luxury

Subterms

    More stories

    • 163 Shares

      in lifestyle and culture

      How this Beirut hotspot Amelia has made its mark on Dubai’s culinary scene

      by

      Situated in the heart of Downtown at Address Sky View, this hotspot Amelia offers a delectable menu of Japanese and Peruvian cuisines.
      Embracing a theme of retro-futuristic revelry, Amelia’s cocktail menu is a testament to the artistry and skill of its mixologists. Known for its insatiable appetite for bringing people together, it focuses on warm service in an uplifting atmosphere to invoke all senses.
      Overall, the the fine-dining lounge restaurant at Address Sky View presents an exquisite selection of cocktails that embodies a journey through innovation. The restaurant provides an experiential culinary experience with a difference, hence it promises to take guests on a journey unlike any other.
      To see how the restaurant continues to innovate, Emirates Woman spoke to Rayan Nicolas, the CEO of Amelia Dubai on preserving and furthering culinary expression and innovation.
      Tell us about your background.
      My background began with an engineering education, but my curiosity for the F&B sector and entertainment scene blossomed during college. This interest led me to start with a small restaurant in Beirut and venture into event management, specializing in musical events and concerts. Over a span of 15 years, I expanded our portfolio to include over 10 restaurants and lounges in Beirut, as well as managing hotels and resorts. In 2018, we launched Amelia Lounge, which quickly became a local sensation. However, Lebanon faced significant challenges from 2020 onwards, including financial crises, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the devastating Beirut explosion.
      These events prompted us to explore new markets, and after extensive research, Dubai emerged as the most promising opportunity. Recognising the risks and intense competition in Dubai, we decided to expand Amelia from Beirut to Dubai, scaling up to meet the city’s grandiose standards. It was a daunting task, but we meticulously studied the market’s nuances to ensure our concept aligned with Amelia’s established identity and principles.

