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    3 luxe beach club takeovers to add to your summer holiday itinerary

    Life

    by Camille Macawili
    7 mins ago

    Let the battle of the beach clubs commence!
    The biggest names in luxury fashion continue to take over beach clubs around the world this summer season. A fusion of luxury and leisure, these iconic names both in the fashion and hospitality industries are redefining summer indulgence.
    Here, Emirates Woman rounds up the places to see and be seen in, with each takeover presenting an opportunity to relax and explore the brands heritage through an unparalleled experience.
    Louis Vuitton x Mandarin Oriental Bodrum

    Head to the Turkish Riviera to discover where the epitome of luxury style meets the art of relaxation.
    For the launch of its new city guide to Bodrum, Louis Vuitton will be occupying Mandarin Oriental’s Blue Beach Club & Bar. Re-designed and meticulously curated for the summer with signature patterns and brand detailing in a natural color palette.
    Browse through the ready-to-wear collections or journey to seaside bliss and relax on sun loungers with an exceptional view of Bodrum’s bay.
    Missoni x Nikki Beach Costa Smeralda

    In Porto Cervo, Sardinia, Nikki Beach Costa Smeralda becomes the canvas for Missoni Resort Club to express the Italian brand’s vision via an exclusive collaboration.
    A barefoot luxury lifestyle experience like no other, discerning guests can immerse in the breathtaking beauty of Sardinia’s coastline while relaxing on customised sunbeds, umbrellas and other decorative items adorned with Missoni’s signature prints showcased in a mesmerising colour palette of deep blue and ocean turquoise and vivid pops of emerald green.
    Dior x One&Only Desaru Coast
    Image by Eric Chow
    For the ultimate seaside showcase, venture out on the tropical shores of Desaru Coast, where Dior takes over the sleek Ember Beach Club in One&Only Malaysia.
    With an air of exclusivity and sophistication, the luxury French fashion house transformed the idyllic oasis with an all-new pop-up store and café for the Dioriviera capsule collection launch.
    Here, guests can bask in the sun-dappled cabanas, loungers, and pools adorned in the brand’s lustrous reimagined prints in a soft colour palette of pink, grey, cream, and blue. Or indulge at Dior Café which offers Mediterranean-inspired flavors that pay homage to Malaysia’s fresh local produce with a French twist, complemented with the warm service for which One&Only is known for.
    For more information and reservations, visit oneandonlyresorts.com
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

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    The Free Spirit – The Summer Escape Issue with Tania Santos Silva

