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      Exclusive: Halima on being one of the ‘lucky ones’ to leave her refugee camp

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      Halima Aden is undoubtedly a remarkable human being.
      Since winning the Miss Minnesota USA pageant for years ago, where she was the first contestant in the pageant to wear a burkini and a hijab, Aden has walked the catwalks of some of the biggest fashion brands in the business, graced the covers of many big-name magazines and become a role model to so many across the globe.

      In our exclusive interview with the Pandora ambassador, Aden opened up about the pressure she does feel on being a role model to so many.
      “I know that I am one of the lucky ones who was able to leave my refugee camp and resettle in a place like the USA having the opportunity to chase the American Dream,” she admits. “Most who live in refugee camps will never be able to say that.”

      However, Aden also prides herself on being a role model, taking it very seriously, always wanting to be there to inspire young women with her story.
      “Being a role model is important to me, not just to the young girls in my Muslim or Somali communities, but to those who can relate to any part to my story,” she says. “I feel very fortunate to be in this position and while it comes with an enormous amount of responsibility, at the end of the day, the best I can do is to just do me and be myself.”
      Aden has always done her utmost to spread a positive message, and this couldn’t be more prevalent in the new holiday campaign with Pandora she is a part of alongside Millie Bobby Brown, Georgia May Jagger, Larsen Thompson and more.
      In EW’s exclusive interview with Aden she discusses her long-standing partnership with Pandora, the messaging of the holiday campaign, being a woman of firsts and more.
      It’s so fabulous you have such a long-standing partnership with Pandora. What has it been like working with an iconic brand like this over the years?
      I’ve tried to be very intentional in the brands that I align with and Pandora values a lot of the same things I do. The company is all about cherishing memories, uplifting women, being socially aware, elevating their employees and emphasizing the importance of sustainability. Their goals and the work they are doing is something I want to be part of. When I work with companies, I like to know about the grander impact they are making and having visited the Pandora crafting facility in Thailand to see the work they do first-hand, meeting their team of designers, engaging with the other talent they work with, and even participating in their philanthropic endeavours… really goes to show that they really treat the company like a family. I feel like I’m part of the Pandora family.

      Can you talk us through the messaging of this holiday campaign?
      Holidays are a time of being together and for many of us, 2020 has made being physically together difficult. The campaign really reminds us the importance of coming together, even if it’s virtually. You will see other Pandora ambassadors and myself travelling around the globe in animated form and spreading holiday joy. I can now say I have an animation, cartoon-like character of myself! It was a fun, self-shot project with the help of the renowned Andy Baker Studios, known for their expertise in 2-D animation.
      There’s many incredible faces in it, including yourself, Millie Bobbie Brown and more, what’s it like working with the other Pandora ambassadors?
      Wow, I’m always inspired by them. These women are doing incredible things. Not only are their careers skyrocketing and they are true professionals in their craft, but they are using their platforms to promote bigger messages when it comes to important causes and charitable work.
      It’s been a difficult year for everyone, and for some the Christmas period still may be hard. What emotions do you hope this Pandora campaign evokes?
      Really the spirit of coming together. I think this year, more than ever, it’s important that we all stay connected. The campaign is fun and the masterminds behind it are so forward-thinking, which is something I love about the Pandora brand. They think outside the box and have really used their creativity for this campaign to connect with their audience. I hope everyone sees it and can smile and mostly know that everyone, around the world, is feeling the same way as they are this holiday season. The message is about going around the world, digitally, and spreading the holiday spirit.