      The concept hails from Beirut – what inspired you to bring it to Dubai?
      The story of Amelia revolves around adventure and transcending boundaries in all aspects, particularly in architecture, mixology, gastronomy, and music. Our menu takes guests on a culinary journey inspired by Japanese and Peruvian origins, showcasing a finely articulated blend of Nikkei cuisine with Mediterranean hints. This fusion reflects an intense intercultural exchange and expresses a rich diversity of flavours. Bringing the Amelia concept from Beirut to Dubai was inspired by the city’s vibrant and cosmopolitan food scene. Dubai is a global hub known for its appreciation of diverse and high-quality dining experiences. We saw an opportunity to introduce our unique blend of Nikkei cuisine and steampunk-inspired design to a market that values innovation and cultural fusion, enhancing the culinary landscape with a new and exciting offering.
      The chefs take guests on a Japanese and Peruvian culinary journey – what are the key dishes to try?
      The key dishes to try at Amelia include, Salmon Ponzu Truffle Ceviche: Fresh salmon combined with the rich umami of truffle and the tangy brightness of ponzu, the Wild Sea Bass with Coconut Tiger Milk which is A creamy, tropical twist on classic ceviche, highlighting the delicate texture of sea bass. The Rollo De Camarones: A delightful combination of shrimp, halloumi cheese, avocado, kimchi, and Togarashi. This is one of our cooked sushi dishes and one that is favourite amongst our diners and the Flammkuchen A la Truffa (Truffle Pizza): Crispy, thin crust with the luxurious flavor of truffle, creating a unique and indulgent experience.
      The interiors shed light on aviation – tell us more.
      The interiors of Amelia shed light on aviation by paying homage to Amelia Earhart, the pioneering aviator. The design includes aviation-inspired elements such as a majestic airplane atop the main bar and abstract representations being submersed underwater in the mezzanine area. These elements celebrate Earhart’s adventurous spirit and the golden age of aviation, creating an ambiance that transports guests into a world of exploration and discovery.
      The restaurant journeys deep into the retro-futuristic steampunk-inspired theme – how did the theme begin?
      The inspiration behind the steampunk-retro design concept for Amelia is deeply rooted in the adventurous spirit of its namesake, Amelia Earhart, the first female aviator to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean. Drawing parallels between her boldness and the restaurant’s theme, Amelia embodies a fusion of her adventurous spirit and timeless elegance, marrying aviation-inspired decor with subtle nods throughout the menu. The design concept is a homage to the retro era of the 1920s and 1930s, characterized by the industrial revolution and art deco movements, intertwined with elements from the aviation industry.
      Steampunk serves as the overarching theme, infusing the space with surrealism and a twisted fairy tale ambiance, all brought together in a modernized manner. This eclectic combination of styles serves as the perfect backdrop for Amelia’s culinary offering of Nikkei cuisine. Just as the design concept blends different eras and influences, Nikkei cuisine similarly represents a fusion of cultures and flavors, modernized and elevated to create a unique and harmonious dining experience. The rich tapestry of influences and the innovative approach to both design and cuisine align seamlessly, embodying the spirit of exploration and creativity that defines Amelia.
      Amelia’s private room “Voyage by Amelia” is a hidden gem – talk us through the concept.
      “Voyage by Amelia” is a hidden gem that offers an exclusive and immersive experience, set to transport guests to the 1920s through a sensorial journey. Accessed via a private elevator, this secret spot is designed for those in the know, making it the perfect venue for special occasions and private gatherings. The journey begins with the opening of the pendulum-inspired door on the first floor, leading guests into a surrealist interior that depicts strong themes of travel and adventure. The room is designed to portray the inside of a clock, complete with gears and spirals, enhancing the sense of being transported to another time and place. A vintage train station-inspired bar sits centrally, surrounded by walls framed with retro windows and dreamlike art.
      The dedication to the 1920s steampunk era continues with plush velvet, vintage-inspired furniture that resembles retro pieces of luggage, heightening the senses of space and time. Open every Thursday to Saturday from 11pm until the early hours, “Voyage by Amelia” features a musical focus on deep house, ensuring the vibe is always on point. A lineup of resident and international DJs dictates the audio tempo, with sultry sounds paired with an extensive drinks menu of the finest serves. This eclectic design and carefully curated atmosphere set the stage for evenings of master mixology and incredible music, making “Voyage by Amelia” a must-visit for those seeking a unique and exclusive experience.
      Guests can experience a blend of cultures at Amelia – what is the main theme?
      The main theme at Amelia is the fusion of cultures, particularly through our Nikkei cuisine, which blends Japanese and Peruvian culinary traditions. This fusion is reflected not only in our diverse menu but also in the design and overall dining experience. We aim to provide a journey through different cultures, offering a unique and memorable experience that celebrates diversity and innovation.
      How has the F&B scene evolved since Amelia’s launch?
      Over the past two years, we have observed a significant increase in the number of Nikkei concepts emerging in the UAE, reflecting a growing awareness and appreciation for this unique culinary fusion. However at Amelia, we offer more than just food; we provide a comprehensive dining experience that includes expertly crafted cocktails, engaging music, and impeccable service. Our patrons have wholeheartedly embraced this holistic approach, consistently praising the quality of our food and the immersive atmosphere we create.
      From the very beginning, our guests have expressed their love for our cuisine and the overall experience we offer. Our guests appreciate the innovative fusion of Japanese and Peruvian flavors, as well as the attention to detail in every dish. From day one, our guests have expressed their love for our cuisine and the immersive experience we provide. It’s been a rewarding journey, albeit challenging at times, to satisfy such a diverse range of tastes. Since Amelia’s launch, the F&B scene has continued to evolve with a growing appreciation for fusion cuisines and unique dining experiences and Amelia has set a new standard for culinary and experiential dining in Dubai. Our success has inspired other establishments to explore similar innovative concepts, enriching the local food scene.
      What sets Amelia apart from other restaurants in Dubai?
      Amelia sets itself apart through its unwavering commitment to culinary innovation, immersive design, and exceptional guest experience. At the heart of our identity is a unique blend of Japanese and Peruvian flavors, meticulously crafted by our team of world-class chefs. The Nikkei cuisine, harmoniously marries the delicate precision of Japanese culinary techniques with the bold, vibrant flavors of Peruvian ingredients. Our menu features an array of exquisite dishes, from fresh sashimi and sushi rolls to inventive ceviches and tiraditos, each offering a delightful journey for the palate. Stepping into Amelia, guests are immediately transported to a different world, thanks to our captivating steampunk-inspired ambiance. Our interior design is a masterful blend of elegance and industrial revolution aesthetics, featuring exposed gears, brass fixtures, and vintage mechanical elements.
      This unique setting, with its warm, moody lighting and richly detailed decor, creates an atmosphere that is both sophisticated and adventurous, inviting guests to relax and lose themselves in the experience. Moreover, Amelia prides itself on meticulous attention to detail and an unwavering dedication to high-quality service. From the moment guests walk through our doors, they are greeted with warmth and genuine hospitality. Our staff, trained to anticipate and cater to every need, ensures that each visit is seamless and enjoyable. Whether it’s a personalized menu recommendation, a perfectly timed wine pairing, or a special accommodation for dietary preferences, every aspect of the service is designed to exceed expectations. In addition to our culinary and design elements, Amelia frequently hosts exclusive bar events, with guest shifts from bartenders not only based in the UAE, but from around the world.

