestigious of all arrondisements, at that. Being on Rue Boissy d’Anglas, the hotel benefits from a plethora of surrounding shops, some quietly quaint on a side street, some more gregarious in their real estate on the glittery Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré. Due to the proximity to the U.S. Embassy and Élysée Palace, the official residence to the French president, the hotel falls on one of the safest streets in Paris.

Additionally too, the section of Rue Boissy d’Anglas where the hotel is found, is semi-pedestrianised with armed police officers, so you’re in good hands here. What’s even better is how discreet the hotel appears from the outside. Despite it being the flagship Sofitel property within the Accor Group, the hotel retains a lowlevel elite status – the best ones always do.

After a slick check-in and making my way to a perfectly poised room, I’m made aware of the fact that I’ll be sleeping on MyBed® bedding designed by Pierre-Yves Rochon and that the décor was conceptualised by Didier Gomez who took the reigns during the refurbishment a few years ago. Normally I cast these 68

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sorts of details aside by default as my general hotellery knowledge is nowhere near five-star-level to be able to decipher names in the industry – but all I needed to do was plant myself on the edge of the bed to know these designers are in the top ranks.

You essentially melt into the fibre of the bed, as the plump duvet slowly envelops you with its cloud-like cushiness.

There’s an overall period polish to the room but with a feast of 21st century fixtures. The spotlights over the bed create a dreamy halo around the mountain of pillows and illuminate the debonair painting sitting directly above the head, playing off the 18th century classicism backdrop of the hotel. The crisp white and powder blue colour scheme is an enchanting mix, one that leaves you feeling relaxed and allows for a peaceful sleep. The window looks out onto an interior courtyard filled with pretty plants, paying homage to the true spirit of chic Paris.

The bathroom has a sumptuous bath, complete with a line of Hermès toiletries including shower gels, shampoo, hair conditioner and body lotion. The marbled floors look and feel prestigious, making me want to spend more time than I need in

“There’s an overall period polish to the room but with a feast of 21st century fixtures” the plush bathroom.

The jewel in the hotel’s crown is the lobby area where you’ll find a mini, albeit rather scene-stealing mannequin display of cascading gowns brought in from the Fédération Française de la Couture where the microscopic needlework shows off the utmost technical prowess and confirms couture’s breathtaking status in the world of fashion. Being Fashion Week, it only seems appropriate to bring that glamour into the hotel; it is indeed, a very fine touch.

The lobby’s skylight (fantastically designed by Gomez) bathes the display in a warm and soft light, come rain or shine, and gives the space an added smattering of elegance. Further from the lobby is a chic old-world library nook with coffee table books related to fashion, history and travel. I while away several blissful hours www.ohlala-magazine.com

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Travel Escapes

“The menu offers the finest in French cuisine presented with contemporary flair against the exceptionally sophisticated space” scrolling through daily feeds of the latest from the fashion world while taking thick sips of a luxurious hot chocolate. The warm brown tones of the library are homely and make you feel cocooned in a vintage film set, steeped in oodles of history. It’s the kind of setting which you’d see sprawled across several pages in a glorious hardback art deco book full of interior design inspiration. There’s plenty of substance in the style in every corner of the hotel, so thoughtfully executed, reminding you why Paris is a city of timeless beauty.

Add to that, Yannick Alléno lends his three-Michelin star skills to the hotel’s STAY Faubourg restaurant, an urban dining concept which sees an irresistible pastry library in the centre of the restaurant where you’ll find the most decadent and delicate macaroons placed in rows of rainbow order. The menu offers the finest in French cuisine presented with contemporary flair against the exceptionally sophisticated space. I have my breakfast in the restaurant every morning where the elegance of a continental breakfast is fortified by the sprightly staff offering newspapers, coffee or juice to go with my buttery croissant(s). A multitude of sins take place in this restaurant, but it’s Paris; so naturally all clean eating plans are consciously dashed.

After a three-night stay, it’s hard to leave behind the convenience and relief of staying in a hotel that offers exemplary service and a runway retreat away from the crowds. Given the hotel’s haute couture sensibilities and distinct Parisian charm, the Sofitel Paris Le Faubourg will always be on trend in my books.

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Travel Escapes

A Voyage Within A Voyage In one of the most talked about hotels in Paris, Bridget Gleeson embarks on an unparalleled exotic journey Perfectly located in the heart of the chicest part of town,

Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré and surrounded by luxury boutiques, haute couture ateliers and a street away from the presidential palace, the award-winning Buddha Bar Hotel Paris is truly an experience that you won’t be forgetting anytime soon. If you’re visiting Paris to shop, this hotel should be at the top of your list for places to stay, for it offers a plethora of experiences beyond what already lies outside the hotel’s parameters. Its trademark, ‘voyage within a voyage’ philosophy gives you the most personalised hotel stay with many sensory delights along the way.

