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    Halima Aden aims to become the first representative of Somalia at Miss Universe

    Halima Aden recently made the brave decision to speak her truth about how she had to make compromises in the fashion industry when it came to her beliefs.
    Last week, the 23-year-old reflected on positive experiences in the fashion industry, and other experiences where she was made to compromise her beliefs, in particular when it came to wearing her hijab.

    Following this revelation, Aden has declared she plans to become the first representative of Somalia at Miss Universe.
    Acknowledging that she has been a woman of many firsts including being the first-ever hijabi to compete for Miss Minnesota; becoming the first hijabi model for IMG; and the first-ever person to wear a hijab and burkini on the cover of Sports Illustrated, Aden now plans to add another first to her list.
    READ: Exclusive: Halima on being one of the ‘lucky ones’ to leave her refugee camp

    “All those other ‘FIRSTs’ have prepared me for my true calling,” she said. “I will be the First Miss Somalia on the stage of Miss Universe. Fellow contestants, get ready because I AM COMING.”

    In a recent interview with Emirates Woman, Aden opened up about being a woman of firsts.
    “Being the first isn’t easy,” she admitted. “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.”
    Aden also revealed just how seriously she takes being a role model to so many other young women around the world.
    “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 said. “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.”
    We can’t wait to see what she does next.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Halima Aden Instagram, Feature Image: Photography Matthew Eades At One Represents More

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    Treat Yourself: The Little Luxury You Didn’t Know You Needed

    In my experience, people either love to buy new underwear or only do it when they realize that every pair they own is from college and has a hole in it—there aren’t many people who fall in between, and if you’re the latter, well, let me be the first to tell you that it’s time for an upgrade.I totally get it: I’ve always been someone that only buys new underwear when it’s absolutely dire; but whenever I do invest in new bras and undies, I kick myself for not having done it a long time before. The fact of the matter is that underwear that make you feel amazing shouldn’t be a luxury you can’t afford—they should be something that are a part of your everyday life.
    Our secret to having a drawer full of underwear we’d happily show off? BootayBag, the subscription service that we actually needed. Starting at just $10 a month, you get new underwear shipped to your mailbox every four weeks without giving it a second thought. They don’t ship you just any old underwear—your monthly bag is custom-tailored to the styles that you prefer. Only wear thongs? Their “always thong” option is for you. Prefer cheeky pairs or a mix of both? They have that too. Whatever your preferences are, there’s the perfect choice that will let you stock your underwear drawer full of pairs you’ll have a hard time choosing between.

    This offer is only valid 11/27 – 11/30 for Black Friday and Cyber Monday.

    Source: @taylor_smith_photo @katyywilson for BootayBag

    BootayBag isn’t like other subscriptions that require years-long commitments—you can swap styles, skip a month (or multiple months), or cancel your subscription at any time. When I first started my subscription, I began with the four-pairs-a-month option (with a matching bralette!) to up the quantity of my collection, then moved down to two pairs a month, and now am down to the one-a-month just for maintenance. I was to completely customize my subscription for what was best for me, not abide to a catch-all number that was going to provide too many (or too few) pairs for me.
    Another fun perk? Every month the styles are completely new. They coordinate with the time of year (hello, pink and red pairs in February!) and make sure you don’t keep getting the same pair twice. 
    As easy as it is to forget, we’re worth the little luxuries in life, and sometimes, they’re the most important to prioritize. This Christmas, I’m gifting both myself and my little sister BootayBag, so we can feel good every day, all year round. It’s the gift that will keep giving all year long.

    This offer is only valid 11/27 – 11/30 for Black Friday and Cyber Monday.

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

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    Don’t Miss Shopbop’s Amazing Black Friday Sale

    I’ll be honest: I’ve never been much of a Black Friday person. It tends to stress me out more than anything, and last year, I ordered a few of my favorite dry shampoos and a new vacuum and that was the extent of it. It takes a lot for me to get excited for a Black Friday sale and make me feel like I need to shop it—but this year, Shopbop has done it.Full of incredible investment pieces that rarely—if ever—go on sale, Shopbop’s Black Friday Sale is offering 20% off orders of $200+. If there ever was a time to order that coat you’ve wanted forever or a new pair of shoes you know you’ll wear for years to come, now is the time to jump. These are the pieces we’ve had our eye on all season, and are clicking “add to cart” on come Black Friday.

    use code SHOP20 More

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    This Dubai-based start-up has the most amazing silk masks to go with any outfit

    As living through a pandemic has become the new normal, masks have become the compulsory accessory we have to ensure we have with us at all times.
    However, if you’re over wearing disposable masks or on the hunt for some fashionable and breathable masks, then this Dubai-based start-up may just be the thing you’ve been looking for.