      What lies ahead for Amelia?
      Looking ahead, Amelia plans to continue pushing the boundaries of culinary and experiential dining, constantly striving to elevate the guest experience to new heights. Central to our future vision is the introduction of new and exciting menu items that further explore and celebrate the dynamic fusion of Japanese and Peruvian flavours. Our culinary team is dedicated to ongoing experimentation and creativity, ensuring that our menu remains fresh, innovative, and reflective of the latest trends and techniques in the culinary world. Guests can look forward to seasonal dishes that highlight the finest ingredients, as well as inventive takes on classic favorites. In addition to our food offerings, we are thrilled to announce the upcoming launch of our new cocktail menu.
      This carefully curated selection of beverages will feature unique, handcrafted cocktails that push the outer boundaries of mixology with an almost chemical precision. Utilizing a range of exotic ingredients and artisanal spirits, our mixologists will craft drinks that not only complement our dishes but also stand out as exceptional experiences in their own right. Each cocktail is a testament to our commitment to innovation and excellence. Enhancing our immersive design elements is another key focus for Amelia’s future. We plan to further develop our steampunk-inspired ambiance, incorporating even more intricate and captivating details.
      Expansion
      Moreover, Amelia is poised to expand its presence into other vibrant markets, bringing our unique dining concept to new audiences. We are exploring opportunities to open additional locations in key cities known for their culinary diversity and appreciation for innovative dining experiences. Each new venue will retain the core elements that define Amelia while incorporating local influences to create a distinct and authentic experience for our guests in different regions.
      This expansion will allow us to share our passion for culinary fusion and immersive design with an even broader audience, establishing Amelia as a leading name in the global dining scene. Our goal is to keep evolving and innovating, providing our guests with unforgettable dining experiences that celebrate the fusion of cultures and the spirit of adventure. By consistently pushing the envelope in both our culinary offerings and our overall guest experience, Amelia will continue to set the standard for excellence in the world of experiential dining.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @amelia.dubai More