The journey begins with the iconic red glass ‘Buddha Bar’ lanterns lining the street towards the hotel, which make the hotel appear like an urban temple. Upon entering the hotel you are immediately transported to another world with cherry blossom trees flanking the entrance. We are welcomed at the door with true Asian hospitality (think warm smiles and gentle manners) making us feel at home and comfortable at the onset. From the beautiful golden dragon motif signifying protection that follows you around the hotel, to the chain mail covering the walls and the stunning bright yellow pleated silk fabric adorning the hallways, the blend of neo-Asian and

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French traditional décor ensures that this is not your typical Parisian chateau!

The rooms are a haven of serenity, with striking red, black and gold furniture, decadent fabrics, lush bed linens and incredible attention to detail while following the neo-Asian theme which truly gives the feeling of an oasis within the city. The bathroom is in one word: luxurious. The bathtub alone is a design unlike anything seen before, a large black circular tub surrounded by the protective dragon motif in gold-mosaicked tiles. The entire space is so striking it takes several rounds to drink in all the detail as the hotel definitely doesn’t skimp on its Oriental intrigue meets Parisian glamour narrative because every inch of the grounds, be it in the rooms or in the restaurants, adhere to this most intricate story – one that you won’t find anywhere else in Paris. Staying here allows for the ultimate escape from what you know, and we definitely indulged in every aspect of the room alone.

Of course the famous Buddha Bar’s around the world are renowned for their cocktails, food and music which are at your disposal throughout the day while staying at the hotel. A must try is the new ‘4 elements’ Sunday brunch concept held in the outdoor courtyard at the Le Vraymonde Restaurant. The courtyard is a picture-perfect setting full of delicious detail that are typical to Parisian chic but with a notable twist of bold orange and rouge palettes, brilliantly blending the Western and Eastern vibes. Delve into an inspiring array of cuisines and flavours from the buffet, or order from the a la carte menu of your choosing, where you’ll find anything from sushi to classic French dishes - you are sure to be delighted and spoiled for www.ohlala-magazine.com

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“The blend of neo-Asian and French traditional décor ensures that this is not your typical Parisian chateau” choice. What’s more is the presentation of every dish (if the images weren’t evidence enough) is pure art. Gastronomy runs in the blood of the French; food is not simply to be eaten but to be admired and spoken about. You’ll certainly have some conversation-starting meals at any one of Buddha Bar’s outlets. The key is to let go of your inhibitions and sample the most wildly different and perhaps unpronounceable dish; that way you are embodying the spirit of the voyage. And of course being in France, the wine selections are paired with your brunch by the in house sommelier. This is where your Buddha Bar journey gets wonderfully personal. The attention to the guest experience at this point proves this property is deserving of every accolade it has received.

After enjoying a day out strolling to Paris’ iconic landmarks like the Louvre and the Grand Palais that are only a short walk away, it’s best to treat yourself to one of the tantalising cocktail creations in the intimate setting of Le Qu4tre lounge bar, which we definitely did! Voted the Best Bar in Europe for 2014-2015, you are sure to be mesmerised by the dexterous mixologists who can create a rainbow of cocktails in a spell-binding performance against the sounds of one of the world famous in-residence sound artists who provide the perfect soundtrack to your evening. It’s one of those nights which you want to repeat again, knowing that the next time will be totally different and unique but equally as exotic as the first time.

Staying in the Buddha Bar hotel, you really have the feeling that you have had two journeys in one, experiencing Paris at its finest while relaxing in an Asian paradise. www.ohlala-magazine.com

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Authentic Flavours The Peninsula Paris’ Lili restaurant boasts gastronomic greatness and visual splendour in one. Bridget Gleeson indulges in a spectacular spread of Oriental favourites The historical Peninsula Paris plays host to the beautifully designed and opulent Lili, an extravagant restaurant serving the finest Cantonese cuisine in Paris. With décor reminiscent of the Ming Dynasty and inspired by the drama of Chinese and French opera, Lili transports you to a bygone era, sweeping you away from the classic Parisian architecture of the Peninsula to a beautiful Chinese theatre.

Upon arrival we were escorted down the hallway to private dining booths shrouded in dark lacquered wood and heavy fabrics giving a sense of intimacy to each table. We were seated in some amazing cage-like chairs and began to soak in the incredible design of Lili. You’re exposed to a mix of classic French ceilings with cherubs looking over you, large Asian lanterns and artworks, huge tasselled canopies and intricate woodcarvings.

The degustation menu was unpacked for us: a thoughtfully curated experience including: Cantonese cuisine, classic dishes and new creations mixed in to give you a precise and complete journey. We began our eight-course meal with the squid ink Ha Kao, a beautiful shining black dumpling served in its own silver bowl. The singular piece is an explosion of incredible flavour and sets the scene for the gastronomic delights to come!

Next was the selection of dim sum. Each piece had such strong flavours and textures in their own right but still managed to meld effortlessly together. Other highlights were the sea bass cooked to absolute perfection and interestingly paired with a light red wine by the sommelier. The exciting braised abalone, which is finely sliced and paired with a flavour packed sauce, is another starring dish to note.

The most outstanding dish of the evening however, was the roasted Peking duck: the most tender and flavourful duck we had ever tasted before, artfully presented with assorted mixed crudité (an off-piste but interesting variety of rock melon and red pepper) placed inside each wrap. The combination of equally defined sweet and savoury layers makes it a memorable dish.

