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    July/August’s – The Summer Escape Issue with Zeynab El-Helw

    Fashion

    by Amy Sessions
    1 minute ago

    Creative Direction: Amy SessionsPhotography: Greg AdamskiCover Star: Zeynab El-HelwMakeup & Hair: Melanie Meyer at MMG ArtistsProduction: Olivia MorrisFashion Editor: Dan RobinsonFashion Assistant: Sarah JosephWith special thanks to SĀN BeachAll crystals Motion Trading
    Welcome to The Summer Escape Issue.
    This issue encourages you to explore and unwind as summer unfolds.
    For our Mykonos-inspired cover shoot Good Vibes Only, we partnered with eco-positive brand Reborn Society – founded by Zeynab El-Helw.
    We have exclusive interviews with all the best resort wear brands from co-founder of Ancient Greek Sandals, Christina Martini in Greek Odyssey, Brittany Kozerski Freeney, founder of Jade Swim in The Minimalist, Linda Hausser, Alexandra Miro in Beachside and Deiji Studios in Cool Comfort.

    Beauty and lifestyle-wise, we look at the best sun protection for your hair in Shield, the finest fragrances inspired by sundown hues in A Summer Mood and we speak to Sacha Mitic, co-founder of cult haircare brand SACHAJUAN in Good Hair Game.
    We spend time at home with Natalia Shustova, Founder of GOSHÁ in Personal Space and speak to some of the most incredible women we know about how they prep for summer in Next Level Beauty and Sculpt.
    Finally, The Wanderlust gives us the go-to guide for Greek island bliss.
    Breathe, take stock, rest, restore and refocus this summer. The best is yet to come…
    July/August’s – ‘The Summer Escape Issue’ – Download Now
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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    16 homegrown UAE brands that have gone global

    Born in the UAE, but growing globally.
    These luxurious brands have made their imprint around the world and have undoubtedly received a universal stamp of approval.
    Fashion
    The Giving Movement

    By disrupting stereotypes, Dubai-based lounge and activewear brand The Giving Movement has always gone against the grain. The founder of The Giving Movement, Dominic Nowell-Barnes, has highlighted the importance of pushing boundaries on several occasions. The brand has reached global icons and content creators with its premium collections being loved by all those who are seen in them. From Haya Salman to Natalie Sallaum, various fashion enthusiasts have been spotted in the brand.
    For more information visit givingmovement.com
    L’Couture

    The luxe activewear label founded by Lyndsay Doran in 2019, has filled in the apparent athleisure gap in the country. With plans to eventually open a UK office and warehouse, the brand has customers from around the world including in Europe and the US. With new launches every season, the brand is constantly innovating and encouraging women to live healthier lives.
    For more information visit lcouture.com
    Bouguessa

    This contemporary womenswear label has reinvented the wardrobe classics for the modern-day wearer. Founded by Faiza Bouguessa in 2014 in her studio in Dubai Design District, the brand has now made its mark global, as its e-tailer includes one of the largest players in the market, NET-A-PORTER. Designed to empower strong sophisticated women, several A-listers such as Priyanka Chopra and many more have been spotted in the Dubai-based brand.
    For more information visit bouguessa.com
    L’Afshar

    Made in Dubai, this iconic label was started by Lilian Afshar in 2019. Designed for the sophisticated woman, the brand is combined with contemporary handcrafted designs, made in Dubai with luxurious yet industrial elements. The brand is stocked around the globe including NET-A-PORTER, Neiman Marcus, Bloomingdales, Harvey Nichols and many more. From Queen Rania to Kendall Jenner, the brand has made remarkable strides globally.
    For more information visit lafshar.com
    All Things Mochi

    Ayah Tabari launched her label in 2013 with patterned hues infused into every element of the brand. While combining traditional prints and embroideries with quintessential tailoring, each piece is created by hand in individual ateliers by a team of talented makers. The brand has been shown at New York Fashion Week and appeared on people with a global reach. The Hungarian-inspired label has previously retailed on NET-A-PORTER with centuries-old embroidery techniques infused into the collection.
    For more information visit allthingsmochi.com
    Bil Arabi

    Established in 2006, by Nadine Kanso, this luxurious jewellery brand is an ode to the region and celebrated the Arabic alphabet in a refined manner. From earrings, rings, bracelets and pendants this fine jewellery brand has carved a niche for itself in the market. With modern heirlooms and bespoke projects, the brands have reached a global level through collaborative partners which include The Doha Jewellery, Christie’s and Harvey Nichols.
    For more information visit bilarabi.ae
    Restaurants
    The MAINE Group