    • 100 Shares

      in lifestyle and culture

      July/August’s – The Summer Escape Issue with MAISWIM

      by

      Life

      by Amy Sessions
      39 seconds ago

      Creative Direction: Amy SessionsPhotographer: Greg AdamskiCover Star: Tania V Santos SilvaFashion Editor: Camille MacawiliMakeup & Hair: Mauro HernanFashion Assistant: Dhaarna MakerVideographer: Ahmed AbdelwahabStyling with thanks to THAT Concept StoreLocation with thanks to TAGOMAGO
      Welcome to The Summer Escape Issue.
      This issue encourages you to explore and unwind as summer unfolds.
      For our cover, we partnered with MAISWIM in The Free Spirit, the new swimwear brand rethinking a billion-dollar industry, a testament to founder Tania Santos Silva’s creative mindset and freedom of thought.
      We deliver you the best edits for summer dressing from lowkey cool in The Bucket Hat, to solid investments to see you through summer until closing in The Summer Essentials. Beauty and lifestyle wise, we roadtest the best Pilates studios to carve and hone the body in Stretch It Out, Michele Barclay, founder of Browz discusses the art of effortless brows so you can stay low maintenance beachside in Laminate on and we deliver the ultimate essentials for summer hair protection in Under the Heat.

      Finally, in terms of wanderlust, we share the natural beauty of Six Senses Ibiza, an unexpected haven of peace on the magical island and Anantara Santorini, delivers the best of Greece close to home for those staying put this summer in Island Escape. Rest, recharge and refocus this summer.
      Rest, recharge and refocus this summer. It’s time to level up…
      The Hero Buys

      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram

      July/August’s – The Summer Escape Issue with MAISWIM – Download Now More

    • 188 Shares

      in lifestyle and culture

      Want to stay fit this summer? Find out about Dubai’s first true health food kitchen.

      by

      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      4 mins ago

      We’re all looking to get our health and fitness on track, and what better way to do so that with Dubai’s first true health food kitchen.
      Nourishing, creates an effective meal plan for each customer tailored according to their needs.
      Jeff Zorn, Founder of Nourishing shares how he launched Dubai’s first true health food kitchen.
      What do the first 30 minutes of your day look like, your morning routine?
      I wake up with the sunrise, grab a glass of water with a pinch of salt and then head out with our four poodles for a walk around the block. Once I’m back to the house I jump on the treadmill for some quick cardio. Then prepare my NOURISHING breakfast and 2 cups of black coffee (shout out RAW Coffee) or Nourishing Bone Broth depending on how stressful my day is looking. I make it a point to delay picking up any technology at the start of the day.
      What inspired you to launch Nourishing?
      The inspiration behind Nourishing stems from my own health journey. Dealing with an autoimmune condition firsthand, called “weeping eczema”, which made me realize the transformative power of food and the folly of trying to treat the symptoms without addressing the root cause. I wanted to create a turn key solution where individuals like myself could find healing through natural and nourishing meals. Thus, Nourishing Dubai was born, with a mission to empower others on their path to wellness through delicious, wholesome food.

      Talk us through the concept?
      At Nourishing, we’re more than just a kitchen; we’re a lifestyle. Our concept revolves around crafting meals that not only satisfy the taste buds but also nourish the body from within. We embrace the principles of the autoimmune paleo diet, focusing on whole, unprocessed ingredients that support optimal health. Our menu is thoughtfully curated to cater to the various cultures in the UAE, ensuring that everyone can enjoy flavorful, nutrient-dense meals without compromise.
      How can a gluten-free diet positively affect your daily life?
      Eliminating gluten from your diet for 30 days is probably the most powerful single change you can make in your life, for your health and your body composition (ratio of lean mass to body fat). It can have profound effects on both physical and mental well-being. For many individuals, gluten can trigger inflammation, immune & digestive issues, hormone imbalances and even neurological symptoms. By eliminating gluten from their diet, people often experience a refund of energy from their immune system, improved digestion, and enhanced mental clarity as well as a reduction in excess body fat. It’s about reclaiming control over one’s health and thriving, rather than unquestioningly reaching for that piece of bread.