Finally, our superstar waiter served us our impeccably formed pear covered in sesame seeds, made of a deep fired sesame ball filled with custard, fresh mango pudding and a flaky egg tart. As far as desserts go, we went out with a bang. But what really sealed our delectable night was when the sommelier presented us with an incredible sake, bright yellow in colour, with an intense fruity taste – just amazing.

The food alone is fantastic at Lili but the combination of the décor, the incredible staff and the historical significance of the Peninsula Paris made this a magical meal in the city of lights.

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Travel Escapes

Tastes of home Another fine dining choice is the Peninsula Paris’ Le Lobby. Georgie Bradley samples the Katara specialties on the menu that offer a contemporary twist to Middle Eastern cuisine with a dollop of olive oil, is the ideal accompaniment to the fragrant rice. Deconstructing it layer by layer, you’ll find it’s a very faithful version of what you have at home.

Our Sago dessert was worthy of many talking points. Being luscious sweet pudding spiced with saffron and cardamom, it arrived near piping hot, but not prohibitively so. The caramelised walnuts perched on top gave a welcomed crunch to the jelly consistency of the pudding. In all, you’ll find it’s the kind of dessert that is ostentatious without being too overbearing – it’s a lot lighter than it appears.

For something extra special in Paris, Le Lobby provides a unique experience where a touch of nostalgia will hit you along the way.

Before I even set foot in the Peninsula Paris’ all-day dining restaurant, Le Lobby, I knew from the supercars and flash folk filing into the majestic-cum-modern hotel, that this property meets the glamour-seeking standards of the Middle East to a fault.

With a burgeoning clientele from our shores, it doesn’t surprise me that the hotel is ticking all the necessary boxes to accommodate the most discerning luxury travellers. Beyond having a list of regional TV channels from the Gulf available in each room, the hotel is winning over its guests with its well-chosen ‘Katara Specialty’ dishes added onto Le Lobby’s menu.

Le Lobby is as regal as it is charming with its sky-high ceilings and glittery chandelier. Part Parisian, part Oriental, the restaurant is airy and cosy at the same time. Despite being an all-day dining restaurant, you’ll notice the clientele dress to the nines.

We began with a very zingy Saumon Bio - organic salmon served in Parisian style, diced vegetable salad with herbs and tomato water. The salmon was butter-soft to bite into and had a superb, almost playful slipperiness to it. It was all lipsmack and happiness for starters.

The Katara Specialties consist of the Garish de Gambas which includes: Jerresh Rebian, prawns served with spelt seeds and Qatari spices. Built up on a mound of spelt, the prawns sit large and kingly.

The endless sea of spelt has fullness to its taste, courtesy of it being a species of wheat, while the prawns are as succulent as they come.

All the ingredients come together in perfect harmony, giving you a true taste of the Middle East – presented in the most refined way.

One of my favourite comfort foods in the Middle East is the rice-heavy Majboos. At Le Lobby however, the much-loved dish is given a revival. Majbous au poulet sees a richly spiced mixture of Qatari spices, basmati rice topped with chicken, pine nuts and raisins served with yoghurt. The chicken was unexpectedly crispy but that allowed for a unique and upgraded experience – plentiful pine nuts were littered around the plate while the yoghurt sauce www.ohlala-magazine.com

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An Arabian Oasis

For all those who want to escape the buzz of the city and indulge in some me time, Shabana Adam spent the weekend at the Shangri-La Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri where true Middle Eastern hospitality meets pure relaxation and luxury service

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Local Escapes “The Shangri-La has successfully managed to blend its signature Asian style with local Arabic influence and offer a Far East meets Middle East sanctuary”

When it comes to weekend staycations, Abu Dhabi is not short of places to stay. This means we are that much more selective about the places we want to call home for two or three days. This month we pick the Shangri-La Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri for our fix of vitamin D, with its sprawling private beach dotted with comfy sunbeds. The many pools to choose from also give us a spring in our step, all surrounded by beautiful palm trees and perfectly-trimmed green grass; in simple terms, a completely serene setting where you can unwind with a glass of something cold! You can hop on the hotel’s traditional Arabic boats, abras, transporting you around the winding waterway to the adjoining souk. If you’ve already spent the day sightseeing or shopping, take a front row seat to an exotic sunset with magnificent views of Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque over the canal’s glittering waters – how’s that for a stunning end to the day?

To top off a day out at the beach, where you’ve probably developed some sun fatigue, we recommend taking advantage of the CHI, The Spa. On arrival, you’re immediately overcome with 80

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a feeling of Zen; the neutral and deep-hued décor, low lighting, and aromatherapy smells give a calming illusion. On first impressions, you’ll see that Shangri-La has successfully managed to blend its signature Asian style with local Arabic influence and offer a Far East meets Middle East sanctuary. We experienced the glorious ancient therapy of the Hammam topped off with an Asian Blend full body massage, each lasting 60 minutes.

