Issue 208 / October 2019
Sheikha Ma jda Al Sabah An Advocate for Mental Health
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THE AVENUES
| 360
MALL
serpent bohème collection
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TOUCH OF COLOR
MFW - fashion show
by
ISSEY MIYAKE the talk - page 6
BAO BAO BY ISSEY MIYAKE
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H&M
7 .NOV. 2019
LADIES' & MEN'S COLLECTION AVAILABLE AT 1ST AVENUE - THE AVENUES & HM.COM CUSTOMER SERVICE: 182-12-12
#Project the talk - page 8
H&M
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CITY OF GOLD BE EMPOWERED BE DAMAS
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content/ cover story/ mfw fw2020/
29. Gucci 32. Dolce&Gabbana 36. BOTTEGA VENETA 38. AIGNER
fashion/
42. Dolce & Gabbana 44. Bottega Veneta x Matchesfashion.com 46. Giambattista Valli x H&M 54. “To travel is to live.” 56. “Let the Shoulders do The Talking”
jewelry & watches/ Issue 208 / October 2019
Sheikha Ma jda Al Sabah An Advocate for Mental Health
On the cover: Sheikha Majda Al Sabah (P. 20) Creative Photographer: Djinane AlSuwayeh Creative director: Adel Al Ansari Dressed in: Bottega Veneta October 2019
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20. Sheikha Majda Al Sabah An Advocate for Mental Health THE ASAP INITIATIVE
62. BeEmpowered, BeDamas 66. Brume de Saphir by Van Cleef & Arpels 68. Van Cleef & Arpels - Ludo 70. Boucheron 72. The Chaumet Garden of Earthly Delights 74. Messika 76. Old or Vintage? 77. Buying Stones 78. Jaeger-LeCoultre 79. Panerai 80. Oris Artelier Calibre 111 81. Eberhard & Co.
health & beauty/
84. SHA Wellness Clinic 88. Murad Skincare 92. Pierre René 96. Fenty Beauty 98. Ginger Feels 100. Royale Hayat Hospital
talk the talk/
106. with Sama Al Wasmi It’s a #JOMO kinda future!
lifestyle/
110. The Rolls-Royce Cullinan 112. Ferrari 812 GTS 114. Porsche World Premiere of the Porsche Taycan 118. Horoscopes
THURAYA MALL - Ground Floor Salem Al Mubarak St., Salmiya Tel.:+96522089242
© 2019 Chloé SAS, all rights reserved.
Chloe.com
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letter/ Dear talkers, Hello October! Is it that time already? Who else is anxiously waiting to leave summer way behind and dive into their cozier wardrobes? Just hold on, a few more weeks for the wonder of coats and boots. For now, we’re leaving you with a few trends you can rock just as flawlessly as the runway models, well we are confident you will do us proud and style yourself even better. Starting with bucket hats and ending with power shoulders. There are a few collabs we’re absolutely excited about this month - The Moncler Richard Quinn is filled with bold colors and opulence while the Bottega exclusive collection for MatchesFashion.com is getting us giddy! Beauty for our beautiful readers; as your tan is fading away, it’s time for you to take good care of your skin, as glowing healthy skin is the new tan! That’s good news for us skincare nerds. ASAP Beauty does have a beautiful range of products that will help you achieve just that. We, at ‘the talk’, strive to bring to your doorstep the allure and glamor from the world of fashion, beauty, travel, and lifestyle, but we also endeavor to continue to touch topics that not only promote your physical well-being but also focus on your personal and emotional well-being. ASAP isn’t only about beauty… keep reading! Sheikha Majda Al Sabah, a positive influence and a role model to her ardent and loyal followers, openly talks about mental well-being. Since it’s Mental Health Awareness month, the co-founder of ASAP Initiative sheds light on how important this is to our community.
Till next time, the talk Team
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AL OSTOURA ’S OCTOBER CURATION
GAO WEI THURAYA MALL – ROOF FLOOR – SALEM AL-MUBARAK ST., SALMIYA – TEL.: +965 22089244
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c oVe r y s t or
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cover story - interview
Sheikha Majda Al Sabah An Advocate for Mental Health THE ASAP INITIATIVE October 2017 saw the birth of an initiative that gives enormous hope and shines a light on the socially barricaded topic of mental health. The ‘ASAP Initiative’ was co-founded by Sheikha Ma jda with her sister and created out of a percentage of the renowned beauty brand ASAP’s sales with the sole objective of highlighting and promoting mental health awareness, extending support not only to local but also to regional and international mental health campaigns and similar initiatives.
Creative Photographer: Djinane AlSuwayeh Creative Director: Adel Al Ansari Dressed in: Bottega Veneta the talk - page 20
Bottega Veneta the talk - page 21
lifestyle - interview
Bottega Veneta the talk - page 22
Sheikha Majda’s presence and outspokenness are evident from her work with social media awareness campaigns and many other projects and collaborations. Majda proudly proclaims being deeply motivated by family, being a mother, and a grandmother. She grew up and studied here in Kuwait, and this is a big part of who she is. Majda is especially passionate about women’s ability to take care of themselves because she believes that women are the backbone of any healthy society. She also feels that we need to be talking openly about the burdens that most women face in their daily lives and their inability to ask for more help, especially in times of mental stress and depression, since Majda went through that herself. Tell us more about the ASAP Initiative. The ASAP Initiative is a CSR campaign that focuses on promoting mental health awareness and funding local, regional, and international initiatives focused on mental health, to challenge social and personal stigmas around this issue. The Initiative is part of ASAP brand’s commitment to empowering individuals to be both beautiful and healthy within and without, since beauty begins with clarity, and healthy minds are a natural complement to looking and feeling good. What are the obstacles faced in our society when trying to educate people about mental health and wellness? People are afraid of talking about the topic as if it’s a shame or a sin that they need to hide or escape from. Social resistance is very high, and the existing mindset established is already against such a sensitive topic that makes it very hard to get people to cooperate and open up easily. People worry about being judged or not accepted, and sadly, most times, they are told to get over it as if it’s a personal failing to have anxiety or depression. What should every individual know when it comes to mental health? They need to know that it is not a shame and it is more common than accepted and that it can happen to any of us! It has nothing to do with faith and religion, and just like any other physical illness, it can be cured with the correct consultation and therapy. Are there support groups, and what could be achieved by these groups? We researched and found out that indeed some AA &
NA support groups are prevalent here, in fact, there are individuals from neighboring GCC states that visit Kuwait for this purpose. On the other hand, social support groups for divorce, motherhood & so on are few, and not many people know about them due to lack of promotions and advertising. Support groups are incredible tools to help people deal with a multitude of issues – including medical, social, spiritual, and emotional. However, they are not very common in our culture. Through the ASAP Initiative, we are trying to draw attention to the benefits of being in a mental health support group. Support groups don’t necessarily need to be led by a specialist; the facilitator can be one of the members who boasts leadership skills and overall knowledge about the disorders. But since it’s a brand-new culture in Kuwait, we have a group of psychiatrists and psychologists that are kind enough to volunteer and give us hours from their generous time to put these groups on the right path. Once the groups get bigger, and some are totally ready to lead, they will restart new groups, and the cycle continues. We believe that many mental health issues can lose their hold on an individual if they were discussed openly and honestly. We should bear in mind that a support group does not replace therapy - it just provides an opportunity for people to share personal experiences and feelings, coping strategies, or firsthand information about diseases or treatments. In your opinion, what should each person be doing to help educate people around them on any general matter? To spread the word and be an advocate for that matter after reading about it and researching, and, understandably, it is not always easy to speak about uncomfortable subjects, but once you do it with love and respect, it becomes easy. In addition to the ASAP Initiative, you also have a line of beauty products. Tell us more about them, and how do they differ from the ones in the market? ASAP started as a small home business, it was the first beauty home service in Kuwait and what distinguished us from our competitors is that we humanized our social presence. A lot of trust was created by establishing a strong consumer-brand relationship, and this helped us snowball. the talk - page 23
lifestyle - interview
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Bottega Veneta
ASAP products are made in the UK from 100% natural organic ingredients with no animal testing and using environmentally friendly components. Some of the natural ingredients chosen are tea tree, argan oil, olive oil, coconut oil, coffee, citrus, vitamin C, pro-vitamin B5, and many others that were all handpicked to serve the primary purpose of our products which is to be “effective and natural.” Your presence on social media is a positive one that we personally are grateful for. How do you pick the topics of discussions, and how do people respond to sharing personal journeys? My followers are my number one source of inspiration. From the very beginning their questions, comments and the stories shared with me, especially the personal ones, made me feel responsible for sharing with them any knowledge I have not only about mental health but also beauty tips, parenting matters, healthy recipes, anything useful I discover. The ASAP products were tailored
according to their needs and demands; that’s why they went viral in no time. The response was terrific, almost shocking in a way that I did not expect. I am grateful that so many want to open up and share their journeys as well as learn from my experience. We’ve all seen makeup-free snaps and filter-free videos. Tell us, what’s your secret? *inserts hearteye emoji* Using ASAP products with consistency! I follow my daily skincare routine without fail - day and night, and I watch my water intake and try to sleep well. The ASAP Initiative is a private campaign funded by ASAP Beauty and co-founded by Sheikha Majda Al Sabah. It promotes mental health awareness and funds local, regional, and international initiatives. If you are seeking regional referrals, contact Asap.com.kw the talk - page 25
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F M W s 20 S
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MFW - fashion show
Gucci Uniforms, utilitarian clothes, normative dress, including straightjackets, were included in the Gucci SS20 fashion show as the most extreme version of a uniform dictated by society and those who control it. This power prescribes social norms, classifying and curbing identity. The Creative Director’s antidote is seen in the Gucci Spring Summer 2020 lineup of 89 looks, he has designed a collection that conveys fashion as a way to allow people to walk through fields of possibilities, cultivate beauty, make diversity sacrosanct and celebrate the self in expression and identity.