      Nourishing is not just about eating clean – it’s about living clean. – tell us more.
      Absolutely. At Nourishing, we believe that true wellness starts with the plate, but then extends beyond. It’s about cultivating a lifestyle that nurtures the body, mind, and soul. This means prioritizing self-care, fostering meaningful connections, and embracing mindful practices. Our aim is to empower our clients to not only eat well but also live with intention, vitality, and joy. One of the main benefits of Nourishing is not just improved vitality to pursue what makes you happy, but also freeing up the time needed to engage fully in those activities.
      What are some of the most beloved dishes to try from the menu?
      Our menu is a celebration of vibrant flavors and nourishing ingredients. Some of our most cherished dishes include our famous Paleo Lasagna and Shepard’s Pie, our assortment of tacos made with our fresh gluten free tortillas, and last but not least, our insanely good GF & DF Chocolate Brownies which we give out at the end of every week. Each dish is crafted with love and care, subbing out inflammatory ingredients and then using only the highest quality ingredients to deliver an experience that is equal to or better than recipe we are emulating.
      How can good quality food positivly impact your body and mind?
      Quality food is the foundation of optimal health and well-being. By nourishing our bodies with wholesome, nutrient-dense ingredients, we provide the essential building blocks for vitality and resilience. Good quality food not only becomes our physical bodies but also fuels our minds, supporting cognitive function, mood regulation, and overall mental clarity. It’s about honoring our bodies as temples and providing them with the nourishment they deserve.

      Great meals start with the best ingredients – where do you source your ingredients from?
      At Nourishing, we take seriously the oath, “first, do no harm”. We remove a long list of foods that drive inflammation including gluten, industrial seed oils, dairy, GMO’s, etc. We then invest in the highest quality ingredients possible. Whenever feasible, we prioritize locally-sourced, organic produce and sustainably-raised meats. By partnering with suppliers who share our commitment to quality and integrity, we ensure that every dish we serve is crafted with care and thoughtfulness.
      “Good quality food not only becomes our physical bodies but also fuels our minds.”
      Can food allergies and intolerances be accounted for during the program?
      Absolutely. We understand that everyone’s dietary needs are unique, which is why we offer customizable meal plans tailored to accommodate food allergies, intolerances, and preferences. Whether it’s gluten, dairy, eggs, soy or any other dietary restriction, our team works closely with clients to ensure that their meals are not only safe but also delicious and satisfying. Our goal is to empower individuals to thrive on their wellness journey, one nourishing meal at a time.
      This is ‘The Body Issue’ – what are your non-negotiable self and body care practices?
      Self-care is paramount to overall well-being, and I prioritise it in my daily life. This includes regular exercise, whether it’s a morning sunrise hike and breathing session or an evening walk in nature. I also prioritise quality sleep, stress management, and mindfulness practices to nourish my body, mind, and spirit. By investing in self-care, we can cultivate resilience, vitality, and inner peace, allowing us to show up as our best selves in every aspect of life.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Unsplash @polina-kovaleva More

    • 125 Shares

      in lifestyle and culture

      Sheikh Hamdan visits this culinary local hidden gem in Dubai

      by

      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      21 seconds ago

      Known for his foodie adventures, His Highness Sheikh Hamdan, the Crown Prince of Dubai is always out and about in the emirate to scout for the best dining spots, including every local hidden gem.
      Two weeks ago, the Royal paid a visit to one of Dubai’s most authentic local eatery’s, Khoory Kebab in Dubai. Spotted on Thursday, June 13, Sheikh Hamdan shared a meal with a group of friends, where a memorable photo was snapped at the dining table with the restaurant’s traditional décor and rich heritage came to light.
      For years, this hidden spot has been serving up some of the finest kebabs in the city, earning it a loyal following. Located in the bustling heart of Dubai, Khoory Kebab has managed to maintain its charm and authenticity amidst the city’s rapid modernisation.

      With over 20 years of experience, this Persian spot serves a variety of delectable Iranian dishes including sandwich and pizzas, all without breaking the bank. Located in Mamzar, this gem comes with a legacy steeped in tradition and flavour, serving tender lamb kebabs, juicy chicken skewers and more.
      As no stranger to Dubai’s foodie scene, when it comes to dining at the city’s fine-dining spots, Fazza knows best.
      So, if you’re in need of some inspiration on where to dine next, Emirates Woman has curated a list of all the sophisticated restaurants that have received Sheikh Hamdan’s stamp of approval.
      Fazza-approved restaurants
      From alfresco havens to new speakeasies, Dubai’s Crown Prince has paid a visit to a myriad of restaurants, to ensure he’s always on top of the food game.

