Raphael Stevens

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  • 163 Shares

    in lifestyle and culture

    Chrissy Teigen shares a tribute to son Jack on his would-be due date

    Chrissy Teigen tragically suffered a miscarriage in October last year.
    Over the weekend, she revealed it would’ve been her baby boy’s due date.

    To pay tribute to her late son, whom she and husband John Legend named Jack, Teigen took to Instagram on his would-be due date.
    Teigen, who is mum to Luna, four, and two-year-old Miles, shared a photo of three bracelets stacked on her wrist with the names of her children – Luna, Miles and finally Jack.

    She captioned the photo saying, “Today was your due date. We love you forever.”

    Back in September, the 34-year was admitted to the hospital due to excessive bleeding. After a few days in hospital, she and her husband announced that they lost their unborn baby, whom they had name Jack.
    READ: Chrissy Teigen’s heartbreaking remorse four months after losing unborn son
    “To our Jack – I’m so sorry that the first few moments of your life were met with so many complications, that we couldn’t give you the home you needed to survive,” Teigen said upon the loss of her son. “We will always love you.
    “We are so grateful for the life we have, for our wonderful babies Luna and Miles, for all the amazing things we’ve been able to experience. But every day can’t be full of sunshine.”
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Feature image: Instagram @chrissyteigen More

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    in lifestyle and culture

    Tommy Hilfiger aims to shift mindsets in new campaign with Jameela Jamil

    American clothing brand Tommy Hilfiger is aiming to shift mindsets in their new campaign with activist and actress Jameela Jamil.
    A couple of weeks ago, The Good Place star was unveiled as the face of the brand’s Spring 2021 campaign ‘Moving Forward Together’, which is all about promoting social change.

    Discussing the campaign on Instagram, Jamil said, “This is one of the most diverse and powerful campaigns I’ve seen from such a giant brand and I’m positively star-struck by some of the inspiring advocates involved from around the world.”
    In line with this, Tommy Hilfiger have announced they will be providing free online courses focused on body neutrality on the platform Future Learn.

    Aimed to inspire change on body neutrality through an array of methods including storytelling, dialogue, new social knowledge and progress, this course will be a two-week focused programme available online, with a focus on challenging body image stereotype while broadening the audience understanding of body neutrality as negative programming in society is something which needs to be combated at the ground-level.

    It’s a topic close to Jamil’s heart as she has been open about struggling with her own body dysmorphia, which is a mental health disorder in which a person captures flaws in their appearance which are usually not observed by others. The actress shared her eating disorder struggles with the world and went on to found the ‘I Weigh’ movement, promoting inclusivity and body neutrality.
    “My vision for the future is a world without shame, and I continue to try to understand and find ways to destigmatise it in everything that I do,” Jamil said on Tommy Hilfiger’s Instagram page.

    With a focus on sustainability and community building in the upcoming courses available on the website, this educational platform will provide an arena for informative material with useful lessons to educate users on the need to drive social change, especially during this time. The courses are accessible on futurelearn.com through a mobile, tablet, and computer device.
    In addition, Tommy Hilfiger shall be giving a series of live talks on all its global social channels, with all friends and followers of the brand invited to join and learn about various important life hacks.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Feature image: Instagram @jameelajamilofficial More

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    in lifestyle and culture

    2021’s first Mercury Retrograde is over – what you need to know going forward

    With the first prolonged Mercury Retrograde coming to an end on February 20, there’s some things you need to know going forward for the rest of the year.
    The last three weeks might have hindered effective communication between you and your friends, including other issues such as tech glitches, scheduling at work, or even an ex-friend trying to get in touch with you over the course of these eventful three weeks, which you definitely managed to power through.

