Bahrain Edition BEAUTY | FASHION | HOME | WELLBEING | PARENTING | LOCAL ISSUES December 2012 | Issue 118 | BD1 / SR10 Looking Good Deep Hues Colour Coded Hidden Meanings Listening Devices Hearing Messages Pamper Yourself You Deserve It! Winter Hair Days Beating The Cold www.womanthismonth.com
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2 | December 2012 14 People 14 Hamra Alam: Material matters Shopping 08 Editor’s Choice: Colours of Christmas 10 Pick of the Month: Lacoste 12 Retail Therapy: What’s new on the retail scene! Fashion 16 Fashion Forward: Sparkle and shine 18 Celebrities: What the stars are wearing 20 Get the Look: Build your own version 24 Feature: Belts for all occasions Beauty 26 Beauty News: The latest products in stores 28 Fragrances: Lingering scents 30 Feature: Gothic and glam make-up Home 40 Feature: Decorate your home for the season Wellbeing 42 Feature: The big freeze 45 Column: The five fruits of Christmas Online 47 Lime&Tonic: A zesty adventure Parenting 48 Feature: Remembering to really listen 51 Column: Dealing with trauma Regulars 07 Letters: Tell us what you think of this issue 25 Campaign: Red is the colour 22 20 Tips: The finishing touches 31 10 Tips: Colours of the world 34 Where To: Pamper yourself 36 Social Butterfly: Who has been seen where? 52 Recipes: Sweet festivities 60 Horoscope: What this month holds for you 64 WoMentality: Dear Santa 30 18 42 48 contents | december 2012 December 2012, issue 118 Stay both warm and stylish with Massimo Dutti’s autumn/winter collection Bahrain Edition BEAUTY | FASHION | HOME | WELLBEING | PARENTING | LOCAL ISSUES December 2012 | Issue 118 | BD1 / SR10 Looking Good Deep Hues Colour Coded Hidden Meanings Listening Devices Hearing Messages Pamper Yourself You Deserve It! Winter Hair Days Beating The Cold www.womanthismonth.com woman this month DECEMBER 2012 ı LOOKING GOOD — DEEP HUES ı www.womanthismonth.com HOME SUBSCRIBERS COPY ISSUE 118 www.womanthismonth.com
www.womanthismonth.com 5 December 2012 | Welcome GUEST EDITOR's letter There can’t be a person in the Kingdom who doesn’t love December. The year’s final month is a favourite for men, women and children and offers people of all religions and nationalities a joyous reason to celebrate and unite. Of course there is Christmas, which brings with it Santa Claus, caroling, tree lighting and delicious (albeit slightly fattening) food. This is followed by New Year’s Eve — a huge celebratory night for people worldwide. Inspired by our new fashion and beauty editor, our 10 Tips article covers a Brazilian New Year tradition that suggests your fortune will be determined by the colour you wear on the last night of the year. Think of this issue as a Christmas cracke, fit to burst with inspiration for decorating your home, choosing appropriate attire and purchasing presents. We’ve gone all out in embracing the festive season and have included articles on how to dress for each event in Get the Look, eat well in our Five Fruits of Christmas article and even survive the winter chill in our Wellbeing piece — if you are venturing outside of Bahrain’s warm climate! If you are stuck for gift ideas, help the AIDS and HIV cause by purchasing (RED) goods which you will find in all manner of shops. We have covered where you can buy such items in the Campaign article to coincide with World Aids Day this month. Bahrainis will be rejoicing in two celebrations of their own; Bahrain Women’s Day which falls on December 1 and the Kingdom’s National Day on December 16. Look out for exhibitions, tournaments, firework displays, carnivals and other such events held in celebration of these important days. And if you really want to escape it all, check out the website that we have featured in our Online section to find out how to uncover some of the world’s most elite hot-spots. Whatever your plans for this month, the team at Woman This Month wish you a very merry festive season and a happy New Year. Remember to reflect on the past year, make time for your loved ones and don’t forget to make your resolutions. Happy holidays! Alison Coldridge Assistant Editor For of the moment news, tips, advice and fun links, follow Woman This Month on Twitter @WomanThisMonthB Merry Festivities to One and All! responsible editor Jubran AbdulRahman chairman & publisher George F Middleton publishing director David M Robertson editorial consultant Dr Paul Balles assistant editors ALISON COLDRIDGE Elma Bartholomew fashion and beauty editor Fernanda Langhammer contributors Dr Clare beckett-mcinroy george r vaughan James Claire staff writer Maryam A Toorani print production manager Sabu Sebastian layout & graphics RODOLFO A REYES JR Dalal Al-Sabbagh media coordinator SARAH ANSARI media executives ESKY Girmay May Mohammed sales manager Mayukh Majumdar circulation FAWAZ AL BALOOSHI photography editor anil Ravi Shankar photographers Shankar Kunhambu Subeesh Kumar NS printing press Union Press, Bahrain Contents copyrighted 2004© Reproduction in whole or in part by any means without the express written consent of the publisher is prohibited. ISBN No: 1 899348 11 5. Licensed by the Ministry of Information, Directorate of Publication and Press. Code: SWTM 410 woman this month is for women in Bahrain wishing to celebrate a unique cosmopolitan lifestyle and community spirit in an objective and proactive manner. For subscriptions visit www.womanthismonth.com Advertising rates are available upon request. Please e-mail [email protected]. The publication of any advertisement in woman this month is not necessarily an endorsement of the advertiser or of the products or services advertised. Although every effort is made to ensure factual information, woman this month cannot be held responsible for errors in contributors’ material, nor do the opinions expressed by individual writers necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher. editorial Submission of articles is welcome. Send queries, letters and articles to the editor at the address below. The publisher reserves the right to edit, reject or comment editorially on all material contributed. bahrain office address Red House Marketing p.o. box: 20461, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain telephone: (17) 813-777 fax: (17) 813-700 email: [email protected] website: www.womanthismonth.com published monthly by Red House Marketing (Jersey) Ltd. P. O. Box 641, No. 1 Seaton Place, St. Helier, Jersey JE4 8JJ, Channel Islands, U.K. in association with Al-Hilal Publishing, P. O. Box 224, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain Woman This Month is a member of BPA Worldwide