      Over the years, Sheikh Hamdan has visited a myriad of restaurants in the emirate including Bungalo34, 11 Woodfire, Alaya, Avli by Tashas, Carine and many more over the years.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @faz3 More

    • 125 Shares

      in lifestyle and culture

      Sheikh Hamdan visits this local culinary hidden gem in Dubai

      by

      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      4 hours ago

      Known for his foodie adventures, His Highness Sheikh Hamdan, the Crown Prince of Dubai is always out and about in the emirate to scout for the best dining spots, including every local hidden gem.
      Two weeks ago, the Royal paid a visit to one of Dubai’s most authentic local eatery’s, Khoory Kebab in Dubai. Spotted on Thursday, June 13, Sheikh Hamdan shared a meal with a group of friends, where a memorable photo was snapped at the dining table with the restaurant’s traditional décor and rich heritage came to light.
      For years, this hidden spot has been serving up some of the finest kebabs in the city, earning it a loyal following. Located in the bustling heart of Dubai, Khoory Kebab has managed to maintain its charm and authenticity amidst the city’s rapid modernisation.

      With over 20 years of experience, this Persian spot serves a variety of delectable Iranian dishes including sandwich and pizzas, all without breaking the bank. Located in Mamzar, this gem comes with a legacy steeped in tradition and flavour, serving tender lamb kebabs, juicy chicken skewers and more.
      As no stranger to Dubai’s foodie scene, when it comes to dining at the city’s fine-dining spots, Fazza knows best.
      So, if you’re in need of some inspiration on where to dine next, Emirates Woman has curated a list of all the sophisticated restaurants that have received Sheikh Hamdan’s stamp of approval.
      Fazza-approved restaurants
      From alfresco havens to new speakeasies, Dubai’s Crown Prince has paid a visit to a myriad of restaurants, to ensure he’s always on top of the food game.

      Over the years, Sheikh Hamdan has visited a myriad of restaurants in the emirate including Bungalo34, 11 Woodfire, Alaya, Avli by Tashas, Carine and many more over the years.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @faz3 More

    • 138 Shares

      in lifestyle and culture

      8 car apps to download in Dubai for a smooth ride

      by

      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      23 mins ago

      Tired of waiting in long queues for your next car ride? Dubai has all the right car apps for you.
      From premium cars to airport cabs, each app has a variety of options to choose from making travelling in the emirate an effortless task.
      After entering the destination and pickup point passengers can lay back and enjoy the hassle-free ride through any of these mobile car apps. For utmost safety, each app includes 24/7 support, GPS tracking, and emergency assistance.
      So, for your next ride, Emirates Woman has curated a guide of all the car apps to download in Dubai for a seamless journey.
      Careem
      As a one-stop solution for all its users’ needs, this app has been operating in the country for over a decade. Without limiting to taxi services, the other options include delivery, recharging, transferring money, ordering food and shopping. To receive returns on every ride, customers can also subscribe to the rewards programme starting at Dhs19 per month.
      For more information visit careem.com
      Blacklane
      Blacklane, Dubai’s leading premium chauffeur service, is a luxury brand synonymous with a top-tier approach to saving time, with a dedicated team of professional Academy-trained chauffeurs that allow you to maximise your travel time. For by-the-hour bookings or daily chauffeur hire, users can choose one of our tailored services for total flexibility, reliability and comfort.
      For more information visit blacklane.com 
      Dubai Taxi Corporation (DTC)
      In a smooth and innovative manner, customers can reserve taxis and limousines via the smart application. After registering on the app, passengers can select and reserve a vehicle, after which they search for the nearest one to the customer’s location. Payments can be made directly or through a credit card for a seamless process.
      For more information visit dubaitaxi.ae
      XXRide
      This global ridesharing and ride-hailing service allows customers to seamlessly book a ride after signing in within a few minutes. For an exception experience, the app also offers luxury car rides, making quality prices available at a lesser price. Without forgetting the little ones, the app offers baby car seats in the family category to ensure a safe and seamless ride for them.

