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      8 minimal coffee shops to work from in Dubai

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      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      14 mins ago

      VIEW GALLERY/ 8 IMAGES
      We all need our daily dose of caffeine, so why not enjoy somewhere aesthetic? For a minimal space, there are a plethora of minimal coffee shops to either work or switch off from completely.
      For a quick midday break or to simply catch up on some work, Dubai has a host of refined spots that are sure to cater to both your tastebuds and eye.
      Instead of offering an overwhelming array of options, minimalist coffee shops often have a concise menu focusing on quality over quantity. They may offer a few select coffee varieties prepared with precision and care.
      With a ket focus on craftsmanship, these coffee shops focus on attention to detail and craftsmanship which is evident in every aspect, from the carefully prepared beverages to the handcrafted ceramics or glassware used for serving.
      From concrete interiors to a minimalist palette, Scandinavian interiors have gained huge traction over the years as spaces have sheltered away from the overcomplicated design.
      So, If you’re on the hunt for pared-back spaces with a clean design, Emirates Woman has curated the ultimate guide on all the places to bookmark ASAP.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @veneti.a More

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      How I got my job as… a UAE-based Cultural Strategist and Art Advisor

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      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      2 hours ago

      This week, Emirates Woman spoke to Myrna Ayad, Cultural Strategist and Art Advisor based in the UAE.
      Welcome to the Woman weekly series ‘How I got my job as…’ where we speak to some incredible entrepreneurs and business women both based in the UAE and globally to find out about their career paths that led them to where they are now; what their daily routines look like; the advice they’d give to those starting out; and the hurdles they’ve had to overcome.
      Based in Dubai, Ayad established her namesake consultancy in 2018, focusing on art advisory, cultural strategy and publishing. Overall, she develops cultural strategies and support brands and organisations to embrace art and culture within their frameworks. This way, brands stand out.
      Her expertise sees the many intersections between the worlds of art and luxury. Both forms of creation influence one another and present enduring experiences.
      What was your favourite subject at school?
      English, Psychology and History.
      What was your first job?
      At a now-defunct publishing house. I started off editing one weekly student paper, Campus Journal and then launched Campus Journal in Kuwait and then came The Buzz, a Village Voice-type weekly.
      What brought you to Dubai?
      The invasion of Lebanon in 1982. My maternal grandfather owned some of the UAE’s first hotels, so we came here ‘temporarily’ and here we are, at home.
      What inspired you to enter the industry?
      Stories. Art and people tell stories.
      Talk us through the concept?
      I work independently as a cultural strategist and editor with a focus on art and culture from the Arab world and Iran.
      What are the key elements of your role?
      Telling stories essentially. I advise organisations on what they should do within the cultural sector, and I produce books. That means I develop the concept, conceive an editorial outline, manage everything from imagery and design, to copyediting and contributing writers, and write! My favourite bit is the writing of course.
      Talk us through your daily routine.
      I have a wonderful office at home where I clock in and out of daily – weekends included. I’m a working mother so my day is punctuated by pick-ups, drop-offs, cooking and running errands. If I’m not seeing friends in the evening, I’ll be watching something riveting on TV with my husband.
      What advice do you have for anyone looking to follow in the same footsteps?
      Read. Ask. Listen. Attend exhibitions. Watch films. Listen to your heart and wonder. Make sure you document everything. Absolutely everything.
      Tell us more about the work done previously?
      Today, my clients include PepsiCo, the UAE Ministry of Culture and Youth, the Easa Saleh Al Gurg Group, Bulgari, and Pink Tank. I also act as an external advisor to Bain, Pelham Communications, Edelman as well as Riyadh’s Misk Art Institute. I am author of Assouline’s Sheikh Zayed: An Eternal Legacy (2021), a seminal book on the late ruler of the Emirates, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan; as well as Dubai Wonder (2021), part of the House’s iconic travel series. I am also author of The National’s monthly series, Remembering the Artist, an intimate portrayal of the lives of pioneering modernists from the region based on exclusive interviews with their relatives, friends or students. I am proud to say that I am recognised as one of the Arab world’s leading cultural commentators.
      From 2016–2018, I was Director of Art Dubai, the Arab world, Iran, Turkey and South Asia’s foremost international art fair. During my time there, the fair enjoyed its largest and most globally diverse editions to date and presented a robust non-profit programme. Preceding this, I wrote about art from the Arab world, Iran and Turkey for titles including The New York Times, CNN Online, The Art Newspaper, Artforum, Artsy, Artnet, Wallpaper* and The National, among others, as well as for artist monographs and exhibition catalogues. . Over the years, I have served as a panellist and moderator for entities such as Arab Luxury World (2019), Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (2018), Global Art Forum (2017), the Art Business Conference (2017), Alserkal Avenue (2015), 21,39 Jeddah Arts (2014) and Art Basel (2009) as well as several UAE art galleries.