      In recent years you’ve become a beacon of light to so many people across the globe – you’re definitely a woman with many incredible firsts – what do you hope to portray to the world?
      For me, it’s important that those in under-represented or sometimes misunderstood communities know that the world will meet you where you stand. Don’t be afraid to be the first and put yourself in spaces that no one like you or that you can relate to has been before. Don’t wait for someone else to represent you. Most importantly, “Don’t change yourself, change the game!” If not invited to the table, pull up your own seat.
      You’re all about breaking down barriers and stereotypes. When you began your career, is this what you set out to do?
      My career landed in my lap after taking a risk and doing something that hadn’t been done before. For me, I entered the Miss Minnesota USA pageant for three reasons: 1. To surround myself with positive and powerful women as this was one of the few events in my state that brings together women who truly want to leave the world a better place. 2. I was hoping for college scholarship money. 3. I wanted to show the girls at my high school that you don’t have to conform to fit in and be accepted. You can go participate in a swimsuit competition and wear a more modest swimsuit. It’s okay to do things a bit differently.
      It’s crazy to think how you’ve been catapulted into such incredible stardom and have become a role model to so many in the last four years. What are your thoughts on it all? Did it take a while to get used to?
      When I hear words like “famous” or “celebrity” I honestly get uncomfortable. I think I’m in a bit of a different situation sometimes as I didn’t set out to enter the world of entertainment, fashion, glamour. Instead, which speaks volumes to the industry, it found me. I’ve been able to find success, while remaining true to myself. I feel like I have so many identities that make up who I am, which is why I think I can connect with so many people. Being a role model is important to me, not just to the young girls in my Muslim or Somali communities, but to those who can relate to any part to my story. I feel very fortunate to be in this position and while it comes with an enormous amount of responsibility, at the end of the day, the best I can do is to just do me and be myself. And, hopefully, that’s good enough.
      As we said, you’re an incredible role model to many. Does the pressure of that ever affect you?
      It does. And mostly because I know that I am one of the lucky ones who was able to leave my refugee camp and resettle in a place like the USA having the opportunity to chase the American Dream. Most who live in refugee camps will never be able to say that. At times, I feel guilty. I never want to turn down an invitation, never want to look too tired when working, never want to miss catching someone’s name during conversation, or miss sight-seeing when in a new city… it is because I don’t want to let those down who won’t ever be given this gift I’ve been given to do these things. It’s a hard place to be in, but it’s also the most rewarding and gratifying; especially when someone tells you that you have inspired them in some small way.
      In the fashion industry, and in general, you’re a woman of firsts. Does that feel daunting at all, ever? Do you feel a weight of responsibility to break down barriers that need to be?
      Being the first isn’t easy. People innately fear the unknown so even if you do take that step to be the first, some will never understand or agree with you. To me, I knew being the first would mean nothing if there wasn’t a second, a third, a fourth. I am so proud that in just the short 3 ½ years of my modelling career, there are several hijab-wearing models and it’s not uncommon to see these women walking the runway or covering magazines. That makes my journey worth it to me.
      Who would you say your role model is and why?
      Without a doubt, I would say my mum is my role model. She is the epitome of resilience and determination. She walked 11 days to cross the border in Kenya from Somalia because of the Civil War. She did everything she could to care for us in a refugee camp. She told us it was going to be okay when we then left everything we had ever known to resettle in America. She is one of the strongest women I know.
      What are your hopes for the future in the fashion industry?
      My hope is that the fashion industry will continue to champion important messages that go beyond their great products. We all have voices and it’s so important to let them be heard. Especially, because we have the power to help others. For me, that’s using my voice to advocate for the world’s most vulnerable children as a UNICEF Ambassador. As I was once on the receiving end of their services, I now am in a position to be on the giving end.

      What have been three pivotal moments of your career and why?
      Firstly, Appearing on the cover of British Vogue was a moment in my career that stands out. I was the first hijab-wearing woman in their 102-year history to be on the cover. Also wearing a UNICEF t-shirt with Gigi on the cover of CR Fashion Book was major and an important day for my mum to connect with the work I do in fashion. She may not understand the industry, but she understands the work UNICEF does so that moment really sticks out to me.
      Secondly, walking exclusively for Yeezy Season 5 during my first ever fashion week. This was a pivotal moment as I went to the fitting and the look didn’t work with my personal wardrobe requirements so went back to my hotel thinking I wasn’t going to be in the show. I got a call late in the night to come back as the stylist had found another look for me. At this moment, I knew I didn’t need to conform to have a place in fashion. I also felt pride knowing that it’s okay to walk away if something doesn’t feel right. The right people, who you will ultimately want to work with, will make it happen.
      And finally, becoming a UNICEF Ambassador tops the list. I was once a young girl in a refugee camp benefitting from their hard work and now am on the other end assisting with their critical efforts.
      On the opposite end of the spectrum, what have been the major hurdles you’ve had to jump through?
      I think everyone in the world would agree that 2020 has been a hurdle in and of itself. Many of us have had sleepless nights not sure what our financial future and careers could look like moving forward. I’m fortunate that I have a great team and have been able to navigate, strategize, and do my best during this difficult time that so many of us have faced.
      What advice do you wish you received on your journey to success?
      I am lucky to have received great advice on my journey to success. The best advice, however, that I think applies to all of us during this uncertain time of Covid-19 came from my mum. My mum has always said, “Tough times don’t last, but strong people do.
      In terms of your career, what do you aspire to happen for yourself in the next five years?
      I would love to continue working in fashion and possibly getting into the film or hosting space too! I have so many goals and am pretty determined so keep your eyes out for me!
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied More