    Enter NU Masks, a new business which launched back in June to provide stylish silk masks in an array of different colours.

    Currently available in nine shades which include pearl, bronze, blue, black, pink, lemon, champagne, leopard and latte, these silk masks will be the perfect addition to your party season outfits, costing you just Dhs60 per mask.
    If you’re wanting to give yourself an extra bit of sparkle, opt for one of the NU sequin masks available in rose sequins and black sequins.
    You can order NU Masks directly via their Instagram page or from beachcity.com.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: NU Masks Instagram More

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    It’s the Winter of the Beret—Here’s How to Style Them

    I’m not usually a hat girl—burned from the plethora of bucket hats I owned, all with Kings Island branding like a proper Midwestern tween—but then berets sauntered back into my life on the wings of Emily in Paris and I. was. smitten. I haven’t worn a beret since attending Christmas Eve service in 1998, but this is the year it all changes. Berets are cropping up everywhere—from Netflix powerhouses to my Instagram feed—and they’ve never looked better. But how to wear a beret without looking like I tossed a wool dinner plate on top of my head? For the answer, I’m looking to memorable beret moments in my favorite series and movies—from classics to new binge-watches. In terms of actual wearage, I think there are two starter ways to place your beret. The first is pulled down, so the brim is hitting your forehead and covering the front of your hair. The second is tipped back more, so that the beret is curving over the crown of your head and leaves a bit of hair and bangs visible at the front. For the second option, I recommend jumbo bobby pins to help keep everything firmly in place. And now, on to the styling! 

    Use the beret as a pop of color 
    Berets are the perfect thing to wear right now if you’re headed on a socially distanced walk-date or meeting up with a friend outside. They add instant personality and interest to your outerwear. Go bright with a pop of color to dress up classic coats.  

    Source: Netflix

    Red Wool Beret / Houndstooth Coat / White SweaterFaux Leather Legging / Boots / Gold Necklace 

    Source: @kate.lavie

    Pink Beret / Faux Leather Jacket / Straight Leg JeansTurtleneck / Combat Boots 

    Go monochrome for an elevated look
    It’s no secret I’m a huge fan of monochrome dressing—it makes every outfit look so chic with minimal effort. If you’re easing into the beret trend, monochrome is a good way to go.

    Source: Netflix

    Long Coat / White Beret / Straight Leg Jeans V-Neck Sweater / Low-Heeled Boots / Silk Face Mask

    When in doubt, classic black is always timeless 
    You can never go wrong with a classic black beret—they’ve been worn by everyone from Janet Jackson to Cher from Clueless. Dress it up with a chic wrap coat or down with a moto jacket and jeans. 

    Source: @styleidealist

    Camel Coat / Black Beret / Dress Tights / Fringe Scarf / Low-Heeled Boots

    Source: Paramount Pictures

    Plaid Blazer Coat / Faux Leather Legging / Button-DownBlack Beret / Waterproof Boots / Mask with Chain More

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    12 of the best deals to take advantage of this Black Friday

    While the holiday shopping season might be in full swing this month, there are an avalanche of Black Friday Sales, coming up this weekend with discounts on some of your favourite brands.
    From bargains on the most coveted beauty products to gorgeous timepieces, you can purchase the items that have been on your wishlist without digging to deep into your wallet.