    Life

    by Amy Sessions
    2 hours ago

    VIEW GALLERY/ 7 IMAGES
    For our July/August cover, we champion Tania Santos Silva in The Free Spirit.
    A businesswoman that knows how to still leave room for the freedom that enhances her creativity, we have admired Silva’s fierce independence and vibrancy for life along with her sharp mind and quick wit. A truly incredible EW woman.
    How do you balance your business side and creativity?
    On and off, I connect and disconnect. It’s hard but doable to be focused on the business and its daily management and be creative simultaneously. It’s like two sides of the same coin. It’s almost like mastering self-control; it’s a daily effort, sometimes exhausting, but the results are super rewarding.
    You have multiple businesses – are you driven by an entrepreneurial mindset, and what is your latest venture?
    I do; sometimes I wonder why!!! But this buzz inside me tests me and pushes me to do more and become more. I love to multitask; usually, my “ideas” come from my need to have something, and my last venture was just that. I hate to wear tampons or intimate pads during those monthly “hormonal” days, especially if I’m going to the beach… so after some lengthy research for the right technology I launched MaiSwim. This is not just another leak-proof swimwear because there are a few already, it’s sustainable, has cool, clean designs and we even support the cleaning of the oceans with every order. I’m super proud of the concept and the team. We launched only last month, and of course, it’s made in Portugal.
    How do you know when to push forward and when to give yourself space?
    I learned this very young as I’m an only child, so I had time alone. Now I adapt the learning to daily situations. I invest a lot in my sanity, from therapy to mindfulness, ice baths, and breathing techniques that help me build the emotional intelligence and insight I need. I love some “me time,” and being completely alone – it’s like food for the soul. This comes when my body talks to me and prepares me for the overwhelming emotions approaching; in those moments, I disconnect. Usually, I’m back on my feet within 24 hours feeling recharged.
    What have been the biggest signs you’re on the right track, and how have you learned to follow your gut?
    It’s unbelievable how cliché this is, but the gut is always right. I have a very close group of people who trust, invest in, and listen to me. That alone is invaluable and is the biggest sign that I must be doing things right.
    You’re able to think outside the box – have you always been able to do this, and how has it served you?
    Being able to think outside the box sometimes makes me “the odd one out,” I have to be honest, especially during my teenage years. I’m from a tiny city in Portugal, Coimbra. From a very young age, my closest friends told me: “You’re not a fish of this river” and that stuck with me. I’ve never let one opportunity go and I’m never afraid of leaving my comfort zone; you grow and truly evolve when you do step outside our comfort zone. My creative self still thinks outside the box – I adapt the thinking to the business without getting too emotional.
    What does freedom mean to you, and how do you create it for yourself?
    What is freedom? The dictionary says it’s the power or right to act, speak or think as one wants. But when my freedom violates others’ freedom, then it’s not freedom anymore. It’s exercising power. Freedom is love; freedom is to breathe, to travel wherever you want with whomever you want. Freedom is to hug and be hugged; freedom is sun and light, moon and darkness. Freedom to me means everything and nothing. I fight daily to adapt my freedom to my familyʼs freedom. That’s one of my biggest challenges.
    Where has been the best place you’ve visited globally, and why?
    I’ve been to so many places; I’m pretty lucky… but I have to say, Tibet. Landing in Lhasa is out of this world. The smiles I’ve seen there still fill my heart today. I went with my husband, we decided to visit Everest base camp before my pregnancy, and we did it. Some crazy and intense days of no potable water or shower, but reaching base camp at 5500 altitude at 5 am was all worth it. The sky there is different… I love this type of experience that pushes you to your limit. Next one? Summit Kilimanjaro.
    Where has been the place that has given you or your business the most growth?
    Well, I would say my second home country: Angola. I lived and worked there for almost ten years before moving to Dubai, and I still have a lot of family there. I grew so much in that professional environment, which is extra demanding for a woman, that I can face any professional environment honestly.
    This is The Summer Escape Issue – where will you be escaping to this summer?
    From Portugal to Porto Cervo in Italy, from Mallorca in Spain to Montreal in Canada. I will enjoy a bit of the other side of the world, take inspiration and insight from these places and breathe in new cultures. I never stop working obviously… we don’t have holidays when we work for ourselves!
    July/August’s – The Summer Escape Issue with Tania Santos Silva – 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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    Istituto Marangoni Dubai becomes first foreign university to gain the CAA Accredation

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    4 hours ago

    Istituto Marangoni Dubai has achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first foreign university specialising in fashion and design to gain accreditation from the Commission for Academic Accreditation (CAA) in the UAE.
    The UAE’s Ministry of Education (MoE) has granted institutional licensure to Istituto Marangoni Dubai, solidifying its position as the first accredited foreign university in the creative fields in the UAE.
    Additionally, the Bachelor of Arts programs offered by Istituto Marangoni Dubai in Fashion Design, Interior Design, Visual Design, and Product Design have successfully completed the program accreditation process and are now listed in the CAA National Register.
    The CAA has awarded Istituto Marangoni a 5-year accreditation for the mentioned Bachelor of Arts degree programs, and the institution is now in the process of launching new Bachelor’s and Master’s degree programs in Fashion Styling, Fashion Business, Fashion Luxury Brand Management, and Interior Design.
    Istituto Marangoni, a renowned higher education institution, has been dedicated to supporting and nurturing creative talent since 1935. Its Dubai campus, located at the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), opened in September 2022, expanding the school’s network of fashion, art, and design schools in Milan, Paris, Florence, London, Mumbai, Miami, Shanghai, and Shenzhen. By combining Italy’s esteemed fashion heritage and craftsmanship with cutting-edge digital technology, the institution focuses on innovation and preparing students to enter the industry.