The knowledgeable staff and therapists were attentive and informative throughout the treatments – did you know that black soap is fantastic to remove dead skin cells? This is just one of the great therapeutic treatments available. The spa menu is packed with authentic natural healing methods found in many Asian cultures. This was two hours of pure rejuvenation for the mind and body which we’d highly recommended for busybodies. Put down your phone, tablet and any other tech device; switch off and unwind in pure relaxation – this is the perfect place for it.

As far as food goes, the Shangri-La Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri has so much to offer with variety and quality being the top priorities. Diners can indulge in a range of international cuisines; pamper your palate with authentic Chinese food at the hotel’s signature restaurant, Shang Palace, or award-winning Vietnamese restaurant, Hoi An, whilst the all-day dining restaurant Sofra bld, and the elegant p&c by Sergi Arola with its traditional Spanish favourites, are also two great foodie spots. Enjoy pre- and post-dinner drinks at Al Hanah Bar or the informal Lobby Lounge, or relax by the pool deck with a fragrant shisha.

For the ultimate in fine dining, we went to experience superb French cuisine at the glamorous restaurant, Bord Eau. You’ll enter a chic and elegant dining room, the kind that you’d expect to find in a grand manor house, decorated in opulent fabrics and furniture with large, comfortable chairs and warm mood-lighting to keep the ambience intimate and relaxed.

Bord Eau also gets two other crucial things right: the food and the service. Sophisticated French cuisine is prepared by passionate

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Local Escapes

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;The furnishings are contemporary, the exclusive privileges abundant, and the staff incredibly helpfulâ&#x20AC;?

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;The many pools to choose from also give us a spring in our step, all surrounded by beautiful palm trees and perfectly-trimmed green grassâ&#x20AC;?

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Local Escapes chefs who use seasonal fresh produce and serve each dish with an artistic expression. The dishes on the menu come with just the right amount of intrigue; you’ll recognise a lot of ingredients, but many unusual pairings will have you excited for what’s to come. One of our favourite dishes is the Line Caught Sea Bass from “Concarneau” Bay – it’s slow cooked and comes with baby beetroot and fennel, topped with citrus vinaigrette. It’s the combination of tastes and textures that make this main dish a hit. Take the sweet, gentle and tender beets with the subtle taste and buttery chew of the sea bass, alongside the incredible citrus vinaigrette, which was simply divine, and you’ve got yourself a flavour-packed dish. Bord Eau offers a superb a la carte menu and daily specials, but for anyone who wants a fine dining fix, go for the blind tasting menu, which will give you the ultimate Bord Eau experience.

After digesting all that wonderful food, a comfortable bed is of paramount importance. But first, they had us at ‘each of the 214 rooms feature a balcony or terrace with a breathtaking view of the canal’ – but then we walked into the Horizon Club Deluxe Room and were in awe of the elegant archways and Arabian architectural flair; from the sophisticated bathroom style to the comfortable bedroom, and the picturesque balcony. This room type is particularly great for a weekend break because it comes with homely features and added benefits. You get a personal concierge service, 24-hour butler service, and personalised in-room check-in and check-out.

But, best of all, for us, was the complimentary afternoon tea and canapés in the Horizon Club lounge – a welcomed respite to snack and chill out from sunbathing or a day out visiting the city’s many tourist hotspots! The furnishings are contemporary, the exclusive privileges abundant, and the staff incredibly helpful. If that wasn’t enough you have everything from a safe, a well-stocked mini bar, and even a stationery box (yes, there’s a stapler and sharpener too!).

We’re not big on clichés but this room choice can only, rightly, be described as ‘a home away from home’.

If you want to opt for something extra special, the hotel offers four different types of suites, each with plush living areas, grand bedrooms and a host of luxury amenities and extras. If that’s not enough, and if you’re wanting to stay with a group of friends or extended family, go for The Villas, which embody first-rate luxury with distinct privacy, The Villas by Shangri-La provide an exclusive sanctuary for the most discerning guests seeking unique exclusivity with loved ones. Named after a different region in Abu Dhabi, each of the six four-bedroom Villas is tastefully furnished with Asian, Arabic or contemporary décor and equipped with state-of-theart technology, with highly-trained butlers providing discreet yet convenient service.

The Shangri-La Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri is the epitome of magical escapes in a modern Gulf city; it has the enchanting architecture, the sophisticated décor and the palatial surroundings to give every visitor a slice of luxury living, even if that’s for a few days only.

For more information or reservations call: 2509 8888 www.ohlala-magazine.com

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Health Files

Custom-Made Looking for treatments suited exactly to your needs?

Book a session at Remède Spa and prepare to be wowed

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here’s nothing nicer than a great spa treatment and allowing yourself some well-earned me time. But sometimes you really want to tap into major concerns (be it muscle pain, relaxation or dry skin) and this is where the customised treatments at Remède Spa at The St. Regis Abu Dhabi come in. The Remède Spa brand is well known in New York, San Francisco and Singapore, and the branch here definitely lives up to its counterparts. The stunning spa is a real sanctuary for guests looking to unwind in one of the 11 treatment rooms, the wet area or the relaxation lounge.