    Dubai-based restauranteur Joey Ghazal opened his first instalment of the MAINE Group years ago and has undoubtedly dominated the F&B space. The MAINE Group now consists of three restaurant concepts – The Maine Oyster Bar & Grill in JBR, The MAINE Street Eatery in Studio City and The MAINE Land Brasserie in Business Bay. Now, The Maine Mayfair has officially opened its doors in London.
    For more information visit themaine.ae
    Gaia

    First bursting onto the Dubai foodie scene two years ago, Chef Izu Ani’s brainchild has garnered a cult following for the delicious Mediterranean and Greek cuisine Gaia has to offer. With HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum being a keen visitor to the eatery, the restaurant has surely made a mark for itself in the region and globally. All set to hit Europe’s shores with an establishment opening up in London, in the exclusive Mayfair postcode, later this year. With Sheikh Hamdan being a regular visitor to the UK, it begs the question if he’ll pop in for a meal at Gaia London.
    For more information visit gaia-restaurants.com
    Il Borro Tuscan Bistro

    With authentic Tuscan flavours in the heart of Dubai, this Italian haven is located in Jumeirah Al Naseem Hotel and is certainly loved by all those who dine there. From plush interiors to an undeniable charm when it comes to the ingredients and ambience, this restaurant provides the perfect backdrop for the finest wholesome cuisine in Dubai. With a true farm-to-table concept, this refined concept stays true to its roots. Il Borro London officially opened its doors earlier this year.
    For more information visit ilborrotuscanbistro.ae
    La Serre

    After opening in Dubai in 2013, La Serre announced it was going global last year. Having opened its door already in Riyadh, La Serre will be heading to the exclusive area Knightsbridge in London and eventually to New York City.
    For more information visit laserre.com
    Beauty
    Huda Beauty

    Renowned beauty mogul Huda Kattan started her cult beauty brand in the UAE in 2013. Since launching, the brand has gained worldwide popularity by making remarkable global strides. From all the latest must-haves, the brand has upped its offerings to include foundations, concealers, lipsticks, eyeshadows, setting powders and much more while expanding with offices in the US and the UK, with plans for further expansion.
    For more information visit hudabeauty.com
    Hindash Cosmetics

    Famous YouTuber and multi-faceted artist Mohammed Hindash launched his own luxurious cosmetics brand which was unveiled to the public in Dubai earlier this year. Hindash has added a series of products varying from eyeliners to vegan matte eyeshadow pigments to enhance every look. From being advertised in Times Square, New York to launching on Cult Beauty, the brand is seen the globe over and is praised for its minimal fallout which sets it apart from all the brands.
    For more information visit hindash.com
    Shiffa

    Founded by Dr. Lamees, this organic skincare brand is backed by the most potent organic ingredients with advanced science. Created to focus on the science of healing, each product is a powerful combination of active ingredients in therapeutic concentrations to heal the skin from within. For all your skincare concerns, whether acne issues or large pores, these organic products protect the skin and increase its uses well-being and is loved by celebrities globally.
    For more information visit shiffa.com
    Shirley Conlon Organics

    Dubai’s premium organic skincare brand ensures long-lasting benefits to the skin. Infused with skin-loving plant-based botanicals, the products gently remove pollution and makeup while still protecting the skin’s natural barrier. With ultra-lightweight botanicals that absorb into the skin, these formulas instantly absorb to minimize any concerned areas. Founded by Shirley Conlon, the products have reached around the globe, making a difference to people’s skin. With botanical ingredients from around the world, this beauty brand is not limited to a fanbase in the UAE.
    For more information visit shirleyconlonorganics.com
    Kayali

    The UAE-based fragrance brand for founded to delve into the Middle Eastern traditions of perfume layering. Founded by beauty entrepreneurs Huda and Mona Kattan, this exclusive has created popular scents that are loved by many worldwide. Whether the scented vanilla perfume or the staple musk perfume, each ingredient makes this brand truly special. Created with luxe fragrance oils, this cult-favourite brand always spritzes things up with something new. The enticingly rich scents are loved by all with a customer base all over the world.
    For more information visit kayalifragrance.com
    Hotels
    Jumeirah Hospitality Group

    When it comes to hospitality, Jumeirah Hotels and Resorts has made a mark globally. With around 24 luxurious properties, the resort is a leader in leaving its imprint around the world. The diverse set of employees also allows the company to stand out. From the Maldives to Mallorca, the brand has reached different corners of the world.
    For more information visit Jumeirah.com
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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    8 editor-approved podcasts for the ultimate audio fix

