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Luxury

fashion

Scarlett Poppies artisanal resort wear

Posted on January 20, 2025

From Sweden to the Middle East, Scarlett Poppies elegant resort wear offers a timeless array of beautiful dresses, kaftans and co-ords, heavenly adorned with artisanal detailing. The collections are designed by a mix of designers from different corners of the world via sustainable production methods.

Each collection will always showcase unique embroidery techniques and other handmade elements, ensuring that jobs are created in the garment industry, rather than removed by modern machines replacing skilled artisans. Using and promoting this range of unique embroidery traditions and skillsets, keeps them alive for the future.

Scarlett Poppies collections range from dresses, tops, tunics, jumpsuits to true beach cover-ups such as kimonos and kaftan dresses etc. “Comfort and easy breezy materials are key.” With fabrics originating from nature such as; cotton, linen, silk and viscose – the latter generated from cellulosic pulp.

Using up stock fabrics from one collection to another helps to minimise waste. Wherever possible they choose organic fabric options rather than conventional, as well as fabrics that are locally available and produced in the country where the collection is manufactured, to avoid increased carbon footprints within the supply chain.

travel

Why book an Ayurvedic 3-day detox in the Maldives this year

Posted on January 16, 2025

Looking to improve your sleep, relationships and mood this year? Who wouldn’t want to start 2025 with an Ayurvedic 3-day detox. Especially when it’s somewhere as relaxing as the Maldives.

Designed to align with current demands for a more holistic retreat, this exclusive program is curated with natural botanicals brand TheraNaka. A personalizable real blend of traditional healing practices and modern-day wellness insights, that focuses on Ayurvedic dosha identification, balanced nutrition, mindful movement.

What can you expect?

Day 1: Personalised wellness 

A 45-minute private consultation to identify your unique dosha—the body’s elemental energies—and a nutrition consultation tailored to your individual needs.

Day 2: A day of movement and nourishment

A rejuvenating yoga session followed by indulge in a dosha-balancing breakfast and refreshing detox juice created specifically for your dosha.  The day culminates in a 90-minute treatment crafted to harmonise your body and senses.

Day 3: Empowerment and transformation

Dive deeper into your detox journey by taking part in a hands-on DIY class led by chef, where you will learn to create your own nutrient-rich, dosha-aligned meals. Then onto a two-hour chakra balancing treatment to realign your energy centres and leave you feeling grounded and restored.

Milaidhoo Maldives, nestled in the heart of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in Baa Atoll, is a sanctuary committed to preserving the natural wonders that make the Maldives a coveted destination. Perfect for nature lovers as their own coral reef, which encircles the island, is a protected area and noted as an outstanding snorkelling and diving site.

Employing sustainable practices that include; Coral planting and cleaning, where guests, along with the resident marine biologist collaborate, to nurture loose coral fragments and restore damaged areas. Responsible water management by repurposing and using treated water for irrigation, the resort champions sustainable landscaping practices, reducing freshwater consumption and caring for its surroundings. Local product sourcing to keep a lid on carbon footprints, and farm t0 table cooking using organic farming techniques, Milaidhoo produces fresh greens on their own island for guest and staff consumption.

fashion

On my radar: Lumena Maison silks

Posted on January 13, 2025

One homegrown luxury brand I’ve fallen in love with is Lumena Maison. A beautifully elegant collection that features local artists and dedicates profit to local missions.

UAE based, it features limited quantities of the highest grade of silks, which is a renewable resource, can biodegrade, and uses less water, chemicals, and energy than many other fibers. Aiming to promote the rich heritage of the Arabian Gulf region to the rest of the world, this slow fashion brand only employs the talents of local GCC artists.

From kaftans to scarves, twilly’s, two-piece co-ords and dresses featuring prints like ‘Kite Beach’ below, they make for the perfect Dubai mementos and gifts.

Lumena Maison honors the traditional ways of silk production and supports the silk scarf-making artisans with fair pay. Manufacturing is often carbon footprint heavy but they use digital printing on their fabrics to ensure a more eco-friendly production line, and less waste of surplus inks and water.