    Continuously striving to enhance its academic offerings, Istituto Marangoni has achieved a place among the top 100 universities in the world in the field, according to the QS World University Ranking 2023.
    Commenting on the Dubai accreditation, Stefania Valenti, the Managing Director of Istituto Marangoni, expressed her honor and gratitude for this achievement, attributing it to the positive collaboration between the institution and the UAE Ministry of Education. She stated that being recognized as a university further validates their high standards and skilled teaching staff.
    Valenti added that the Bachelor of Arts degree programs at Istituto Marangoni Dubai are designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to embrace the opportunities and challenges arising from the growth and prosperity of the UAE economy. The CAA’s accreditation, recognized throughout the Middle East, will enable Istituto Marangoni Dubai to attract more students from both the local and global communities, positioning itself as an appealing hub for future talented professionals in the fashion and design industry. Valenti emphasized that this achievement is only the first step toward more opportunities and projects planned by Istituto Marangoni in the region.
    Roberto La Iacona, the School Director of Istituto Marangoni Dubai, described this as a significant milestone for the institution, solidifying its position as one of the leading educational institutions in the creative disciplines. He emphasized their commitment to maintaining the highest standard of excellence and providing students with the necessary skills to succeed in today’s competitive creative arena.

    In line with the strategic objectives of UAE Vision 2030, Istituto Marangoni Dubai is adapting to the challenging education landscape in the UAE by implementing innovative teaching practices and modern education models.
    Istituto Marangoni Dubai expressed gratitude to the Commission Evaluation Team and external Commissioners for their positive response and feedback. The school reaffirmed its commitment to meeting the academic standards set by the CAA and providing the best learning opportunities for students from the UAE and abroad.
    For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied by Istituto Marangoni Dubai  More

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    Dolce&Gabbana revamp exclusive beach clubs in Europe for Summer 2023

    Dolce&Gabbana is set to bring its unique style to the most exclusive beach clubs in Europe for Summer 2023 with the DG Resort creative takeovers.
    The chosen locations for this project are Capri, Taormina, Marbella, and St. Tropez, renowned destinations known for their stunning natural surroundings and excellent hospitality services.
    Capri, the cosmopolitan island of the Mediterranean, has played a significant role in Dolce&Gabbana’s iconic stories. This summer, the historical Grand Hotel Quisisana and its resort will be transformed into a vibrant display of Blu Mediterraneo. Amidst the fragrant orange groves and breathtaking views of the Faraglioni, the traditional maiolica’s white and blue shades will enhance the authentic Italian vacation experience.
    In Taormina, the picturesque former monastery perched on the Ionian sea, the San Domenico Palace, a Four Seasons Hotel, will be adorned in the same white and blue hues of the maiolica. This print pays homage to the craftsmanship and Fatto a Mano values deeply rooted in the South of Italy. Dolce&Gabbana will decorate the entire swimming pool area and terrace of the hotel, creating a uniquely charming space where the eye can gaze upon the endless sea.