www.womanthismonth.com 7 December 2012 | Just like Alison said in her article on “Alternative Therapies”, acupuncture does seem a strange treatment to choose if you are after a dose of relaxation. But I do have many friends who regularly do this and so perhaps there is something in it after all. It seems to be much less invasive than I had thought and as an ancient form of medicine there must be some reason why it has been popular for hundreds of years. I think perhaps I will try it — I’ll let you know how I get on! Nadia, by email. Letters The Parent Diaries STAR LETTER Write Here Write Now 40 | November 2012 www.womanthismonth.com Wellbeing The treatment: Acupuncture Our expert: Dr Yang, Chinese medicine doctor at Bahrain Wellness Resort Acupuncture is a treatment I have always been unwilling to test, but it is the most recognised form of energy healing and so I had to give it a try. The idea of having little needles imbedded all over my body wasn’t appealing. However, surprisingly, I felt incredibly light throughout the process. Increasing energy “This ancient form of natural Chinese medicine has been available to patients at the Bahrain Wellness Resort for four years now,” says Dr Yang, one of the resort’s three Chinese medicine doctors. “Primarily, it increases energy levels and improves blood circulation and we recommend it to people who have difficulty sleeping,” he continues. The treatment is very simple; Dr Yang first consults with you and asks where you have aches and pains. He then takes your pulse and decides on which areas to concentrate. In the treatment room, he will place the necessary amount of needles on various body points, each which assists certain ailments. You are then left with your own thoughts for half an hour whilst the needles do their magic. Why it’s alternative Sticking pins in a person isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, but there is a reason that so many people frequently return to acupuncture. Nevertheless, there are other options that achieve the same end result. “If a patient doesn’t wish to choose acupuncture, there are many similar therapies I recommend,” offers Dr Yang. “Try acupressure or reflexology to target certain trigger points that will promote relaxation,” he explains. Pin Me! This month’s star letter will win a bag of goodies from Ford’s ‘Warriors in Pink’ collection. So, to get shopping send us your views and opinions on this month’s edition either by email to editor@ womanthismonth.com, by fax to 17 813-700 or by post to PO Box 20461. There is no book on the absolute dos and don’ts of parenting; as any parent will know, it is basically a lot of guess work combined with trial and error! However, from time to time it is great to get advice from professionals in this field, who can help provide guidance when mothers and fathers most need it. And that’s where Woman This Month’s Dr Clare Beckett-McInroy comes in. Every month, I make sure I don’t miss out on her insight as she explores various parenting dilemmas. The most recent article “Are You Overparenting?” was fantastic. I realised that I do in fact mollycoddle my kids a fair amount and should work to give them more space to grow (whether I want them to or not!). We are here to only steer and support our offspring and at some point they need to fly the nest and build lives for themselves. Just as Dr Clare advised, parents should help make their children’s dreams come true and in time let them show how far they really can go. Sasha, by email. 54 | November 2012 www.womanthismonth.com www.womanthismonth.com 55 November 2012 | Travel THE LOW-DOWN: Considered one of the holiest places on the sub-continent, Varanasi is where Hindu pilgrims come to wash a lifetime of sins in the Ganges, the river of salvation. It is named after the two rivers, Varuna and Asi, which meet here. Previously known as Benares and Kashi, this is the city of Lord Shiva, the most powerful god in Hinduism. Expiring here is thought to be the greatest blessing as it offers liberation from the cycle of birth and death. Believed to be the crossing ground between the physical and spiritual worlds, the city of light is home to intimate rituals conducted publicly on the ‘ghats’. Varanasi has an eerie yet bewitching aura which makes it an unforgettable experience because of the collective sense of rebirth and the sacred acts of cremation. X-FACTOR: Once you’re done taking in the magical side of this overwhelming city, walking along the intricate stairways and passages or taking a boat ride, you can take a trip back to the present day by visiting the markets. Varanasi is popular for its Banarasi saris made from silk, adorned with intricate designs and zari embellishments (threads of gold or silver). Shopaholics can find much more than brocaded fabrics here. Fetch the best of handmade brassware, jewellery, woodcraft, carpets, wall hangings, lampshades and masks of deities which make the perfect souvenirs. Foodies shouldn’t leave without trying out the langra mangoes and khoa, a dairy product. The daring epicurean can have a go at the Banarasi paan. BEST FOR: Culturologists will go crazy in the labyrinthine ‘Old City’. Varanasi boasts a unique culture of fine arts and literature. Watch an all-night open-air music concert and visit the various forts and museums within the area. Indulge in authentic ayurvedic treatments to relax muscles that have spent enthralling hours weaving through crowds of people. Varanasi, India Lose Yourself By Elma