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Creating an antidote to normative standardization of bio-politics can’t mean imposing a countermand order to order. It doesn’t mean getting rid of rules imposing other rules. Fashion, instead, has another function: to let people walk through fields of possibilities, giving hints and evoking openness, cultivating promises of beauty, offering testimonies and prophecies, feeding indispensable self- determination skills. That’s the only way fashion can be constitutively resistant: allowing each and every one to creatively build their own place in the world, beyond any normativity imposed from the outside. Fashion as a space of poetical self-affirmation where the desire of the self can shine. the talk - page 29
MFW - fashion show
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MFW - fashion show
Dolce&Gabbana
The Sicilian Jungle. This collection features the most significant codes of the Italian brand craftsmanship, femininity, happiness - with the atmosphere of an exotic journey.Â
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With over 124 looks featuring khaki utility ensembles accented with leopard print and other animal motifs. A variety of jungle-inspired prints popped up throughout the collection, including palm leaves, tropical florals, pineapples, coconuts and even West African instruments. There was a lot o f play on texture among the looks. A Dolce & Gabbana collection wouldn’t be complete without its all-black ensembles. The designers balanced the patterns and embellishments on the runway with more dark-hued looks that arrived throughout the show: form-fitting dresses, sheer separates and Sicilian lace. the talk - page 33
MFW - fashion show
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MFW - fashion show
BOTTEGA VENETA “Spring 2020 evolves the codes we are building at Bottega Veneta. The focus was on process and clarity; immediate and direct.” -Daniel Lee, Creative Director. This collection plays with proportion, soft structure cutting through tension and technique with a clean new ease. The balance of color is calm, bold, rich and defined in black, chocolate brown, gold, tapioca, orange and tones of blue. Jewelry disrupts the silhouette, weaving through tactile surfaces. Classicism contrasts modernism with refined techniques: knot, weave and knit. Materials feature in their purest form: Wood,
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gold, lacquer, stone, leather, cotton and the body. Accessories resonate with the attitude of beauty and comfort. Uncompromising and unstructured, contrasts are essential. Collage, texture and nuance; each a continuous extension of each other. Bottega Veneta embodies warmth, desire, joy and celebration. An elevated reality to live in. “Bottega Veneta is about the individual, it’s for you.” -Daniel Lee, Creative Director.
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MFW - fashion show
s
AIGNER “DIVINE” as in classic beauty and modern elegance, opulence mixed with balance and a sense of moderation, as in AIGNER‘s Spring/Summer 2020 collection.
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“DIVINE” as in classic beauty and modern elegance, opulence mixed with balance and a sense of moderation, as in AIGNER‘s Spring/ Summer 2020 collection. The brand‘s new femininity is a harmonious symphony where muted and refined -never banal- tones interplay. in a reinterpretation of AIGNER‘s DNA, where the freshness and elegance of garment fabrics blend in with the modernity of leather, creating and unprecedented effect. An impalpable charm for a new beauty with character: for a self-con dent, sensual but classy woman. Movement and fluidity reveal themselves through crepe, chiffon and dresses with pleating details, in natural or metallic shades and golden sequins. The collection plays with the lightness of skirts of Spanish and Latin American inspiration in different lengths; voluminous puff sleeves, original apron-dresses in leather and fabric and wide pants matched with the rigid shapes of outerwear like leather trenches in croc print, also proposed in a crop version, and vacchetta leather jackets. Another focus in the collection is lingerie as outerwear, featuring bustiers, corset-belts and sensual tops with fabric-covered buttons. Accessories have always been highlights for AIGNER: in the Spring/ Summer 2020 the focus is on grain leather and refined metallic finishes, but above all on vacchetta, which regains its unique character. Genuine canvas and jute paintings, the bags created for the fashion show describe their uniqueness through golden facets, studs, turtle shell and croc details. the talk - page 39
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t r e n d s e d i t o r i a l s f e a t u r e s
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fashion - feature
Dolce & Gabbana Sicily 58 & 62
The Sicily 58 and 62, whose names refer to Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana’s birth years, 1958 and 1962 respectively, are the evolution of the iconic Sicily bag. Fine French and Swiss leather is used for the Sicily 58 and 62, to which a special treatment is applied in order to guarantee a natural finish. The Nappa leather lining is cut using the central part of the hide to guarantee the highest quality standards. the talk - page 42
The bag features a raw edge construction, resulting in a smooth and rounded finish. Initially, a neutral base is applied to unify the edges, which are then brushed to eliminate any impurities and ensure a smooth effect. Finally, the color is applied twice, respecting the required drying times. The inside of the bag is functional, spacious, with two compartments divided by a partition and adjustable leather straps. These straps make it possible to modify the capacity of the bag through small buttons, personalized with the Dolce & Gabbana logo. The two models are embellished with an external Dolce & Gabbana plaque, made with an innovative system that allows for a two-tone effect.
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fashion - feature
Bottega Veneta x Matchesfashion.com
Fall 2019 Installation at 5 Carlos Palace
The project celebrates Bottega Veneta’s Creative Director Daniel Lee’s first runway collection and the exclusive pieces for MATCHESFASHION.COM.