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    1 minute ago

    VIEW GALLERY/ 8 IMAGES
    For some much-needed escapism, podcasts are an ideal way to unwind.
    With an ocean of stories, interviews, in-depth discussions and trusted voices, they’ve become an interesting source of information that caters to a wide variety of audiences.
    From honest fashion reviews to female empowerment discussions, the topics are endless and can get you addicted in no time.
    To listen, you simply access the podcast through any of the streaming platforms including Spotify, Apple, Amazon and other smaller platforms, making it a click away.
    So whether a morning commute or a long-haul flight, you’re sure to be entertained with vital information through any of these information-fuelled podcasts.
    With the proliferation of podcasts, finding one to effortlessly incorporate into your daily routine can be quite the task and hence, Emirates Woman is here to help.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @marshallheadphones More

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    ‘Filter vs Reality’: The influencer changing the narrative of Instagram filters

    Beauty

    by Olivia Morris
    1 minute ago

    Social media was once a space where the fourth wall was broken down and transparency and relatability were at the helm. However, over the years platforms have grown and developed as have the millions of daily users on them. What once was used as a space to connect with people all over the world has become a booming business and arguably a place of thwarted reality.
    Social media, particularly Instagram, is often used as a highlight reel, showcasing curated tidbits of people’s lives showing only the very best. Along with this, we have seen a boom in the use of filters on platforms.
    In various different ways, users are now able to warp their appearance – some in funny ways, others so realistic you’d be mistaken what people look like which, in turn, are creating unrealistic beauty standards. In a bid to bring back transparency to social media, UK entrepreneur Faye Kingston took a stand in 2020. Launching her own filter on Instagram, ‘Filter vs. Reality’. This filter, in short, aims to show people what you look like with or without a filter, with half the face airbrushed and porcelain and half the face normal.
    “The idea behind my split-screen filter, ‘Filter vs Reality’, was to create something unique to show people how these dramatic beauty filters rid selfies of skin textures, tones, scars, everything that makes you and how it’s affecting our mental health,” she tells Emirates Woman.
    A little over two years after launching, the filter has had nearly five billion impressions to date, with even celebrities like Jessie J and Jen Atkin jumping on the bandwagon. Below, Kingston tells us the inspiration behind launching the filter and how she’s bringing transparency back to the internet.

    You’re now a well-known content creator on Instagram. What has your relationship been like with editing photos and using filters over the years?
    I have been on a self-love journey for a long time and at this stage of my life I am in the best place I have everbeen, I have never been happier and it’s all down to self-love. I tend not to edit my body shape however I do edit my photos to brighten up the lighting and makeup etc. I have always been open about the edit as I got nothing to hide and like I said, ‘Social Media isn’t real life’.
    What inspired you to launch ‘Filter vs. Reality’?
    The idea behind my split-screen filter, ‘Filter vs Reality’, was to create something unique to show people how these dramatic beauty filters rid selfies of skin textures, tones, scars, everything that makes you and how it’s affecting our mental health. Don’t let these filters fool you; you’re unique, beautiful, strong, powerful, loved & worthy without any filter.
    It’s now had nearly five billion impressions. What has the feedback been from the campaign?
    I have been blown away by the positive response I had, and I never knew we all needed this reality check in our lives. So many people have reached out to me to say how my ‘Filter vs Reality’ filter has made a positive change of self-acceptance in people’s lives. It’s a reminder that social media is fake, and textured, pore-filled, and discoloured skin are all a natural occurrence.
    How has using filters/Instagram over the years affected your mental health?
    I was addicted to using filters until I realised social media is fake and what you see online simply isn’t real or achievable. The beauty filters can do more harm than good, altering self-image and pressuring young girls to try and be the way the filters make them look on the apps. And such pressure can cause depression or even eating disorders in some cases.

    In what way do you think it contributes to unattainable beauty standards?
    The problem with these filters is you see a side of yourself with dramatic filters that doesn’t exist, which corresponds to an unnatural and inhuman ideal of beauty that you can now achieve with filters. It’s the unhealthy obsession we all have with that perfect look. A 2017 study in the journal Cognitive Research: Principles and Implications found that people only recognised manipulated images 60 per cent to 65 per cent of the time. With the prevalence of filters and airbrushing on social media, it is terrifying to think of how it will be possible for young people to grow up with standard, realistic images of what is beautiful.
    What is your relationship like now with using filters on Instagram/social media?
    I have a love and hate relationship with filters as all the playful filters are fine, but the ones that can be damaging are those with dramatic changes to the face – which can cause mental health and self-esteem issues. It’s easy to feel insecure, seeing how so much of the content we consume daily is filtered and photoshopped, and everyone looks picture-perfect; it’s hard not to point out your flaws, but REAL Is always beautiful.
    How can we move forward in a world of social media to be transparent with the way we look/without filters?
    I think it’s time to “break that habit” of overthinking how we look in pictures because nobody is perfect, and everyone has “bad photos” we choose what and what not to share on social media to put out a good image of ourselves. We all should move towards the powerful place of self-acceptance.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