    However, it’s not entirely over yet as we are currently transitioning into retro-shade, which needs to be dealt with carefully, and here’s how.
    As the post-shadow phases appear, where all the unforeseen events that took place over the last few weeks seems to get sorted for the better with the end of it finally occurring on March 13. This period until then is all about reflection while thinking about the best ways to move forward.
    Also read: Everything you need to know about Mercury retrograde in 2021
    Despite the energy still in the air, you will definitely feel lighter. In case you’ve had a fight with someone over the past few weeks, this will be the best time to apologise and move on in order to take a breath of fresh air, as the fragments in your life seem to come back together again making this a clean-up phase to tie up all loose ends.
    Congratulations on surviving this Retrograde – there’s still two more periods of Mercury Retrograde to come in 2021 – despite the challenges imposed as even though there might be a few days away until it’s all completely over, things should all start looking good from then.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Feature image: Instagram @sarashakeel More

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    in lifestyle and culture

    Active COVID-19 cases decrease in UAE amidst successful vaccine rollout

    As the UAE heads towards reaching its goal of vaccinating 50 per cent of the population by the end of March, active COVID-19 cases have hit a new low, which is a major win for the country.
    The latest numbers which were published by WAM from the Ministry of Health stated that 165,357 COVID-19 tests had been conducted in the last 24 hours, which had resulted in 3,158 new cases being identified. Fifteen new deaths were also recorded.

    However, there were also 4,298 recoveries bringing the active cases to a new low of 11,054.
    UAE’s vaccination program
    It was announced last week that the UAE had reached the milestone of administering over five million doses of the COVID-19 vaccine.

    This milestone in the vaccination process bodes well for the nation’s aim to vaccinate half of the population by the end of March and also showcases the UAE as one of the leaders in the world in vaccination rates.
    At present, there are four COVID-19 vaccinations being administered in the UAE.
    READ: The 4 COVID-19 vaccines that are currently available in the UAE
    The first vaccine to be approved in the UAE was the Sinophram vaccine, followed by the Pfizer vaccine being permitted in Dubai towards the end of last year.
    In January, Russia’s Sputnik V was approved for emergency use. And now, just recently, the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine has been approved in Dubai.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Feature Image: Sara Shakheel Instagram More

  • 113 Shares

    in beauty and fashion

    I Tested 6 of TikTok’s Most Hyped-Up Skincare Products

    For better or worse, I became addicted to TikTok in 2020. More specifically, I became addicted to skincare TikTok. I followed beauty influencers like Skincare by Hyram and found myself buying products that actually fit into my budget: $7 “brightening” serums and $10, 16 oz. facial cleansers that barely fit on my counter because the bottles are so large. My main concerns are dryness, dull texture, and acne scarring from a six-month stint on Accutane. While the drug successfully purged my skin of all the acne I was destined to have for the rest of my life, it left me with a good bit of dark spots and an uneven tone. I was committed to improving it; and now after months of testing, I have found a lineup that has genuinely changed my skin—while simultaneously making my routine a bit more affordable in comparison to my impulse purchases from Drunk Elephant and Estée Lauder. An effective routine that doesn’t break the bank? What more could I want? Thanks to TikTok, here are the products that I now call my tried-and-trues! 

    Hydrating Facial Cleanser

    I am a Glossier addict, so I had been using Milky Jelly Cleanser for the past four years. Then on a whim at Target (after a TikTok binge), I grabbed the CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser—and boy am I glad I did. This face wash has a striking resemblance to Milky Jelly, both in consistency and gentleness. The ingredient formula highlights ceramides (which can prevent wrinkles) and hyaluronic acid, which both help to lock in moisture and protect your skin—an essential in the Chicago winters. As the temperature has been dropping and the heater in my apartment has been on full blast, I’ve been extra dry and patchy on my forehead. This cleanser has been keeping that at bay. I might just go full force and purchase the giant tub of CeraVe Moisturizing Cream as well.