    Emirates Woman has curated a list of Black Friday sales that should be on your list to watch out for this weekend.
    The Outnet

    Celebrating the amazing Black Friday sale starting from today, November 24 – this luxe fashion portal has up to 70% with an extra 25% off on almost everything, just use the code ‘BLACKFRIDAY’ to get your hands on though delightful deals.
    Visit theoutnet.com
    Eideal

    Our hair deserves a little extra TLC occasionally too. From the entire stock range from Eideal, including cult hair products such as Olaplex, sustainable haircare heroes from Davines as well as Eideal hair tools, there are plenty of items to replenish your haircare cupboard or start stockpiling potential Christmas gifts with the promo code BLACKFRIDAY50 which will give you 50 per cent off its entire stock.
    Visit eideal.com
    Namshi

    Namshi, one of the region’s biggest e-commerce platforms, has an array of coveted fashion brands will make your shopping experience even more exciting with buy one get one free deals during the entire month of November, all you need to do is enter the code ‘BN’ at checkout to get your deal.
    In addition, if you’re looking to stock up on an array of beauty products, the Namshi Beauty Box is one to get – it could also be the perfect gift. With over 30 premium brands in one box, with full size and minis of Benefit, Charlotte Tilbury, MAC, Lancôme and Elizabeth Arden, the box is worth over Dhs1,800, but is available on the e-commerce site for Dhs499.
    Visit namshi.com
    Charlotte Tilbury

    To have your make-up on point this festive season, Charlotte Tilbury has released their first ever Mystery Box. This luxurious boxis a staple of the brand’s Black Friday offering internationally and will be making its debut in the Middle East this November 26 until November 30 *while stocks last.
    Noon

    Noon has managed to revolutionise the e-commerce marketplace in the UAE has also expanded into the food sector and is now back with their biggest sale of the year with a discount of unto 80 per cent on various products, along with buy one get one free deals and other sales from November 23 to 29.
    Visit noon.com
    Amazon

    With new deals every day from top brands such as Samsung, Sony and Dyson, Amazon.ae’s massive White Friday sale, is almost here, giving customers the chance to enjoy savings of up to 70% across a seven day period.
    Visit amazon.ae
    Book Depository

    For the avid reader, the world’s most international online bookstore is offering massive discounts in their Black Friday Deals Week with free delivery on every order and new deals coming up every 24 hours. So if you’re looking to have a cozy night in with your favourite book, head over to make sure you don’t miss out.
    Head to bookdepository.com
    PrettyLittleThing

    Keep your style game strong this season with up to 70 per cent off across the entire website, with deals that are already live, on the most adored dresses and looks for the season.
    Visit prettylittlething.ae to find out more.
    Haul In One

    From bespoke sets to adding a personalized touch to every box, this new female-founded startup, add a little HAULsome goodness to box that is collated especially for you. Simpy sign up to Haul In One subscription and add your favourite brands to your box and get 25% off on this box that can make any woman feel special.
    haulinoneworld.com
    Privilee

    If you’ve been thinking about investing in a Privilee membership, now is the time to do so. As part of their amazing Black Friday offer, UAE residents will be able to purchase a three-month Privilee membership at a reduced price of Dhs1,599, which works out at Dh533 per month which is the same price as one staycation.
    The limited-time deal is available to purchase from 25 November – 27 November and will enable people to enjoy unlimited access to Privilee’s ever-growing portfolio of amazing beach resorts, private pools and fitness venues like Zabeel Saray, Park Hyatt, Atlantis The Palm, Bab Al Shams, FitRepublik, SEVEN Gym, and many more.
    Foreo

    Invest in some skin-tech pieces this Black Friday from Foreo. The pioneering skincare brand is offering up to 40 per cent off some of their hero products including the best-selling UFO device.
    The exclusive sale will run from November 20th – December 4th across both Namshi and foreo.com.
    NRG Fitness

    Don’t wait until the New Year to kick-start your gym journey as NRG Fitness has some amazing offers to take advantage of between now and this Saturday. Until November 27, new members can get 16 classes for Dhs909 (was Dhs1,299), 24 classes for Dhs1,299 (was Dhs1,799) and a six-month membership for Dhs599 per month (was Dhs899 per month). NRG offers HIIT, KO8, Zumba, Barre, Lift, TOA and indoor cycling.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Feature image: 20th Century Fox More

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    Warm, But Make It Fashion: 25+ Stylish Pieces For When It’s Freezing Outside

    Once the temperatures drop below a solid 30 degrees, it’s hard to think about anything but staying as warm as physically possible. But once it gets really cold (for us Chicagoans, that means a brisk -30), forget looking cute; staying warm takes priority every single time—but nobody said you can’t do both.Not every single cold-weather piece has to leave you looking like a jet-puffed marshmallow—you can layer up in ultra-warm pieces that also leave you feeling like you don’t mind being out in the cold. The days of your mom layering you up in so many puffy pieces that you can’t move your limbs are over; stay warm this season with these foolproof pieces.