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    June’s – The Clarity Issue with Lala Diamonds

    Fashion

    by Amy Sessions
    1 minute ago

    Creative Direction: Amy SessionsPhotographer: Greg AdamskiMakeup & Hair: Ania PoniatowskaProduction: Olivia MorrisFashion Assistant: Sarah JosephVideographer: Ahmed AbdelwahabModel: Farnoush HamidianAll fashion available at bloomingdales.ae
    Welcome to The Clarity Issue.
    This issue focuses on clarity of mind, body and most importantly vision.
    One call-out for this month and with clarity of vision in mind, is the launch of the new version of emirateswoman.com 2.0. The new website is designed to deliver an enhanced reader experience to match the appetite of our ever-growing regional and international audience. We are grateful to be growing this community and this was the vision from the outset, to have both a global and local viewpoint.
    Aligning the standard of digital aesthetics to that of the content produced and with the execution level of the print issues important focus as this allows digital to reflect the incredible work the team produces on a daily basis, showcasing it in the best light. I couldn’t be prouder of what the team have achieved – huge congratulations!

    For our cover shoot Elevated Cool we partnered with Lala Diamonds, a fine jewellery brand dedicated to crafting timeless pieces with an added edge and from stones with optimal clarity.
    We have exclusive interviews with Chaumet’s CEO Jean-Marc Mansvel in An Emblem of Distinction, Suzanne Santos, Co-Founder & Chief Customer Officer AESOP in The Invisible Details and Ann-Caroline Prazan, Guerlain’s International Artistic Director in Natural Clarity.
    Beauty and lifestyle-wise, we look at purifying from the inside to see clarity on the outside. In Nourish we compile an edit of the best smoothie and juice recipes for clean skin and a clear mind, A Clear Path to Beauty looks at how Gua-Sha contours and refines and Refuel gives us the full lowdown on how to hydrate, invigorate and rejuvenate with vitamin IV therapy.
    We spend time in the office with Julie Lemke, Founder of Julie Lemke Skin in Personal Space and speak to some of the most incredible women we know about how they find clarity in their lives in Finding Clarity.
    Finally, The Wanderlust enchants us with global bolt holes that feel next-level calming designed to deliver you to a place of clarity of thought.
    When it comes to clear vision, if in doubt take a step back and give yourself some peace. You always know.
    June’s – The Clarity Issue – Download Now
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied  More

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    Welcome to the new era of Emirates Woman digital

    Fashion

    by Olivia Morris
    1 minute ago

    Leading contemporary luxury lifestyle and fashion publication Emirates Woman has launched the 2.0 version of its website.
    Emirates Woman thinks globally and supports locally. As the region’s leading women’s fashion and lifestyle brand and with over 40 years – originally established in 1981 – at the forefront of publishing in the Middle East, it remains dedicated to providing editorial excellence. Emirates Woman delivers high-end fashion, beauty, luxe lifestyle and travel content as well as in-depth features with both a global and local focus.
    It pushes boundaries and leads the field with its international and local editorial content, bringing its readers innovative, inspiring and intelligent coverage. Committed to representing the many faces and nationalities of women in the Emirates, it continually seeks to celebrate, support and inspire.
    The new look of the website is in line with the rebrand of the print magazine which occurred in February 2020 and has seen growth in global luxury brands partnering with the title across all platforms from digital to print, social and now with a view to web 3. The new website is designed to deliver an enhanced reader experience for our audience with dual language across Arabic and English to match the appetite of the ever-growing regional and international audience.
    Two new additions to the digital platform include ‘The Hero Buys’ which feature dedicated, curated must-have pieces to shop and ‘The Most Incredible Women We Know’ that champions the female leaders in the region and globally with whom the brand has close relationships.
    Amy Sessions, Editor/Associate Publisher of Emirates Woman and Emirates Man said: “I am beyond proud of what the team produce across all platforms on a daily basis. Aligning digital with print in terms of aesthetics was important, as the quality of the content has been aligned since the team came together in February 2020 and now the look and feel match the tone of voice. We are very proud to be championing not only homegrown talent and incredible women of the GCC but also the global luxury partnerships we have grown and will continue to foster. We are all about quality content and real, long-term, win-win relationships.”
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More