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      Every Budget-Friendly Piece I’ve Bought for Winter So Far

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      This fall has been nothing for me if not a rollercoaster of false optimism mixed in with quite a bit (read: a lot) of cabin fever. For a few glorious weeks here in Chicago, we were able to sit outside on patios and leave our homes (socially-distanced, of course), and it felt like there was light at the end of the COVID-19 tunnel—but alas, that was, of course, a mirage.All this to say that, I write about fashion for my job, so I obviously love trends and clothes and figuring out my wardrobe when new seasons come. So when many were on the train of only wearing joggers, as they should have been, my mind played tricks on me and let me plan out some outfits for winter that may not see the light of day (but there’s always next year!).
      From matching sets to fun joggers to some new jeans (I told you, cabin fever!), these are the things I’ve added to my wardrobe for fall and winter—even if it means the only way anyone sees them is if I do an outfit change between every course on Thanksgiving for only my parents to see.

      I ordered this sherpa on Amazon one day when I was freezing cold and hadn’t found a new winter coat I loved yet, and it is quite literally one of my favorite things of the year. It’s more of a sweatshirt-level warmth (it isn’t a coat by any means), but I wear it around my apartment with leggings every single day, and every day it continues to wrap me in a soft, cozy hug and bring me joy. I loved the camel so much I ordered it in black too so I had one in case the camel one was in the wash. This is, by far, my favorite purchase of the past few months—and it’s $30. 

      As I previously disclosed, I did the opposite of what society has chosen to do and made the ill-informed decision to begin my hunt for the perfect pair of jeans a few weeks ago. I placed an order of literally eight pairs in all different sizes from Zara just to be able to try some on, and these are actually so comfortable that I’ve been wearing them for my quarantined life. They’re so soft and comfortable and flattering and wearing them to the grocery store is a joy.
      I struggle a lot with finding straight-leg jeans that fit my body right, but these are amazing. I would definitely recommend sizing up one size in these.

      During my jean excursion, I had only planned on keeping one pair, but these were such a rare gem that I kept them too. I. love. these. jeans. I had to order two sizes up (I literally could not get my normal size above my thighs), but they are also so comfortable and flattering, and I’m a sucker for a raw hem and button fly. If you, too, feel the need to add jeans to your wardrobe this winter, I couldn’t recommend either of these enough (and they are both super affordable).

      I got a targeted ad for this matching set so many times that it felt like it was God’s will for me to have it. I love wearing this on work-from-home days, of which I have worn it four out of my last five. It definitely helps me mentally to not feel super sloppy throughout the day, and this takes me from Zoom meetings to my afternoon nap seamlessly.

      If 2020 did one single thing right, it’s fun joggers. These are a jogger material but are made of corduroy, which defies all explanation and is something I don’t feel the need to question.
      My exact pair is from Gap and is sold out in some sizes, but Nordstrom now has a very similar pair which will hopefully lead the masses to experience this joy.

      If there is one thing that I love above all else in my wardrobe, it is my jackets. I choose them strategically and treasure them, and they are the glue that holds my outfits together—and it’s very rare that one speaks to me in the way this one did. I never would have gotten it based on Zara’s picture of it, but I saw it on a blogger on Instagram and knew I would wear it for years to come. It’s fun and completely unique, and I’m so excited to be able to wear it to death in the future. (Pro tip: this runs absolutely huge. This is an XS, which I never get, and is still quite large).

      This very ’70s print was one of H&M’s gems of the year, and I loved the thought of wearing this with tights and my knee-high boots. I wear my dresses to death but don’t see many I love very often, so I know I’ll be getting a ton of use out of this bad boy.

      This turtleneck makes me laugh in that it makes me feel like I’m wearing Kim Kardashian’s couch dress from the 2013 met gala, but it also makes me a bit fonder of it. I love wearing a thin turtleneck with joggers throughout the day and to have them to wear under jackets, and this was a nice detour from my collection of plain black ones.