Bartholomew Leave your watch at home, switch off your phone, tear up your itinerary and forget your bucket list. Surrender to the meandering spirit of exploration and just… get lost! 42 | November 2012 www.womanthismonth.com www.womanthismonth.com 43 November 2012 | Parenting Are You Over-parenting? Persistent, prying, panic or pandemonium — how are you overdoing your role as a parent? Carol Dweck, a social and developmental psychologist at Stanford University, conducted a research that indicated that such parents raise more motivated, and in turn, more successful children. Her experiments involve, for example, young children solving simple puzzles. Most did these tasks with little difficulty. The next part of the experiment involved Dr Dweck telling some of the children how clever, bright or capable they were. The result was that those children who were not told they’re smart were more motivated to tackle increasingly difficult puzzles. They also exhibited higher levels of confidence and showed greater overall progress in puzzle-solving. This may seem counterintuitive, but praising children’s talents and abilities seems to throw their confidence. Attempting more tricky puzzles carries the risk of losing their status as “amazing” and it deprives them from the thrill of choosing to work simply for its own sake, regardless of end result. The consequence is that reasonably supporting a child’s autonomy, and limiting interference, leads to better academic and emotional outcomes. In short, don’t over-praise. Let them grow up At a very practical level, this means that parents must not do things for children that they are capable or almost able of doing themselves. It should always be about the child’s needs. Some parents help their children or do tasks for them to satisfy their own needs, consciously or inadvertently. The main goal during ‘growing up’ is to develop a sense of self that is independent, confident and generally in accord with reality. If a baby is always carried even though it can actually walk, a carer diminishes their confidence and distorts reality. This is also the case when a child may, for example, be working on a creative project for their homework and a parent steps in to ‘help’ which involves re-writing or even re-designing the whole thing. Remember, it’s good to congratulate yourself when your child does something for themselves. You have done your job well. At times, the final result may not be quite what you wanted or expected. Yet, pointless intervention diminishes your child’s self-esteem and they can also feel angry at your prying. Finding the limit Isn’t it a parent’s job to help with those things that are just beyond your child’s reach? What defines over-parenting? In the early 1900s, following research and observation, Lev Vygotsky, an educational theorist, developed the concept of the zone of proximal development (ZPD) defined as the most difficult task a child can do independently and the most difficult task the child can do with help. In short, interaction with a teacher, more able classmate, parent or helper can benefit a child on the edge of learning a new concept. They provide a standing ground in the same way that a scaffold enables a decorator to reach the highest parts of a room that would otherwise be out of reach. To help understand what a child needs help with, it’s important to observe them and to tap into how they are feeling. Are they confused, inquisitive or frustrated? Asking open-ended questions are useful here. The difficult part is to know when you can step in with questions and ideas and when to leave your child to figure things out for themselves. How to be an authoritative parent: l Express warmth and nurturance l Listen to your children l Encourage independence l Place limits, consequences and expectations on their behaviour l Allow them to express opinions l Administer fair and consistent discipline l Encourage them to discuss options While culturally and ethically there is an underlying and unwritten consensus about appropriate and inappropriate parenting, many are confused about what is the right amount and type required to ensure their children become confident, socialised, talented and productive for their future life. With this in mind, is over-parenting really a fair term or concept? Parental involvement has been studied for many years. Optimal parenting, referred to as a parent who is involved and responsive, who sets high expectations but respects their child’s autonomy, was a word used by Diana Baumrind, a clinical and developmental psychologist at the University of California in the ‘50s and ‘60s. What is important here is having boundaries while also listening to your child. As Madeline Levine, clinician, consultant and author asserted in the New York Times in August, such parents are seen to have a perfect balance of involvement and independence. Plus, they generally raise children who do better academically, psychologically and socially, compared to those whose parents are permissive and less involved, or controlling and more involved. So, what makes this balancing act so successful and what can we learn from it? It is clear that these parents work on cultivating motivation. The term “authoritative parenting”, seen by many as the optimum mentoring style, is referred to as democratic, involving a childcentric approach in which parents hold high expectations for their children. By Dr Clare Beckett-McInroy WRITE IN AND WIN The Travelling Bug I have never been someone who desires to go travelling (the idea of roughing it and carrying a huge rucksack doesn’t really do it for me!), but I have to admit that your travel articles are very alluring. I particularly liked the November issue’s topic; the idea of losing myself in a far away place is definitely a good idea. I think every so often we all need to escape the routine of our daily lives and go somewhere completely different. I will definitely be encouraging my friends to go to Kyoto with me at some point — it looks absolutely beautiful! Dana, by email.
