Woman This Month - January 2015

2 January 2015 www.womanthismonth.com JANUARY 10 20 48 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. Submission of articles is welcome. Send queries, letters and articles to the editor at the address provided on page 4. The publisher reserves the right to edit, reject or comment editorially on all material contributed. 40 29 SHOPPING 06 Editor’s Choice: New year, new things 09 Pick of the Month: Geometry rules 10 Pop Culture: Get excited 13 Retail Therapy: What’s new on the retail scene FASHION 14 Fashion Forward: Middle mode 16 Style Radar: What the stars are wearing 18 Get the Look: Boy meets girl 20 Now & Then: Two versions, one icon 23 Trend: Bundle up PEOPLE 25 Ella Prakash: Beautiful pain 27 Jenny Randria: Little clothes 28 Community: On women in crisis FEATURE 29 The Feel Good Guide: Muneera Obaidli, food, spas and more BEAUTY 38 News: The latest products in the stores 40 Tips: Organic goodness 42 Review: Skin solutions 44 Advice: Nightmare hair LIFESTYLE 47 Colour of the Year: Find out 48 Home: Up the walls 50 10 Tips: A fountain of ideas 53 Column: Think outside the box 56 Wellbeing: Brain drain 64 Travel: Set your sights on Sri Lanka 66 Food: Out with the old, in with the new 70 Horoscope: What to expect this month 71 He says: Laugh at yourself 72 She says: Perspectives

4 January 2015 www.womanthismonth.com It’s always an uphill struggle getting back on form again. Despite the clean slate that the new year brings, the leftovers from the season can make even the most rock hard discipline crumble – but that’s OK according to Muneera Obaidli. She tells us (flip to page 30) why messing up is one of the best ways to improve your eating habits and sustain a healthier regime. And since we’re being good to ourselves, we've bumped up this issue with lots of ideas and tips to a better way of life in our guide on page 29. You’ll notice we’re beating the January blues with some serious pampering at the best spas on the island – give us mosaic tiles and some steam and we’re set. And in the spirit of the new year we’ve added a new fashion page. Because we love the sartorial icons of yesteryear, our fashion and beauty editor Fernanda pulled together the fashion highlights of Jackie Kennedy Onassis along with updated picks for you in the first of our ‘now & then’ style series on page 20. We’re going to be updating a few more pages in the future – mainly to get you all more involved because we love what you bring to the magazine – so till then, I’m off to sizzle in a sauna. Here’s to a great year! Georgie Bradley Editor responsible editor JUBRAN ABDULRAHMAN chairman & publisher GEORGE F MIDDLETON editorial consultant STAN SZECOWKA editor GEORGIE BRADLEY fashion and beauty editor FERNANDA LANGHAMMER contributors ANKITA MAMGAIN BEHNAZ SANJANA DR JIHAN DARWISH GEORGE R VAUGHAN HANNA MOORE JAMES CLAIRE creative director ANDRE BIGG print production manager SABU SEBASTIAN layout & graphics ROMEO SAN MIGUEL media coordinator SARAH ANSARI media managers FARHEEN AHMED circulation KATHERINE LAO photography editor AISHA SIDDIQA photographers RANJITH MOHAN 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 here for the modern woman of substance and aspiration, embodying a personal style while exploring the best of all worlds: fashion, beauty and lifestyle. 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 1100, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain January 2015, issue 143 On the cover: Muneera Obaidli Follow us on: @woman_this_month @WomanThisMonthB Woman This Month EDITOR’S NOTE Woman This Month is a member of BPA Worldwide I used to stick to your solid black, white and grey trainers; but now I’m thinking: all black gym gear and a pop of candycolour at the bottom. I’d love to say a pair of statement kicks will make you go faster but just get these neon brights on and hello happy feet! Nike New Balance Reebok

www.womanthismonth.com 5 January 2015 letters Write Here Write Now We want to hear your thoughts on Woman This Month. Write to us at [email protected] Get in touch by email, Twitter, Facebook or Instagram! Letter Woman This Month you have done it again, I was guilty of almost all of last month’s ‘Makeup Don’ts’, but now this one page make-up bible has taught me enough tricks to help me look great for Christmas. The trick about lip liner was particularly helpful as I often struggle to use it and make it look flawless, now I know that I need to buy lip coloured liner and not harsh dark colours like I used to. Also, since purchasing a lip brush my lipstick appears more smooth and makes it look much neater, I believe lipstick completes an outfit and that article helped me perfect the skill and has given me the confidence to go out and wear it well. Claire The most liked on WTM's Instagram @woman_this_month If you are a nail aficionado, WTM is giving you the chance to click and post a picture of your beautiful nail art. The picture that gets the most likes will win a surprise gift. To enter the competition, like our WTM page and post the nail art picture in the comment and using the hashtag #WTMContest. Two winners will be chosen and will receive a dine in voucher at the K Hotel. I loved the Amal Al Mulla feature from last month. Her designs are unique and I thought her concepts were very beautiful. It’s great to see young Bahraini designers going places. Fatima Thank you Woman This Month for putting the pages on how to dress to impress with black colours. I especially liked the kimono from Mango as the details are very fun. It will be my party season outfit for sure. Alia WINNERS