      As we know, faux leather is the hottest thing since sliced bread this year, and I took it upon myself to find a pair that was both affordable and high-quality. After much, much trial and error and many trips to USPS to send return packages, I found these. I sized up, but they are such a good fit and are such a fun, versatile addition to your wardrobe that can be worn next year too (and the year after that, and the year after that). More

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      in beauty and fashion

      25 Gifts to Ask For to Kickstart Your New Year’s Resolutions

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      Just because the holiday season isn’t exactly normal this year doesn’t mean you can throw out every goal and idea you have for 2021. Actually, I predict 2021 will be a huge year for setting new goals and resolutions—I mean if we’ll be inside, what else is there to do but crush your goals? As the holidays roll around, your parents, in-laws, significant others, and friends might be bugging you about what gifts you’re hoping to find under the tree this year. And somehow the age-old proverb exists: when someone asks what you want, every single thing you’ve even seen or heard of flies out of your head like magic. Instead of worrying about how you’ll reach all of those health and fitness goals the second the clock strikes midnight on January 1, make it a point to ask for those essential items 2021 you will need early. When it comes to fitness and health, there’s one brand that immediately comes to mind, and you’re probably picturing that iconic swoosh in your head right now too: Nike. They have everything you need for the best workouts, online yoga classes, and lounging days—and they’re perfect to add to your holiday wishlist. Most items are available up to a size 2XL (equaling a 20-22), but they also have a wide range of plus-size options available to choose from. They have tons of items available this year, so we did the hard work for you to find the best pieces. No matter what your resolutions are this year, we’ve rounded up the best items to add to your list for Santa. 

      Make outdoor winter workouts a breeze: 

      Run that 5K in no time: 

      Make self-care an everyday event:

      This post was sponsored by Nike, but all of the opinions within are those of The Everygirl editorial board. More

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      Explore the world of this international firm known for auctioning rare pieces

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      In an era of adapting to a digital world, this auction house has added its own take to the world of collectable purchases, by already having shifted to the rarefied world of the auction house to a revolutionised online space.
      From 3 to 17 November Christie’s will be auctioning vintage iconicHermès designs, vintage Louis Vuitton and limited-edition Chanel.

      To gain more insight about the online auction and what exactly is uniting collectors globally, Emirates Woman sat down with Rachel Koffsky, the head of sales for handbags and accessories at Christie’s.
      How has the auction market managed to stay seemingly bullet-proof this year especially during the global health pandemic?
      Christie’s first began holding online-only auctions in 2011, so we have almost a decade of knowledge and experience operating on a virtual platform. When the world went into lockdown, we pivoted our live sale strategy into the online space, transitioning viewings into viewing rooms and lunches into digital lectures. Besides the technology advantage, I believe that the firm’s constant investment in departmental specialists has also helped. Meaning that we have built strong relationships with our collector base who are trusting our longstanding expertise.
      With a dynamic digital platform you’ve managed to stay abreast with the current trends, what are some of the new features you plan on adding in the foreseeable future?

      Our digital engagement is improving nearly daily. We are doing all to make the experience for our collectors as detailed and engaging as possible. New viewing rooms have been installed, helping to view the objects for sale in the smallest details, including 360 degree photography and lot videos, and sharing even more knowledge in our lot descriptions. Furthermore, all condition reports can be downloaded online and there is a new chat option online to help clients to navigate our webpage.

      Lime Sequin Mini Single Flap with Silver Hardware (estimate: £1,000-2,000)
      What specific opportunities do you see in the GCC market region and are there any specific trends that the crowd leans towards?
      The handbag collectors from the GCC region are very sophisticated and curating their collection of handbags, in particular looking for special editions in exceptional conditions. Collectors from this region have been growing in numbers recently, due to our handbag viewings in Dubai at the watch auctions and lectures in India. In addition, due to limited travel opportunities, our sales enable clients from the region to participate in shopping experiences in Europe from the comfort of their homes.
      With each item needing to have ‘out of the ordinary’ features, on what basis are items selected to be auctioned?
      The main criteria for handbags sold at Christie’s is brand, model, condition and rarity. Our collectors are very sophisticated, and they know that they will find the most precious and rare objects at Christie’s.
      On the other side we are also the department attracting the largest number of new clients and must also cater to their needs to start collecting in this field. Therefore, we are delighted to offer items with starting bids at £100, to over £50,000.
      Are customers in the Middle East vendours or purchasers?
      The majority of the clientele in the Middle East are purchasers. However, we certainly have consignors from the Middle East. Oftentimes, collectors will sell a piece in order to fund a new purchase, or make room in the closet for a new acquisition.
      What are your expectations for the upcoming auction, especially as items for the festive season will also be included?
      The auction opened for bidding on the 3 November and already sold almost 80 per cent of lots offered, with the sale open until 17 November to increase the percentage!