8 | December 2012 www.womanthismonth.com Meadham Kirchhoff at Net-a-Porter Shopping Editor's Choice It’s time to let Christmas into your home. Think cute little Santa Claus figurines, snowmen, reindeers, a towering Christmas tree and so many other objects; it will be all about reds, greens, browns, white and golden. Don’t forget to hang your stockings and send your wish-list to Santa — you still have time to get your most wanted fashion items. Carolina Herrera Pasquale Bruni Salsa Gap Oysho Tod's Koton THE One
10 | December 2012 www.womanthismonth.com Shopping Why it was selected The iconic brand Lacoste has launched its annual Holiday Collector’s Series. This year, the Brazilian Campana Brothers were commissioned to create a signature for the luxury sport brand’s well-known polos. It is the second time the brand has worked with the Brazilian duo. The collection always plays with the beloved crocodiles, giving a twist to the classic single croc on the left side of the chest. What we like The designers Fernando and Humberto Campana work with different and controversial materials and take their inspiration from furniture design. In 2003, while exploring new forms of upholstery, they created a technique of rolling together different sort of materials as fabrics, carpets, felt and rubber nets. Flat and three-dimensional elements formed colourful swirls to be applied in many pieces. With this celebration of the Japanese rice roll’s appearance in its arrangement of colour and texture, they shaped their ‘Sushi’ collection which encompasses chairs, sofas, tables, puffs buffets and objects. What else to look for The ‘Sushi’ theme has been translated on to the Lacoste 2012 Holiday Collection with the crocodile emblem arranged into a spiral becoming a playful interpretation of the designer’s trademark. The women’s edition features two swirls of colourful crocs on the left chest area, while the men’s edition has one larger swirl of black or white crocs. Where to find it Shop for Lacoste at Bahrain City Centre. Call 17 179-530. Even classics need to be renewed every so often. Collaborations between brands and artists are a great way to reinterpret iconic and loved products. Pick of the Month
12 | December 2012 www.womanthismonth.com Retail Therapy A Spell of Festivity For the holiday season, L’Occitane has launched a special limited-edition range to keep us smelling good this Christmas. The Marvellous Flower and Magic Leaves collection includes body and hand cream, intense eau de toilette roll-on, eau de toilette shimmering oil, shower gel and perfumed soap. The scents were inspired by the flowers and leaves of the enchanted forests of Provence. Eternal Style Carrera y Carrera has crafted a selection of jewels for the holiday season that any lady will love to receive. The precious pieces are a great investment; they are timeless and can be passed from generation to generation. A Festive Feast If you don’t feel like cooking this Christmas you can give yourself a treat and enjoy your celebration at Trader Vic’s, the French Polynesian restaurant at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel. Using traditional ingredients, such as pumpkin, duck, turkey and pudding, the chef will prepare a comforting menu for the occasion. Are you ready for the festive season? If you are planning your gift list, take a look in our selection and pick your favourite items. Charity Time Christmas is a time for celebration, but also a period to think about doing good. The Bahrain Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals will have their Christmas Fete on December 8 at the Dilmun Club with lots of goodies for sale, an opportunity to buy some gifts and help the organisation. Bright Wrist Omega is joining in the festivities with a glittering star of its collection; the Omega Ladymatic wristwatch. It combines feminine grace and elegance with technological innovation. The timepiece is a combination of red gold and 894 diamonds to make any woman shine. Stocking Fillers The world-famous Swiss truffles and chocolate brand Sprüngli is sure to make us all gain weight with its beautifully-prepared special gift boxes for the festive season. The hand-made assortments are a delicious present for friends and family and will please even the pickiest relative. You can purchase it online and send it to your beloved ones. Shopping The Christmas Jumper Knitted jumpers are a fantastic recurring autumn/ winter trend that remind us of comfortable sofas and hot chocolate. Stella McCartney has designed a Christmas-specific range for theoutnet.com complete with a super cute polar bear and festive feel.
14 | December 2012 www.womanthismonth.com A go-getting entrepreneur, Hamra Alam is fast becoming a well-known name in the Kingdom. The England-raised all-rounder has created a clothing collection in addition to hosting various charitable and businessminded events regularly. Her fashion label titled “Hamra Alam” is indicative of the type of woman that she is — forward-thinking, self-assured and distinctive. It was launched in Dubai in 2003 and bought by major shopping malls across the emirate. The label features an array of designs for today’s modern women and uses Arabian silhouettes fused with contemporary styles to create pieces that appeal to women of all cultures and ages. “I incorporate one of a kind cuts and rare styles,” explains Hamra. “My line is designed to be passed on from generation to generation and includes timeless collections with pieces such as capes, kaftans and cocktail dresses. Additionally, I design sophisticated clothing for men and fairytale dresses for little girls.” The themes evoked from her clothing are depicted in the fashion shows that Hamra holds. “They are known for their powerful mystery and raw energy, as well as the romantic, nature of the clothing,” she says. “Integral to the Hamra Alam designs is the juxtaposition between contrasting elements of femininity, strength and the traditional majesty. I believe that clothing is the extension of ones soul, a way to express yourself clearly to everyone through what you wear.” Hamra’s latest designs, the “Suit Yourself Collection 2012/13” is tailor-made for every customer and features brightly-coloured jazzy jacquard jackets. Currently, the collection is available at the Ritz-Carlton Bahrain “Le Monelle” and Hamra has plans to open a concept store here in the Kingdom soon, plus hopes to make her pieces available in other GCC countries including Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and Qatar. Actively involved in the community When she isn’t busy creating clothing, Hamra teaches fashion and design, styles for others and is involved in many areas of business. Hamra strongly supports the disabled community and has organised numerous fundraisers through her venture “Lights, Camera, Fashion”. She brings together like-minded people by giving emerging young talents the opportunity to grow, build solid relationships with businesses and simultaneously gives back to society. Call 36 159-841 or visit www.hamraalam.com. People Woman This Month is always on the look-out for highachieving individuals. We have found one multitasking woman who designs her own fashion line in addition to helping others. By Alison Coldridge Material Matters
16 | December 2012 www.womanthismonth.com Fashion Fashion Forward Take advantage of the holiday season to sparkle like seasonal tree lights or New Year’s Eve fireworks. It’s time to celebrate the good things that happened and let any bad memories fade away. Let it shine! Shining Spot If you want to be discreet, but still shine, choose the classical gold plus diamond (or any brilliant piece) to put up your look. A black, red or cobalt dress with this flashy Carolina Herrera bracelet will deliver the right dose of elegancy. If you are a trend seeker, enjoy the opportunity to try opulent accessories with your holiday’s outfits. Small But Precious It’s well known big purses are a great help when fitting all your ‘can’t live without’ female important things, but parties demand small handbags or clutches. This Aldo golden piece is a perfect match for evening dresses where you, rather than your handbag, are the star. Fairytale Land Who is the girl that never dreamed to be Cinderella for one night and wear her crystal shoes? With parties galore at this time of the year, you can turn your princess dreams in reality. This eye-catching Jimmy Choo shoe is just what you need. To Be Remembered Looking for a great entrance or trying to attract everyone’s attention all party long? Go for a total golden look. This Michael by Michael Kors dress will definitely get you noticed. Simple cuts and short lengths are the best options when choosing a sparkling outfit, leave the long shining gown to the Oscar.