Furthering their positive impact, Lumena Maison has partnered with the Al Jalila Foundation, committing 10% of all sales through the website to support cancer treatment for women and children.

Find them offline at Halm Collective, beach road.

Hotspot Recommended

Spend Christmas and New Years by the beach!

Posted on December 23, 2024

🎄 Christmas 🎄

Inside Burj Al Arab:

Family Tour + Santa Grotto at Royal Suite

The Family Festive Package offers an unrivalled opportunity to explore the elegance and grandeur of Burj Al Arab Jumeirah while immersing guests in festive cheer. This exclusive offering includes:

  • A 60 to 90-minute guided tour, exploring the iconic hotel’s lavish interiors, spectacular Atrium, and panoramic views from the 25th-floor Observation Lounge.
  • Festive beverages to suit all ages—adults can enjoy an optional alcoholic twist, while children can sip on delightful non-alcoholic creations.
  • A magical meet-and-greet with Santa Claus in his exclusive Royal Suite Grotto, including a photo album with six professional snapshots to treasure.
  • Two bespoke gifts from Santa for the little ones, adding a personalized touch to the festivities.

Price: AED 2,000 for a family of four (2 adults + 2 children aged 4–12).

Add-ons: Additional adults at AED 369 per person, and children at AED 289 per person.

Chouchou:

Christmas Eve Celebration

  • Kick off the celebrations on December 24, with Christmas cocktails at the bar, where your first seasonal cocktail is on the house
  • The evening features entertainment by a DJ and a menu priced à la carte

Noël en Jazz

  • Celebrate Christmas Day, December 25, from 12pm to 4pm, with CHOUCHOU’s luxurious 6-course family-style menu
  • Enjoy refined French gastronomy and elegant holiday vibes, starting at AED 550 per person, with a live jazz band setting the mood

Champagne Rêve

  • An evening of free-flowing champagne and expertly crafted small plates, from 8pm to 10pm on December 26
  • A live DJ will keep the energy high, with prices starting at AED 550 per person

Kaimana Beach:

Christmas Brunch

  • Celebrate Christmas Day, December 25, from 1pm to 4pm with a family-friendly beachside brunch featuring live entertainment and festive cheer
  • Stay on from 4pm to 6pm for a festive sundowner with 3 drinks for AED 100

💫 New Year’s Eve 💫

Chouchou | Midnight in Paris

  • Time: From 7:30 PM
  • What to expect: Fine dining, live DJ, and fireworks.
  • Price: AED 900 per person

Almayass by the Sea | Arabian Night

  • Time: From 9:00 PM
  • What to expect: Authentic Lebanese-Armenian feast, live music by Mohammad Kabbani, and a DJ.
  • Price: AED 500 (Soft), AED 700 (House), AED 800 (Premium)

Kaimana Beach

  • Time: From 8:00 PM
  • What to expect: Live entertainment, DJs, fireworks, and Burj Khalifa views.
  • Pricing: Indoor Lounge: AED 1200 (includes AED 900 beverage credit) | Beach Dining: AED 2000 (includes AED 1400 beverage credit)

Gigi Rigolatto | Ring in the New Year in Style

  • Time: From 8:00 PM
  • What to expect: Sharing set menu, live DJ, and Dom Pérignon welcome drink.
  • Price: AED 3500 per person

Ninive Beach

  • Time: From 8:00 PM
  • What to expect: Rooftop and ground floor celebrations with DJs and fireworks.
  • Price: AED 1700 (Rooftop), AED 1200 (Ground Floor)

African Queen

  • Time: From 7:30 PM
  • What to expect: Elegant dining, live shows, DJ, and sea-view fireworks.
  • Pricing: Indoor: AED 1000 | Pergola: AED 2200 | Poolside: AED 2700 (min spend)

Gitano | Supernature NYE

  • Time: From 7:30 PM
  • What to expect: Jungle-inspired dinner, dancing, and DJ sets with panoramic firework views.
  • Pricing: Indoors: AED 1750 | Terrace (J1 Firework View): AED 2250 | Terrace (Burj + J1 View): AED 3000