      Louis Vuitton’s Hermetic Explorer’s Zinc Cabin Trunk from the 1890s (estimate: £40,000-50,000) 
      What are some of the key items that will be included in the upcoming Christie’s handbags and accessories online auction?
      In addition to handbags by Hermès, Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Fendi and Dior, we also have an exceptional collection of Louis Vuitton trunks including a Zinc Explorer Trunk from the 1890s and very rare Flower Trunks from the 1920s which were not available for purchase, but gifted to VIP clients. We also have incredible sport and lifestyle pieces such as a Limited Edition Winged Mini Saddle and a Batavus Bicycle both by Hermès.
      What advice would you give to collectors who are interested in purchasing vintage items this season?
      Buy what you love! The primary motivation for collecting handbags should be passion. It is important that these objects bring you joy. It is also best to purchase the best available on the market with the budget you have set aside.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Feature image: Instagram @christiesinc More

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      in beauty and fashion

      The Matching Set I’m Living In

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      Prior to 2020, my loungewear game was truly and utterly embarrassing. When I got home every day stripped off my work clothes, I’d change into a five-year-old sorority sweatshirt, and even worse, a pair of sweats from some high school sports team. If I was going to spend my money on clothes, it was going to be something I could wear out for the world to see—who cared what I wore when I was at home?Obviously, spending the entirety of 2020 confined to my home changed my mentality on that. After buying a couple of new pairs of sweats and realizing how much better I felt in cute loungewear, I made it a priority to buy a few things I could work in comfortably, but that still made me feel put-together. It didn’t matter if I was the only one on earth who would ever see them, it made all the difference in how I felt throughout the day.
      Pretty quickly, I learned that the loungewear I gravitated toward the most–like the rest of the world—was matching sets. They feel like chic and calculated, and I loved how I could throw on a jacket over and run any errands I needed to—they felt like a look, rather than something I should just be sleeping in.
      My phone and computer also learned quickly that that’s what I was into, and gave me about a billion ads for matching sets throughout the past few months. Most of them I could resist—until a couple of weeks ago, when I kept getting an ad for this one.

      I couldn’t get the image of myself sitting on the couch next to my Christmas tree working away in this set out of my head. It was perfect: the colors, the ribbed details—frankly, I had a feeling it would be the set of my dreams, and to no one’s surprise, I was right.
      When it arrived, I couldn’t believe how high-quality it felt—the material it’s made out of is thicker than it looks, and it makes it ultra warm and cozy. Since I got it, I’ve been working from home in it more days than I’d like to admit, and have debated ordering it in more colors. It’s rare that I find a piece that’s so good I need to shout it from the mountain tops, but I couldn’t keep quiet about this one. Everyone I know should own this, and I hope my sister doesn’t read this, because it’s going to be one of her Christmas presents from me. Bonus: It’s on sale right now, and comes in eight different colors. Trust me: you’re going to want to be living in this too. More

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      in beauty and fashion

      How to Look Your Best This Holiday Season

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      Of all the seasons of the year, the holidays tend to come with a certain pressure to be our best selves. It’s borderline impossible to get into hair stylists after October because so many people want fresh holiday hair, everyone is doing their most effective face masks, and events and parties are filled with our best makeup and outfits. But Rome wasn’t built in a day, and looking and feeling our very best doesn’t necessarily happen overnight (unless you’ve found some miracle face mask you want to share with the group). With a little premeditated preparation, you can stroll into your Thanksgiving (which this year, might be you alone in your apartment—don’t let that stop you!) feeling your absolute best. Here’s how:

      1. Remember to drink a lot of water
      I’m usually really good about drinking a lot of water, but when I’m busy with holiday craziness, that all can go out the door without me even realizing it. The season is about enjoying yourself and celebrating, and you should never feel guilty about, that, but making sure you’re staying hydrated can help you recover from some of the not-so-healthy things you’re bound to be enjoying.