58 January 2015 www.womanthismonth.com SOCIAL BUTTERFLY The K Hotel invited guests and media to attend the lighting of its Christmas Tree at the hotel’s lobby. Children from different schools were also invited to celebrate with Christmas carols and meet Santa Claus. Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony Yolker, Hussain & Bilal Sheryl, Muna & Romina Carolers Yolker addresses the guests Santa doles out the presents In honour of World Diabetes Day, the Gulf Diabetes Specialist Centre organised the World Diabetes Walk-a-thon at The Lagoon in Amwaj Islands. The walkathon was held under the theme ‘Diabetes: Protect Our Future’. World Diabetes Day at Amwaj Islands The walkathon participants Andrea, Cheryl & Jen Abdulla, Abrar, Amal & Ramla Rahim, Shaheen, Abdul Hameed & Ahmed Ahmed & Nabeela Zainab & Fatema

6 January 2015 www.womanthismonth.com SHOPPING | editor's choice With the new year comes the promise of a more balanced life, hopefully upheld with some resolutions! Whether you’re out to find a new hobby, lose weight or slow things down a bit, take advantage of the moment. 1. Tank top: Bershka 2. Trousers: Juicy Couture 3. Cherry cushion: Cuckooland 4. Cushion: Debenhams 5. Bicycle: Funked Up 6. Grey T-Shirt: Oysho 7. Herbal pot: Wilko 8. Outdoor lounger: Fiore Rosso. 8 MIND, BODY AND SOUL 1 3 7 5 Punt Roma 4 2 6

Sitra Showroom 17 736 222 www.motorcity.com.bh

8 January 2015 www.womanthismonth.com SOCIAL BUTTERFLY As the largest and most prestigious jewellery exhibition in the Middle East, regular high profile participants – international jewellery houses and watch manufacturers – introduce their new collections and limited edition pieces at Jewellery Arabia. | Officine Panerai Press Preview | | Aigner & Escada Press Preview | | Oris Press Preview | | Beedz Press Preview | | Bucalleti Press Preview | | Savelli Press Preview | Patrick, Mohammed, Luca & Puiling Valeria, Alessandro & Annabelle Lama, Khaled, Melvin, Sally & Gaby Deepak, Adel, Mohammed & Narish Hussain, Abbas, Mohammed, Alan, Abul Qassim, Karim, Claudine & Nowshad Farheen, Marise, Roberta, Rahma, Georgie & Hannah Mohammed & Marise

www.womanthismonth.com 9 January 2015 As Francesca Amfitheatrof steps into the design director role, she celebrates her position by creating Tiffany T. The collection is dedicated to the world’s greatest cities and its art and culture loving global travellers. The native New Yorker and trained jeweller and silversmith pieced the collection with symbols of modern life and its relentless energy. Francesca was inspired by the newness all explorers seek and the sheer lightness of the Tiffany design when developing the line’s concept. The letter T was also a central feature with its strong graphic appeal. It was deconstructed and added to the already structured influence. The brand’s skilled artisans gave life to the designer’s sketch with 18-carat gold, rose, yellow and sterling silver, giving the collection a unique architectural look. Some pieces get a touch of fine diamonds and glowing gems too. The collection is composed of minimal bracelets, monumental cuffs, multiple chains, elegant pendants, rings and earrings. Tiffany T has a rich mix of options, layered in striking looks for bold women. The collection leads Tiffany’s visionary past into the future. Tiffany has got someone new in its blue box! With the company in the hands of its first ever female designer, the high-end jewellery brand has an edgy collection. Rhythmic and Effortless SHOPPING | pick of the month

10 January 2015 www.womanthismonth.com THINGS TO GET EXCITED ABOUT IN 2015 POP CULTURE | on the scene A DARKER SHADE OF MAGIC From the same author as Vicious, V.E. Schwab's new book comes with a universe of daring adventure, thrilling power and different ‘Londons’. Main character, Kell, is one of the last travellers-magicians with a rare ability to travel between parallel universes. The worlds are Grey London, without any magic and ruled by a mad king; Red London, where life and magic are revered; White London, where people fight to control magic; and there’s the unspeakable Black London. Expect to see it on the shelves in February. IF YOU FIND THIS LETTER Hannah Brencher's heartwarming memoir on love and faith is a dedication to total strangers showing that they are not alone in the world. She started her journey writing a letter to a woman on the subway and leaving it for anyone to find. It was the first of many to come; she left love letters in doctor’s offices, coat pockets, library books and other public places. Feeling lonely in New York City, she found solace in the idea that her words might brighten someone’s day. The project grew and became the website The World Needs More Love Letters. Look out for it in March. ABOVE AND BJÖRK It’s been three years since she released the album Biophilia, and it’s now confirmed that Björk is currently working with Arca, the Venezuelan-born and New Yorkbased producer on her next album, scheduled for release in 2015. She is always full of surprises and, having teamed up with this cutting-edge electronic producer, the musical alleys are abuzz with what the maverick artist will dish out next. TRASH YOU NOT This year marks the 20-year anniversary of alternative rock band Garbage’s self-titled debut album, and the band has some big plans to celebrate. They will be re-releasing Garbage, with lots of bonus material and B-sides. There is also some unseen archival footage that they hope to release. In addition to this, the band is working on a brand new album, scheduled for release next year. BEYONCÉ’S BIOGRAPHY OK, so there isn’t a confirmed title yet but the chart-topping pop star’s unauthorised biography is set to be released in the autumn of 2015. Celebrity biographer, J. Randy Taraborrelli has his work cut out for him because, as he’s said: “From Destiny's Child to solo superstardom to her marriage to Jay-Z, Beyoncé has lived a most incredible, inspiring life.” J. Randy has penned biographies on Madonna, Michael Jackson, and the Hiltons. Bear in mind, though, that there won’t be a sit-down session with Beyoncé so it’s going to be a lot of hearsay. Still, we want our copy! BOOKS MUSIC