    The Ordinary
    AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution

    Being fully transparent, I had tried this product before. But upon downloading TikTok, I discovered I was using it completely wrong… at the risk of burning off a layer of my skin. I like to call this “the blood mask” because I always see pictures of influencers with this maroon goop layered heavily on their skin. In applying the product in such a way, you’re going to be uncomfortable, itchy, and could even be damaging your skin. Using too much of a highly-concentrated AHA can cause redness and flakiness. Not the vibe. So, I followed the rules of TikTok and added a light, almost pink-toned layer. The mask didn’t burn anymore, just had a light tingle. And after a few weeks of bearable use, I noticed the texture of my skin had evened out, my acne scars were beginning to lighten, and my face was so soft. Score! AHAs and BHAs are key for safely removing dead skin, improving dull and uneven patches, and plumping up your skin for a youthful glow. Since you only have to use a pea-sized amount, this $7 mask will last a long time.

    Ice Roller

    As an avid user of jade and rose quartz rollers, this $10 Amazon ice instrument was naturally my next purchase. Just pop the tool in the freezer, and in the morning, rub the icy goodness all over your face. As I would use my jade roller, I like to use this one after my skincare routine to allow my products to sink in better. This tool has little beads inside so the rolling ritual is like a luxury facial massage at home. Plus, if you’re anything like me and you’re trying to get used to an early-morning routine, this roller is the perfect wake-up call.

    Super Glow Serum

    My biggest skin concern is scarring and texture; so, whenever I see a new product claiming to fix those things, I run to the store (or my computer) for a bit of retail therapy. So naturally after several TikTok recommendations, I went to my favorite brand Glossier to test out their vitamin C. Turns out, it’s true: The ingredient will gradually fade scars and smooth out texture. It also has anti-aging benefits. I’m only 22, but best to start early, right?

    Faded Gel

    I’ve been using this product for only about a week, but I am already a huge fan. After four uses, I swear my scars have significantly lightened and my skin looks brighter. My chin was covered in little spots due to my new enemy “maskne,” and thanks to this product, the dots are barely noticeable now. The formula features exfoliating acids and niacinamide, ingredients that are proven to fade scars. It’s also dye-free, fragrance-free, and vegan, making it super gentle. No burning here! Whether you have acne scars, dark spots, or hyperpigmentation, this product is sure to come to your rescue.

    Lash Lift Kit & Brow Lamination Kit

    I have dark, thick eyebrows with several patchy spots, and I’d also like to note they are completely different shapes. I swear the hairs on my left eyebrow grow straight up while the hairs on my right grow to the side—and I think one might even be slightly higher than the other. But I digress. My makeup routine consists of layering multiple brow products to get the effortless, bushy look à la Lily Collins. With this regimen, my life and brow routine are way easier. The lamination kit allows you to shape your brows semi-permanently. After cleansing the area for product and oil, you add the gel, shape your brows, cover with cling wrap, and leave on for eight minutes. And there you have it: beautiful, bold brows! This kit can also be used for eyelash lifting.

    By using all of these products, my skin concerns have become, well, less of a concern. And my bank account is happy, all thanks to TikTok. More

  • 175 Shares

    in health and weelbeing

    What to Do If You’re Not Happy With Your Sex Life in a Relationship

    Whether it’s the honeymoon phase or you’ve been together for five years, people expect us to all have our sex lives on lock. We’re all having sex every other night, and our partner always satisfies us. No problems, no questions — everything is peachy keen.Wrong.
    Being unhappy with your sex life is an issue many of us face, regardless of where you are in your relationship. It’s hard enough to talk about sex in general, but how do we deal with it when we’re not happy? Sex is such a personal part of our lives, but it can help us bond and better understand our partners. (Not to mention, it’s a real blast, huh?) When sex isn’t the booming, exciting part of our relationship everyone says it’s supposed to be, what do we do? We’re here to help with that! We’re going over everything you can try to make sexy time better than ever, from what to try in the bedroom to how you can talk to your partner about it.

    Talk to each other
    They’re not making stuff up when they say communication is key! You and your partner might be having issues not talking to each other in your day-to-day (when was the last time you really asked each other how your day was?), or you might not be discussing what exactly you need from them sexually.
    If the relationship itself is struggling beyond your sex life, this might call for a little different conversation. Understand your own needs and what is working for you and what isn’t before talking with them about what is going on.

