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      Kanye West’s ‘downward spiral’ is taking a toll on Kim Kardashian

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      It hasn’t exactly been a smooth-sailing year for Kim Kardashian West. Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, the beauty mogul has also had a lot to deal with in her marriage to Kanye West, particularly as he is currently struggling with his mental health.
      According to Us Weekly, the 39-year-old feels like it is a “vicious cycle” when it comes to Kanye’s battle with mental health issues and bipolar disorder.

      “She is deeply disappointed and sad because Kanye is struggling,” an apparent source told the magazine. “It’s a vicious cycle that Kim has had success at interrupting successfully for months at a time.”
      The alleged insider also revealed that the rapper hasn’t exactly been “abiding to the terms of his care plan” and believes the pandemic contributed to his “downward spiral”.

      At the beginning of August,  the reality star 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.

      – For more about Dubai’s lifestyle, news and fashion scene follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Kim Kardashian Instagram More

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      The 4 Work-From-Home Rules I’m Breaking for Better Results

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      Many of us are hitting a stretch of work-from-home fatigue. We’re nearly six months into this and many of us have slim prospects of returning full time to an office this year, so I’m finding I need to amend the ideal work-from-home standards. If you are fortunate enough to have a job that can be done from home, productivity has probably gone in many directions over 2020.First, a reminder that productivity isn’t just doing more work, faster. Getting “better results” during this time period is about producing whatever outcome is meaningful to your life. More time to get creative in the kitchen? Productive! Learning to let go of things we can’t control? Productive! These may not be the gold standard of work from home that make sense in normal times, but they’re more reflective of my personal work-from-home style. These are the rules I’m breaking to make it through this time of “Pandemic, but make it work from home.”

      1. Dress for your work day
      Along the way in 2020, dress for your day morphed into curating the perfect work-from-home loungewear capsule. While I definitely added in a few new pairs of joggers, I’m far gone from stressing over the perfect look for a video call. The last thing I need right now is decision fatigue over what to wear, staring in to a closet that was built for a business formal office life.
      Instead, I’ve extracted five “Zoom toppers.” It’s my favorite mix of blouses, a sweater, and a knit blazer that fit the bill for any time I’m on camera. Outside of that, I’ve let go of the pressure to figure out a perfect work-from-home look. The non-negotiable tasks for me include a little bit of hair care and daily minimal makeup. Slim down your daily essential get ready routine, revel in this moment of not being coiffed to the nines, and spend that time elsewhere.

      2. Set up a dedicated workspace
      I am delighted for you ladies that have the room for a chic dedicated workspace. (Hello, home office goals!) A fabulous home office set up is a huge part of making work from home livable. But some of us are in smaller spaces, sharing home office space with kids and partners, or have decamped to stay with families.
      A dedicated workspace that I can count on daily is a bit of a pipe dream. Instead, focus on the space you need for specific tasks. When I know I need to be on camera, I’m at the kitchen counter with better light and fewer background distractions. Emails happen on the couch and hard number crunching gets a few hours at the bedroom desk. This idea of tying tasks to spaces has helped me be much more deliberate with my time. It’s also giving me enough variety to feel not completely claustrophobic in my space.

      3. Keep set work hours
      I pop out of bed at 5:30am ready to go. Before I know it, it’s 9:30, and a traditional half work day is under my belt while others are just getting started. On the flip side, my productivity hits a major slump in the afternoons. Shifting my schedule around gives me the opportunity to destress with workouts or personal tasks, depending on my daily workload.
      If at all possible, negotiate with your manager on your daily schedule and when you must be online or available. If you are leading a team, manage your employees’ outputs and outcomes, not how they get there. This is always a good leadership best practice, and it’s even more important as kids head back to school, care for family members changes, or to combat the fatigue of more months ahead of this type of balancing act.

      4. Stay visible to your team
      It is important to stay visible to your team and manager in any condition. It’s especially important now as companies are tightening expenses. In the beginning of this work-from-home period, you might have had a lot of check-ins or more team meetings. Some of us may have even been instigating those check points to win over work from home non-believers.
      Now that we’re in a bit of a rhythm, my “visibility” efforts look different. Instead of getting burnt out from unnecessary task check-ins or an endless stream of zoom happy hours, I’m being more deliberate with how I stay top of mind. At the beginning of the week, I might drop a note to my manager of everything on my plate. I forward that note on a Thursday afternoon to let them know my progress, which gives me all of Friday to redirect or pick up any loose ends.
      Visible also doesn’t have to mean “on video.” Now, I’m also much more deliberate about when I join on screen and I reply to meeting requests letting the host know my plan in advance. This gives them an opportunity to weigh-in if one option is preferable. I also now try to issue meeting appointments with that consideration. Sometimes I’ll include a note asking a list of the key decision makers to join on screen if possible, and encourage others to just listen in as needed. 