      What is the best piece of advice you have ever received?
      It will all be OK.
      And what is the worst?
      “Ignore it.”
      What’s the biggest challenge you have had to overcome?
      Age.
      What’s your future for the brand?
      A countless number of books on art and culture from the Arab world and Iran, and an illustrated children’s series, Noor’s Heroes, that will launch in September.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied  More

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      Having a sick day? Here’s 13 rom-com movies to watch

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      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      5 seconds ago

      With the unexpected heavy rainfall, our evening plans might have taken a turn, but with a plethora of rom-com movies available at the touch of a button, there’s always something to do.
      The issue isn’t that won’t find any good romantic movies on the streaming platforms—rather you might spend too much time sifting through the huge assortment of everything from romantic dramas to romantic comedies.
      To reduce your scrolling time, we’ve collated a list of all the rom-com movies from dramatic love stories to classic ones, the list is endless.
      It’s time to settle in with one of the films from our round-up of the best rom-coms out there. Prepare to laugh and cry in equal measure. By being cute, funny or a teensy bit cheesy, these rom-coms make us catch feelings in all the best ways. And oh, the endings! When many of us want to lose ourselves in romantic movies, we reach for some rom-com movies. They’re the perfect blend of funny and heartstring-tugging; perfect for soothing a broken heart after a breakup, reminding the long-coupled how much they love love or just for a relaxing, low-stress movie night.
      They’re so well-made that some even forget about being sick as it transcends you into a completely new world of rom-com movies, allowing you to switch off for a few hours or even run a marathon as all of them are so thoughtfully directed.
      So, if you plan on switching off with just your TV and remote, Emirates Woman has curated the ultimate guide of timeless romcoms to watch as you spend the evening at home.

      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @noordegroot More

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      7 of the best premium Ice-creams to try in Dubai

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      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      1 hour ago

      If you’re looking to beat the summer heat, Ice-creams are possibly the best option. We’re all softies for ice-cream and might always need a cheat treat occasionally.
      National Ice Cream Day is celebrated annually in the United States on the third Sunday in July. This holiday was established by President Ronald Reagan in 1984, who also declared July as National Ice Cream Month. National Ice Cream Day is a time for ice cream lovers to indulge in their favorite frozen treats and for ice cream shops to offer special deals and promotions. Many people celebrate by enjoying various flavors of ice cream, trying new combinations, and even making their own ice cream at home.
      With a range of exciting flavours such as fresh Pistachio ice-creams and other vanilla flavours topped with 24kt gold carat for that premium experience, Dubai is home to a variety of exotic flavours to tantalize your tastebuds and make any meal even more exciting.
      So, if you’re looking for a delicious dessert after a meal or simply want to cool down after a long day, we’ve curated a guide of all the must-visit spots that have a plethora of delectable choices that your palate can’t simply get enough of.
      Massimo’s Gelato

      This famous restaurant is the first Italian artisanal gelato known for its creamy, light and explosive flavours. Like the authentic homemade Gelato, these flavours are produced fresh every day in the laboratory in small quantities with natural ingredients that melts in the mouth slowly releasing the flavour of each ingredient. With vegan options for its Dark Chocolate and pistachio, each flavour caters to a wide audience. It’s the first outlet in Dubai, which has its own motorcycle fleet. They can bring Gelato to your home in just a few minutes with its traditional flavours. Located in Dubai Marina, City Walk and Mall of the Emirates, this venue has best Italian ingredients.
      For more information visit
      Godiva

      For a gourmet experience, Godiva brings its 100 years after being founded in Brussels with fine craftsmanship. Each spoonful of ice cream pairs the finest ingredients with the iconic chocolate experience. With flavours such as Midnight Swirl and with Dark Chocolate. To innovative flavours such as Mint Medallion, customers are spoiled for choice. Located at City Walk, Dubai Festival City, Mall of the Emirates and The Outlet Village, the restaurant is situated around various spots in Dubai.
      For more information visit Godiva.com
      Mirzam

      Known as Dubai’s premium chocolate makers, guests can experience every aspect of the process at the factory and see it from roasting the cocoa beans to each bar being wrapped. From vegan options such as a floral hibiscus & creamy mango to the OG dark chocolate softie with an espresso shot, the options are endless. Located in Al Quoz 3, Mirzam is open daily from 8am to 11pm
      For more information visit mirzam.com
      Majama