Lúnico

  • Time: From 7:00 PM
  • What to expect: 4-course Spanish sharing menu, live music, DJ, and 180° firework views.
  • Price: AED 790 (dining) | AED 300 (bar seating)

La Baia by the Beach

  • Time: From 7:00 PM (early) | From 9:30 PM (premium seating)
  • What to expect: Live DJs, roaming bands, and fireworks.
  • Pricing: Indoor: AED 500–800 | Outdoor: AED 650–1000

 

Sustainable

Unity for Change – أفق initiative making shopping more sustainable

Posted on December 23, 2024

There has been a growing awareness and concern about the environmental impact of our consumer habits and as a result, shopping malls around the world are taking steps to become more sustainable and eco-friendly. The aim is to also promote a culture of sustainability among shoppers. Reliable ways to manage waste and recycling options are essential for every place where large groups of people meet and spend time.

The Unity for Change – أفق initiative has unveiled a groundbreaking sustainability framework aimed at transforming retail and mall operations across the UAE. Spearheaded by Chalhoub Group, LVMH, Emaar Malls Management (L.L.C.), Majid Al Futtaim, and Aldar Properties, this alliance marks a step toward measurable environmental impact reduction. This initiative now features defined goals across three core pillars: energy efficiency via reducing carbon emissions, eco-friendly store design, and waste management.

This includes working towards achieving a minimum of 5% annual energy savings or carbon emissions reduction for all shopping malls starting 2024. Launching energy-efficient lighting systems (50% efficacy), and achieve zero waste to landfill by 2030 for LVMH and Chalhoub Group.

The findings and finalized objectives of this initiative were officially presented during the LVMH “LIFE 360 in Stores Awards” ceremony. This event, gathering experts, partners, employees, and industry leaders, was established in 2016 by LVMH, and celebrates innovative initiatives that enhance the environmental performance of the LVMH’s Maisons’ stores, based on an external audit conducted by an independent agency. Launched during COP28 in 2023, it is the first partnership of its kind in the Middle East.

fashion

Shewak brings creativity and sustainability to the catwalk

Posted on December 19, 2024

Istituto Marangoni alum and ex-Roberto Cavalli assistant accessories designer, Shewak made his London Fashion Week, 2022 debut with his now infamous double heeled stilettos. As seen on ‘Dubai Bling’, the designer ensures that his unique creations are in fact planet forward in construction.

To help ensure Shewak offers a sustainably minded product, they reduce leather wastage by using innovative cutting techniques, employ biodegradable insoles, save 70% of the water used in heel painting with PVD sputtering instead of galvanic processes, and use metal-free linings. In production, Shewak collaborates only with government-certified factories that prioritize sustainability, maintain a cap on carbon footprints, and ensure a safe, hygienic environment for workers.

Thinking post-consumer too, they give back to the community by donating $5 from every product sold to Dubai Cares.

 

Eco Friendly Sustainable

Dubai’s Sustainable Kidswear and Toy Directory

Posted on December 11, 2024

Did you know that an average child uses over 200 pieces of clothing! Babies will outgrow 7 clothing sizes in their first 2 years, which is not sustainable at all.

The $200 billion global kid’s clothing market is growing faster than adult’s, expected to reach nearly $300 billion by 2030. 180 million+ pieces of kids clothing go to waste each year. That’s not all, most modern textiles exact some form of environmental tax. Regular cotton is grown using pesticides, but organic cotton must often be shipped consumes lots of water. Plus, human-made materials like nylon and polyester come from petroleum. Toxins also get involved in the spinning, dyeing, and overall production of many fabrics, which contributes to the release of greenhouse gases and can leach toxins into the soil and water supply.

But there is hope… for used outfits and items that remain in good condition, there is a thriving secondhand market for children’s clothing, toys and equipment here in Dubai, both on and offline.