      Are there any work from home rules you’re breaking with better results?  More

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      Here’s exactly why you need to add Spain to your travel bucket list

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      Viva España
      IN PARTNERSHIP: COVID-19 turned the travel and tourism industry on its head, imposing lockdowns across the globe. While isolation continues for many countries, that doesn’t have to stop you awakening the inner-traveller in you to plan out your travel bucket list. We can’t think of a better place to be than Spain, whatever the season may be, to add to that list – #SpainAwaitsYou.

      Boasting majestic views of everything from rugged mountains and wild meadows in the North of Spain, also known as Green Spain, to coastal towns, fishing ports and picturesque beaches, Spain has something to suit everyone. Enjoy wandering through villages of timeless beauty perched on hilltops, narrow winding lanes in valleys, vibrant life and magnificent sunsets.
      Art aficionados should definitely add in a visit to cultural landmarks. On the must-visit list are the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, Alhambra Palace in Granada, the Great Mosque of Cordoba, the Royal Alcázar of Seville, the Museum of Arts and Sciences in Valencia, the famous Prado Museum in Madrid and the Guggenheim in Bilbao. The landmarks are endless. In fact, the art scene boasts over 1,500 museums and has the third most UNESCO World Heritage assets in the world.   

      For the foodies, Spain offers the best in terms of home-grown, fresh produce. Whether you are seated at an exclusive table or having a stand-and-go be sure to enjoy the tapas and pintxos in San Sebastián or savour the sumptuous seafood in Galicia. Alternatively, sports fans can catch a football game at Santiago Bernabéu or be awe-inspired by some Messi magic at Camp Nou.
      There’s also The Balearic Islands, Majorca, Minorca and Ibiza to explore… so many beautiful locations, so little time!
      While the country now is not admitting tourists, only some exceptions are made, as soon as it is possible tourism will resume with the utmost safety. Spain has adopted many hygiene measures to give you peace of mind while travelling. Twenty-one guidelines with specifications to prevent any spread of the coronavirus have been meticulously put together. The government has also introduced a series of protective mandatory measures such as the use of face masks in public spaces, maintaining a social distance of at least 1.5 metres, sanitising your hands, automated check-in procedures and much more to ensure you are safe at all times and have an incredible break in Spain, hopefully in the very near future. Spain.info/gcc
      – For more about Dubai’s lifestyle, news and fashion scene follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied More

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      The new luxury restaurant with pool access at the Burj Al Arab

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      Want to dine in style at the world’s only sevens-star hotel whilst also having pool access? Well, then you’re in for a treat as the fabulous Burj Al Arab has just opened a new fine-dining spot which will be the perfect place to unwind as the Dubai winter season approaches.
      The new restaurant, Sal, has been described as “barefoot luxury meets Southern European culinary excellence”, which is true as you’ll experience the vast views of the Arabian gulf whilst dining. Then, take advantage of the hotel’s 100-metre infinity pool.

      At the new establishment, you’ll experience flavourful delights from Chef Roberto Rispoli who currently heads up the kitchen at Shimmers, another amazing eatery part of the Jumeriah Group.

      Sal is set to offer the mouthwatering flavours from the famous Iberian Peninsula in Spain and Portugal – aptly Sal means salt in Spanish – with a sea-inspired menu.
      Signature main dishes include homemade trenette pasta & king crab, seabream isolana and sea salt-crusted seabass, along with some incredible starters and desserts.
      Prices for a two-course meal for one person at the restaurant begin from Dhs110. However, if you want to go the full nine-years, which we would definitely recommend doing, then opt for one the packages they have to make a day of it.

      For daytime pool and terrace access with dining credit at Sal, packages start from Dhs450 for individuals which includes Dhs300 of F&B credit or Dhs800 for a couple and includes Dhs600 of F&B credit.
      The following packages include:
      Luxury Cabana with welcome fruit and one bottle of grape – Dhs900 for two people on weekdays and Dhs1100 for two people on weekends.
      Royal Cabana with welcome fruit, dips and bottle of bubbly – Dhs1,900 for four people on weekdays and Dhs2,700 for four people on weekends.
      – For more about Dubai’s lifestyle, news and fashion scene follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied  More

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      Sheikh Hamdan’s tribute to Sheikh Rashid on the 5th anniversary of his death

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      Friday, September 18, 2020 marked the fifth anniversary of the death of HH Sheikh Rashid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and his younger brother, HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, ensured he marked the day with a tribute.
      The Crown Prince of Dubai took to Twitter to share a video montage which showcased photos of the late Sheikh Rashid.