We are booked in for a Remède Customised Massage and the Remède Customised Facial, both of which are one hour long. We sip a ginger and mint tea in the serene reception area and are then shown to the lovely changing room. The décor of the spa follows the same theme of the rest of hotel with lots of beautiful white marble along with gold and art deco touches. We slip into a robe and slippers and are shown to our treatment room which is beautifully decorated and super spacious.

There are three different oils to choose from for our massage and since our body is very tight and stiff and we really need to unwind, we opt

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for the muscle relaxation oil. Being a customised massage, this treatment allows for you to have your needs really focused on, so you can tell the therapist beforehand where your body needs the most attention and what areas are troubling you. We ask for a deep tissue massage focusing on our neck, shoulders and back. Our therapist works hard at our tired and knotted muscles using stretching techniques and strong strokes to thoroughly relax us. A great deal of attention is paid to our very sore upper back and neck where there is a lot of deep-seated tension. By the end of the massage we feel totally relaxed and all the tension in our body has gone, which is a huge relief.

We move onto the Remède customised facial which is personalised to suit our dry and tired skin, using products that feel fresh and hydrating. Our skin is triple-cleansed using a very rich creamy cleanser where we then proceed onto microdermabrasion. Microdermabrasion works to remove all the dead skin cells as well as getting rid of all the nasties that clog your pores. It works especially well here as the environment in Abu Dhabi really dries the skin out. Our therapist uses a very gentle setting as our skin is very fine and sensitive. She then performs some extractions to make sure all the pores are clean and then we are given an uplifting facial massage before applying a thick hydrating mask. To complete the treatment, the oxygen machine is used on our face and neck to plump up our skin. The facial has worked wonders for our skin leaving it bright and glowing. We continue in this state of bliss in the relaxation room with apricot tea looking out over the Corniche. Having a customised treatment is a little plus that you will truly appreciate. Your skin and body will thank you for it.

The Remède Customised Facial costs Dhs530 for 60 minutes and the Remède Customised Massage is Dhs570 for 60 minutes. Remède Spa, The St. Regis Abu Dhabi, Corniche Road, 2667 8770

Health Files

Abu Dhabi’s Luxurious Havens Our picks for the best treatments and offers this November Rayana Spa

Talise Spa, Jumeirah at Etihad Towers Step into an oasis of calm tranquility at Talise Spa. You will discover a myriad of signature spa rituals, soothing massages, invigorating body scrubs and aromatic baths to relax and revive your senses. A selection of cleansing facials, manicures and pedicures are all tailored to your personal needs, leaving you refreshed and revitalised.

Celebrate Jumeirah at Etihad Tower’s fifth anniversary during the month of November with a 55% discount on all Aromatherapy Treatments. Available Sunday - Wednesday, 9am – 4pm.

For information or reservations call: 2811 5858 Tips & Toes Tips & Toes has launched its Cup Kiss full body massage. Originally used to treat royals and superiors, Chinese cupping therapy is an ancient form of medicine, and dates back thousands of years. With an abundance of health and slimming benefits, including helping to ease pain and inflammation, encouraging blood flow and boosting relaxation. Throughout November, you can enjoy this new treatment on its own for just AED 275 (usually AED 320), or as a five to 15-minute add-on to your favourite treatment from just AED45.

For information or reservations go to www.tipsandtoes.com Rayana Spa at Hyatt Capital Gate We love this stunning spa for its modern and sleek décor and their refreshing treatments.

For the month of November, Rayana Spa is offering special deals on their fabulous treatments. Book a Thai-Aroma or Balinese Massage AED 199 for 60 minutes or AED 259 for 90 minutes or if you really need to work out those kinks, book a Deep Tissue Massage or Hot Stone Massage, AED 299 for 90 minutes.

For information or reservations call: 2596 1100

Emirates Palace Spa It’s that time of year again when our thoughts turn to fitting into our favourite dresses for the party season.

Start your preparations early to look and feel your best with one of Emirates Palace Spa’s party season packages.

The Body Bliss includes a full body scrub, a 3-Max body sculpting treatment and a customised facial - 2.5 hours for AED 1250. Glow and Go includes a Traditional Hammam, Diamond facial and Bastien Pedicure – 3 hours for AED 1299. Top to Toe includes a Bespoke massage, Bastien Duo and customised facial – 3 hours for AED 1450.

For information or reservations call: 2690 9000 Saray Spa, Marriott Downtown Abu Dhabi Marriott Downtown Abu Dhabi has just opened its spa and we’re super excited. Saray Spa offers guests the best of both worlds with rituals that have withstood the test of time and treatments aimed at genuine results, all complimented by high-quality natural products.

There are so many treatments to choose from including Ayurvedic treatments, body scrub, body wrap, couple’s massage, facials, fitness counselling, manicures/pedicures and more.

For information or reservations call: 2304 7777 Dahlia Spa, Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi at Al Maryah Island If you have not yet experienced the Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi then why not treat yourself to an amazing spa experience. Dahlia Spa is located on the third floor of the hotel along with the fitness center and gorgeous swimming pool and offers an array of fabulous treatments. For the month of November you can book a Quartz Sand Escape with a 50 minute massage and have your experience extended to 80 minutes for AED 700.