    Ask for what you want
    Simply put, they won’t know that something is wrong if you don’t tell them. If you want more foreplay, more dirty talk, more touching (or less of something!), let your partner know. Don’t be embarrassed to ask for what you want. Sex is a two-way street, so always remember your pleasure is 50 percent of the fun too.

    Keep finances and family out of the bedroom
    When there’s something weighing on our minds (money and family or friend issues especially), it can be difficult to get in the mood, let alone to have sex and not worry about those other things. Do your best to leave those thoughts out of the bedroom. This can be done by not doing work in your bed or using your phone in bed. You can also try to talk to your partner about these issues, so they’re not taking up so much space in your head.

    Don’t focus on the length of time
    You can have great sex in as little as 10 minutes, but sometimes, worrying about going too quickly isn’t helping you get anywhere. Take things slowly or let them come as they go (no pun intended!). It’s okay to take your time.

    Stop focusing so much on routine
    When sex gets routine (having sex on the same day every month/week, only doing the same positions, focusing on the end goal too much, etc.), it’s hard to get excited for the same thing over and over. Instead of trying to keep up with what you normally do, change things up a little bit. Have sex in a different location of your house (or go full nostalgia and get freaky in your car!), change up the time (in the morning, perhaps?!), or try a new position you’ve never done before.

    Try sex toys
    I’ll say it when I’m in my grave: sex toys aren’t just meant for alone time! Bringing a sex toy in the bedroom might be able to help you explain to your partner more easily what it is you like or help you learn what that is. It can also be an easy way to spice things up from your norm. Whether it’s a vibe, handcuffs, or something with a remote, there are so many options.

    Keep flirting
    Couples sometimes think that once they’re together, the flirtation doesn’t need to continue. Flirt with your partner just like you did on your first date or even kick it up a notch from the norm. Of course, you’re still attracted to your partner, but pretending you’re not totally dating bumps up the attraction just a little bit. More

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    in beauty and fashion

    The Best Places to Shop for Plus-Size Underwear

    The year is 2008. You’ve just arrived at the mall with your best friend, lip gloss poppin’, bangs straight as paper, with just a hint of glitter lining your cheekbones. You and your bestie know that you have one destination in mind: Victoria’s Secret. It’s their semi-annual sale and you’ve both planned to pick out six cute pairs of panties for $25 (which is kind of expensive if you also want to get Auntie Anne’s, but you’ll make it work). You walk into VS, your best friend makes a beeline for the undies section, and you follow closely behind. The two of you exchange knowing looks and then dive into the madness of the busy store. Noticing that the shelves are organized by sizes—extra-small on the top—you squat to search through what’s on the bottom row, and then realize the sizes stop at extra-large, and the extra-large looks like a medium. To curb your disappointment of yet another store not selling your size, you grab a “Strawberries and Champagne” body cream and check out.For some of us, the aforementioned feeling of disappointment is all too familiar. It’s the feeling of walking into a store with high hopes and walking out empty-handed because they don’t sell our sizes. As used to this feeling as I am, it always puzzles me when I notice that companies don’t prioritize inclusive sizing in underwear—it’s essential for Pete’s sake! Just like any other woman, plus-size women don’t want to have an underwear drawer full of only baggy, full-coverage panties. We want sexy, versatile, fun undies, too! Here’s a list of companies that make that possible:

    If you’re looking for comfortable undies

    Editor’s Choice:

    Play Cheeky

    Prior to my first time trying Parade Underwear, I would always see people talking about them on Instagram. Let me be the first to say it: they live up to the hype. I also love how inclusive their site models are. I feel seen, heard, and supported by these undies! 