      For all the vegan lovers, this much-loved ice-cream spot makes healthy treats that our 100 percent vegan, gluten-free and refined-sugar free. Handcrafted from scratch, the brand has a myriad of delectable flavours such as Count Macchiato, Judge Fudge, Loco Chococo, Choco(Lit) Dynamite and Mango Django. Created with a coconut base, this light ice-creams are the perfect option for a treat without feeling guilty. As a homegrown label in Dubai, it’s located in Cluster N, Jumeirah Lake Towers and is open daily from 10am to 10pm and is available for ordering on Deliveroo and Chat Food.
      For more information visit eatmajama.com
      Krema’s

      This newly launched venue has entered the ice cream space with its limited-edition bite-sized ice cream Melts to maximise the summer glory. The ice cream is crafted to perfection in collaboration with Two at Symphony, Krema’s sister concept,ice cream is crafted to perfection in collaboration with Two at Symphony, Krema’s sister concept, with a gorgeous venue at Dubai Mall’s Fashion Avenue, where guests can enjoy incredibly delightful desserts. Orders can be placed via Chatfood, Talabat, and Deliveroo and the incredible ice cream flavours will be delivered across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Al Ain and are priced at AED 59 per tub containing 18-20 pieces. Krema’s Melts are also available for pick-up at Two at symphony at Dubai Mall.
      Mama Booza

      If you’re looking for a stylish sweet treat this summer, look no further than Mama Booza. Founded by entrepreneur and fitness enthusiast Tracy Harmoush and Wael Ariss, Mama Booza is an Arabic ice cream brand that offers an authentic taste of traditional flavours. Take your pick and indulge from a range of five flavours: ashta, dates, chocolate, knafeh, pistachio that come with toppings for an added touch of delight and nostalgia to your frozen treat. Available for home delivery only via Deliveroo, each delectable flavour is made with natural ingredients.
      Amorino

      World renowned Artisan Italian gelato brand, Amorino has opened doors in Dubai at Souk Madinat Jumeirah.  Famed for its signature rose shaped gelato cones adorned with handmade gelato-filled macarons, Amorino Dubai serves 22 delicious flavours of gelato and sorbet that come directly from Italy with no artificial colouring or flavouring and are made using carefully selected ingredients including organic eggs and farm fresh milk.  Founded in 2002 by two Italian childhood friends, Amorino’s first store was in the heart of Paris. Now with more than 255 shops worldwide across 18 countries.  On the menu, find wide-ranging gelato and sorbet flavours including stracciatella, pistachio, tiramisu, Madagascar vanilla bourbon, Alfonso mango, orange cinnamon, organic lemon, white chocolate blueberry, sorbet bio chocolate, hazelnut, coconut, and much more, in addition to limited edition seasonal flavours that will appear in-store for exclusive periods throughout the year. Served in various sizes in a cone or a cup. Amorino Dubai is now open and welcoming guests in Souk Madinat Jumeirah and is available for delivery via Deliveroo.
      For more information visit www.amorino.com, 
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @alexiiak More

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      in lifestyle and culture

      6 of the best premium Ice-creams to try in Dubai

      by

      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      8 hours ago

      If you’re looking to beat the summer heat, Ice-creams are possibly the best option. We’re all softies for ice-cream and might always need a cheat treat occasionally.
      National Ice Cream Day is celebrated annually in the United States on the third Sunday in July. This holiday was established by President Ronald Reagan in 1984, who also declared July as National Ice Cream Month. National Ice Cream Day is a time for ice cream lovers to indulge in their favorite frozen treats and for ice cream shops to offer special deals and promotions. Many people celebrate by enjoying various flavors of ice cream, trying new combinations, and even making their own ice cream at home.
      With a range of exciting flavours such as fresh Pistachio ice-creams and other vanilla flavours topped with 24kt gold carat for that premium experience, Dubai is home to a variety of exotic flavours to tantalize your tastebuds and make any meal even more exciting.
      So, if you’re looking for a delicious dessert after a meal or simply want to cool down after a long day, we’ve curated a guide of all the must-visit spots that have a plethora of delectable choices that your palate can’t simply get enough of.
      Massimo’s Gelato

      This famous restaurant is the first Italian artisanal gelato known for its creamy, light and explosive flavours. Like the authentic homemade Gelato, these flavours are produced fresh every day in the laboratory in small quantities with natural ingredients that melts in the mouth slowly releasing the flavour of each ingredient. With vegan options for its Dark Chocolate and pistachio, each flavour caters to a wide audience. It’s the first outlet in Dubai, which has its own motorcycle fleet. They can bring Gelato to your home in just a few minutes with its traditional flavours. Located in Dubai Marina, City Walk and Mall of the Emirates, this venue has best Italian ingredients.
      For more information visit
      Godiva