www.womanthismonth.com 11 January 2015 TWO AND A HALF MEN The longest-running sitcom on television, CBS’s Two and a Half Men is finally coming to a close in 2015. After 12 seasons, the men will take a bow after a one-hour finale on Thursday, February 19. Upon its completion, 262 episodes of Men will have aired. The series earned 47 Emmy Award nominations, with co-star Jon Cryer winning twice. For five years straight, the Chuck Lorreproduced comedy was the mostwatched sitcom on TV. DANNY COLLINS Here’s a story, apparently inspired by true events, that has Al Pacino playing 1970s rocker Danny Collins, who is still quite rock and roll in his ways. But the celebrity life gets interrupted when a letter that was sent to Danny 40 years ago emerges – written to him by none other than John Lennon. The film also stars Jennifer Garner, Christopher Plummer and Annette Bening as Pacino’s love interest. A LITTLE CHAOS Starring Kate Winslet and Alan Rickman (remember when they played love interests in Sense and Sensibility?) the period piece is about Madame Sabine De Barra – an unlikely candidate for the landscape architect of the stillto-be-completed palace of Versailles. She has little time for the classical ordered designs of the man who hires her – the famous architect Le Nôtre. However, as she works on her creation, she finds herself drawn to the enigmatic Le Nôtre and forced to negotiate the perilous rivalries and intricate etiquette of the court of King Louis XIV. THE JUNGLE BOOK Scarlett Johansson, Christopher Walken, Bill Murray, Lupita Nyong’o and Ben Kingsley bring to life Rudyard Kipling’s timeless tale of a human child raised by a pack of wolves, a bear and a black panther. Yes, one of 2015’s most anticipated releases is Disney’s live-action CGI rendition of The Jungle Book. MOVIES BETTER CALL SAUL Breaking Bad fans know full well who Saul Goodman is. Albuquerque’s devil’s advocate is back to rule the airwaves in 2015. Directed by Vince Gilligan, the show features the trials and tribulations of this criminal lawyer in the time leading up to establishing his strip-mall law office. TV SERIES

12 January 2015 www.womanthismonth.com SOCIAL BUTTERFLY Thailand’s Department of International Trade Promotion hosted the first ever Thailand pavilion at Jewellery Arabia 2014. It was presented under the theme ‘Ploi Thai Gems & Jewellery from Thailand’ and featured 17 famous Thai gems and jewellery companies. Thai Night at Jewellery Arabia 2014 Somchai, HE Ahmed Shahzan Abdul Samad, Malaysian Ambassador to Bahrain, Noor & Sukma Roqaya & Daphne Joanne & Shelly Martina & Natasha Paween & HE Vichai Varasirikul, Thai Ambassador to Bahrain Ruth, Cris & Dee Toshiko Launch of Designer Outlet’s The Designer Outlet, in association with Fifi & Lime, hosted a preview of its Autumn/Winter 2014 collection at Seef Corner Mall. Tanya & Kate Geraldine & Lisa Sam & Steve Hael & Huzama Elliot & Angela Caroline, Yasmin & Claire Janina, Moddy & Shah

www.womanthismonth.com 13 January 2015 Convenience, uniqueness and kindness are the buzzwords in our retail vocabulary this month. Which of these are going to set you off on a shopping spree? SHOPPING | news RETAIL THERAPY SHOPPING FOR A CAUSE H&M is a fashion company that constantly supports the community through social action. The All for Children collection is now available and offers an active-wear line for kids of all ages. Twenty-five per cent of sales go towards UNICEF to give vulnerable little ones in the world a better future through education. EYE MAKE-UP GUIDE Make-up artist Bobbi Brown is releasing her eighth beauty book: Everything Eyes published by Chronicle Books. The latest volume teaches us how to make eyes stand out using the right make-up and correct tools. Stepby-step tutorials are included as well as tips for what works best for your eye shape and colour. PRIVATE AND PERSONAL If Louis Vuitton weren’t in a league of their own already, their luxurious customisations have now reached new heights. Through specially developed technology, the original stripes and personal initials can now be applied to soft pieces, from bags to small leather goods. Trunks and other pieces continue to be painted by hand. It means that the Mon Damier Graphite line for men can have a unique stamp. IMAGE RECOGNITION Mango has added a new feature to its Scan&Shop mobile app. The innovative technology makes it possible to purchase and locate items in stores via scanning images from catalogues and advertisements. The service is only available for devices using the iOS operating system, although a version for Android will be launched shortly. MINI FASHIONISTA Salvatore Ferragamo presents Ferragamo MINI, an exclusive capsule collection for children. Available in sizes 27 to 33, the designs pay special attention to comfort with rubber soles and soft fits. In a wide range of textures - soft suede, glittery fabric, laminated and laser-cut nappa - the shoes are practically hand-picked for little princesses.