www.womanthismonth.com 17 December 2012 | Boyish Style When male meets female in fashion, the results are often intriguing. These shoes from Esquivel, at theoutnet.com, offer a boyish touch for a bold girl. Skinny black or white trousers and a flowing top are a perfect combination for a casual, yet posh, look. It will speak volumes for your personality. Black and Gold ‘Sophistication’ is the word that pops into your mind when you see these colours together. A Paco Rabanne golden top celebrates the female touch when worn with a black and classic suit. It is the right choice when going to your company’s Christmas celebrations. It shows the power and femininity of the modern woman.
18 | December 2012 www.womanthismonth.com Fashion It would seem that our favourite red carpet actresses and supermodels are rocking statement accessories to be ‘on style’. Check out our top picks. are Wearing What theStars Sharon Stone Fendi Eyewear was the pick from the unforgettable blonde actress to walk around protecting her blue eyes from the bright lights. Wearing sunglasses at night or within enclosed places is probably a strategy only for superstars! Maria Jose Suarez For a magazine event in Madrid, the model wore a Michael Kors mini-dress. She added a focal point when choosing red sandals and matching clutch; a perfect way to put some colour in your look. Chanel Iman The actress chose one of the runway looks from Salvatore Ferragamo Resort 2013 collection to go to The Flawsome Ball in New York. The long halter neck dress with a python printed-motif offered both elegance and joviality. Demi Moore When leaving the airport in Los Angeles, Demi Moore was spotted carrying a brown and taupe leather handbag from Salvatore Ferragamo. The relaxed style got transformed with the delicate heels and classic handbag. By Fernanda Langhammer
www.womanthismonth.com 19 December 2012 | Katie Holmes The ex-Mrs. Cruise went out for her daily routine with a Tod’s handbag, allowing her to maintain her traditional but elegant style. We give the thumbs up, though, for not matching exactly the tone of her brown shoes and handbag. Victoria Justice The young American actress/singer went to the premiere of her movie Fun Size wearing a yellow cocktail dress from Versace and black pointed-toe pumps. When putting black and yellow together, however, be careful to not end up resembling a bee! Amy Adams Tod’s handbag is a must-have among celebrities. Amy Adams chose one to go with her flowing dress on this sunny day. A smaller option would probably have been a better fit! Kate Moss The model chose grey colours for her look when walking on the streets. To add a touch to her urban style, she picked a Carolina Herrera oversized bag from the brand’s Matryoshka collection. Naomi Watts The British actress left the airport carrying a Marc Jacobs handbag, crossing her shoulders. The accessory is certainly small for her belongings, but we women know that sometimes it is all about style.
20 | December 2012 www.womanthismonth.com Fashion Get the If you haven’t yet picked your outfits for the numerous festive events, be inspired by the two looks we’ve spoilt you with. Get ready for Christmas and prepare to party on New Year’s Eve. Santa Baby Rock the ultimate Christmas colour with a twist. Go for burgundy; a deep hue taken directly from the catwalk. You can wear it with dark green, beige shades, gold or even the companion for all times, black. Mango New Look Paspaley Bourjois H&M Aldo Revlon Nina Ricci
www.womanthismonth.com 21 December 2012 | Look Bright New Beginnings It’s the end of another year and time to think about all your achievements and to reflect on things you still want to conquer. Saying goodbye to 2012 in great style is a way to start the upcoming year with a good feeling. Opt for neutral colours with a pinch of sparkle. You are allowed to shine more than regular days; after all, it is firework time. Carolina Herrera Clarins Ciate Caviar Benefit Custo Barcelona Miss Selfridge Tod's Victoria Beckham at Net-a-Porter
Showcase 20 Tips Accessories can transform a simple look into an outfit that will get everyone talking. We’ve rounded up 20 ways to help you pay more attention to detail this winter. The Finishing Touches By Maryam Toorani 22 | December 2012 www.womanthismonth.com
The shoes 11. Walk tall. Want to add a little drama to your outfit? Over-theknee boots are just what you need. Wear flat boots during the day and take things up a notch with high heels for a night out. 12. Old is gold. Vintage is in and can be seen on shoes, bags and jewellery everywhere. To pull this off, pair retro inspired peep toe heels with dark stockings. 13. Point in the right direction. Another hot shoe style is the pointy toe. Choose between pumps, flats and even boots to give your outfit a sophisticated woman in charge feel. 14. Channel the Chelsea look. Every girl needs a Chelsea boot this winter. Casual with an edge, this shoe has been favoured by Alexa Chung, Jessica Alba and Kate Moss. 15. Update a classic. Looking to take a little fashion risk? Wedged high top sneakers can give your wardrobe just the right amount of attitude. Pair with super skinny jeans if you want to show some personality! The head gear 16. Rock a turban. Head pieces were huge on the autumn/winter runways. Daring fashionistas can turn floral print or jewel-toned scarves to wear as a turban. 17. Light it up. Hair streaks are back, and no, not the platinum blonde ones we sported in the 90s. Add a neon coloured extension in your loose bun like Oscar de la Renta’s models for a chic and sophisticated look. 18. Ditch what’s old. Say goodbye to your simple black elastic headband and say hello to a whole new range of hair accessories. Go for pieces with studs, spikes or the season’s ‘it’ colour, cobalt blue, to complement your up-do. 19. Top it off. Hats are always popular. For a subtle and feminine appearance, get yourself a cloche style. The 1920s inspired hat goes well with flirty dresses, skirt suits and trench coats. 20. Work the bridal look. Wedding inspired pieces have been seen all over the catwalks and red carpet events and it is slowly translating into the streets. Take a hint from The Great Gatsby ladies and try a crystal embellished headband. The accessories 1. Be practical. Use big thick wool scarves to keep warm during the cold months while still being on trend. Go for rich colours or wide stripes to instantly transform a casual outfit. 