      For a gourmet experience, Godiva brings its 100 years after being founded in Brussels with fine craftsmanship. Each spoonful of ice cream pairs the finest ingredients with the iconic chocolate experience. With flavours such as Midnight Swirl and with Dark Chocolate. To innovative flavours such as Mint Medallion, customers are spoiled for choice. Located at City Walk, Dubai Festival City, Mall of the Emirates and The Outlet Village, the restaurant is situated around various spots in Dubai.
      For more information visit Godiva.com
      Mirzam

      Known as Dubai’s premium chocolate makers, guests can experience every aspect of the process at the factory and see it from roasting the cocoa beans to each bar being wrapped. From vegan options such as a floral hibiscus & creamy mango to the OG dark chocolate softie with an espresso shot, the options are endless. Located in Al Quoz 3, Mirzam is open daily from 8am to 11pm
      For more information visit mirzam.com
      Majama

      For all the vegan lovers, this much-loved ice-cream spot makes healthy treats that our 100 percent vegan, gluten-free and refined-sugar free. Handcrafted from scratch, the brand has a myriad of delectable flavours such as Count Macchiato, Judge Fudge, Loco Chococo, Choco(Lit) Dynamite and Mango Django. Created with a coconut base, this light ice-creams are the perfect option for a treat without feeling guilty. As a homegrown label in Dubai, it’s located in Cluster N, Jumeirah Lake Towers and is open daily from 10am to 10pm and is available for ordering on Deliveroo and Chat Food.
      For more information visit eatmajama.com
      Mama Booza

      If you’re looking for a stylish sweet treat this summer, look no further than Mama Booza. Founded by entrepreneur and fitness enthusiast Tracy Harmoush and Wael Ariss, Mama Booza is an Arabic ice cream brand that offers an authentic taste of traditional flavours. Take your pick and indulge from a range of five flavours: ashta, dates, chocolate, knafeh, pistachio that come with toppings for an added touch of delight and nostalgia to your frozen treat. Available for home delivery only via Deliveroo, each delectable flavour is made with natural ingredients.
      Amorino

      World renowned Artisan Italian gelato brand, Amorino has opened doors in Dubai at Souk Madinat Jumeirah.  Famed for its signature rose shaped gelato cones adorned with handmade gelato-filled macarons, Amorino Dubai serves 22 delicious flavours of gelato and sorbet that come directly from Italy with no artificial colouring or flavouring and are made using carefully selected ingredients including organic eggs and farm fresh milk.  Founded in 2002 by two Italian childhood friends, Amorino’s first store was in the heart of Paris. Now with more than 255 shops worldwide across 18 countries.  On the menu, find wide-ranging gelato and sorbet flavours including stracciatella, pistachio, tiramisu, Madagascar vanilla bourbon, Alfonso mango, orange cinnamon, organic lemon, white chocolate blueberry, sorbet bio chocolate, hazelnut, coconut, and much more, in addition to limited edition seasonal flavours that will appear in-store for exclusive periods throughout the year. Served in various sizes in a cone or a cup. Amorino Dubai is now open and welcoming guests in Souk Madinat Jumeirah and is available for delivery via Deliveroo.
      For more information visit www.amorino.com, 
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @alexiiak More

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      Want to savour a cup of tea at home? Buy these quali-tea products

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      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      2 mins ago

      Sometimes, taking a midday break as you WFH can help with concentrating. To add to your break, a perfectly brewed cup of tea can cater to your taste buds by giving you that caffeine kick.
      Tea is a popular beverage made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant. It comes in several varieties, each with unique flavors, characteristics, and health benefits.
      These expert-approved guide highlights various bags, cups, pots and matcha sets. Overall, it’s the ideal way to catch-up with loved ones, mark a special birthday, or just because – and they also make a delicious gift for the tea lover in your life.
      To get an insight, the various types are.
      Green
      Made from unoxidized leaves and is one of the least processed types. It has a high concentration of antioxidants and is believed to have numerous health benefits, such as improving brain function and aiding in fat loss.
      Black
      Fully oxidised, giving it a dark color and rich flavor. It generally has more caffeine than other types and is often enjoyed with milk and sugar.
      Oolong
      Partially oxidised, falling somewhere between green and black in terms of flavor and caffeine content. It is known for its smooth, rich taste.
      White
      Least processed and made from young leaves or buds. It has a delicate flavor and is high in antioxidants.
      Herbal
      Not made from the Camellia sinensis plant. Instead, it is made from a variety of herbs, spices, flowers, and fruits. Popular examples include chamomile, peppermint, and rooibos. For added therapeutic benefits, it can often provide the most effective relief for coughs.
      Pu-erh
      Fermented from China, known for its unique aging process, which can last for several years. It has a rich, earthy flavor and is believed to aid in digestion.
      Matcha
      Originating from Japan, it’s used in traditional ceremonies. It is made from finely ground, high-quality green leaves and is known for its vibrant green color and robust flavor.