For information or reservations call: 2333 2222

Spa sand bed

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Culinary Insight

The Great Steak

With its classic design and glamorous vibe, newly opened Butcher & Still appeals to both the business and social scenes

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our Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi has already impressed the capital with its venues this year and they’ve continued to shine on with the opening of Butcher & Still. Butcher & Still is a sleek steak restaurant with a rustic, retro design inspired by a 1920s Chicago steakhouse. Located off the lobby, the restaurant-bar has a capacity for over 250 guests, with both indoor and outdoor seating. The views of the city’s waterfront are amazing and we love the outdoor terrace and separate bar and restaurant area.

The restaurant is not only known for its supreme steak but also for the unique atmosphere it provides. Rich wooden floors, leather banquets and bathroom tile work accented by bullet casings, all echo the era of Al Capone. The restaurant also houses ‘secret’ features, like a retractable wall that opens to an outdoor patio. And a private elevator that takes guests down two levels into an ultraprivate dining room which is accessible only if you receive an invite.

The food is the real star here though with steak and seafood options taking centre stage with the menu offering many options. Their prime-cut steaks are flown in from specially selected farms in the United States. The menu showcases prime cuts of high-quality American

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meats, featuring USDA natural Black Angus from Creekstone Farms in Kansas. There’s a 1,800-degree-Fahrenheit oven for searing, a charcoal grill and a smoker. An antique bread oven is a showpiece, baking fresh, aromatic Parker House rolls. We peruse the menu which has so many great options. To start with, we select the 99% Lump Crab Cake and the U6 Gulf Prawn Cocktail. The crab cake is delicious and falls beautifully apart as our fork touches – it’s served with scallop, remoulade and microgreens.

The prawn cocktail is equally good, served up in a jam jar with big, juicy prawns sitting on the side of the jar with tomato, horseradish and lemon. There are other enticing options such as Prime Angus Steak Tartare and Crab Stuffed

Portobello Mushroom that we will be trying next time for sure.

We simply can’t go past the main star of the evening: steak. But rest assured, there are also some mouth-watering seafood options such as lobster thermidor and dover sole along with garlic roasted chicken and the Wisconsin duo of duck. We opt for the 1500gr Butcher & Still Signature Tomahawk Chop and the 255 gram House Favourite Bone-In-Filet Prime Angus.

The Tomahawk Chop is seriously impressive, cooked just the way we asked with a peppercorn and brandy sauce. We order the Chef ’s Twice Baked Potato and can hardly believe our eyes when it hits the table. This is a seriously tasty treat that almost looks like a boat of potato goodness.

The crispy outer skin is nice and crunchy with a soft centre topped off with beef bacon, oozing cheddar cheese and sour cream and chives. The Bone-In-Filet Prime Angus was a perfect cut of meat too, where we chose the Blue Cream Cheese sauce and sautéed Heirloom Mushrooms to accompany it. We almost forgo dessert after a seriously satisfying meal, but we can’t go past the lemon meringue and apple pie - both of which are decadent and truly delicious.

Butcher & Still, Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi at Al Maryah Island, 2333 2222

Chic Eats House Special Benedict, with King Crab, Avocado & Caviar and much more. Friday and Saturday, 9am-11am.

For information or reservations call: 2407 1138

Emirates Palace Brunch

TAWA BAKERY

November Dining Where you’ll find fabulous fare

Café Milano, Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi at Al Maryah Island The award-winning Café Milano is now open at the Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi. With a well-known reputation earned from its location in Washington, DC, Café Milano is where fine Italian dining meets sophisticated style. Savour dishes inspired by the southern coast of Italy, in a setting designed by acclaimed New York designer: Adam Tihany – bright, modern and airy. Hand-made pasta, fresh seafood and vibrant insalate grace the menu, and chef specials provide exciting alternatives daily.

For information or reservations call: 2333 2333

Giornotte, The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal Re-launching with a new bubbly package, Giornotte’s award-winning brunch shines with its masterfully presented live cooking stations serving everything from freshly shucked oysters to wagyu beef. Children will delight in the sweet wonders of Dolce café with candy floss, popcorn, waffles and chocolate fountains while parents explore the cheese room and beverage stations. Live music perfectly completes the experience. Every Friday 1-4pm. Prices range from AED 295 – AED 495.

For information or reservations call: 2818 8881

Spaccanapoli, Crowne Plaza Abu Dhabi Spaccanapoli are offering a quick and hearty business lunch that’s not to be missed. Whether

lunch is for business or pleasure, they only serve it one way – the Italian way. Enjoy a tempting antipasti buffet, a soup and a main course with soft drinks for AED 75. Additionally, choose a dish from their special lunch selection, accompanied by a soft drink for AED 45. The offer is available Sunday – Thursdays, noon-4pm.

For information or reservations call: 2616 6166

JW Steakhouse, Marriott Hotel Downtown The Marriott Hotel Downtown is now open and so is its fabulous new steakhouse – JW Steakhouse. A modern take on the classic American steakhouse, think tender hand-cut selections of dry-aged beef, grilled to perfection.

Crisp salads, fresh seafood and the world famous JW New York Cheesecake, all prepared with flair. There are classic crafted concoctions and a boutique menu of world-class grapes.