14 January 2015 www.womanthismonth.com FASHION | fashion forward MIDSEASON, NEW STYLE! Now that we’re between seasons, our fashion and beauty editor picks her favourite looks and micro-trends from the Resort 2015 collection. VIVID STROKE Fendi and its graphic coordination impresses every time. For their Resort collection, the colours and patterns explore the brand’s name in a subtle way, creating an artistic composition. Those flowers give another dimension to the visual effects of the look. Those shoes, on the other hand, clash with the overall look. Sophisticated crocs aren’t convincing enough. COOL LEGS Combo shorts plus a long coat is a casual but chic pick. Paired with Oxford shoes, it’s perfect for a relaxed day look that can be carried into a cool evening. Alice + Olivia has brought out the brand’s style by opting for matching patterns. Choose a solid colour piece and team it up with a printed number. Feminine minimalism is the very definition of Nina Ricci’s designs. Fine fabrics, tailored cuts and well-planned colour palettes are easily spotted in this mid-season collection. The boldpatterned pencil skirt gives a twist to this traditional item – a staple in a business woman’s wardrobe. Burgundy and purple is an unusual combination, but in this case, works a dream. STREET WALKING A classic pair of flats always adds the finishing touches without showing off. Jimmy Choo Cruise collection brings a selection of timeless pieces to be worn with your favourite looks. The designs are offered in a variety of trendy colours. These shoes can also be found in pink, gold and black with mini studs. MINIMAL SOPHISTICATION

www.womanthismonth.com 15 January 2015 MAXIMUM ELEGANCE We love some laid-back style! A woman who looks chic without showing how much effort she put into her look, is our idea of being well-dressed. Donna Karan is all about bringing this kind of woman to its Resort collection. The comfy look is a lot more complex than we think. The lightweight trousers are well balanced with the shirt and parka, while the delicate sandals and neutral colour complete the look. The trick is to select the pieces carefully to get that understated wow factor. PATTERN EXPRESS Most brands have a trademark to define their DNA – and Etro has it down. Paying particular attention to its prints, the brand plays with colours and motifs in a unique way. The accessories embrace the theme and complement the looks with their own identity. Shoes and handbags follow suit with similar shapes and colour palettes. SOCIAL BUTTERFLY Massimo Dutti opened its newly renovated store with a bash for guests and media in Seef Mall. Massimo Dutti’s NightOut Iman, Dalia & Raihana Reem & Georgina Ralph & Pierre Aya & Huda Marise & Shabana Gemma, Hussain, Bahaa & Emily Puja & Farheen Iman & Dalia Raihana & Duaa

16 January 2015 www.womanthismonth.com OLIVIA PALERMO The socialite attended the CH Carolina Herrera runway show and gala in Mexico City wearing pieces from the brand’s collection. She exuded sophistication with an asymmetrical silk blouse and blue silk evening skirt. Olivia masters simple elegance – CH reigns her wardrobe. ANNE HATHAWAY The actress flew to Shanghai, China, to participate in the Interstellar premiere press conference. Anne wore a nude and black Lanvin cocktail dress with a sheer illusion neckline from the summer 2015 precollection. The fine fabric is definitely the highlight. FASHION | snaps New year, new looks. Check out what’s happening on the red carpet from Mexico to Milan. Chic frocks and casual looks are the trends to follow this January. Style Radar

18 January 2015 www.womanthismonth.com FASHION | get the look The first thing you need to do is borrow some neutral shades from a man’s palette. The combination of black, grey and white instantly displays businessman elegance. Long, loose trousers and a white shirt should be enough to represent the style, but we love extra touches. The long coat and black squared handbag emphasise the look, while the funky loafers and hat give that final twist. The shoes are girly enough to boost some femininity and the brown head warmer breaks the paleness of the look. EASY PALETTE THE Shailene Woodley Emma Stone Ever since her starring role in Annie Hall, Diane Keaton has blazed a very (wo)manly style trail. Getting that masculine vibe without being too utilitarian takes some work though. Our fashion and beauty editor, Fernanda Langhammer, shows you how to sport the look. SHE'S THE MAN 1. Hat: Parfois; 2. Shirt: Matalan; 3. Coat: Mint Velvet; 4. Trousers: Hobbs; 5. Handbag: Charles & Keith; 6. Loafers: H&M. 6 5 2 3 4 1

www.womanthismonth.com 19 January 2015 Is there anything more chic and, let’s face it, hotter than a tuxedo? I don’t think so. Swap your cocktail dress for a crisp suit at a party – believe me, heads will turn. If you decide you want to adhere to the masculine look but want a feminine statement, pick a girly lightweight top and a pair of black, gold or even red stilettos to impress. To make it more casual, team it up with loafers and a casual black and white T-shirt. The necklace replaces the tie and the clutch adds a modern twist to the look. It’s safe to say that jumpsuits are a staple feature in a woman’s wardrobe – it’s our original take on the masculine trend if you like. To transform a jumpsuit, pick a checked suit jacket and Oxford shoes and you’ll look like you’ve come off the set of The Godfather – in a good way of course! The square handbag is a nod to the men’s bags of the ‘80s, giving that “I mean business” feel. Browns are a typical shade in a man’s wardrobe and should be embraced to achieve a sobering finish. For a feminine touch, the necklace and gold earrings will balance the look. GIRLY TOUCH THE THE CLASSIC POISE 1. Jacket: Tommy Hilfiger; 2. Jumpsuit: Debenhams; 3. Necklace: Hoss Intropia; 4. Earrings: Marks & Spencer; 5. Bag: Accessorize; 6. Shoes: Topshop. 1. Tuxedo jacket: F&F 2. Trousers: Next 3. Necklace: Call It Spring 4. Clutch: Dune 5. T-shirt: NATALIEBCOLEMAN 6. Oxfords: Massimo Dutti 6 5 2 3 4 1 6 5 2 3 4 1