2. Pack it up. This season, use your handbag to make a statement. Switch up your worn out tote for a cross-body bag or satchel with leather rims and metallic accents. 3. Don’t forget shades. Sunglasses aren’t just for the summer; get a pair of retro ones to protect your eyes from the strong winter sun. 4. Clutch it. For a handbag that can brighten up a simple outfit, try a unique shaped clutch. Choose one with embellishments, studs, spikes or even fur for bonus fashion points! 5. Up-size. Statement necklaces were big in the summer and to our delight they have made their way into this season’s must-have list. Wear a bold piece with a neutral jumper and high bun. 6. Reach for the glitter. Shine is all the rage this season, so why not extend this trend to your waist? A thin jewelled belt over a structured jacket gives you the perfect hourglass silhouette. 7. Hold your head high. Another favourite is the choker necklace. This item is a great way to dramatise and show off your collar bone. 8. Bloom and blossom. Floral is still in, from brooches, hair pins, necklaces and bracelets. Pump up your feminine style with a bold floral cocktail ring. 9. Try a touch of boho. The feather trend first started in 2011 and it seems to be getting bigger every season. Sport an elaborate feather earring or a long colourful necklace for a dressy but laid-back vibe. 10. Modernise yourself. The futuristic look has seeped its way into our accessories cabinet. Opt for earrings, rings, necklaces and watches with modern shapes made of metals, plastic or stones. www.womanthismonth.com 23 December 2012 |
24 | December 2012 www.womanthismonth.com Fashion Silhouette Wrapper Fashion tip: Explore the ways you wear your belt and try it on jackets, coats and jumpers like this concept from Stradivarius. Focus on your waist; it’ll put you on trend this winter. Custo Barcelona Stradivarius Gap Mango Salsa New Look River Island Karen Millen By Malene Birger Pull&Bear Salvatore Ferragamo Versace
www.womanthismonth.com 25 December 2012 | Campaign Red is the Colour By Alison Coldridge While there is no harm in enjoying every moment of this festive month, take the time to consider those less fortunate as one particular World Day returns with some hardhitting statistics. World AIDS Day is observed on December 1 every year and has become one of the most recognised international health days. It is dedicated to raising awareness of the AIDS pandemic caused by the spread of HIV infection. However, this recognition shouldn’t be refined to 24-hours, an aim that campaigns such as (RED) are trying to counteract. This initiative’s manifesto wants to deliver an AIDS free generation, an achievement that statistics show is possible. In 2010, 1,000 babies were born every day with HIV and by this year that number was reduced to 900. By 2015 this figure can be near zero if help is given to stop the transmission of the disease from mothers to their babies. How you can help Items associated with the campaign are available to buy in all manner of places worldwide. The price between a non-(RED) item and a (RED) one is no different and so you won’t find yourself any poorer after your purchase. Upon your purchase, 100 per cent of the money you spend goes directly to the Global Fund, an initiative that finances HIV and AIDS programmes in Africa. The (RED) partners As previously mentioned, the choice of products supporting the campaign is vast. Companies from Coca Cola, to Starbucks, to Apple, to Belvedere Vodka are involved, each selling (RED)-specific items to fund the cause. If you can’t find the items in stores in the Kingdom, you can shop online. Results so far To date, US$195m has been contributed to the Global Fund to fight the infection. This money has helped 14 million people and significantly lessened the statistics of those affected by this terminal disease. An HIV positive pregnant woman can give birth to an HIV free baby as 98 per cent of mother-to-child HIV transmission incidents are preventable with the correct medicine. Heartbreakingly, half of the children born with the disease will die before their second birthday if they don’t receive treatment. To reach an AIDS-free generation, it will take 1.4 million HIV positive women on medication that costs just 40 cents a day. Visit www.joinred.com or www.worldaidsday.org.
26 | December 2012 www.womanthismonth.com BeautyBeauty News Beautiful hair, skin and make-up are the key to achieving any desired look. Check out the new products we’ve spotted to ensure you spend the last days of the year looking fabulous. Spot On Too busy or lazy to go for a manicure? With Sephora’s nail patch manicure art, you have no excuse; your fingertips are going to look gorgeous. These easy-to-use stick-on polish patches are applied directly to the nail. The practical system guarantees a flawless application and is available in fuchsia and purple. Available at Sephora. Festive Goddess Clarins has created a festive make-up collection called Odyssey, inspired by the Greek goddess. With sumptuous matte and metallic tones, the range includes jewel-like powders to leave you shining and shimmering. And best of all, the timeless shades are ideal for enhancing your pale complexion all year long. Available at all leading retailers. Love Your Body Just as you treat your face, your body should get the same attention. Soothe dry skin with the Love, Love, Love Body Lotion from Bath & Body Works. The range is fortified with shea butter, jojoba oil and vitamin E to hydrate with moisture that lasts all day. The non-greasy formula absorbs quickly leaving a floral scent. Available at Bath & Body Works. Colour Your Lips Bourjois’ new lipstick collection Rouge Edition includes 18 eye-catching shades for all styles and taste. Picking your lipstick will be like choosing your outfit. Perfect for winter, an orchid blossom product has a smooth texture and prompts softness to protect from harsh winds. Available at all leading retailers. Long Lashes Forget about false lashes with Too Faced Better Than False Lashes innovation. The lash extension system boasts nylon fibers in a do-it-yourself system that follows three steps. First a mascara layer to create a base, next apply the fibers and finally seal with mascara again. Try it for a dramatic look. Available at all leading retailers.