    The San Domenico Palace, a Four Seasons Hotel
    Marbella, the gem of the Costa del Sol, is known for its vibrant atmosphere, making it a highly sought-after destination in Andalusia. Dolce&Gabbana will infuse La Cabane, an iconic beach club within the Los Monteros resort, with its signature codes. The renowned three-Michelin-starred chef, Dani García, drew inspiration from the beauty of Majolica ceramics, a characteristic feature of southern Italy. The beach club will be transformed with the Blu Mediterraneo pattern, featuring an exclusive pop-up store that showcases creativity. Meanwhile, the restaurant will unveil a delightful surprise—a custom gastronomic space adorned with the Carretto Siciliano print.
    St. Tropez, synonymous with luxury, sophistication, and breathtaking landscapes, stands as the crown jewel of the Cote D’Azure. Casa Amor, the famous bohemian beach club located on Pampelonne beach, has been chosen by Dolce&Gabbana for a striking redecoration in the Carretto print. The vibrant friezes and multicolored decorations inspired by Sicilian tradition will beautifully complement the warm tones and natural materials of the furnishings, resulting in an unexpected fusion of beauty.

     Casa Amor,  beach club located on Pampelonne  beach
    Through the DG Resort creative takeovers, Dolce&Gabbana aims to bring their distinctive style and exquisite prints to these exclusive beach clubs, offering guests an extraordinary summer experience immersed in the world of Italian luxury and craftsmanship.
    For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied by Dolce&Gabbana  More

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    9 wanderlust-inspired accounts to #follow on Instagram this month

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    40 mins ago

    Looking for new travel-inspired accounts to follow on Instagram for where to go this summer? Emirates Woman has curated the ultimate guide of restaurants and hotels to fill your feed with a host of aesthetic venues.
    Banyan Tree AlUla@banyantree.alula
    A sustainable sanctuary set in the heart of the desert valley.
    Bungalo34@bungalo34
    Where effortless style meets casual beachside bliss.
    Ancient Greek Sandals@ancientgreeksandals
    Cool craftsmanship.
    Olivia Von Halle@oliviavonhalle
    Luxury loungewear designed for evenings out and in alike.
    Christopher Esber@christopher_esber

    Directional cuts for a cool girl vibe.
    Anantara Golden Triangle@anantara_goldentraingle
    A jungle base where you can explore Nature in Thailand.
    Six Senses Ibiza@sixsenses.ibiza
    The best of bohemian luxe.
    NOMAD
    @from.nomad

    An eco-conscious brand for key summer attire.
    Eres@eres

    Discover the French savoir-faire through its swimwear, lingerie and activewear collections.
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @by_eva_ More

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    Exclusive: In the office with designer Kristina Fidelskaya

    Life

    by Camille Macawili
    4 hours ago

    VIEW GALLERY/ 7 IMAGES
    Fashion designer Kristina Fidelskaya talks to Emirates Woman about her office space in Dubai Design District and how it reflects their brand.
    Tap the gallery above for an exclusive tour inside.
    How long have you been in this space?
    We have been in this office since d3 Dubai Design District opened seven years ago. As it was a project of a new area combining fashion and design, we knew we would be surrounded by creativity and inspiring people.
    Have you custom-built any bespoke pieces?
    We created our office and showroom from scratch, working closely with interior designers in order to infuse our brand DNA and to bring my vision to life from the concrete walls to the installation made of glossy steel to display our new collections. For the furniture, I like to play with the home lines from other fashion houses.
    How do you think the interior buys reflect you and your brand?
    I wanted a space that matches the vibe of my own house as well as our store in Dubai. Soft, peaceful, clean, and cosy, spending time here should feel like home to be comfortable and leave room for creativity. Most of our interior buys being customized and made-to-measure goes along with the DNA and values of our atelier and brand.
    Describe your taste in three words.
    Elegant, pure, and peaceful.
    June’s – The Skin Issue with Instytutum – Download Now 
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram More

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    Want to start your own podcast? Here’s 6 studios to record in Dubai

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    2 hours ago

    Thinking of using your extra time more productively and starting your own podcast? We’re here to help.
    From fashion-related topics to inspiring the next generation with invigorating topics, this side hustle can escalate when done professionally.
    Whether you’d like to co-host with a friend, business partner, or co-worker these Dubai-based studios will have you sorted with their professional equipment and sound-proof rooms, that will cater to your needs.
    For an idea of where to record your podcast, Emirates Woman has curated the ultimate guide to professional studios in Dubai.
    25 Hours