20 January 2015 www.womanthismonth.com FASHION | now & then A Tale of Two Styles Jackie Kennedy Onassis The first lady of the United States conquered the world with her elegant style. From the sixties up until her death in 1994, Jackie influenced the fashion world as a timeless icon. Get her looks with these updated twists. She played the part of a sixties style icon with well-structured, tailored shift dresses which she usually wore with simple pearl necklaces. Clean colour palettes were her preferred choice and for formal wear she teamed up the same-coloured suit and hat. Her pinkish lipstick was a mainstay at every occasion. 1. Pearls: Phase Eight; 2. Lipstick: Marc Jacobs; 3. Dress: Debenhams. When she left the White House she also left behind her old style. Her wardrobe changed to long jackets, trousers and oversized sunglasses. Elegant printed scarves and designer handbags set the tone for her looks. Even her casual style was the epitome of sophistication. Despite growing her locks, she always managed to keep it in impeccable form. 4. Sunglasses: Chloe; 5. Scarf: Massimo Dutti; 6. Coat: Hobbs. SHIFT INDISPENSABLE 2 3 1 ACCESSORIES DRESSES 6 5 4

www.womanthismonth.com 21 January 2015 The new range of Alpina COMTESSE watches is a delightful balance of sporty and casual touches with pure elegance and a sharp design. Mastering the concept of luxury and simplicity, the line embodies the Swiss character to the fullest. In 1963, the COMTESSE lady collection was first launched with automatic movements. Alpina brings back the line in 2014 to mark its long tradition in the design of feminine watches. The new timepiece has assertive lines and a sporty three links bracelet blend with a mother of pearl dial. The watch has a 34mm diameter which gives a strong presence while recalling the timeless Alpine glamour of St Moritz style. The stainless steel watch encases an AL-525 automatic mechanical movement with 26 jewels and a power reserve of 38 hours. The piece is also water-resistant up to 5ATM (50m, 150ft). You’ll find the desirable piece in two versions: with or without 48 diamonds on the bezel with luminous dots enhancing its drop-shaped indexes and assuring readability at night. The stainless steel option comes with a choice of a grey genuine leather strap or stainless steel bracelet. Founded in 1883, Alpina is a true pioneer of the Swiss watchmaking industry. The brand invented the concept of the sport watch, as it is known today, with the birth of its legendary Alpina 4 in 1938. Call 17 179-854 (City Centre Bahrain) or 17 581-588 (Seef Mall). A La Mode is your go-to for eye-catching jewellery and stylish watches. Alpina COMTESSE Lady is the latest addition to the store’s fine selection. FASHION TIMEPIECE TREASURES

22 January 2015 www.womanthismonth.com SOCIAL BUTTERFLY Al Hawaj and Credimax Beauty Week Al Hawaj and Credimax presented a joint press conference in order to promote Beauty Week for the fourth year running. Mohammed, Mohammed, Saud, Mandana, Amira, Jawad Al Hawaj, Hussain, Ahmed, Shyam, Hazem, Mohammed & Dorothy Mr Jawad Al Hawaj addresses the media Presenting Beauty Week Art of C Campaign Announcement HE Shaikh Khalid bin Humood Al Khalifa inaugurates the gallery Artists busy at work Raeeba & Jude Afnan, Ali & Yana Farheen & Georgie Rawia & Angela Dipti & Sakeena Mohsen After a six-day workshop, Majid Al Futtaim and City Centre Bahrain’s ‘Art of C’ community arts initiative concluded with a ceremony to unveil the final 10 unique works of art.

www.womanthismonth.com 23 January 2015 FASHION | trend It’s finally time to dust the cobwebs off our jackets and set them free from the wardrobe. The oversized coat is the it-warmer of the season. Whether pastel pink or statement check, wrap yourself up with these high street heroes. 1. Burgundy raglan: Debenhams; 2. Blue and green checked coat: Matalan; 3. Black and red checked straight coat: Mango; 4. Blue frock coat: Monsoon; 5. Camel topcoat: Hoss Intropia; 6. Checked duffle coat: Tommy Hilfiger; 7. Pink buttoned coat: H&M. BABY IT’S COLD OUTSIDE Nina Ricci 1 2 3 4 7 6 5

24 January 2015 www.womanthismonth.com SOCIAL BUTTERFLY Multinational School Bahrain celebrated its 1st birthday in style at Block 338 Restaurant, Lounge & Garden. Multinational School Celebrates 1st Birthday Kylie, Laura & Farheen Natalie, Claire & Sandra Laura & Kylie Kate & Linda Michael & Sonya Diane & Bob Asma, Karen, Sunita, Anne & Jane Spanish clothing and accessories retailer, Pull&Bear, organised a cocktail event for media and partners at its outlet in City Centre Bahrain. Pull&Bear Cocktail Event Saeed & Fouad Trinath & Narashima Ali & Muneera Patrick & Ahmed Dalia & Noor Shabana & Dalia Katerina, Dima & Hazel