For information or reservations call: 2304 7777

Brunch at the Palace is one of the only brunches in town that has the luxury of being both by the pool and by the sea, and it’s simply perfect for families.

Brunch at the Palace is an unforgettable experience and should be on everyone’s UAE brunch bucket list. Allow the Palace to exceed your already high Friday Brunch expectations. Every Friday from 12.30pm-4pm at Las Brisas. Prices range from AED 290 - AED 480, children under 10 dine for free. For information or reservations call: 2690 7999

Tawa Bakery, Al Raha Beach Enjoy a fantastic breakfast at the UAE’s first homegrown, 100% gluten-free café which offers a delicious all day breakfast. Available from Sunday-Saturday from 8am onwards, the 100% gluten free menu has a wide selection of delectable dishes to serve all tastes and dietary needs. We recommend Tawa Bakery’s famous mouth-watering French Toast, served with mixed berries compote and whipped cream or choose honey or maple syrup to go on the side too and add caramelised bananas or fresh strawberries for a fruit boost.

For information or reservations call: 2556 6900 SPACCANAPOLI

Beach House, Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel & Villas Start your weekend as you mean to go on with stunning beach views and an eggsquisite breakfast fit for a king at The Beach House. Reinventing the way guests see Eggs Benedict, the menu introduces several takes on this breakfast classic from Steak & Egg Benedict, Florentine Benedict to Berries Benedict and a mouthwatering Beach www.ohlala-magazine.com

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Ohlala Boutiques

THe Galleria dining collection Abu Dhabi’s luxury fashion and dining destination The Galleria announces The Dining Collection, having secured leases to bring seven more leading restaurants to its current collection. Sitting alongside popular existing restaurants such as Zuma and Bentley’s Bistro, the new venues include La Petite Maison, Roberto’s, Coya, NusrEt, Sa-mar, Eat Greek and Loca. The Dining Collection will represent one of the most desirable dining destinations in the Middle East, reflecting The Galleria’s commitment to delivering excellence to the capital.

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How Charming Charming Charlie, the women’s contemporary jewellery and accessory store, is introducing its autumn collection across all its Arabia stores. This season, Charming Charlie is taking a cue from nature’s colour palette with bold hues. You’ll find traditional autumn tones like burnt orange, terracotta and olive across the collection. Classic silhouettes are made contemporary with bright colour blocking too. When it comes to accessorising, Charming Charlie says more is more. Add statement necklaces and maximalist earrings to your wish list.

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Ohlala Boutiques

ODE to ELEGANCE

We love these classic earrings with their discreet and sophisticated design.

A girlâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best friend

PANDORA has always been our go-to for timeless elegance. The new PANDORA Rose collection for autumnwinter 2016 is enchanting as ever with the kind of luminosity that can make you shine from miles away 92

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PANDORA Rose

Reworking popular motifs, these blush coloured metals are beautifully enduring.

Timeless Treasure

Old traditions are revisited with classic cuts and craftsmanship that translates a vintage appeal.

Shimmering Feather

The organic form of the symbolic feather is rendered in PANDORAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s muted pink metal.

Rose Galaxy

Inspired by the unique beauty of a rosy galaxy is the stylish Galaxy Openwork charm.

Sparkling Bows

Neat and tidy bows decorated with glittering stones are perfect for channeling a feminine feeling. www.ohlala-magazine.com

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Power Woman

Setting Things Straight

This month, Manar Al Hinai offers advice on how to avoid corruption and operational risk in business

A friend was telling me a story about her colleague who was

in charge of the procurement process in the organisation she worked for.

Upon choosing a supplier, she would approach those she personally knew to pitch in their offers. The person who often was awarded the contract was always someone she knew, and who knew in advance what sort of qualities the management members would go for. Some may say that she was purely lazy and did not bother to search beyond her social circles. In reality, she was engaging in corrupt behavior. By doing so, not only did she ensure that her social circle would always benefit, but also did not give the chance to others, who may be more credible to pitch and be awarded the contract as a result.

When we think of the word corruption, the first thing that would probably pop into our minds are either governments in developing countries or big corporations. A manager who uses her position to come in to the office late, and leave whenever she desired when there are specific set of hours that she has to finish, is displaying corrupt behavior. With time, her behavior could encourage her subordinates to do the same, and in return hinder a corporateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s productivity, and perhaps profits as well. A global survey by PricewaterhouseCooper and The Economic Intelligence Unit in 2008 found that 63% of large corporations around the world have experienced some sort of attempted and actual corruption taken place.

Defined as the misuse of entrusted power for personal benefits, corruption is not only limited to governments and huge corporations, but is very relevant in small businesses as well.

The thing about small businesses though, is that unlike big corporations, corruption is something that is generally overlooked, because business owners do not believe that this would affect their

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business in a major way. But regardless of the size of the business, whether you only have three or five team members, corruption has a major toll on your reputation and could incur legal and operational risk, and no matter how much you would try to patch things up, it would be too late.