      Some images were from his younger years, some were from later in his life and some were taken with Sheikh Hamdan.

      دائــــم أحــاسـيـس الأخــــوّه بـالـمـحـبّه تـلـهـمهكلمة أخي من فم أخي أجمل ما تنطقه الشفاه pic.twitter.com/olsOEzLuoi
      — Hamdan bin Mohammed (@HamdanMohammed) September 18, 2020

      Alongside the video, the 37-year-old Crown Prince also posted some poetic words in Arabic which translate into: “Brotherhood feelings of love inspire him. The word ‘brother’ spoken from the mouth of my brother is the sweetest thing someone’s lips could say.”
      On September 18, 2015, Sheikh Rashid tragically died of a heart attack.
      The royal – and eldest son of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, ruler of Dubai and the Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE – was just 33-years-old.
      At the time of Sheikh Rashid’s sudden death, UAE President Sheikh Khalifa declared three days of mourning across the country, with flags lowered to half-mast.
      – For more about Dubai’s lifestyle, news and fashion scene follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Sheikh Hamdan Instagram and Twitter More

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      The new Dubai hotspot coming to Bluewaters Island you’ll want to try

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      There are definitely plenty of Dubai hotspots that are must-visits – there’s just so much this amazing city has to offer!
      However, that also means we are spoiled for choice, so it can be hard to choose where to go sometimes. (We’re definitely not complaining though!)

      With that, there’s a new contender on the Dubai leisure scene and it truly is an all-in-one experience. We’re talking the perfect place to socialise, eat and enjoy entertainment.
      Say hello to Brass Monkey – a new venue which is set to open on Dubai’s Bluewaters Island on October 1.

      The huge two-floor establishment will house a huge arcade, 12-lane bowling alley and casual dining area on the first floor. As for what is on the second floor, that currently remains a mystery but will be revealed in due course.
      Adding to the mystery, there’s no concrete images of what the venue will look inside as of yet, instead cheeky monkeys have been dotted around Dubai including the Burj Al Arab and the Dubai Eye.
      To stay up-to-date on the venue’s opening follow them on @brassmonkeysocial.
      – For more about Dubai’s lifestyle, news and fashion scene follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied  More

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      Yolanda Hadid lovingly hugs daughter Gigi Hadid’s baby bump in new photo

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      As Gigi Hadid’s due date fast approaches, it appears her mother Yolanda Hadid couldn’t be more excited about becoming a grandmother for the first time.
      The grandmother-to-be recently shared a sweet photo of herself hugging daughter Gigi’s baby bump stating she was patiently awaiting the impending arrival of the little one.

      “Waiting patiently for her angel to be born……” the 56-year-old wrote.
      Upon the announcement of Gigi’s pregnancy earlier this year, Yolanda told Dutch broadcaster RTL last week, saying she was “thrilled” about becoming a grandmother.

      “I can’t wait to become a grandmother,” she told the outlet. “It is quite special, since I lost my own mother so recently.
      “That is the beauty of life: one soul is leaving us and another is coming. We feel very blessed.”
      Just days ago, fans were speculating that the 25-year-old model had already given birth due to a post her father, Mohamed Hadid made on Instagram.
      The 72-year-old penned a sweet handwritten letter saying, “Hello my little grandchild.”
      This had a few fans confused as to whether Gigi had welcomed her first child with boyfriend Zayn Malik, given that her due date is so close.
      One person commented asking: “Did Gigi give birth to her baby, please can anyone answer.” However, to put speculation to rest, Mohamed responded saying, “No, not yet.”
      However, the post by the Palestinian-American property tycoon has now been deleted for reasons unknown.
      It’s expected that Gigi will give birth to her first child with Zayn in New York City. Late last month, the couple were photographed arriving in Manhattan.