January 2015 www.womanthismonth.com 25 PEOPLE | interview After 50 years of living in Bahrain, Ella Prakash is a mainstay. Despite the modest art scene on the island, she has managed to carve a niche for herself over the last 10 years and is now showcasing her work across the globe. BREAKING THE MOULD It was always a passion of Ella’s to paint, something she really honed into her late teens, and was part of the Bahrain Arts Society. But when she got married her passion came to a standstill. “I stopped everything. Art wasn’t even my hobby anymore,” says Ella. Instead, her priorities were housebound, leaving little room for art. “In India, it is considered a woman’s duty to take care of the house, and the in-laws.” And then in 2002 it all came together. “When my youngest was four, I thought, ‘I can’t do this. I have to come out of this situation and paint again’ and I started teaching art to kids and I also painted a portrait of the King and realised I still had it in me to paint.” With a renewed spirit for art, Ella opened her first gallery in Hoora until 2011 and is now based in Adliya. WOMEN SUFFERING One of her main preoccupations is women – specifically women who suffer. Her art focuses on the female condition and the pains, mainly silent, that women have bottled up. “I decided to paint women in sorrowful situations because it was something that came the most naturally to me. I couldn’t force anything else; nothing was coming to me.” Although you’ll find endearElla Prakash’s studio in Adliya bursts with colour. Her paintings are kaleidoscopically rich in strokes and texture; their nature, however, is far from bright. She talks to Georgie Bradley about why she adds colour to dark subjects. The Light in Darkness London’s east end and is currently having her work Never Let You Go and Walk With You (curated by Barry Martin) featured at Debut Contemporary’s ‘Human Suffering at Times of Crisis Part 2’ private viewing in Notting Hill, west London, which started on December 3. The exhibition is to raise awareness on the fatal Duchenne muscular dystrophy disease and 20 per cent of the artwork sold will go towards the Harrison’s Fund charity. “Never Let You Go and Walk With You is about how time decides every aspect, where relationships are held at face value, and the only relation that remains eternal and pure is the bond between a mother and child. The painting depicts a tragedy where a mother doesn’t lose faith in her relationship with her child, keeping that bond of mental strength for eternity.” Ella is launching a solo show in March 2015 at Debut Contemporary in London – and in Italy in September 2015. In 2016 she is set to do a solo show at the New Delhi India Habitat Centre. g ingly beautiful paintings of Bahrain – the souq, orange-blazed sunsets and dhows, her studio is lined with paintings of abstractly expressed female suffering. Her work plays with rhythms, lines, angles and sharp corners – although the contours of a woman do stand out. “The intention is to express women suffering at the helm of a partner or a domestic situation. There is a lot of silence in suffering, especially with women. But I wanted to express it in a beautiful way because women have been put down a lot. They are unsung heroes.” HAPPY COLOURS “My paintings are not negative. The colours are bright and give an element of optimism to women,” explains Ella. “I only paint white faces. To me, it’s purity.” But doesn’t that spark a potentially racial argument? “I don’t treat the colour as a skin tone, but more of a clean blank canvas, so that it can apply to women of all ethnicities.” She motions to one of her paintings and describes the delicate, forlorn woman looking out of a window as a representation of looking ahead, and seeing a horizon of hope. Indeed, much of the theme of women suffering stems from her own frustrated ambitions as an artist. Though now, through her 10year artistic odyssey, Ella is on top form having showcased her work in Miami alongside Nina Torres, in a Brick Lane Gallery, in

26 January 2015 www.womanthismonth.com SOCIAL BUTTERFLY The American Women’s Association in Bahrain organised a media appreciation lunch at Upstairs Downstairs in Adliya. AWA Media Appreciation Lunch Dr Sana, Jan & Jessica Esther, Lisa & Yasmeen Leyla & Sheryl Mary-Justine & Eman Woman This Month editor, Georgie, receives an award Bahrain This Month editor, Charlie, receives an award x 94 over 10 years in Bahrain, over 10 years in Bahrain, over 10 Problem: Acne, scars, wrinkle, pigmentation, ageing, large pores, stretch marks, cellulite, fat reduction, body forming, permanent hair removal, spider veins, tired eyes/legs, … Method: Microdermabrasio, Mesotherapy, Body forming, Cavitation, Lymphatic, Fat-Away-Method, Fruit Acid, Radiofrequency, High frequency, Ultrasonic, IPL, LED, Infrared light, dermaceutical tailor made Crème,… www.beauty-manama.com 177 22 696 Farrell International Co. W.L.L. German Skin Care Centre SKIN CARE MADE IN GERMANY

January 2015 www.womanthismonth.com 27 PEOPLE | interview You would think having a baby would spark the idea to create children’s clothing, but for Jenny Randria it happened in reverse. “I set up Citron Jaune and then became pregnant about a year later.” She might have tempted fate there. Citron Jaune (that’s lemon to you and me) is both a product of Jenny’s life as an expat and a continuation of her final project from a business school in Paris. “I really wanted to do something when I came to Bahrain four years ago, and I always knew I wanted to do it on my own. I actually had this idea based on my work at business school where I had to create a brand for children, therefore it’s really an extension of that, brought to full-scale. Of course, Jenny hasn’t got only the business end of things down; her previous diploma was in fashion design – also in Paris. It seemed logical that Citron Jaune, a nod to the fresh summer air, took a leaf out of the sartorial books of Paris and focused on a chic look. “I want to give an elegant look for children between three months to 10 years old by paying special attention to the fabrics. I only use natural fabrics, like cotton and silk” – Don’t you all melt when you see super-chic children dressed in clothes you wished were available in adult sizes? Children’s fashion designer Jenny Randria chats micro fashion with Georgie Bradley. Trendy Tots knowingly admits: “It’s a long process which is only just beginning.” The intention is to spread Citron Jaune’s presence in Bahrain and the MENA region, and Jenny is now on the lookout for a partnership and is open to new opportunities to develop the business. g Call Jenny: 33753-419 Instagram: @citron_jaune_ thinking of that sensitive baby skin - “and I love luxurious things, not because of the price but because of the way they’re made. I focus on handmade embroidery as I love the idea of children wearing unique, quality clothing. The details and finishing touches are very important to me.” Another intention is to allow the clothes to be suitable for handme-downs for some very lucky brothers and sisters. “The clothes are classic - I want my clothes to be passed on from one generation to another – in a way that makes them timeless.” Seeing the little shirts, skirts and trousers ensues a lot of oo-ing and aa-ing and an irresistible urge to touch every bit of the velvety material - which is exclusively sourced from Jenny’s home country, Madagascar. “All of the clothes are produced in Madagascar, as a way of supporting the local economy. The country has a lot of potential in the art and crafts industry and, by getting my clothes made there, it promotes the country beyond the harsh reality that exists. If I can support them in that way, then I’m happy.” The reality of launching Citron Jaune has seen a few bumps on the road, but as Jenny