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The Fall 2019 collection is a celebration of freedom, self-expression, and sensuality. An exercise in elevated detail, noble materials, and energetic silhouettes. While the quiet craft central to Bottega Veneta’s identity is still present, Fall 2019 brings a sharp injection of modernity to traditional technique, turning up the volume. The installation at 5 Carlos Place is inspired by the classic Italian movies, put in contrast with modern and lively details in sky blue and gold. The exclusive items will be displayed in a contemporary set-up of pillars and cubes, while a selection of Italian movies will be screened into special viewing towers. Women’s exclusive items for MATCHESFASHION.COM include an Intrecciato Nappa rectangular clutch and a Spazzolato Calf cross-body, both in Plaster color. The quilted pumps in Nappa Dream are inspired by luxury car interiors of the 1970s. The satin coat and cashmere skirt are exclusively presented in Chocolate, the wool knit dress is in Plaster. the talk - page 45
fashion - feature
Giambattista Valli x H&M a touch of globetrotting bohemia Giambattista Valli is loved by stylish women of all ages, known as the Valli Girls. So far, the designer has never created clothing for men, which makes his debut in menswear with the Giambattista Valli x H&M collection particularly exciting. For the first time, the Valli Girls will meet their Valli Boys: as spirited, individual, eccentric and eclectic as one would expect. Not a designer to follow the beaten track, Giambattista Valli approached menswear in reverse. Instead of having women borrow pieces from the men’s wardrobe, as it usually happens, Valli explored the idea of free-spirited men taking pieces, patterns and fabrics from the women’s wardrobe; sampling and mixing freely, like DJs. The choice of flesh pink as the basic color – the simplest tee in the collection is pink, not white – says it all. The collection is a quirky selection of timeless items meant to be adopted and adapted, mixed and matched. The animal patterns, flower motifs, punk allure and military glamour suggests an eclectic vision of masculine style: the same cool approach to the art of dressing of a Berlin artist, say, with the insouciant laissez faire of a skater. The Valli Boy comes across as a freespirited bohemian, part surfer part art collector, who mixes bits, references and pieces; an eccentric globetrotter who breaks the rules. Girls are invited to wear the collection, too. the talk - page 46
Giambattista Valli x H&M an eclectic feast of glorious femininity Known as the dressmaker to some of the most glamorous people of the contemporary world, from globetrotting, jet-setting gals to artists and celebrities, the Valli Girls. Giambattista Valli created a feisty collection for H&M that reads like an eclectic recap of his style. The collection: a selection of timeless pieces meant to be mixed and matched according to personal style; items designed to last and be cherished for a long time. It’s all about style more than fashion. Giambattista Valli, in fact, believes that one half of the work is done in the atelier, while the rest is up to the clients and their personalities. Each one different, each one unique. The Giambattista Valli x H&M collection encompasses all these elements, following Valli’s belief in style that is timeless, ageless, effortless. Dresses take the center stage, drawing a garden of fashionable pieces. Long gowns hug the bust and flow below the waist, movement highlighted by lace edging, beautiful prints, a widening of tiers on a tulle gown. We also see sharp, yet delicate tailored items – a short blazer with peak lapels, a long coat – which also captures the sharp side of the collection. The collection will be exclusively available at 1st Avenue, The Avenues the talk - page 47
by
ALBERTA FERRETTI the talk - page 48
CHLOE LOEWE
ALBERTA FERRETTI
CHLOE
LOEWE
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AL OSTOURA ’S OCTOBER CURATION
DILEK HANIF the talk - page 50
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THURAYA MALL - GROUND FLOOR - SALEM AL MUBARAK STREET SALMIYA - KUWAIT - TEL: +965 22089246
THURAYA MALL – ROOF FLOOR – SALEM AL-MUBARAK ST., SALMIYA – TEL.: +965 22089230
AL OSTOURA ’S OCTOBER CURATION
PLEATS PLEASE
ISSEY MIYAKE
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AL OSTOURA ’S OCTOBER CURATION
BAO BAO ISSEY MIYAKE THURAYA MALL – ROOF FLOOR – SALEM AL-MUBARAK ST., SALMIYA – TEL.: +965 22089230 the talk - page 53
fashion - feature
“To travel is to live.�
Weekend Max Mara Fall/Winter 2019 Fall in love with places you have never been to and with people you have never met. Infuse your every day with the spirit of travel. A call for weekenders on the go. Zest and individuality, an ever-evolving wardrobe. the talk - page 54
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fashion - trend
“The Bucket” We’ve seen them on the runways during Fall/Winter fashion shows, and then we saw influencers strutting all summer in them. Let’s not forget Jennifer Lopez sporting this look in the 90s. What are we talking about? The bucket hat, of course! From Christian Dior, who’s outdoing themselves these few years to Valentino classic lace. Grab yours and follow the trend. But wait, when did we ever just tell you to follow the trend? Style and personalize in your own way! Shop around for different textures and patterns, look for the style that best suits you and your personality. It is the perfect accessory for Fall!
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AL OSTOURA ’S OCTOBER CURATION
AL OSTOURA AVENUES - PHASE 2, GROUND LEVEL-37/38 AL-RAI 5TH RING ROAD, KUWAIT +965 2208 9300 the talk - page 57
S h o p t h e fi n e s t l u x u r y i t e m s a t d i s c o u n t s u p t o 8 0 % o ff
www.AlOthmanOutlet.com
ALOTHMAN FASHION, MARYAM COMPLEX, SALEM AL MUBARAK STREET, SALMIYA, KUWAIT. TEL: (+965) 25754955/4
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j ew elry w
at c
h es
t r e n d s f e a t u r e s
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jewelry - interview
BeEmpowered, BeDamas Damas’s CEO Asil Attar raises the region’s gold standard With an impressive heritage stretching back more than 110 years, leading luxury brand Damas has put a whole new spring in its step as it raises the stakes for the Middle East’s other gold and jewelry brands through the launch of 25 new store openings and renovations. This comes just six months after the company placed Asil Attar at its helm – making her the first female CEO in the history of Damas. Our Hind Nassar met Asil in Dubai on the eve of the launch of the brand’s ‘City of Gold’ campaign.
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jewelry - interview
Shortly before the opening of a spectacular event at The Gaillard, hosted by Damas Chairman, Hamdi Chatti and CEO Asil Attar, during which the new stores were revealed across the GCC through a panArab live feed, Asil announced “Damas will continue to invest in the region, we sit on an impressive portfolio that we want to enhance whilst simultaneously identifying new opportunities in key markets. International expansion is also on the agenda, as we continue to maintain and gain market share.” said Attar. Damas - a regional brand with a global outlook, sophisticated, empowered cultured and modern – and now with a woman at the helm For the past decade, Asil has held a number of firsts, placing her as the first female CEO for three of the Middle East’s leading groups, most recently as the CEO for Damas Jewellery, their first female CEO in over 100 years. Attar is an ambassador for women empowerment, inspiring women of all ages to reach their potential and achieve their goals. Hind Nassar: What’s your leadership style? Asil Attar: I’m available 24/7, my door is open to everyone and they all know how to reach me at any time. All the employees know me – at whatever level they are within the company. We’re all in this together, and I’m one of them. My leadership style, if it has a name, is human – one-to-one - all the time. HN: You’ve said before: “I do not compete, I succeed and lead with a focused strategy”. What’s your strategy for Damas moving forward in this belief? AA: That’s an interesting quote – the DNA of how I lead any business is exactly with complete focus. I’m very clear on the direction and strategic vision that I have, and what leads me in this is that I want to be number one in whatever capacity that we can be. We need to be an example to others. Damas is already a leader – it has 100 years of heritage, it owns a great market share… combined, that’s a very powerful base to begin with. I’m proud to be the very first female CEO for the group. When you have the talk - page 64
a combination of history and heritage and a visionary mind that wants to take it to another level and maximize it and potentialize it, this means you’re focused, you have an objective, and you’re really going for it! HN: What, from its heritage, are you using to push Damas forward? AA: There are a number of key events in our history. 1907 is when we started as goldsmiths – that category of business is still very important to us, and will continue to be. As jewelers, 1959 saw Damas open its first store in Dubai’s gold souq. However, the most powerful thing I’m taking with me is the loyalty of our customers that have grown with us from the very beginning. It’s amazing for me as I sit with women or men of different ages, and they’ll relate stories to me about their grandparents buying things – and about how everything that was bought has become an important part of their family’s history. It’s constant memory and nostalgia. I’m continuing this journey of emotion and nostalgia, and carrying it to a new era. I’m respecting those who have been with us for years, whilst also engaging a new generation. HN: You have been with Damas for around 6 months now; how has your experience been so far? AA: Well, to be honest, it feels more like six years! It’s been an overwhelming and emotional rollercoaster. The months have passed quickly, and with a huge sense of responsibility linked to my desire to make a change as quickly as possible, and to make a change with major impact. This rollercoaster will always continue for me… this is just the start of my journey. HN: What are the key directions that you believe will give you a competitive advantage over the next year? AA: Our prime advantage is that there’s no other company in our sector with a woman leading it. When you have someone running a company who has such an affinity with a product, and the same sensibility as our customers, that presents a lot of advantages when we’re thinking of our growth and
new directions. We make decisions from a different angle now… we want to empower and inspire women at Damas.
get it, and then you don’t. But I’ve learned to accept that sometimes things just aren’t meant to be. Arm yourself with a bullet-proof heart.
HN: Being the first female CEO for Damas in over 100 years is definitely a milestone. As a fellow woman, I sure am extremely proud and inspired. In your opinion and to offer advice to tomorrow’s generation of women leaders, what are the characteristics of those most likely to break through?
And gather a support system of like-minded people who believe in the same things you do. You won’t succeed as a woman alone, you need to the right people around you.
AA: The first thing is to possess a huge amount of self-belief and drive, coupled with the confidence to do whatever you want to do. Arm yourself with knowledge too. You can achieve anything you set your mind to – as long as you believe you can achieve it. What sets you back is when you start to overthink. Know you’ll get rejected a million times… I could tell you stories of a thousand interviews I went to which, when I left I was certain I’d got the job… only to never hear from the company again. Some of these are brutal memories – you’re so sure you’re going to
Finally, know this: you are the only thing that’s holding you back! Know more: Damas is a house of brands, with over 200 stores in the GCC. It is one of the largest standalone multi brand jewelers in the world, offering exclusive collections from some of the world’s most unique brands, Pasquale Bruni, Fope, Magerit, Leo Pizzo to name a few. Damas is also a strategic partner to coveted global brands such as Graff, Roberto Coin, Faberge and Mikimoto, that sit perfectly alongside the equally luxurious in-house brands created by Damas such as Farfasha, One-Six-Eight, Legacy and Rangoli. the talk - page 65
jewelry - feature
Brume de Saphir by Van Cleef & Arpels The latest Fall/Winter collection is exactly what we need after months of lounging in our beachwear. This collection is one to indulge in. Seeking its muse in the changing colors of the waves as the hours go by, Van Cleef & Arpels created Brume de Saphir: two High Jewelry ensembles inspired by the Palmyre collection. A surge of blue or pink, reflections on the water seem to come alive in a stream of light.