      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @whatgigiwears More

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      Who is Sheikha Mahra Al Maktoum? 6 details to know about this royal

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      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      10 mins ago

      Sheikha Mahra bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum is the daughter of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.
      As a keen advocate for women and known to empower the community of local designers in the UAE, Sheikha Mahra is always inspiring her 172k followers on social media.
      With her growing presence globally, all her fans are eager to know more about this Princess.
      To find out more, Emirates Woman shares everything that you might not know about Sheikha Mahra.
      She gives back to the community

      Her Highness Sheikha Mahra bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum is no stranger to giving back to the local community. Known for her philanthropic efforts in the region, she is always spreading joy and was also seen spending many afternoons with children of determination. Known to never shy away from affect, Sheikha Mahra also shared an emotional moment where she stopped and reached down to hug a young child. With all smiles in a heartwarming portrait. With her philanthropic efforts playing a key role to raise awareness about different issues in society, her kindness and generosity are truly irreplaceable.
      She loves horses

      It’s well-known horse racing is a major passion of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, and it’s clearly a love he has passed on to his children. Sharing his love for horses is his daughter, Sheikha Mahra, is often seen attending the races and posing with her favourite animals.
      She supports local designers

      Her Highness Sheikha Mahra bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum is one such person that is continuing to champion regional designers and their flawless creations. Known to attend the Icons Exhibition, Sheikha Mahra is a regular visitor of its different locations around the UAE, as it shines a light on different designers in the region. The Icons Exhibition is an event held multiple times a year showcasing local designers and talent and is run by Emirati designer and creative Roudha Al Shamsi. She always shares series of photos and a video of her visit to any exhibition where she is seen learning about various local businesses visiting different booths at the event, from jewellery to food to makeup to clothes.
      She’s known for her sartorial choices

      More and more nowadays we’re seeing abayas come in an array of different colourways and patterns – far from the traditional all-black ensemble. Hence, one individual known for her sartorial choices is Her Highness Sheikha Mahra al Maktoum. Her Highness is known for effortlessly playing with different patterns and colourways and always knows how to carry it off. Whether attending exhibitions or posing with her favourite horses, she continuously stuns with every different look.
      She completed her Bachelor’s in the UK

      Her Highness Sheikha Mahra Bint Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum has a degree in International Relations from a UK university. The royal princess also has a college degree from Mohammed bin Rashid Government Administration.
      She got married last year

      According to an official statement on the Sheikha’s official Instagram account, Her Highness Sheikha Mahra and her fiancé Sheikh Mana Al Maktoum have signed the marriage contract. On April 5, 2023, both Sheikha Mahra and Sheikh Mana shared that they celebrated their Katb Al-Kitaab — the official marriage ceremony and signing of the marriage contract through social media.
      She’s a mother
      The Dubai princess and daughter of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, gave birth to a healthy baby girl in May 2024. Back in February this year, the couple had hosted a gender reveal.
      Swipe through the gallery to look back at Sheikha Mahra’s key moments:

      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Instagram @hhshmahra & @marwa.alzarounii More

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      Create a capsule wardrobe with these 10 fashion basics

      by

      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      5 mins ago

      VIEW GALLERY/ 10 IMAGES
      Ever felt the need to pack less? Or simply spend less time in the morning deciding what to wear? It’s never too late to create a capsule wardrobe with a few fashion basics.
      With endless options in the sartorial world, a decluttered wardrobe rarely lets us make quick decisions on what to wear without spending too much.
      To curate the perfect capsule wardrobe it’s essential to invest in timeless high-quality items and statement pieces in basic hues such as black, white, camel, beige, brown and off-white.
      It all begins with a meticulous edit of impeccably crafted pieces that can stand the true test of time. By focusing on classic pieces that transcend seasons and trends, you’ll be able to purchase must-have pieces that that can successfully create a seasonless closet.
      The key is to curate a collection that exudes sophistication and can be edited accordingly for any occasion.
      So if you’re thinking of revamping your space and starting from scratch, we’re here to guide you with all the basics to buy on your next shopping spree.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @cassdimicco More