28 January 2015 www.womanthismonth.com PEOPLE | community Violence against women is a thorny subject, one that takes time and commitment to eliminate. Crisis counsellor and trainer, Mary-Justine Todd, who has more than 10 years of experience and two master’s degrees, is gaining ground in the region to help treat survivors of domestic and sexual violence (DSV). The Power Invested in You Before Mary-Justine Todd came to Bahrain with her husband (a professor at the University of Bahrain) she was the main woman behind Women’s Crisis Care International (WCCI) in the United States and across various countries in Africa. The goal of WCCI is to provide treatment and care for women who are survivors of domestic and sexual violence, between the actual incident, and the days and weeks until they may get further help. Now, Mary-Justine is hoping to create a home-grown version of this service for women in Bahrain. Woman This Month (WTM): What buffer role does WCCI play? Mary-Justine Todd (M-J): The way that it works is that the doctors and nurses in the hospital collaborate. Each time a woman comes to a hospital and reports (or if the intake staff suspects it) that they have been a victim of DSV, the intake nurse automatically calls a crisis responder to provide assistance -one in three women across the world have experienced domestic or sexual violence according to the World Health Organization. I am a certified crisis counsellor and trainer in New York City and what I hope to do here one day is to create a programme where we can be there 24 hours a day to respond to a call. Our role would be to facilitate whatever it is that the woman wants – we have no agenda. If she wants to call the police, we would help with that. But if she doesn’t we wouldn’t do it. If she wants counselling for the future we would arrange it but, again, if she doesn’t we wouldn’t force anything on her. WTM: What happens if you really feel the law should intervene, despite a woman’s discretion? M-J: It’s totally up to the survivor. If she wants to press charges, that’s her decision. One of the points behind this work is to give power back to the woman. During the violent incident, the power was taken away from her. We seek to give her back the power by saying that she knows how best to keep herself and her family safe. WTM: How have you been gaining ground in Bahrain? M-J: WCCI was my previous work in America and Africa and now I hope to start from the ground up and provide the same service in Bahrain. We are still exploring the best ways to move forward and will certainly be working together with the authorities and communities. Bahrain is a very progressive and compassionate society. They are extremely supportive of women’s care and protection. And they are highly advanced with regards to women’s roles in the communities. There are already several really great centres in Bahrain that offer services to women survivors of violence such as Batelco Care Centre, Aisha Yateem Family Counseling Centre, and the Supreme Council for Women - they offer support for women in a variety of ways including counselling and legal advice. I hope to be able to offer a programme that will provide a bridge between the incident and the counselling or other services she may receive thereafter. WTM: How do you plan on spreading the prevalence of reporting violence? M-J: I would hope to improve reporting rates through public awareness campaigns saying something like, “Did somebody hurt you? You can report it or go to the hospital for help.” All over the world, domestic and sexual violence is considered humiliating, mortifying and a family issue. I have already been asked by local companies to come and speak as an expert in domestic and sexual violence and provide awareness and sensitivity training. The main idea of this programme would be the crisis response aspect, but before that, we would want to train medical staff in sensitivity and response to teach them how to recognise signs of violence. In the long term we hope to open up a centre where we can refer the survivors to in-house counselling as well. g If anybody is interested in more information please contact Mary-Justine, via www.womenscci.org

The Feel Good Guide FEATURE | health & well being 30 Muneera Obaidli 32 Muneera Makes 33 Instagrub 34 Local Retreats 35 Global Retreats 36 Things You Need 37 What We Need www.womanthismonth.com 29 January 2015

30 January 2015 www.womanthismonth.com FEATURE | cover story Hungry for Joy How many times have we begun a new year with the die-hard promise that we will shape up and not give in? It might last for the first few weeks but a whiff of a freshly baked cake or those strategically placed chocolate bars at the supermarket checkout weakens us. With a huge eating out culture in Bahrain, it’s difficult and anti-social to diet. But diet is a dirty word; something that complicates and deprives our system. If you scroll through a random feed of Instagram posts you’ll notice the world has gone #raw without compromising the quality and quantity of food, in fact we’re being better to our bodies. Ever since the ‘eat clean’ revolution began – along with the pioneering Wholefoods and Planet Organic people – it has shifted mindsets and repurposed our relationship with food. Muneera Obaidli sees it as a lifestyle more than anything. With her new book coming out Muneera backtracks her gastronomic adventure. “I always loved making people happy through food. When I was younger I cooked and shared it around.” This was before she got her degree in culinary arts from London branch of Le Cordon Bleu and her certificate in holistic integrative nutrition from the Institute of Integrative Nutrition in New York. Although before she went down this avenue of food, there wasn’t any real health concept to her cooking. “Through learning more about food though, it opened me up to new things. After that I wasn’t willing to feed people food I wouldn’t eat myself. And luckily people were saying they feel really good eating my food and asked if I could do a programme for them.” That’s when her health food company started in 2006. The problem with food is that it’s deep-rooted in our emotions. Often, our food consumption or lack of it, harbours bigger issues at hand. Food is all about control. When people deprive themselves it’s a way of gaining control in one area of their life where they don’t have any in others. “Some people are very particular and strict with every morsel that goes into their mouth but when you look at them they don’t look like the picture of health. They are not healthy and happy. It’s one thing when you have an allergy or an intolerance to a food but when it is self-inflicted you make food the enemy and that’s not the point.” Still, people want a quick fix. They resort to low calorie or low fat foods, which from what we have come to learn, do us more harm than good with hidden sugars and strange concoctions of ingredients. “Diet foods are not sustainable. You have to prioritise and take small steps. Don’t expect a magic pill. Nutritionally dense foods like kale and quinoa are much more sustainable.” But Muneera hates the term ‘health food’. “It implies that there is food and non food.” With each of her clients she goes about food in different ways but with the same goal of reaching a path of joy. “There is no single ‘Magna Carta’ plan for everyone to follow. It is all about what works for you.” Say, for instance, you’re on a major health kick, you’re eating the right foods and you’re feeling great but then you give in to that temptation after ‘x’ amount of months of being good. How can we put a stop to this yo-yo behavior once and for all? “It’s all about finding alternatives. It’s not about deprivation at all – because if you cut everything out you will binge sooner rather than later. It’s always important to upgrade. I’m not going to tell someone who eats McDonald’s three times a day to eat sprouts and start juicing. It’s not going to work for them. If you like burgers, how are you going to make it better for you? There are so many alternative, healthier ways to make burgers.” Although we’re human, we mess up. “My clients A year since we last spoke with holistic wellness coach Muneera Obaidli, she’s now got her new book Hungry for Joy coming out in 2015. She tells Georgie Bradley why we have to ditch diets and just be more choosey with our food rather than prohibit it.