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jewelry - feature
Van Cleef & Arpels Ludo
To celebrate the timeless elegance of one of its great signatures, Van Cleef & Arpels is putting the Ludo bracelet back at center stage. Created in 1934, the design evokes a precious belt; it was baptized with the nickname of Louis Arpels, one of the Maison’s founders.
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Today, four brand new versions bring together different materials and gold colors to magnify the creation’s emblematic briquette and hexagon motifs. The abstract style of the 1930s is combined with the Maison’s cherished couture inspiration. Thanks to virtuoso craftsmanship from the Van Cleef & Arpels workshops, the gold takes on a light, flexible quality – studded with dazzling precious details.
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jewelry - feature
Boucheron
Jack de Boucheron This season, Jack de Boucheron is ever more precious; each creation is set with diamonds - entirely.
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Is it a necklace? A bracelet? A headpiece, perhaps? To these questions, there is no right answer, much less wrong answer because Jack leaves you free to choose. Jack de Boucheron is a unique item of jewelry. Playful, but subtle; you can wrap it around your wrist as many times as you want, wear it around your neck, looped once or twice, dress up your hair, or even wrap it around your waist. It is this versatile quality that makes it great for every occasion, every desire, every outfit, giving the women who wear it the freedom to choose. Because Jack never says no.
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jewelry - feature
The Chaumet Garden of Earthly Delights Faithful to its naturalistic tradition, Chaumet celebrates a living and symbolic flora and fauna by enriching its collections with a new creation: captivating brooches and cocktail rings to light up special occasions, and new Bee My Love pieces for everyday wear.
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Deliciously hued stones are buzzed over by gold and diamond bees on Bee My Love Precious Jewelry rings, where the geometric honeycomb motif, the signature of the collection, is revealed in a new light. Jeweler to Napoléon and Joséphine, Chaumet reinterprets the imperial emblem of the bee with unexpected modernity in Bee My Love, transmuting the honeycomb motif into an interplay of geometry and gold. This summer, the collection is enriched with pendants and earrings and explores flexibility with necklaces of both the pendant and short varieties, designed to be mixed and matched with iconic rings and bracelets, according to one’s desires. the talk - page 73
jewelry - trend
Messika
Lucky Move Collection Kate Moss, Sylvia Hoeks, Joan Smalls... for her next campaign, ValĂŠrie Messika has chosen to cast three contemporary icons that break the codes of Parisian jewelry.
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“I wanted to create a trio of girls, a gang that would represent women in their diversity and each of whom, whatever their age, would embody a type of beauty,” says Valérie Messika. “Kate Moss has always been my muse; she is a legend of fashion and a rock n’ roll icon. Kate is, above all, a free woman. As for Dutch actress Sylvia Hoeks, she enticed me with her personality and her character. Finally, I chose Joan Smalls for her spectacular physique. She gives off a very contemporary glamour. Beyond jewelry, this trio has an attitude. They are strong women who breathe their own style into jewelry. They influence diamonds and not the other way around. This is, in fact, the main characteristic of Messika’s jewelry.” Created by Mert & Marcus, this campaign infuses crazy energy into the Messika collections: the energy of diamonds. The first theme in peacock blue is dedicated to the Lucky Move, a new collection full of roundness, with playful and poetic accents, that will be unveiled this month. the talk - page 75
jewelry - trend
Old or Vintage? How many of us have given away our old handbags, accessories, and also jewelry because we thought they were too old? We’re still crying over our Dior Saddle bags and Fendi Baguettes btw. Vintage jewelry has always been a trend. Emma Roberts jokes in the movie “Wild Child” while shopping at a charity store, “We can slap a few zeros on the price tag and just call it vintage!” These pricy pieces of jewelry can be found in your grandmother’s closet or even your mother’s old safety box. Vintage chokers with emeralds, gold bracelets with exquisite detail, all these items are pieces that we wouldn’t have thought of wearing, but fashionistas are roaming the streets looking for these to buy! Style your vintage jewelry with a modern outfit to balance the look. Go for some biker shorts, a blazer, and a pair of beautiful vintage earrings! Now remove the word old from your dictionary and replace it with vintage!
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Buying Stones Diamonds are a girl’s best friend, but stones are your soul’s companion! The beauty of these earthly treasures is being noticed and adopted even more so than ever. Whether you plan on wearing it as a piece of jewelry or placing these stones/crystals around your home, you’ll still get the positive effects of its powerful energy and the vibes of prosperity they offer. These gemstones were worn by ancient Egyptians and Greeks and have been adorned by many other cultures as well. The power of these stones was known back in the day and used to achieve a stress-free mind, to keep oneself grounded, to find divinity in love, and to ensure self-care. Now how to wear them? With brands such as Van Cleef & Arpels and Piaget, including these stones in their creations, it is never hard to find and style them. From emerald pendants to aquamarine earrings, you can never go wrong with any stone. Other than all the healing qualities, they’re also stunning to wear!
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watches - feature
Jaeger-LeCoultre Rendez-Vous Celestial A pair of beautiful Rendez-Vous Celestial jewelry watches pays homage to this otherworldly spectacle, capturing the vivid greens, purples, pinks, and blues that stream and dance across the sky. Asymmetrical in composition, the dial is formed of two sections, set at different heights. On the upper section, the curvy Floral numerals – a signature of the Rendez-Vous collection – are graduated in size, to form a crescent that hovers above the lower dial. Outlined by an elliptical band of pink gold that draws the eye deeper into it, this lower section carries a hand-transferred imprint of a star chart, together with the signs of the Zodiac and names of the months. Displaying the night sky as it appears above JaegerLeCoultre’s home in the Vallée de Joux, the star chart shows the changing positions of the constellations in real time. The automatic mechanical movement Jaeger-LeCoultre Calibre 809/1 turns the disc counter clockwise in relation to the stars, almost imperceptibly, in step with the rotation of the Earth in 23 hours, 56 minutes and 4 seconds. THE LOWDOWN On the inside: Movement: Automatic winding Power-Reserve: 40 hours Water Resistance: 5 bar/50 m On the outside: Case: Pink gold Dial: Hand-painted mother-of-pearl Bracelet: Black strap
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Panerai Luminor Due A challenging achievement of the new millennium, in keeping with the Panerai character, the Luminor Due continues its process of evolutionary adaptation. Technical, functional, and formal. A landmark. Perpetuating a traditional aesthetic signature by projecting it into the spirit of today. Maintaining creativity as it takes a new approach. In keeping with the genetics of the Luminor Due family, Panerai remains unconventional in its attitude and its predisposition. The new watches have been mechanically redesigned in terms of size, and consequently, they are innovative. Naturally inclined to change, today the Luminor Due with its new content is acquiring a more pronounced identity. Leading the way, on the one hand, there are three new models sharing the brushed titanium of the case and the blue satinĂŠ soleil finish of the dial. On the other hand, there are three updated models of varied character, embodying a consistent array of style and versatility. THE LOWDOWN On the inside: Movement: Automatic winding Power-Reserve: 72 hours Water Resistance: 3 bar/30 m On the outside: Case: Goldtech, 12 sided with sapphire crystal porthole Dial: Gold Bracelet: Alligator, polished Shiny red, with clasp buckle in Goldtech
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watches - feature
Oris Artelier Calibre 111 Golden Moments Oris’s- Artelier Calibre 111 is one of the most important watches the independent Swiss watch company has ever made. It heralds the revival of Oris as the developer of seriesproduced, in-house developed movements, and, with its 10-day power reserve and patented non-linear power reserve indicator, showcases the company’s innovative spirit. Now, Oris has added unique model to the line, which combines a stainless-steel case with gold-plated hands and hour markers. THE LOWDOWN On the inside: Movement: Oris Calibre 111, in-house – hand-wound Power-Reserve: 240 hours (10 Days) Water Resistance: 3 bar/30 m On the outside: Case: Multi-piece stainless steel case Dial: Silver dial Bracelet: Blue or Black alligator strap on folding clasp or Stainless steel bracelet, butterfly folding clasp
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Eberhard & Co. Glamorous Gilda
All the svelte and sensuous good looks that are the characteristic of Eberhard & Co.’s ultra-feminine Gilda line, come through every curve of the unique Gilda 61008.3 timepiece. Designed for the woman of style, this Gilda, like the rest of its stablemates, can also boast of the highest standards of watchmaking design and craftsmanship. Irresistibly sinuous in look and feel, the new Gilda is inspired by the beauty of nature and its varied forms. Its curvy face encloses is enclosed in a stainless-steel case, the bezel set in rubies, diamonds and zephyrs. The hour markers are set off in black against the white gleam of the dial, with the quarter hour marked in elegant Roman numerals.