www.womanthismonth.com 27 December 2012 | Sweet Protection Sometimes you don’t want to put on perfume because your deodorant has a strong fragrance. If you are big fan of Mauboussin Pour Elle perfume you must try the sensual deodorant, perfumed with the same scent. It offers effective protection throughout the day and gives you double aroma when combining the two products. Available at all leading retailers. All in One Be Your Best cream from Philosophy is a multitasking blemish balm cream that works quickly to deliver flawless looking skin. It comes in two shades to create a nude skin effect, while offering an intense burst of hydration. Available at all leading retailers. JOZ Salon&SPA Amwaj Dragon Hotel tel. 16031120 Awali Compound tel. 17756449 Juffair American Alley tel. 17369133 Exclusive offer to Woman This Month readers Present this coupon and receive 15% off on any service The Spirit of Excellence Get closer with Revlon PhotoReady Airbrush Mousse Makeup without fearing your facial flaws. The air-infused product provides a smooth and poreless complexion. It contains photochromatic pigments that blend and reflect light to minimise the imperfections and the soft texture is perfect for everyday use. Available at all leading retailers. Perfect Complexion
28 | December 2012 www.womanthismonth.com Beauty A Dazzling Trail The eau de toilette, Elie Saab Le Parfum, features a fleeting orange blossom scent mingled with subtle rose honey notes to create a similar essence to the eau de parfum. It oozes the freshness of the mandarin tree blossom, the sensuality of gardenia and the vibrancy of vibrancy. Available at leading retailers. Angel’s Scent A radiant and tantalising blend of pink pepper, lush peony and cashmere create the new Victoria’s Secret perfume, Dream Angels Glow. If you want to change your fragrance for the season, this cool scent will give you a lift and will linger on your skin all day and night. Available at Victoria’s Secret. Floral Potion DSquared2 has launched its new fragrance as an expression of tradition, femininity and timeless quality. Combining blackcurrant, vanilla, patchouli and a selection of floral notes with rose, lily, jasmine and violet, this scent comes alive in a contemporary glass bottle inspired by ancient alchemists. Available at leading retailers. Modern Femininity The new fragrance from Juicy Couture, Viva la Juicy La Fleur, explores a new facet of the original scent. Featuring a sparkling floral bouquet it is soft and sheer and leaves a fresh and feminine essence perfect for the modern woman. Available at Juicy Couture. Oriental Express Zahee by Ajmal combines western and oriental ingredients with a blend of musky woody and floral notes. This concentrated perfume radiates the aromatic essence of galbanum and bergamot with base notes of jasmine, rose and patchouli. Available at Ajmal. Scents A long-lasting perfume has always been a wonderful gift to give to a loved one. Take heed from our five top choices to ensure you don’t go wrong! Lingering
www.womanthismonth.com 29 December 2012 | Transform Yourself GRIMAS Forget the days when letting your child have a face paint brought them out in a rash. An innovative theatrical cosmetic brand offers an extensive collection of products, all which are safe and gentle to use. We’ve unearthed the talents of Grimas; a company that deals in professional make-up and will have you seamlessly transformed in no time at all. The product range is ideal for make-up artists’ use and includes everyday-wear and theatrical use products. There are water-based items for face painting, cream make-up for cosmetics and theatre, pressed products, accessories, applicators, film blood, tooth enamel, skin glue and malleable materials for making skin disfiguration effects. Remove each product with no irritation with Grimas’ choice of cleansing products. By maintaining close working relationships with industry professionals, the brand is always at the forefront of cosmetic developments. Currently, the company is introducing fluorescent products to the market, making a distinction between colours that light up under ‘black light’ and products with bright daylight shades. With a mission to never compromise on safety, the products are all preservative-free and untested on animals. Plus, the use of anything but the very gentlest colourants that have been developed for cosmetic products is not open to discussion. Safety for the skin, transparency of information and products that do exactly what they promise to do are the foundations that Grimas is built on. Call 17 004-656 or 77 005-981.