As an entrepreneur, here are small recommended actions that would help eliminate corrupt behavior in your business: It all starts with clarifying your workâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s culture. It is your responsibility to clearly communicate that any suspicious behavior would not be tolerated. It is also best to not delegate an entire process from planning to execution which would often include payments to one person only.

Spreading it out eliminates the risk.

If you have your doubts about certain operations that could be open for corruption then assess the situation. Are there certain people or payments that are suspicious? Get everything out in the open and put out questions, before an outside party does that for you. It would not be too obvious. Corrupt behavior is often done in a creative and indirectly way, that you could miss it.

The thing that employees need to understand is what the word corruption means; it entails more than embezzlement and fraud. It could be as simple as daily behavior that we do not pay attention to.

It all boils down to reinforcing your culture, highlighting behaviour that would not be tolerated, and emphasising the consequences of engaging in such behaviour.

Manar Al Hinai is an award-winning Emirati writer and entrepreneur. She manages her branding and marketing consultancy in Abu Dhabi. Twitter: @manar_ alhinai/website: www.manaralhinai.com

Roger Vivier ‘Icons Connected’ Exhibition The Parisian Luxury accessory Maison opened its travelling exhibition Roger Vivier, ‘Icons Connected’ at The Galleria on Al Maryah Island. To mark the occasion, Roger Vivier Brand Ambassador Ines de la Fressange visited the capital to introduce the exhibit and its ‘treasures’ to the who’s who during an exclusive cocktail reception.

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TRYANO Announces The cARTel Collaboration TRYANO at Yas Mall Abu Dhabi and The cARTEL in Dubai have joined forces for a unique and exclusive customer experience.

Until November 19. The cARTel pop up store at TRYANO is open for customers for the first time in the capital. TRYANO is proud to celebrate a special collaboration with one of the UAEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s trendiest destinations for unique fashion pieces.

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Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi Grand Opening The official launch party of Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi at Al Maryah Island was a VIP-studded affair in which guests were invited to explore the stunning waterfront property with different themes and delicious food and drink in each venue. There was a spectacular fireworks display to end the fabulous night.

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Miss Ohlala Roksanda

Winter Wardrobe Workout Miss Ohlala puts away her Netflix-watching sofa attire and organises her winter wardrobe 98

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Some people look wonderful in floaty summer dresses but I am not one of them. As soon as the weather starts to cool I delight in getting out my boots and winter woollies. I love the structured form of a winter wardrobe and playing with layers and textures. Making just one or two carefully selected ‘investment’ purchases each autumn can add a much needed lift to your existing winter wardrobe.

Boots, especially velvet embellished ones are trending big time.

Aquazzura’s Imperial over the knee velvet boots are delectable. You can pull them on with a shift dress and a cape and you are good to go. And the best thing is that you won’t get them ruined by the rain or people standing on your toes in bars, like you might do in Europe.

Dress like an elegant musqueteer this season and you won’t go far wrong. A statement coat or cape with black opaque tights and boots looks fabulous. The right coat can cheer one up on a dreary day, so don’t be afraid to choose something fun as well as practical.

There are some delicious sugary pink coats in the latest collections so don’t feel obliged to stick to traditional winter colours. There are also some fabulous capes to choose from this season including Roksanda’s delicious pink mohair-blend cape and McQueen’s tailored black cape.

Everyone needs a (fake) fur stole in their lives as they go with everything. They keep your neck warm and toasty whether you’re window shopping in Paris or sitting in an overly air-conditioned restaurant in Abu Dhabi. I spent my formative years fighting to keep woolly scarves in place in the wind and lashing rain and I have vowed to never buy another. Snoods are the way forward as they don’t come out of place. Plus they look amazing thrown over a wool coat or cape.

I recommend investing in some luxurious silk shirts, slips and pjs as silk feels gorgeous to wear and it keeps one warm. Cashmere jumpers are also a must. Acrylic shrinks. And wool is always itchy.

Make sure you have a lush long cardigan in your wardrobe for those in-between days, as they look effortlessly chic thrown over a pair of skinny jeans and top, with a belt and a statement necklace.

As jeans are so hardwearing, remember to re-evaluate your jeans every now and again to check that they still suit your body shape. To my horror, I recently realised that I was still wearing Topshop jeans that I bought whilst at university. I am currently on a mission to find the perfect pair of skinny jeans to replace them. Flared jeans may be in fashion but they belong in the 70s, and as a practical matter you don’t want your jeans dragging on the street and soaking up dirty water.

If you are wintering in Europe this year, don’t forget to layer up with clothes that are easy to peel on and off to deal with the change in temperatures. Wearing boots which are waterproof is a must – sightseeing with wet feet is so depressing. Wellington boots are no longer confined to the countryside and there are now some great wellies designed for city living. I have a pair of Hunters with a quilted black finish that remind me of a Chanel 2.55 and I’ve even been to afternoon tea at Claridge’s whilst wearing them. But if you desire ‘posh wellies’, you’ll need to invest in a pair of Dubarry or Le Chameau.

And lastly, don’t forget beautiful underwear. You won’t need to hide straps in winter so you can put aside your nude essentials and treat yourself to some richly coloured silk sets.

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