THE LOWDOWN On the inside: Movement: Quartz Water Resistance: 5 bar/50 m On the outside: Case: 32 x 38 mm Stainless steel Dial: Bezel set with rubies, diamonds, and sapphires Bracelet: Stainless steel – Optional: Crocodile Strap
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i n t e r e v i e w f e a t u r e s h e a l t h b e a u t y
t i p s t r e n d s the talk - page 83
health - feature
Health through stealth SHA Wellness Clinic When the time comes to reset yourself, what are your choices? The global spa scene offers an array of one-stopshop solutions. You could go total bootcamp and sweat it all out in Utah, or plump for the super-luxe pampering of a Swiss clinic. Alternatively, there’s nothing quite so dramatic as the full medical inventions favored by some. However, for an all-round, holistic, and also soothingly comforting reset, there’s nowhere quite as good as SHA Wellness Clinic. Our Zeina Mokaddam packed her Gucci valise and jetted across to Spain’s east coast to sample its healthy delights.
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Set on a hillside in Alicante, with a great view of the Med, SHA Wellness Clinic combines Far East-inspired therapies with the latest western advances – plus a huge portion of luxe living. How are you going to get healthy? Is it all pain if you’re going to gain? Not at all. A fusion of eastern knowledge, specific therapies, and specialized diets will see you right. Guests at this medical spa can enjoy a combination of macrobiotic diets, massages and treatments to balance body and soul. And physical activities, informal lectures, cooking classes and therapies are conducted in beautifully calm and peaceful surroundings to maximize their impact and long-lasting benefits. What is the SHA Method? Lifestyle and nutrition (together with genetics), condition our health and well-being. The SHA Method integrates the most effective natural therapies with highly therapeutic nutrition, without neglecting the latest advances in Western medicine, especially in preventive medicine, genetics and antiaging. The coordinated and supervised fusion of these therapies significantly enhances the positive impact that these therapies would have on an individual basis.
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health - feature
SHA Diets The way you’ll eat at SHA is one of the most important aspects of your stay. SHA offers three different types of healthy eating menus (SHA, Biolight and Kushi) in order to meet guests’ needs and goals. These menus are different every day at lunch and dinner. With the help of their expert consultants in healthy nutrition, they are adapted to suit each guests’ particular needs. And, contrary to common spa practices, it isn’t as severe as you might imagine – but this doesn’t make it any less effective! The Kushi Diet is SHA’s strictest and most restrictive gastronomic diet. It is recommended for those who aim to control their weight or intensively detoxify their body, being a perfect complement to a weight loss program. It has smaller portions and also does not include certain healthy ingredients including oil, baked flour, nuts, pasta or oats. A little salt is also added. Fish is only included once a week and the diet is characterized for including a lot of algae and hearty soups like miso that help cleanse the body and provide energy and vitality. Could you live on that? Of course you could and, trust me, your body will thank you! SHA Health Programs SHA’s is certainly not a one-size-fits-all approach. The first thing you’ll do here is answer a long list of very detailed (and personal) questions. Revolving around
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your lifestyle, your habits and your goals, SHA’s clinicians will use your answers to tailor a specific program of fitness and nutrition for you. So… be truthful with you answers – it’ll pay out with health dividends in the end! Programs can be specific. You want fitness? Detox? Weight loss? You’ve got them all… plus intensive version of each! Want to give up smoking, learn to age better (who doesn’t!), or manage stress – SHA will set you on the right path. What does this mean? It means that SHA’s aim is to truly reset your life – not just deliver a short-term fix. For sure, you’ll leave SHA more aware of your body – and mind – and more respectful of both of their limitations and underuse. What to do Open your mind to yoga, meditation, fitness, eastern therapies, and even try their healthy-cooking sessions for yourself! SHA now has 11 adjoining villas - ideal for guests who don’t want to leave their family behind during a life-changing stay! And, don’t worry about not being pampered throughout it all – where every the most luxurious 5-star hotel has a staff to guest ratio on 1 to 1, SHA (even during its peak times) boasts a ratio of 3 staff to every 1 guest. Who’s going to beat that? And yet, when the time comes to be left alone to reflect and relax, SHA’s staff know just how to make themselves invisible. SHA Wellness Clinic - a perfect balance of occidental and oriental wellness – with wisdom, sunshine, sea views, and luxury thrown in for good measure! the talk - page 87
beauty - feature
Murad Skincare By Tracey Wilmot Our modern lifestyles and busy schedules make it challenging to learn to relax and to get a good night’s sleep. The term ‘Beauty Sleep’ is certainly not a myth. If our sleep gets disrupted, we see this reflected on our skin in the morning as dark under-eye circles, dullness, dehydration, wrinkles, and puffiness. Murad Night Fix Enzyme Treatment is a unique product that lives in the bedroom, not the bathroom - I recommend my clients keep it by their bedside as the finishing step to be used after cleanser, serum, and moisturizer and to be applied just before going to sleep; this encourages overnight skin repair.
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Many people may have heard of Probiotics - these are living bacteria with a beneficial influence against harmful bacteria in the gut, such that we often find in yogurt, for example. But Prebiotics also improve the good-to-bad bacteria ratio on the skin to prevent dryness, irritation, and premature aging - I like to think of it as fertilizer for the skin! Murad Prebiotic 4-in-1 Cleanser not only helps to create a healthy balance of good bacteria but also removes eye and face makeup as well as dirt and oil. Also, it hydrates the skin 15 layers deep, so it doesn’t leave the skin feeling dry or tight after cleansing. Use it alongside the Murad Prebiotic 3-in-1 Mist which not only instantly hydrates, cools and refreshes the skin but also primes and sets makeup while helping to keep a healthy balance of good bacteria on the skin throughout the day. Many clients tell us that their skin suffers during the fasting period of Ramadan or post-summer and ask for help and advice on how to restore the skin’s healthy balance and glow. So, here’s Murad’s top tips for perfect skin!
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beauty - feature
One of the biggest issues is dehydration and dullness - so to improve hydration and brighten skin in one application we recommend the following Murad superheroes that can rescue your skin: Hydro Glow Aqua Peel Mask not only resurfaces skin but also provides a 400% boost in hydration in just one application! Also, for daily hydration we cannot live without Hydro-Dynamic Quenching Essence, it’s like a drink of water for the skin, instantly hydrating and calming and restoring moisture balance; follow with Nutrient Charged Water Gel, oil-free hydration that delivers water where you need it and prevents loss of moisture from dehydration. If you prefer a richer formula, then choose Hydro-Dynamic Ultimate Moisturizer, a best-seller everywhere.
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If breakouts have become your enemy, Murad’s blemish superheroes are Outsmart Blemish Clarifying Treatment: a lightweight gel serum, and for unexpected pimples, zap them with Dr. Murad’s patented Rapid Spot Treatment, which reduces redness and inflammation in just 4 hours and can be used under or over makeup. As for dull skin, Murad Intensive C Radiance Peel will not only brighten the skin in just 10 minutes but also resurfaces and smooths skin instantly. Lines, wrinkles, and dark circles… there’s a solution for everything. If you haven’t yet discovered Dr. Murad’s Retinol Youth Renewal, then now is the time to see the results for yourself. It improves the appearance of lines and wrinkles, brightens skin, and improves collagen synthesis in just 2 weeks. As for dark circles, use the Retinol Youth Renewal Eye serum for nighttime, and the essential C Eye cream SPF 15 for daytime.
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beauty - feature
Pierre René Pierre René is a Polish company with over 20 years experience in the cosmetic sector.
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They ensure high quality of products offered and work with the world’s best manufacturers of packaging and cosmetic formulas. They are also one of the fastest developing companies in the Polish cosmetic market. Pierre René’s products meet the requirements of modern women in terms of fashion and functionality. With over 300 cruelty-free products to choose from, they were designed to give all women access to affordable professional cosmetics in beautiful packaging. Their products are also paraben-free, silicone-free, suitable for sensitive skin, and also nourishing.