30 | December 2012 www.womanthismonth.com Beauty Goth and Glam Make-up It’s Christmas! The time has come for festive celebrations and your everyday make-up shouldn’t be your choice for these special moments. What about trying something different? Follow the international trends and opt for a gothic-chic look. Gucci, Balenciaga, Nina Ricci and numerous other brands presented the gothic trend in their autumn/winter collections. And like usual, all the runway ideas are translated straight to the high street and cosmetic collections. The concept of gothic can seem daunting but instead of transforming yourself into a dark lady, add a few shady highlights to give some sultry appeal to your look. For a while this look was banished from fashion and was linked to grunge and rebellious style. However, now with an ounce of elegance the theme has new perspective and even the top celebrities are sporting the vamp look. All it comes down to is three simple steps… Face preparation First of all, wash and dry your face a few minutes before applying the make-up — oily skin will make you look greasy and plastic, as well as clog your pores and create pimples. Next, apply a primer to improve the amount of time the cosmetic lasts on your face. For a pale complexion, apply a foundation that is just a few shades lighter than your natural skin colour and make sure to blend thoroughly to avoid any streak marks. Cover the area around the eyes well; they are usually darker than the rest of the skin. Once your foundation application is complete, end with a finishing powder. Apply just a little bit of blush right under the cheekbone, starting at the middle of the cheek and swiping towards the ear. Eye shadow Stormy colours such as charcoal grey, cloudy silver, intense navy and deep plum are ideal to achieve the gothic-glam look. Use a thin eyeliner brush and black gel eyeliner to line the top and bottom lash line of each eye from inner corner to outer corner. You can also apply a black pencil in your eye waterline to add a deeper look. Colour your lid with matte shades and blend it into the skin so that the outside edges are ‘smokey’. If you are not looking to make a strong statement, focus only in a black, thick and long lash. Juicy lips To create irresistible lips, start by dusting your mouth with a little loose powder. It will help to eliminate any moisture and avoid any smudging on the outer corners. Next, grab a dark red, burgundy or deep purple lipstick; apply it to the center of your lips spreading carefully to the corners. A helpful tip is to use a lip brush when dealing with deep hues; it allows you to have more control over the application. Red lipstick tends to bleed easily and might be hard to clean. Finally, add some volume applying a lip gloss with the tip of your fingers. Now you are ready to party with an outstanding makeup! Gucci Versace Katy Perry
www.womanthismonth.com 31 December 2012 | 10 Tips of the Colours World By Maryam Toorani A fresh start is right around the corner and it is important to begin the New Year on the right foot. So wear the colour that shows how you mean to go on. Colour symbolism plays a major role in many cultures. Many people believe that if you wear a certain hue on New Year’s Eve, you can usher in good fortune. 1. White White is known to represent peace around the world. Wear an ensemble in this colour if you are hoping to usher in January in a harmonious way. 2. Red Red is for the fierce and those looking for a big change next year. Passion, will-power and energy are all characteristics that this colour will help you gain. 3. Purple This shade promotes spirituality. It is suggested to be worn if you are looking for inspiration and positive energies, and also for people looking for new paths. 4. Green Hope and faith is what many people believe you can get from this earthy tone. Adding a little green to your outfit will also bring good health and strength. 5. Orange This gives you energy and is a good colour if you want to focus on your studies. Additionally, orange is also believed to influence partnerships and relationships. 6. Pink One for the lovers! Who knows, maybe all you need is a little pink dress to find that perfect someone. Of course it is not just about the romantics; this colour will help you love others and yourself. 7. Blue Have you had a hectic year? Blue brings you tranquility. Start off with calm days by donning the colour of the sea. It is also said to bring kindness. 8. Yellow A good mood, wisdom and self esteem are represented by yellow. It can also strengthen your finances, so if you have been eyeing a promotion, make sure you are seen in this sunny shade. 9. Gold Gold naturally brings prosperity and success. Be it a degree, pay rise, shift in your career or even emotionally — riches will follow. 10. Silver This midnight tone is the colour of balance. Also, if you are looking for new challenges to change things up in your life, slip on something metallic and gear up for exciting times to come.
Showcase 32 | December 2012 www.womanthismonth.com The Best Possible Hair Care TONI&GUY Trust only the best to look after your locks. Book an appointment with the London-trained stylists at this famous salon to maintain strong and healthy hair that looks great. As one of the most powerful hairdressing brands in the world, Toni&Guy is constantly evolving artistically and commercially. Extensive education for both staff members and customers is offered, in addition to boasting fabulous product ranges and a dynamic modern image. Celebration Toni&Guy will be having its own fashion show in Seef Mall in January to celebrate the start of the New Year. The event will present the skill and talent of the Toni&Guy stylists; all of whom are UK trained from the Toni&Guy Academy in London. The company’s methodology is to have specialists in every field, which is why specialised colour technicians are separate from hair stylists and hair designers. The art director and stylists spend time to help you make the right decision about your hair — providing advice and inspiration in a free consultation session. In the salon you can purchase essentials to help you style your hair from home, including the famous Balmain Hair Extensions, non-formaldehyde KeraStraight Keratin and Protein hair revitalising treatments. Furthermore, Toni&Guy is the only place in the Kingdom to stock the prestigious label.m hair care products. Call 17 001-700 or visit www.toniandguybahrain.com. Turn Back the Clock GULF PHARMACY Long gone are the days when a thin head of hair was a major beauty dilemma. With today’s modern technologies, thick luscious locks are only a product away. Living in the Gulf region, we are exposed to harsh climates that affect our skin and health. Now experts say that the humid weather can also result in unhealthy hair and scalp. Statistics even show that 40 to 50 per cent of men and women around the world will suffer from thinning hair by the time they reach 60. Kaminomoto Hair Growth products from Japan have been in the market for nearly 100 years, with an exceptional track record of having being used as a means to keep locks thick and healthy. The Japanese products are an effective and proven way to combat thinning tresses and also treat dandruff. A unique Kaminomoto product called ‘Trigger’ has shown to remarkably reverse the balding process. The product is a tonic that accelerates hair growth by directly targeting the root and simultaneously promoting growth. It increases the network of the capillary vessels in the scalp, which results in supplying abundant nutrition to the roots of the hair, producing thick strong strands. The experts at Kaminomoto combine modern research technology with the power of natural medicinal plants grown in Japan. The science behind the success of the brand is all down to the ingredients that stimulate blood circulation. So, if you have recently been noticing your hair thinning, head down to any Gulf Pharmacy branch and get your hair-loss remedy. Call 17 239-383 or visit www.gctbahrain.com.
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