      For more information visit xxride.com
      Uber
      While still operating independently across the Middle East, this ride-hailing American service was taken over by Careem in early 2020. As a premium airport car service, the app offers pickups and transportation with a click of a button. For any planned events, Uber has the option of requesting ride up to 30 days in advance at any time and on any day of the year.
      For more information visit uber.com
      WOW
      Dubai’s latest ride-sharing company, WOW Electronic Transport Services allows potential passengers to book rides and have luxury trips or even be a leader and drive with the app. Without limiting any onboarding customers, the app allows one to book a ride for family or friends with minimum effort. With stress-free rides, WOW ensures anyone can book a ride within minutes. To ensure women and children feel comfortable and safe, the app offers an exclusive premium journey for them at any given time of the day.
      For more information visit wowets.com
      BaronFleet
      This premium car booking platform is the GCC’s first on-demand premium service. From limousines to business class Mercedes options, customers can book via the app and opt for the cashless payment option. Whether an airport transfer or an hourly ride, professional chauffeurs ensure customers enjoy a comfortable luxury ride to their destination. With fixed rates, passengers can know the price estimate of their ride in advance.
      For more information visit baronfleet.com
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Blacklane Shoot May 2023 – Emirates Woman More

    • 150 Shares

      in lifestyle and culture

      How I got my job as… Founder of the accessories brand, Wandler

      by

      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      53 mins ago

      This week, Emirates Woman spoke to Elza Wandler, founder of the incredibly luxe leather bag and accessory brand, Wandler.
      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.
      Elza Wandler’s namesake brand, Wandler has solidified its status as an A-lister favourite, street style staple and innovative newcomer in the fashion industry.
      THE OUTNET now has an exclusive, upcycled capsule in partnership luxury leather goods brand, Wandler. This exclusive 16-piece collection focuses on beautifully crafted leather handbags and shoes. Her namesake brand is committed to redefining craftsmanship, with an expertise and passion in leather, with the capsule being a true reflection of Wandler’s visual identity and message.
      From playful mini and crossbody bags made with responsibly sourced leather of the highest quality,the collection will be available globally on The Outnet from today, June 25, 2024.
      To delve into her journey more, Emirates Woman understood how it all began and learned about how Wandler innovates season after season.
      What was your first job?
      My very first job, when I was about 14-15 years old, was working in the blueberry fields in my town. It taught me the value of hard work from an early age. During high school, I worked at a fashion boutique, which sparked my interest in the fashion industry. However, it was through my official first job after my studies that I really learned what it took to build a brand. As a designer for the ‘Made & Crafted’ line at Levi’s, I saw the entire spectrum from sourcing materials and branding to marketing and sales. It was an invaluable learning experience that provided me with the right tools to understand what is needed to build a fashion brand.