       

      Source: @sara.azani

      2. Get your skin looking its best
      Skincare takes a while to make a difference, so giving yourself a few weeks to up your game is vital if you want to show up to the holidays glowing to the gods. Making sure your skin is hydrated and exfoliated (but not too exfoliated) can make all the difference. If you’re dealing with any acne or congestion, prepping in advance is key. Use your clay masks a few days ahead of any big events (never the night before, as they tend to bring any gunk to the surface), and keep up with your pore strips for clearer, brighter skin.

      3. Treat yourself to a statement-making lipstick
      Nothing screams the holidays like a bold lip, and if you don’t have one that you grab every time the holidays roll around, now’s the time. Pick a deep nude, berry, or red that compliments your skintone and rock it all season long. You’ll be surprised at how special it can make you feel, and how much the right shade can brighten up your complexion.

      Source: @livvyland

      4. Try loungewear in festive colors
      We’re all probably rolling up to the holidays in clothes that are more comfortable than usual, but there’s no reason they can’t be festive too. Let your grey sweats take up space on your back shelf for the season and indulge in some festive loungewear in colors that will make you feel like they’re made for the holidays (bonus points if it’s a matching set).

      5. Make sure you’re getting enough sleep
      The holidays come with a lot of commotion, which usually includes a lot less sleep. It isn’t always easy, but making sleep a priority can change how you feel for the entirety of the season. Whether that means sleeping in a little later or trying to get to bed a bit earlier, try to add five minutes of sleep to your night every night for a couple of weeks, and before you know it, you’ll be getting an hour more than you’re used to. It’s impossible to feel your best when you’re super sleepy, so if you prioritize anything, this should be it.

      6. Find a seasonal perfume that you love
      There’s nothing like finding a perfume that you absolutely love, and switching it up and finding one that’s winter-appropriate can boost your confidence every single day. Look for warm scents like vanilla, clove, and cedar for a sexy scent perfect for chilly nights spent by the fire.

      Source: @crystalinmarie

      7. Try festive hair accessories
      While the easiest way to look festive is definitely a red sweater, #2 is probably a festive hair accessory, and they come in all shapes and sizes. Whether it’s a pearl headband, a velvet scrunchie, a hair bow, gold hair clips, or sparkly bobby pins, it’s a chic, Zoom-approved way to feel put-together when all you’re really wearing is a pair of leggings for the sixth day in a row. 

      8. Go for metallics
      One of the most complimented eye looks our editors wear is a swipe of a shimmery, metallic gold or silver across the lid. It’s beyond easy—truly, it’s one swipe of eyeshadow with a flat brush, but you can even use your finger—but looks glimmery and festive without the effort of a smokey eye. Swipe the shade all over the upper lid and the inner corner of the eyes, leaving the lower lash line blank for a striking look. Don’t forget to go in with lots of mascara! 

      9. Try a new manicure
      I know what you’re thinking. How could you ever dare to give up your beloved holiday red? Trust us: OPI’s “Big Apple Red” will be there when you need it, but for now, try something with a little more spunk. Because you’re likely doing your nails at home, it’s a good time to try another festive shade, like emerald green, chocolate brown (think: hot cocoa!), shimmery neutrals, and more. You could also try nail stickers to make your at-home manicure look extra cool.  More

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      in health and weelbeing

      I Tried On These 5-Star Workout Clothes from Amazon—Here Are My Thoughts

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      The world of workout apparel is pretty weird. One day you’re shopping with your mom at Dick’s Sporting Goods for shorts to wear at track practice, and all of the sudden you’re an adult being told that the absolute only pair of leggings you should ever wear cost a casual $130.I am someone who does work out a lot (queue eye roll), but I’ve never let myself join the bandwagon of paying for overpriced workout gear. If I’m spending an exorbitant of money on something I’m wearing, it’s going to be something I get to use to create a fashion moment for myself, not something I’m going to sweat through in 10 minutes. But the unfortunate truth is that when it comes to workout clothes, sometimes feeling confident is half the battle (and I wouldn’t wish leggings that are slipping down during a workout on my worst enemy).
      On the opposite end of the workout gear hype spectrum is Amazon—something I’ve never tried, but that definitely caught my interest. Thousands of reviewers leaving five-star claims can’t be wrong, right? I set out to see and tried the highest-reviewed workout pieces on Amazon (hint: you’re going to regret those $130 leggings real quick).