Christmas is as we know, a very consumer heavy holiday and we could all be more mindful with the gifts we buy in order to make them more sustainable. For me, that means shopping local, ethically minded brands of course, and I get asked a lot of questions about just who and where I recommend for tots and babies here in the U.A.E., so have compiled a list of my favourites for you:

Ideal for clothes:

Beaux Desert

Beautifully made collections for the whole family using eco-friendly materials and ethical manufacturing practices

Birdsn’Bees

A local family concept store specializing in clothing, beachwear, and swimwear

Little IA

The perfect place for personalized gifts for little ones

Atlas & Maya

Exclusively creating collections using certified sustainable materials

Baby Bazaar

A monthly circular pre-loved pop-up at Times Square Centre, Dubai

Reloved

A marketplace for buying and selling second-hand clothes, baby items, furniture, accessories, and more

Bump and Baby

A pre-loved maternity & baby store

Anvi Baby

Quality, comfortable and sustainable essentials for baby

Bjerg & Hav

Hygge | Slow | Handmade | Organic

 

Ideal for toys and equipment:

Made By Nature

Dubai’s only family concept store offering sustainable brands

Little Ones Arabia

Premium sustainable baby products, clothes and gift hampers

Maisontini

Experiential showroom and sustainably minded concept store

Eggs n Soldiers

Natural & eco-friendly baby products

Monki Box

Sustainably designed bilingual purposeful play program

Secondful

A secondhand online marketplace for pre-loved kids and baby gear

Secondgear

A secondhand online marketplace for pre-loved kids and baby gear

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

fashion

Oris luxury watches use recycled plastic in their dials

Posted on October 24, 2024

How do we get rid of plastic? Well, we can’t yet – but we can find new purposes for it, like recycling it, to help keep it out of landfills and out of our environment as much as possible.

One such luxury brand is Oris, who as a Swiss watchmaker are determined to keep their creations as sustainable as possible. With roots dating back to 1904, it’s inspiring to see the brand helping to pave the way for real change within its industry.

Oris Aquis Date Upcycle

One of their key creations, the Oris Aquis Date Upcycle, is actually crafted with a vibrant dial made from recycled PET plastic. Each Upcycle model showcases a one-of-a-kind design, housed in their new sustainable watch boxes, made from recyclable cardboard and paper.

This lightweight, modular packaging reduces plastic use by 1.5 tonnes annually and cuts weight by 65%. Its collapsible design also decreases volume by 50%, lowering carbon emissions, in alignment with Global Recycling Day.

Most recently, each watch box now includes recycled paper cards with a QR code for all warranties, and watch details.

Orise Great Barrier Reef Limited Edition IV

Certified climate-neutral by ClimatePartner, Oris aims to reduce emissions by 10% annually through its Emissions Reduction Programme. Oris even partnered with Reef Restoration Foundation in 2018 on their mission to bring Change for the Better. “Oris is climate neutral and committed to the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals,” says Co-CEO Rolf Studer.

fashion

Swimming in Luxury With Lasya

Posted on November 29, 2018

Nothing frustrates me more than putting on a new bra or swimsuit in the morning and half way through the day, something just doesn’t feel right… half the time we buy our intimates based on either looks, comfort or functionality, but I do feel we often sacrifice on at least one of these.  Introducing Lasya Intimates, a Dubai based e-tailor that curates lingerie, swimwear and even bridal lingerie too. You won’t have to worry about parking with their concierge delivery service either, one-to-one fittings ensure totally private experiences, so that you can find the right fit every time.

Whether it’s a pool party, or a weekend away, their swimwear features luxuriously gold plated detailing that’s almost too good to get wet. We caught up with the founder of Lasya Intimates Dubai, Rachel, who handpicks all of the swimwear on her site. “I love what I do and I hope it shows in the products that have been chosen.”

“…I started the business in 2017, and yes, alone. It’s been an adventure and a roller-coaster, but I have really found my passion, along with the creativity running your own business entails, and the sheer pleasure in finding beautiful pieces for our collection.  There is something immensely rewarding knowing that I am delivering a service and product that injects confidence and a sprinkling of happiness to every one of my clients.