    Plan on starting your own podcast? This venue offers its very own podcast studio to record the next inspiring idea you might have. With professionally-equipped mikes, guests can use their time wisely to create content in this inspiring space. Without limiting to podcasts, guests also have the option of mixing their own vinyl and perhaps recording the next best hit. The studio rates are priced at Dhs250 per hour, Dhs800 for four hours and Dhs1,400 for a full-day session of up to eight hours.For more information visit 25hours-hotels.com
    Social Distrikt

    Looking to catch up on some weekend work? SPĀCES by catalyst concepts has officially opened its doors in the heart of Palm Jumeirah. Designed to be the next creative hub, this all-inclusive space includes, panel talks, exhibitions, a lighting studio and a podcast studio to find inspiration. Located on the ground floor of Social Distrikt at The Pointe, Palm Jumeirah, this venue will ensure your creative juices are flowing.
    For more information visit socialdistrikt.com
    Rove Hotels
    Whether you are a budding or established podcaster or an entrepreneur looking for new ways to promote your business, this space is for you. Situated at Rove Downtown, the Rove Podcast Studio is self-service and can accommodate a maximum of 4 Rovers per session. With podcast-ready hardware, a super cool and inspiring space at the heart of Downtown Dubai as well as complimentary tea and coffee to keep your creative juices flowing. The prices start at Dhs150 for 1 hour upto Dhs700 for the full day up to 12 hours.
    For more information visit search.rovehotels.com
    Foundry

    This creative space was launched to contribute to Dubai’s burgeoning art scene. With a range of cultural programmes, guests are invited to enjoy workshops and can record more podcasts in their studios. The studio rental prices start from Dhs180 per person and take place from 10am to 10pm. Located at Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard, Boulevard Crescent, this progressive art space is a must-visit. Guests also have access to the creative library, podcast room and a café.
    For more information visit foundry.downtown.ae
    Warehouse Four

    Those who want to record or make their shows can visit this impressive podcast studio with a maximum of three guests. It comes with four microphones, headphones and a mixer, with the option for additional mics for an extra fee. Plus professional help is always at hand if you encounter any technical difficulties with the studio open from 9am to 5pm. Located in Al Quoz, this state-of-the-art studio is a must-visit.
    For more information visit warehousefour.com
    Dubai Podcast Studio

    As the perfect space for podcasters, this professional studio ensures all recordings are done at ease with minimum effort. The studio is equipped with the latest audio and video technology to ensure that your podcast recordings are of the highest quality. Located at Tamani Arts Building, Business Bay, prices for the session start at Dhs450 for 1 hour along with an audio recording with the operator.
    For more information visit dubaipodcaststudio.com
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram & Feature Image: Pexels @georgemilton More

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    Dubai-based Italian jewellery designer’s guide to a La Dolce Vita summer in Capri