The Palette Match System is among the most popular and sought after; palettes created with sets of shades of colors, blushes or powders which cater to all tastes because every woman picks her own shades. This gives each one of us the freedom of choice, all in one palette, which is perfect if you’re constantly traveling or on-the-go. Pierre René is brought to you exclusively by AZHA who carefully selects the up-and-coming beauty products and deliver them to your doorstep.
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beauty - feature
Here are the talk’s tops picks from:
Smoothing Make Up Base: Use by itself or under your foundation, this make up base will lighten and protect your skin while guaranteeing moisture balance and long lasting make up application.
Skin Balance Professional Foundation: LONG LASTING – WATERPROOF – COVERAGE! Sounds like the best foundation ever but we are not done yet! This luxurious formula contains plants extract and vitamin E making it safe to use for all skin types!
Cream Contouring: Emphasize your facial strengths and cover the imperfections with Pierre Rene’s Cream Contouring palette. You can intensify the color by layering the product all while keeping it looking natural.
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Royal Mat Lipstick: A variety of shades for all preferences, the Royal Mat Lipstick delivers the matte look yet soft and moisturized lips. Not to forget, it is long lasting and highly pigmented.
Iconic Mascara: No more clumps! The Iconic Mascara’s innovative silicone brush helps keep your application perfect and smooth while its creamy formula moisturizes your lashes.
Azha currently has two locations – the first: Al- Jahra Mall, and the other: City Center, Al-Dasma. They also have an online platform which delivers to both Kuwait and to Saudi Arabia. @ azhabeauty +965 66312184 www.azhabeauty.com Same day delivery in Kuwait.
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beauty - feature
Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Primer
The Pro Filt’r Primer collection has now expanded to three different formulas based on skin type so that flawless skin can be achieved easily by all. No more dry spells: meet the lightweight yet moisture-rich face primer that instantly hydrates skin without weighing it down – and keeps it hydrated and comfortable all day while making your foundation last even longer. With the help of Grape Seed Oil and Sodium Hyaluronate–known for their hydrating powers–this fast-absorbing formula feels incredibly silky-smooth and melts into the skin comfortably without a trace, delivering a soft silk finish that normal to dry skin types will love. Paired with any Fenty Beauty foundation, Pro Filt’r Hydrating Primer works instantly to soften skin, smooth away dry patches, and create a filter-like blurring effect. The result? A fresh, flawless canvas that lets makeup glide on smoothly and evenly while helping it last all day and night without caking or settling.
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beauty - trend
Ginger Feels Ombres and subtle babylights, that’s what we’re used to seeing and asking for at the salon. This season we see hot red, crimson, and some shades of orange as well. This hair color trend is here to stay. We’ve seen celebrities like Rihanna try these shades but then again it is Rihanna… We’re here to tell you to go for it! Head over to an expert hair colorist, and we mean EXPERT. Consider your skin tone and eye color when choosing the shade. Different undertones suit different people. Once you select the perfect shade, then you’re all set. Keep the color away from fading by investing in some color-protecting line of products for a vibrant color after every wash.
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Baby Fresh Glow The healthy glow. Yes, that’s the type of “makeup” that is in. There are two parts to achieving this look. First: you actually treat your skin to get that healthy glow naturally, and second: you enhance your perfect look with a few products. Let’s start now, shall we! The basics of achieving beautiful skin are simple. Drink plenty of water, the more hydrated you are, the healthier your skin. Dehydrated skin looks dull and blotchy, on the contrary to hydrated skin which has a noticeable glow. Another tip is to always cleanse, tone, and moisturize your skin in the morning and nighttime which brings us to the most crucial advice, NEVER EVER sleep with makeup on. As for makeup, a dewy primer such as the MAC Strobe Cream and a hydratingformula foundation is all you need. We recommend skipping the foundation and just spot-concealing with a medium-coverage concealer. Add a bit of tint to your cheeks and lips with a creamy blush stick or some Benefit Posietint, and you’re good to go.
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health - interview
Royale Hayat Hospital Dr. Mohamad AbdulRazzak Dr. Mohamad AbdulRazzak is one of the leading plastic surgeons at Royale Hayat Hospital. He earned his master’s degree in Aesthetic surgery from the London University, followed by a membership at the Royale College of London. Dr. Mohamed is a graduate of the University of AlexandriaPlastic Surgery. He specializes in non-surgical procedures such as Botox, fillers, lasers, PRP, non surgical skin tightening, non surgical nose and face reshaping, and many more procedures that Dr. Mohamad shares with us in depth.
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• Master degree in Aesthetic surgery - London University • Membership of Royale College of London • Graduate of university of Alexandria - Plastic Surgery Expertise Cosmetic Surgical Procedures specializes in Non Surgical Procedures to include but not limited to: • Botox. • Fillers. • Lasers, fraxel and thermage. • PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma, stem cell). • Mesotherapy. • Non Surgical Skin tightening. • Non Surgical Nose reshaping. • Non Surgical Cheek and face reshaping. • Hand Rejuvenation (include filling and skin rejuvenation.) • Surgical thread for face lifting. the talk - page 101
health - interview
In terms of new technology, which of them do you suggest to clients? Lunchtime treatments are treatments that are nonsurgical that enhance your natural beauty, which is ultimately what we would like the end result to be. Every age group is different, so firstly you have to conduct an analysis noting all the different aspects of the patient. With every patient you should have a target to what their expectation is. Liquid facelifts are something that we have been doing which is injecting certain points on the face with hyaluronic acid fillers to give the illusion of a facelift. Also, to improve the skin quality we use Hi-Fu or radiofrequency which are machines. Also, nowadays the surgical thread is also very common. Is the surgical thread considered an anti-aging tool? It still is a tool we use to enhance the skin, anti-aging isn’t a term we use anymore, positive-aging is. The thread is for people who have skin redundancy not due to volume loss. Nowadays, multi-target techniques are very important which means combining treatments along with the surgical thread.
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What are other ways to enhance the skin texture? There are many ways, some are the following: first we have misotherapy which is hyaluronic acid administered through a roller or a dermapen, another method is PRP (platelet rich plasma) which is separating the white and red blood cells and using the platelet rich plasma to inject into the skin. Last but not least, the skin booster which is currently the most advanced option. It is a stabilized hyaluronic acid, a slow release. It has the same result as doing a misotherapy treatment daily, but the result is shown for 6 months. 1 injection every 4-6 months is usually the preferred time range depending on the patient. How do you define beauty? It depends on the culture, area, and it’s also changing every period of time. Nowadays it’s all about deferring the aging process. Beauty is also what makes you comfortable and confident. What advice to you give to readers when it comes to skincare? In the end, it’s all about natural beauty. Go for treatments that enhance your skin texture and bring out your natural features.
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talk the talk “I wanted to be a wa lking, ta lking f a n t a s y. . . A c o n s t a n t r e m i n d e r t o the world th at it ’s my o ys ter �
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kuzmoz du jour - feature
with Sama Al Wasmi It’s a #JOMO kinda future! Ever wanted to ditch a party in lieu of staying in bed, but ended up with a gnawing fear that something spectacular might happen, so you drag yourself off the couch and into your heels?Â
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Well, if you don’t already know, there’s a name for that: it’s called Fear of Missing Out (FOMO), and it’s the most invasive socio-cultural trend of our generation. The culture of FOMO has permeated more than just our social life, it’s now influencing our food choices, travel destinations and, ultimately, the clothing and trends we buy into. So, what’s the big deal? Who cares that now we are able to try trends faster, easier and for a lot less money than we used to? Well, when you consider what this culture does to creativity and individuality, it starts to become a big deal. Nowadays you needn’t “dress the part” any longer… a doctor with the hippest Yeezys? Sure! A “starving” artist toting a Kelly? Why not! A shy wallflower in a larger-than-life Vetements padded graphic hoodie? Makes sense to me! This is all largely due to the fact that, over the last ten years, fashion and trends have become so readily accessible to us all. Social media bombards us with an array of looks being rocked by the fashion set and, in turn, this makes it seem wearable by even the most introverted amongst us. Add to this the advent of ecommerce and fast fashion, and you’ve got the ideal recipe for the foundation of FOMO commerce! The traditional trend cycle has created such a strain on creativity because designers are not given the time or space to come up with original ideas. And even when they do, their concepts are quickly copied by everyone from the shameless high street to unethical
fellow designers. This not only effects the creativity of the original designer and the brand, but it also undermines every consumers’ individuality - when one has so much to choose from at your fingertips, an individual’s personal style cannot naturally develop well or cohesively. A century ago, we didn’t have the high street megastores of today to fuel our desire to “try” lime green on our complexions, or luxury ecomms to fuel our late-night guilty purchases. We end up buying more – and typically something that never had much original thought put into its design process, and something that certainly doesn’t speak to us as individuals and that really isn’t feel-good fashion! More often than not, the feeling of having “too much” has permeated many modern-day households. We search for answers in Marie Kondo books and cling to minimalism. The solution is simply to be more diligent about what we buy, about which designers we respect, and about which aesthetic speaks to us as individuals. Rather than using social media to perpetuate copy/paste syndrome and further today’s FOMO culture, our generation has a unique opportunity. We can use our time to seek out creative individuals from across the globe, those whose style or aesthetic resonates with our own, and by committing to ensuring that our purchases mean something not only to us, but to the designers who have created them. Through this, we can define a new socio-cultural trend… the Joy of Missing Out (JOMO)!