     

    If you’re looking for sexy matching sets

    Editor’s Choice:

    Savage X Fenty
    Savage Not Sorry Half Cup Bra with Lace

    Do you remember where you were when Rihanna first dropped Savage X Fenty? I was in my best friend’s dorm room, huddled over her computer, counting down the minutes until we’d be let into the site. Since that day, Savage X Fenty has consistently created for the curvy girls—and for that, we thank Queen Rihanna.

     

    Editor’s Choice:

    Kaia Contour Plus

    Similar to Savage X Fenty, Adore Me makes cute and sensible undies for plus sizes. Before brands like these, I just assumed that people like me (over a size 12) weren’t meant to wear sexy lingerie. Turns out, we looked great in it! All we needed was a little extra fabric and a community that was encouraging. 

     

    If you’re looking for different style options

    Editor’s Choice:

    Third Love
    Petal Lace High Rise Brief

    Here’s the thing, I’ve never been a thong-lover, but this company has converted me. If you’re looking for a one-stop-shop for all of your underwear drawer needs, you might want to check out Thirdlove. They have high-quality, cute, and affordable options for your favorite styles. Whether you’re a boyshort fan or a brief kind of girl, you’ll find what you’re looking for.

     

    If you’re looking for something different

    Editor’s Choice:

    Feel Free Boy Short

    Sometimes we want to wear undies and just undies. These are the type of underwear you want for lazy days, lounging around the house, and binge-watching Bridgerton (for the fourth time). 

     

    Editor’s Choice: 

    First Line Leakproof Bikini LC

    Not only are these super comfy, but they have built-in leak protection for light period days (plus they’re antibacterial and odor-repellent).

     

    As a person who would rather be pantless on all occasions, I recommend you give yourself a gift and show your underwear drawer some love by trying out the companies listed above. Moreover, from one plus-size girl to another, no matter your race, size, identity, or age, you deserve underwear that makes you feel beautiful and prioritized. More

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    in lifestyle and culture

    Kim Kardashian officially files from divorce from Kanye West

    After months of speculation about their marriage, and reports they had been in counselling, Kim Kardashian has officially filed for divorce from Kanye West, whom she has been married to for just under seven years.
    TMZ reported over the weekend that divorce paperwork had been filed by Kardashian. In the court papers, the reality star has reportedly requested joint custody of their four children together and the pair are “committed to co-parenting together”.

    The outlet is also reportedly a prenuptial agreement, in which both parties are not contesting.
    Separation reports
    Back in January, E! News reported the pair – who first met back in 2002, but started dating in 2012 – had separated, but at the time Kardashian hadn’t officially filed for divorce.

    The beauty mogul and the rapper were effectively living separate lives and hadn’t “spent time together as a married couple in months” and only spent time together with their four children – North, seven, Saint, five, Chicago, two, and 20-month-old Psalm.

    Difficulties in 2020
    Last year was a particularly difficult year for West’s mental health. In the latter half of 2020, West began posting a series of erratic Twitter posts regarding personal matters, his family and more.
    Following this, there were various reports that the couple’s marriage was strained but Kardashian was determined to make it work.

    At the beginning of August, Kardashian took to Instagram to address the erratic behaviour her husband has been showing and also addressed his bipolar disorder.
    “As many of you know, Kanye has bipolar disorder,” she began. “Anyone who has this or has a loved one in their life who does, knows how incredibly complicated and painful it is to understand.”
    She continued to say, “I understand Kanye is subject to criticism because he is a public figure and his actions at times can cause strong opinions and emotions.”
    The 39-year-old went onto highlight how the loss of his mother has affected him, as well as struggling with mental health issues has put “pressure” on him.
    “Living with bipolar disorder does not diminish or invalidate his dreams and his creative ideas, no matter how big or unobtainable they may feel to some,” she said. “That is part of his genius and as we have all witnessed, many of his big dreams have come true.”
    She asked that everyone give “grace” to the individuals, including her husband, who are struggling with mental issues, and also asked for “compassion and empathy” during this trying time.
    Kardashian and West are yet to make a public statement about their divorce.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Kim Kardashian West Instagram More