    Life

    by Camille Macawili
    3 hours ago

    A high-profile clientele, A-list celebrity customers and the support of prominent industry insiders propelled fine jewellery label Faraone Mennella into the jewelry spotlight.
    Drawing design inspiration from classical Italian heritage, award-winning designers Roberto Faraone Mennella and Amedeo Scognamiglio craft tactile, one-of-a-kind jewellery pieces that have been worn by the likes of Jennifer Aniston, Jennifer Lopez, and Charlize Theron, to name a few. Now, with the Amedeo’s recent move to Dubai, he is plotting his next steps for the brand.
    Emirates Woman chats with Amedeo Scognamiglio about his beginnings – as well as sharing insider tips and hidden gems and insider tips on how to do Capri like a local.
    When was the point you realized you wanted to have your own label and designing jewelry could be your career?
    I am the 6th generation of a family dynasty devoted to the craftsmanship of cameos and coral in Italy since 1857 so jewelry is in my DNA. But when I moved to NYC in my early 20s, Manhattan’s art and fashion scene of the 90s started to influence my aesthetics, helping me redefine my design vision. The mix of my Italian classic heritage and the NYC pop culture pushed me to dare and reinvent the design codes I absorbed in my father’s workshop. At that point, I felt empowered to not simply keep running a centuries-old family business, but revolutionise that ancient craft making it cool and current.
    Love Lemons 18kt Diamond Earrings Dhs25,155 available at faraonemennella.com
    You split your time between New York, London and Capri then recently moved to Dubai – tell us about this.
    I split my time between NYC and London while enjoying my summer months in Capri which is home to me and to my 2 brands’ flagship stores. After Covid-19, and the tragic loss of Roberto Faraone Mennella my partner and best friend, I felt like I needed to move somewhere where I could start again and not live with the memories. With the help and guidance of my dear Emirati friends, I moved here last year, and I still pinch myself every day how lucky I am. Dubai, to me now what NYC felt in1998: vibrant, energetic, advanced and exciting.
    For those who are new to the brand, what are your hero designs that are driving sales in the Middle East?
    Faraone Mennella’s iconic pieces, even after 20 years now, are the ones first seen on Sex & The City back then. Stella Collection, our first design, is now our signature and iconic quintessentially Faraone Mennella collection. Over the years, and thanks to our long collaboration with Carolina Herrera, the fashion queen of NYC, we specialized in couture and bespoke high jewelry collections we only sell in our own boutiques and to private clients.
    Abracadabra Earrings Dhs24,815 available at thatconceptstore.com
    How did you develop your signature technique?
    Although I am lucky to come from a family tradition and was able to ‘’experiment’’ and learn all the different angles of jewellery making from the very early age of 13 years old. When I design, I think of places, gowns, yachts and parties.. where my ladies will want to wear my jewellery.
    Roberto Faraone Mennella and Amedeo Scognamiglio
    Being an independent label, does that limit what you can do?
    The most discerning and sophisticated luxury shoppers are always on the lookout for niche brands offering a product not seen everywhere. Luxury is about dreaming and holding memories of experiences that can’t be replicated. This is what we offer, and the reason why we are able to thrive in a highly competitive market is due to the authenticity and uniqueness we have over the big conglomerates.
    What have been the highlights of your career so far?
    A few memorable ones are: designing the jewelry for Sex & The City (2002); being included in TIME Style & Design’s 100 most influential designers (2007); Fondazione AltaGamma, Best Jewellery Design award (2020); but above and beyond anything, working with Roberto Faraone Mennella for 20 years, to see our dream of the early days in NYC become a globally recognized luxury brand. Now that I am left alone at the helm, my only reason to work is to prepare our brand’s legacy for the future, in honor of Roberto’s life. Now it’s a luxury brand with a higher purpose.
    One thing to look forward to in Capri every summer?
    The annual Faraone Mennella ‘’Viva Capri’’ event! It started in 2012 when we opened. We thought it would only be a party for the official opening, but our clients decided it had to be a yearly reunion. And so every year, the first week of July we celebrate jewellery, summer, and friendship with a truly eventful party with dancing and singing, in the most iconic locations of the island.
    The best way to spend a lazy summer day in Capri…
    Don’t plan, don’t schedule, don’t stress. Enjoy the island, the way the ancient Romans did. La Dolce Vita!
    What’s your top tip for travelling to Capri?
    No need to stress about expensive private transfers from Napoli – enjoy the 50-minute ride with the commercial hydrofoil lines, they are easy, faster, and more comfortable. From Dubai, FlyDubai has direct flights to Naples airport is better than a private jet and makes my life and commute so easy.

    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied by Faraone Manella; Feature Image: Instagram @pinkines @lespetitepestes More