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a u t o m o t i v e s T r e n d i n g e v e n t s h o r o s c o p e s
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lifestyle - automotive
The Rolls-Royce Cullinan When Rolls-Royce announced three years ago that it would launch Cullinan, it did so in the knowledge that its customers around the world had asked it to build “The Rolls-Royce of SUVs�, with luxury, performance, and usability not seen before in the SUV market. Many of these customers were younger, very successful high-net-worth individuals who are heavily engaged in the experience economy and wanted a Rolls-Royce that would take them to the ends of the Earth in ultimate luxury.
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Automotive mobility has always been a fast-moving and dynamic business, with new concepts – such as SUVs – appearing with great regularity. But those new concepts need to be perfected in order to be adopted by those customers who will accept no compromise – the patrons of true luxury. Hence the Rolls-Royce Cullinan. The Rolls-Royce Cullinan is Rolls-Royce as it’s never seen before. When Sir Henry Royce said, “Strive for perfection in everything you do. Take the best that exists and make it better. When it does not exist, design it”, he could have had Cullinan in mind. It was clear that these new, younger, and more adventurous customers wanted a Rolls-Royce that would take them completely off the beaten track and reward them with life’s most enriching experiences. What they didn’t want was a vehicle as ubiquitous as an SUV with compromises such as increased cabin noise due to the “twobox” formula; shared platforms that affect performance and comfort; the choice of being good either on-road or off-road; or a lower, more featureless SUV that blends in and becomes just another car. the talk - page 111
lifestyle - automotive
Ferrari 812 GTS: the V12 spider returns And with 800 cv, it’s the most powerful production convertible on the market Exactly 50 years on from the debut of the last spider in the Ferrari range to sport a frontmounted V12, the 812 GTS hails a triumphant return for a model type that has played a pivotal role in the marque’s history since its foundation.
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The Ferrari V12 spider story features many iconic models and began in 1948 with the 166 MM, an authentic thoroughbred competition GT that won the two most prestigious endurance races in the world in 1949: the Mille Miglia and the 24 Hours of Le Mans. The last in that long lineage was the 1969 365 GTS4, also known as the Daytona Spider because of Ferrari’s legendary victory in the 1967 24 Hours of Daytona when two works 330 P4s and the NART-entered 412 P took the chequered flag side-by-side to occupy the top three places. The front-mounted V12 architecture has not been used in a Ferrari series-production spider since the 365 GTS4. That said, four special series limited editions have been launched: the 550 Barchetta Pininfarina in 2000, the Superamerica in 2005, the SA Aperta in 2010 and, most recently, the F60 America of which
just 10 were built to celebrate Ferrari’s 60th year on the American market in 2014. Like its historic predecessors, the 812 GTS sets a new benchmark in terms of performance and exclusivity. Sporting Ferrari’s majestic 800 cv V12, it is not merely the most powerful production spider on the market, but also the most versatile, thanks to its retractable hard top, a unique feature in this segment which also guarantees a larger boot capacity. The retractable hard top (RHT), which opens in just 14 seconds at speeds of up to 45 km/h, does not impinge upon the interior dimensions, thus maintaining the donor car’s roomy cockpit. The electric rear screen, which acts as a wind-stop, makes the car truly useable with the top down while, with the top up, it can be left open to allow occupants to continue to luxuriate in the naturally-aspirated V12’s unique soundtrack. the talk - page 113
lifestyle - automotive
Porsche
World Premiere of the Porsche Taycan Porsche presented its first fully electric sports car to the public recently with a spectacular world premiere held simultaneously on three continents. “The Taycan links our heritage to the future. It carries forward the success story of our brand – a brand that has fascinated and thrilled people the world over for more than 70 years,” said Oliver Blume, Chairman of the Executive Board of Porsche AG, who opened the world premiere in Berlin: “This day marks the start of a new era.”
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The four-door sports saloon is a unique package, offering typical Porsche performance and connectivity with everyday usability. At the same time, highly advanced production methods and the features of the Taycan are setting new standards in the fields of sustainability and digitalization. “We promised a true Porsche for the age of electromobility – a fascinating sports car that not only excites in terms of its technology and driving dynamics but also sparks a passion in people all over the world, just like its legendary predecessors have done. Now we are delivering on this promise,” emphasizes Michael Steiner, Member of the Executive Board of Porsche AG – Research and Development. The first models in the new series are the Taycan Turbo S and Taycan Turbo. They are at the cutting edge of Porsche E-Performance and are among the most powerful production models that the sports car manufacturer currently has in its product range. Less powerful variants of these all-wheeldrive vehicles will follow this year. The first derivative to be added will be the Taycan Cross Turismo at the end of next year. By 2022, Porsche will have invested more than six billion euros in electromobility. the talk - page 115
lifestyle - feature
Trending on passionsarabia.com Taking a look at the latest stories to catch up on from the past month on the talk’s online home at passionsarabia.com. Follow us on Instagram @passions.arabia for your daily dose of style and inspiration, what’s trending, the Maisons and the Marques... along with stories of the passionate individuals who are making it happen.
BeEmpowered, BeDamas: Damas CEO Asil Attar raises the region’s gold standard
@tag.local – Regional men’s life and style instagramers worth a follow!
@tag.local – Kuwait’s women’s life and style instagramers to follow!
With an impressive heritage stretching back more than 110 years, leading luxury brand Damas has put a whole new spring in its step as it raises the stakes for the Middle East’s other gold and jewelry brands through the launch of 25 new store openings and renovations. This comes just six months after the company placed Asil Attar at its helm – making her the first female CEO in the history of Damas.
Looking for some local inspiration? We’ve got our own fine crop of Instagramers and influencers in the region. Here’s our top ten.
We spend a lot of time – if we’re honest, probably too much time – combing through local, regional, and global Instagram feeds looking for inspiration and, well, just generally being curious. Want to know our ten favorite local feeds? Read on…
passionsarabia.com/beempoweredbedamas-damas-ceo-asil-attar-raisesthe-gold-standard the talk - page 116
passionsarabia.com/tag-localregional-mens-life-and-styleinstagrammers-worth-a-follow
passionsarabia.com/kuwait-womenslife-and-style-instagramers
Porsche Taycan: the sports car… sustainably redesigned In a game-changing event, Porsche presented its first fullyelectric sports car today with a spectacular world premiere held simultaneously on three continents. The four-door sports saloon is a unique package, offering typical Porsche performance and connectivity with everyday usability. At the same time, highly advanced production methods and the features of the Taycan are setting new standards in the fields of sustainability and digitalisation. passionsarabia.com/porsche-taycan-the-sports-carsustainably-redesigned
VIDEO: Damas – City of Gold Damas jewellery, the leading luxury brand and retailer in the GCC, born in 1907, revealed the “City of Gold” marketing campaign, lighting up the Burj Khalifa with a breath-taking 3-minute Arabian sea and treasure themed underwater extravaganza. passionsarabia.com/damas-city-ofgold
The Longines Heritage Military – Kuwait Limited Edition
Kuzmoz and the Great Ethical Cleanse: Chapter 2
Longines presents a bronze version of The Longines Heritage Military, especially designed for Kuwait. Inspired by a military model from the 1940’s, The Longines Heritage Military – Kuwait Limited Edition is numbered and limited to 100 pieces.