      It’s fair to assume the pair are staying in Gigi’s new $5.8 million (Dhs21.3 million) Manhattan apartment, which she gave fans a glimpse of last month.
      According to a recent report from E! News, the pregnancy has been good for Gigi and Zayn’s relationship after the couple reunited at the end of last year.
      “Zayn and Gigi are really excited and have been loving this experience together,” a source told E!. “They both are reading parenting books, have had fun planning the nursery and picking out items together. Things are going really smoothly, and they are closer as a couple more than ever.”
      It’s been reported the couple are expecting a girl, but neither of them has officially confirmed the gender.
      – For more about Dubai’s lifestyle, news and fashion scene follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram.
      Feature Image: Yolanda Hadid Instagram More

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      How I got my job as… Creative Director of Dubai’s flower boutique Fine Blooms

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      Relocating to Dubai to start a new job on the brink of a pandemic would be a challenge for even the strongest among us. Finding your footing in these uncertain times can make you the strongest version of yourself and this is exactly what the creative director of the chic flower company Fine Blooms chose to do.
      With a background in fashion, Chloe Szukilojc’s approach to a fabulous bouquet is a little different to what you have seen before. With her creative eye and desire to create something unique has been a hit with the younger clientele who prefer another take on traditional arrangements. Implementing trends and keeping an eye out for the latest developments in the world of beautiful flowers has made Szukilojc’s one of the most in-demand florists in the Dubai – and she’s only moved here from Australia in February.

      Below, we find out how she made the unexpected circumstances work in her favour.

      What was your favourite subject at school?

      Textiles and Design.
      What was your first job?
      Flipping burgers at Carmel’s café in Palm Beach, Sydney, Australia. It was a little boat shed that was quite literally on the water. Palm Beach is also known as Summer Bay—it’s where they film the Australian television drama Home and Away.
      How did you know you wanted to be a florist?
      I have wanted to be a florist for as long as I can remember but I didn’t feel like it was something I could pursue as a full-time career when I was at school—there was more pressure to follow the traditional route of going to University and studying. So, when I finished high school, I studied fashion business and then worked in a fashion agency for a few years before realising I wasn’t truly fulfilled.
      I have been lucky enough to come back to my passion and really make a career of it. I have been mentored and taught by some incredibly talented and renowned people in the industry. Being surrounded by people that hold such a strong passion for the same things you do where you can learn and bounce ideas off has shown me that this is defiantly the right path I took. I love flowers. I love nature. I’m constantly in awe of how such beauty is formed from very little. It’s such a deep passion that drives me every day.
      What are the key elements of your role?
      Trying to stay creative and keep up to date with what’s happening in fashion, events and global trends. I really like to think outside the box and try to use multiple platforms to continually inspire me. Leading a team and business making sure that everyone is working in harmony and sourcing. I am constantly sourcing new products from Holland, plants, vases and tools that can push my creative visions and make them come to life.
      Talk us through your daily routine.
      I guess this is one of the things I love about my job so much: every day is so different.  Working in a field that’s very fast-paced I try to take my time early mornings going to the gym and sit and relax before heading off to work for the day. One day is never the same as the other at Fine Blooms. A lot of the time is making sure flowers are here on time. Being here in Dubai you have access to products from all around the world. I was lucky in Australia with the environment being so fruitful for flowers but in the desert, it’s a different story. There’s a lot happening behind the scenes to make sure flowers are delivered on time. 
      That advice do you have for anyone looking to follow in the same footsteps?
      That anything is possible! Cliché I know but I truly do believe this, and I think it’s very prevalent in my everyday work. I think it’s so important to remind ourselves that we are capable of many things, almost anything. Don’t let the fear of failure or lack of confidence stop you. I did that for years and it was a waste of time.

      Which fashion brands can we find in your work wardrobe?
      Issey Miyake Pleats Please—it’s my uniform. I love the classic style and simplicity. I can wear it when I work with flowers, out on a job and out at night. Also, my new pride and joy that has been on my wish list is my very own Cecile Bahnsen dress.
      What is the best piece of advice you ever received?
      Just turn up. Be it a social commitment or a job interview, it’s important to not let any opportunity go and by turning up you are always putting yourself out there, meeting new people and continuously learning.
      And what is the worst?
      That some of my ideas are not possible or too outrageous. This has only pushed me to stay true to myself and to achieve more. As they say, “When someone tells you it can’t be done, it’s more of a reflection of their limitation not yours.”
      What has been the biggest challenge you had to overcome?
      I came on as Creative Director here at Fine Blooms in February and three weeks later we went into lockdown due to the coronavirus pandemic. This year has been the most challenging year yet—I left my home country of Australia, family, friends and came to a new place I had only ever been to once and I knew no one in the industry. As much as it’s been challenging, I think I thrive well in challenging times and try to push forward and persevere as much as possible, and it has paid off. I am so proud of how much Fine Blooms has flourished amidst the madness. I have a huge network of friends and met and worked with some of the best in the industry in such a short time. This ‘biggest’ challenge has changed my life and I have been able to discover my capabilities and strengths.
      – For more about Dubai’s lifestyle, news and fashion scene follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied, Instagram More