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    I’m an Avid Target Shopper: Here Are The Clothing Pieces I Swear By

    If I were to ever consider my relationship with a particular store to be a love affair, it would be with Target (… duh). I swear, the serotonin boost I get from browsing the aisles—or scrolling target.com—is something unmatched by anything else. If I’m having a bad day, Target can make it better.Of course, my absolute favorite section of the store (closely rivaled by home decor) is clothing, shoes, and accessories. I pride myself on being able to find the best prices for trending fashion items, and a huge majority of my absolute favorite affordable clothing pieces are from Target. 
    Once I find something I love, I simply must have every. single. color. They’re just too good, and the price is unbeatable! I rely heavily on Target for all of my go-to basics, which you will see here. They also have tons of amazing dupes for high-ticket items, which I consider to be my specialty.
    Here are six Target clothing pieces I absolutely swear by:

    1. Quilted Jacket

    I let out an audible gasp when I first saw this jacket. I’ve been lusting after the $200 Free People quilted jacket for years now, so when I saw this very similar option for $35, I was more than excited. I immediately went to Target to buy it because I simply could not wait for it to be shipped to me. It comes in three colors: mauve (that’s the one I have), olive, and black, and all of them are equally cute. I love to style this with jeans and a mock-neck top, or with leggings and a hoodie for an athleisure look. It’s the perfect lightweight jacket for when you just need a little extra something.

    2. Plaid Pull-on Pants

    OK, listen up: if there is one thing you need from this article, it’s these pants. I (like most of the world, I’m sure) have been on the hunt for the perfect pair of pants for working from home. I want comfort and practicality, but I also want to look a little more put-together than if I were to just put on the same pair of joggers I’ve been wearing for three days in a row. Enter: the pull-on pant. When I wear them, I feel cute and chic and as though maybe, just maybe, life is a little bit normal. I only have one pair, but I need more ASAP—I have my eye on the pleated tan pair next. 

    3. Ribbed Tank

    I have a serious obsession with these tank tops. I wrote about them a few months ago, and I’m not kidding when I say they were by far my #1 most-worn item of summer. I also managed to get many of my coworkers (as well as friends and family) on the “Target tank top” train. So you’re probably like, Jess, it’s winter, why are we talking about summer tank tops? Well, that is because I have not stopped wearing them as temperatures have dropped into the 30s. My new favorite (and cold weather-approved) way to wear them is with joggers (for WFH) or jeans and a cardigan. For some reason, it makes me feel like I tried a little harder than if I were to just wear another plain sweater. If it helps you understand how much I love them, I’ll admit it: I own six of them.

    4. Ribbed Basic Tee

    Much like the ribbed tank, these basic tees have become a very important wardrobe staple of mine. I have them in black and “blush brown,” which are both awesome neutrals that go with everything. This is another perfect layering piece for winter—I like to pair one of these with a cardigan, a blazer or jacket, or even under a sweater for some extra warmth. The quality is seriously exceptional for a tee that is under $10, and I reach for them most out of all the basic tees I own (including my more expensive ones!).

    5. Long-Sleeve Ribbed Tee

    If you haven’t caught on by now, I’m a little bit obsessed with basics from Target’s brand A New Day. I really believe that the quality is unmatched for the price point. So, when I saw the winter version of my favorite ribbed summer basics, you know I had to jump on it. The material of these long-sleeve tees is so soft, comfortable, and most importantly, thick. So far I only own this one in cream, but if the tanks are an indication, I will own at least five more by the end of winter. Also, can we have a moment of appreciation for the color options?! This comes in seven colors, all of which are so cute for the winter months.

    6. Snakeskin Boots

    Last year, I splurged on Black Friday and treated myself to a pair of Dr. Martens platform Chelsea boots. I am obsessed with them, and they were well worth the money given how often I’ve worn them. Then, when I saw these snakeskin boots on Target’s website, I knew I needed to have them as a fresh take on my beloved Docs. These provide a little extra flair that my plain black ones do not, and I have gotten endless amounts of compliments on them. And if snakeskin isn’t your vibe, they also come in black—making for the perfect Dr. Martens dupe. More