Our name is something that took us a while to decide on. Lots of research was done to ensure that it was something that truly fit with our brand. The term ‘Lasya’ in the context of Hindu mythology, describes the dance performed by a Goddess – it expresses happiness and is filled with grace and beauty. Our aim with our collections is just that, we want to make each woman feel beautiful and the whole experience with us to feel special, right from the packaging to the product.

I strive to find pieces for my collection that truly stand out, everything I include in my collections are hand picked by me, be it for their beauty, uniqueness or because it helps to give someone confidence in what they are wearing. Our luxury swimwear collection is something we are especially proud of, we have some really unique, high-fashion pieces that stand out from the swimwear you’ll see on the high street, some with gold plated embellishments and hand finishing – the quality of the swimwear is evident as soon as you touch it and they are all super flattering.

What sets any business apart from another is the person behind it, when you run your own business it is inevitable that it will project some of your own values and ethos. I want to deliver beautiful items coupled with great service and make women feel amazing in the process, we are more than an online boutique, we give a unique touch by offering a really personal one-to-one service and we are proud of that. If you’re buying online, there is always someone around to help guide you in to making the right choice for you – we also offer a home shopping service as well as private shopping evenings and get involved in collaborative events too.

Being in the Middle East for any significant period of time changes your general perception of life. It’s a melting pot of nationalities, backgrounds and religions. I am grateful that my experiences and learnings here have added to how I think about life and naturally, my creativity.”

And finally… we want to know… one piece or bikini?

“The shapes and cut-outs that can be achieved with a one-piece are far greater than a bikini, so there is room for more variations, designs and experimental shapes. It’s also been a popular choice for celebrities and influencers, so naturally it filters through to everyone else. I personally love the one piece, I find them so flattering.”

travel

SOULFARI: Why a Safari is Good For Your Soul

Posted on October 25, 2018

…as seen on Yogalife

It’s more than just a landscape, Africa has an incredible way of earthing you, from the moment you land on its clay red soil in a small inter-safari Cessna, to driving across the tundra in a Toyota jeep designed purely to encourage those 360* magic moments with its inhabitants. The landscape runs from horizon to horizon, punctuated only by the trees and rocks, whose shapes and shadows mimic the animals we avidly search for, roaming the terrain.

 

 

The wind drives the Serengeti’s scents and smells, wild basil perforated sporadically under the tyres of the jeep, whilst the aroma of baking earth under foot is tinged with an almost pleasant dusty note that serves to remind you you’re in real nature. The Serengeti safari drives are winding and uneven, but even the incessant bumps quickly move from spine jerking to a more melodic perpetual motion. As the warmth of the sun gleams through the windows of the jeep, you fall further into a state of total relaxation. It’s here at this moment that your daydreams are all too real.

 

 

Bringing you out of this somewhat meditative stare across the fields and fields of golden grass that rocket past are the indescribable viewings and encounters with the animals that inhabit this terrain. Hippo’s lounge around upstream, keeping a wary eye on the crocodiles basking on the shore, whilst trumpets pierce the silence from the largest of all the Earth’s beings as they warn of their arrival with their young, at the local watering hole. This isn’t about a bucket list of the  ‘big 5’ but a really personalised discovery of why Africa is referred to as God’s land.

 

 

Time slows to allow every whisper through the blades of grass meet your ears, feigning a sense of urgency or looming presence with their dramatic soundtrack. The whistle of the wind loudly finds gaps in the natural surroundings of the hotel, complemented by the music of the cicadas as the sun goes down and their predator’s cries with beautiful feathers. The sun sets in vibrant pinks, fiery oranges and plum-like purples to remind you there’s a rotation, but under what feels like a never-ending full moon, you’d be forgiven for thinking that time here stood still. As the dawn breaks, there’s no risk of monotony with hours to be spent out under the Tanzanian skies, it’s the most soul-connected place to be.

 

WHERE TO STAY: Four Seasons Serengeti, for the ultimate up close and personal luxury experience with the Serengeti and its animals.