I don’t claim perfection, in fact, I don’t believe it to be a sustainable long-term goal. So, if I’m going to attempt anything, I’m going to try and be better; a better daughter, a better sister, a better friend, a better citizen… a better human. Writes Xeina Almusallam aka @kuzmoz
passionsarabia.com/the-longinesheritage-military-kuwait-limitededition
passionsarabia.com/kuzmoz-and-thegreat-ethical-cleanse-chapter-2
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Damas jewelry, the leading luxury brand, and retailer in the GCC, born in 1907, revealed the “City of Gold” marketing campaign, lighting up the Burj Khalifa with a breath-taking 3-minute Arabian sea and treasure themed underwater extravaganza. The spectacular event was hosted by Damas Chairman Hamdi Chatti and CEO Asil Attar, attended by Government officials, Media representatives, industry partners and VIPs. The event was held at The Galliard, The Address Downtown, to celebrate the launch and investment in 25 new store openings and renovations showcasing Damas’s new store concepts throughout the GCC through a pan-Arab live feed to all regions, securing Damas’s position as No. 1.
The event further premiered the brand’s television commercial and video advertisement campaign, paying tribute to the region’s history of trade and Damas’s heritage as goldsmiths and jewelers. The theme was focused on Women Empowerment and becoming part of the Damas world. Attar, known as “The Hybrid” for her unique commercial and creative acumen and strategic vision, led the entire creative direction of the campaign - “I wanted to create the start of a new journey for our stakeholders and customers, honoring our heritage, inspiring the imagination, and crafting tomorrows dreams. We are a regional brand with a global outlook, sophisticated, empowered cultured, and modern.”
Damas Unveils Its Strategic Women Empowerment Campaign and Launches 25 New Store Openings and Renovations
lifestyle - events
the talk - page 119
The itinerary begins with the overriding passion of Ferrari’s founder, where it all began: racing. At the center of a large hall, visitors come face to face with the SF90, the single-seater currently being used in the F1 Championship, representing the Scuderia Ferrari, the most successful Formula 1 team ever, this year celebrating its 90th anniversary.
An unprecedented exhibition itinerary offers visitors a fully immersive experience, enabling them to gain a close-up of a legend and universal symbol that is amongst the strongest brands in the world.
A long-awaited event for customers, fans and Ferrari enthusiasts alike, the exhibition will take place on the Fiorano race circuit, in a large structure where the various activities that render Ferrari so unique are represented in all their glory.
Universo Ferrari opens its doors to the public. This is the first exhibition dedicated to the world of Ferrari in the brand’s historic location with a series of exclusive tours being held throughout the month of September.
Universo Ferrari Exhibition Opens: A unique opportunity for customers and fans to discover the Maranello marque
In the adjacent room, visitors tap into the history of the brand through one of its most fascinating stories. We are in the “Ferrari Classiche”, the famous workshop where Ferrari models are transformed into automotive icons by experts who restore and maintain these cars to perfection. The undisputed star of this room is the 250 GTO from 1962, one of Ferrari’s most famous cars coveted by many a collector.
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“It is a pleasure for us to know that our guests and the industry have recognized the great work our team has put in to deliver exceptional luxury services. A heartfelt thank you to our customers for their continuous
Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel & Spa is pleased to announce that Olio Restaurant recently received the “Best Italian Restaurant” award at the World Luxury Restaurant and Spa Awards ceremony that took place in St Petersburg in Russia. An authentic Italian restaurant, Olio captures Italy’s vibrancy with its open kitchen concept and a sophisticated yet authentic atmosphere.
The World Travel Awards are voted for by travel & tourism professionals, business and leisure travel consumers worldwide, and these luxury awards recognize Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel & Spa commitment to excellence over the last twelve months.
support,” said Savino Leone, General Manager of Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel & Spa. “I’m proud to congratulate the whole team’s passion and dedication. I am certain that winning this award is a strong impetus for us to continue to offer Stay Different experiences to our guests and to continue to win their hearts with exceptional dishes.”
Olio Restaurant at Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel & Spa Wins Best Italian Restaurant at the World Luxury Spa and Restaurant Awards
lifestyle - events
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Geely Auto Group is a leading automobile manufacturer based in Hangzhou, China and was founded in 1997 as a subsidiary of Zhejiang Geely Holding Group (ZGH). Geely Auto Group is the holding company for several leading brands including Geely Auto, Proton Cars, Lynk & Co, and the Geometry range of vehicles.
The agreement was signed between Eng. Fahad Ali Alghanim - Managing Director of Ali Alghanim & Sons Automotive Co., and Mr. Xue Tao Assistant General Manager of Geely Auto International Company, at a signing ceremony conducted at the Ali Alghanim & Sons Automotive Showroom in the Shuwaikh area of Kuwait.
Ali Alghanim & Sons Automotive Co., one of Kuwait’s leading importers of luxury vehicles, has signed an agreement with Chinese automotive giant Geely Auto Group to become the authorized distributor for Geely Auto range of passenger vehicles in Kuwait.
Ali Alghanim & Sons Automotive Company becomes the Authorized Distributor of Geely Auto in Kuwait
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The space takes its references from the aesthetics of the mid-century modern movement, which flourished in the mid-20th century. With a distinctive North American flavor, the movement was popular in New York and Los Angeles apartments, from where it conquered the rest of the world, incorporating nods to Bauhaus and its international style of architecture. Less formal and incorporating prolific organic lines, the movement was characterised by the presence of large open-plan areas, empty spaces and the use of pure, clean, organic lines, in aesthetics as well as functionality.
Uterqüe’s new store concept, The Apartment, opens its second location at Grand Avenue, The Avenues Mall.
Without a doubt, an elegant, dynamic, and attractive environment that makes this Uterqüe store the ideal place to discover the firm’s new designs.
The sophisticated ambiance is condensed into a seemingly minimalist space in the shape of a box, with suspended walls and ceilings that lighten the space, and where all the collections live in harmony with wooden and travertine marble furniture, and various original architectural pieces that were preserved during the renovations.
The Grand Avenue store condenses a catalog of glamour from past eras, using the different spaces to create a serene aesthetic that invites us to make ourselves at home.
Uterqüe unveils its Second Boutique at the Avenues Mall, Kuwait
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lifestyle - horoscopes
horoscopes Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 20)
Aquarius (Jan. 21-Feb. 19)
You need to slow down and examine yourself before making a mistake that will haunt you forever. Single Capricorns will only engage socially with people who want to be friends. You will need to take a balanced diet and refrain from stress.
Aquarius personality will do well in education. Singles will be able to reach out to prospective partners. Most of your attention will be on work and nothing else. Family members will also help you in achieving the best out of your career.
This month, your health will be good. This month you will travel a lot abroad for leisure and business ventures. The Pisces personality this month will be in a position to help those people who need him or her the most.
Aries (Mar. 21-April 20)
Taurus (Apr. 21-May 21)
Gemini (May 22-June 21)
As per the Aries 2019 horoscope, this month, you will be social with everyone around you. This month you will grow even further professionally with the help of friends and social contacts.
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Taurus, this is the year of change for you. The Taurus personality is more concerned with his or her career because investments at this time are high and profits are promising.
Pisces (Feb. 20-Mar. 20)
This will be an excellent month for your educational pursuits. Your investments will bring in significant profits, and your employer might give you a raise at the workplace.
Cancer (June 22-July 22) Cancer personality will have to be social to meet new people and forge good relationships. The investments you make this month will determine your financial prosperity. You may travel with the family.
Libra (Sept. 24-Oct. 23) Libra zodiac singles will find love and acceptance in social gatherings. The role you play in your profession will be that of a supportive nature. You will get assistance from others when it comes to financing projects.
Leo (July 23-Aug 22) Leo sun sign has to limit his or her aggression in October 2019 and can achieve results by being flexible. Life with your spouse and family will be quite fabulous, and finances are profitable. Career is hindered by Mars, but health prospects are wonderful.
Scorpio (Oct. 24-Nov. 22) You have a lot going on when it comes to emotional aspects and personal desires. Your energy levels will be high, and your immune system will be great. Singles will attract partners with whom they will form long-lasting relationships.
Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 23) The family will be your focus this month. Your personal life revolving around relationships will be excellent. Professional development will only be achieved once you understand yourself and what you want out of this life.
Sagittarius (Nov. 23-Dec. 21) Your professional development will be influenced by your hard work and determination. Sagittarius, this month you will be able to involve yourself in several sports and athletic activities. The money will flow in from the beginning of the month.
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the team/ Editor-in-Chief Fawaz Al-Mutairi Publisher Zeina Mokaddam Operations Director Mishleen AlKazzi Brand Consultant Hind Nassar Creative Consultant Yousif Abdulsaid Fashion & Beauty Editor Rawan Qabazard Copy-Editor Anju Kakkar Contributors Sama Al-Wasmi Managing Editor Simon Balsom
Head of Photography Maher Al-Nouri
Senior Graphic Designer Chadi Moufied
Legal Consultant Khaled Al-Kandari
Articles can be accessed at passionsarabia.com
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