      What inspired you to launch Wandler?
      I always wanted to have my own brand. I started with handbags because I love their sculptural and architectural qualities. Their bold shapes and colours are my canvas to play with.
      What are the key elements of your role?
      As the founder and creative director, I am involved in every aspect of the brand. I work closely with my team on designing the collections, branding, and content creation, overseeing production, managing business operations, and ensuring that our brand vision is consistently represented.
      Talk us through your daily routine.
      I start my morning by waking up and drinking lemon water with sea salt. Then, I practice mindfulness and write half a page of notes in my notebook. After that, I get my daily coffee from a place around the corner and walk to the office, which is just a five-minute walk from my home. I love that I can walk to work. No day is the same in the office, and since I travel a lot for work, I try to savour the moments when I’m there. I begin the day with meetings with my team, including content brainstorms and planning sessions, working on new designs, and doing research for upcoming collections. In between, I walk my dogs, which is the perfect excuse to go outside and get some fresh air. To wind down, I love to cook if I have time, take a yin yoga class, read a book before bed, and go to bed early to prepare for the next day.
      What are some of the pieces the brand sells?
      Wandler is known for its high-quality Italian-made handbags, bold in shape and colour, each named after people who inspire me, including family and friends. The Hortensia bag, named after my mother-in-law in honour of her, is the first and most recognizable shape for the brand. It gained recognition when Lady Gaga wore it during Pride, it was just 3 months after launching the brand in stores. That was an insane moment. Other popular styles include the Carly Mini, named after my best friend in high school, and the Georgia, named after stylist and friend Georgia Tall. These two styles will be reintroduced in THE OUTNET capsule, which I am very excited about. Handbags are the core of our business, but we have also expanded into the footwear category. The most popular style in this category is the Isa family, which has been worn by celebrities like Gigi and Bella Hadid, Hailey Bieber, and Beyoncé.
      What advice do you have for anyone looking to follow in the same footsteps?
      My advice would be to stay true to your vision and not be afraid to take risks. The fashion industry is very competitive, so it’s important to differentiate yourself and offer something unique. Also, be prepared to work hard and stay resilient, as there will be challenges along the way.
      What is the best piece of advice you ever received? And what is the worst?
      The best piece of advice I ever received was to trust my instincts and believe in my creative vision. On the other hand, the worst advice was to play it safe and stick to conventional designs. Authenticity and creativity are what drive the fashion industry forward.
      What has been the biggest challenge you had to overcome?
      One of the biggest challenges was establishing the brand in a crowded market. It took a lot of persistence and hard work to get our name out there and build a loyal customer base. Managing the rapid growth of the company while maintaining our quality and vision has been a challenge, but it’s also very rewarding if you keep fighting for the best outcome possible. In the end, my drive to create my own world is the reason why I do this, and that passion has helped me overcome many obstacles along the way.

      How does it feel to have launched on THE OUTNET – tell us more.
      It feels incredible to have launched on THE OUTNET. This partnership allows us to bring our beloved styles back to life and offer them to a wider audience. THE OUTNET’s platform gives customers the freedom to explore and appreciate our designs at their own pace. I’m thrilled to see our archived styles reimagined in new colours and to continue our commitment to sustainability by utilizing stock leather. We’re excited about the opportunities this collaboration brings.
      What are your goals for the future?
      Looking ahead, we aim to continue growing the brand while staying true to our core values of quality, craftsmanship, and with a strong emphasis on colour. Accessories will always be at the core of what we do, but we want to continue to build the Wandler world beyond that. We envision crossovers with interior design and the art world, something I can’t wait to explore more in the coming years.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied  More

    • 125 Shares

      in lifestyle and culture

      15 luxe Saturday brunch spots to book ASAP in Dubai

      by

      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      58 mins ago

      As you unwind from a stressful week, each upscale brunch located around Dubai is sure to let you relax. While you get your money’s worth with a specially curated menu of cocktails and delicious food accompanied by splendid views of Dubai’s skyline.
      It’s no secret brunch is a rite of passage in Dubai. However, it can be overwhelming to decide on where to go.
      From Japanese to Italian, each restaurant offers a myriad of delectable dishes are all crafted to perfection with live music and an enchanting ambience to let guests begin their weekend in style.
      Also, if you’re on the lookout of what to wear. Comfort is key—so it’s best to rely on those easy breezy slip dresses and co-ords. To not make dressing up feel like a chore. Be it Massimo Dutti or Cos, these free-flowing midi dresses can be worn all year round. Overall, the simplest piece can really add depth to the laziest of outfits, and leave you feeling put together for what really matters: gossip shared over mimosas and your favourite playlist. We’ve also compiled the best high-street pieces we use as brunch fit inspiration all year.
      To help you whittle it down, Emirates Woman has rounded up some of the best brunches in Dubai, which hopefully might help you find some new favourites in your mix or help you rediscover old favourites that are just only reopening.

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