      While I love bike shorts on other people, I’ve never exactly loved them on me. I don’t have the longest legs in the world, and I usually feel like they make me look shorter and stockier than I am, but these are definitely the best I’ve found. They don’t create a weird bulge where they end (which some with really tight seams have done on me) and are super comfortable and the perfect amount of high-waisted. 
      This long-sleeved crop top is something I’d wear both to work out and in my normal life as athleisure. It’s perfect for a cool all-black moment and isn’t super thin but isn’t as thick as a sweatshirt material either. Sometimes you don’t want something super tight on your torso, and that fits that bill while still feeling like you’re in something you’re meant to work out in.

      This. sports. bra. Holy cow. I’ve never tried on anything quite like it, and when I put it on, I spent some time just admiring it from all angles in the mirror. It’s that sweet spot of length where it feels like it could be worn as a top on it’s on, the back is criss-crossy and amazingly cool, and it’s super, super supportive. This is one worth buying in a few colors and living in both while you’re working out and when you’re not. I cannot say enough good things about this bra.
      These leggings, in my opinion, are really good for lounging, but not so much for sweating in. They’re a bit thicker material, and when I worked out in them, I didn’t like how they felt clung to my body. But everyone needs a perfect, warm black pair of leggings for winter, and they could fit that bill perfectly.

      If you’re planning on walking or running outside for exercise this winter, you need these shirts. It was cold in Chicago last week, and I needed something to layer under my jacket and realized I, in fact, had nothing. This top is so unbelievably warm but doesn’t cling to your body in weird ways like some dry-fit materials do. They look just like a plain long-sleeve tee, but there’s nothing wrong with that when you’re just dressing for warmth.

      These leggings were the thing I was the most excited to try; I’ve seen these leggings everywhere this year with people swearing they’re their favorite leggings. They come in a ton of colors, and while I probably would have been boring and ordered black, those were going to take two weeks to ship, so I was convinced that it was a sign to order these fun wine-colored ones.
      These leggings are, in a word, incredible. They are thin and moisture-wicking but stay put and hug you in just the right amount. They’re seamless and feel like nothing is on your body in the best way possible. These are a 10/10.
      This workout top is nothing super out-of-the-box, but it’s uber-flattering and is perfect if you don’t want a dry-fit material in your tops (sometimes I don’t). Both of these are things I’d reach for before anything else in my athleticwear wardrobe.

      If you are someone who needs a high-impact sports bra, you have met your match. When I say that my boobs stay completely still in this, I absolutely mean it. There is no bouncing or discomfort, but it also doesn’t have me sucked in so tight that I’m uncomfortable. The back is also super fun, which brings a little something extra to it.
      I’ve found that high-impact sports bras are particularly hard to find—for whatever reason, I feel like most are meant for medium-impact—but this one is something I’ve been looking for for a really long time.

        I predict that this winter is going to be filled with lots of yoga since we’ll be stuck inside and won’t always have other activities we can do. This yoga top is so necessary—it’s lightweight, soft, and breathable. If you don’t think you need special clothes for yoga, I’ll say this: neither did I until I got this.

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      Her Highness Sheikha Mozah for November’s – ‘The Fine Jewellery Issue’

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      November’s – ‘The Fine Jewellery Issue’ – Download Now
      Words & Creative Direction: Amy SessionsPhotography: Ziga MihelcicHair: Ania Poniatowska at MMG ArtistsProduction: Kelli MaddockFashion Assistant: Sarah JosephVideographer: Steve Erana

      This month we are delighted and honoured to present our cover star Her Highness Sheikha Mozah Al Maktoum for November’s – ‘The Fine Jewellery Issue’.
      The cover was shot at sunrise which made for an incredible backdrop for the shoot, and also allowed us to share time with a high flyer in all senses and an incredibly intelligent, inspiring individual.
      As part of this incredible shoot, EW partnered with fine jewellery house Boucheron, which is known for its timeless creations and uncompromising attention to detail.
      Take a look behind-the-scenes at the shoot from this prestigious edition of Emirates Woman by watching the video below.
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      November’s – ‘The Fine Jewellery Issue’ – Download Now
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Emirates Woman More