www.womanthismonth.com 31 January 2015 might come to me with their heads bowed down and admit to giving into bad food and I rejoice on their behalf. They’re usually really confused! If someone has been eating really well and then they eat garbage, they feel it! That is your motivation. The people I work with want to change their life and part of that is messing up. It’s the only way to understand what works for you and what makes you feel good. But if you know you’re going to feel guilty afterwards, you may as well not have that particular food.” Even Muneera has her moments. “Last month I was in New York and I had a massive croissant. I usually don’t eat wheat at all. I had an almond milk hot chocolate with it too. You have to get your pleasures in life. The reason I had the croissant was because when I met with Joshua Rosenthal, the founder of integrative nutrition, he said: ‘You’re in New York, there are so many things to do, be bad!’ – it’s part of the coaching he does with people. One of the homework assignments is to be bad. I have to say I enjoyed that croissant. But of course I felt bad, but I knew I would.” As part of her coaching, Muneera adopts a word which many of us are new to: holistic. It’s all about bringing food and lifestyle together because they’re not mutually exclusive, they influence one another. “I have a tool I use called the circle of life, it’s a big wheel that is divided into wedges and each has an aspect of life that creates balance. Food is different for everyone. Everyone has different nutritional needs based on age and what they do: a sumo wrestler eats very differently from a ballerina! In terms of life, the wheel will have ‘home cooking’ ‘finances’ or ‘education’ and ‘social life’ – dots are put in the centre of the wheel if you’re really miserable and at the peripheral if you are very happy with your life. If you connect the dots and the shape is spherical, you’re happy, but more often than not it’s more squiggly. I honestly believe when you’re very happy you’ll follow through with your goals.” “Hungry for Joy is about the journey of health and wellness. I really find it’s about finding joy and for people to find their own joy. Why do people really want to be healthy? It’s about finding joy in life. A lot of it is compensated with food and destructive behavior. The book has quite an extensive recipe section but also a meditation and exercise portion and super foods.” Is she wanting to be the Gwyneth Paltrow of Bahrain? “I’m not keen on being a public figure. I just like working with people.” Visit: www.muneera.com

32 January 2015 www.womanthismonth.com FEATURE | the feel good guide Muneera Makes… Buckwheat Crepes After all that holistic health talk, it would be silly of us not to include a homemade recipe from Muneera this month. She shares a sin-free version of the perfect Friday food. Who says being healthy is not delicious?! This is an absolutely mouthwatering, fail-safe, crepe recipe. The secret is to keep your wrist moving and swirl the pan as you pour in the batter to get your crepes paper-thin. Believe me, you’ll want to make it time and time again! What You Need • 2 cups buckwheat flour • 4 organic free-range eggs (or mix 6 tbsp water with 2 tbsp ground chia seeds and allow to sit for 5 minutes) 500 ml nut milk • 250 ml water • 4 tsp coconut sugar • 2 tsp vanilla extract • 1/2 tsp sea salt • 1/4 cup grass-fed butter (or virgin coconut oil) Toppings: mix and match sliced bananas, strawberries or blueberries, maple syrup, raw honey, maple-cacao sauce, chopped nuts or seeds.. What To Do 1. Whisk all the ingredients together in a large bowl, cover and set aside for 30 minutes (this can be prepared the night before and just refrigerate overnight). 2. Melt the butter/coconut oil in a ceramic non-stick crepe pan (or other shallow pan), and pour into the crepe batter mixture. 3. Whisk the mixture well and pass it through a sieve to make sure there are no lumps. 4. Pour a small amount of batter into the pan while swirling it around to cover the base of the pan as thinly as possible. 5. Cook the crepe until bubbles appear over the top. Flip using a spatula and cook on the other side until golden marks appear. 6. Serve with your preferred fillings/ toppings. Note: for a savoury crepe, simply omit the coconut sugar and vanilla. You can then fill it with your favourite savoury fillings.

www.womanthismonth.com 33 January 2015 First came the selfies, then came the healthies. Here are our top Instagrammers to follow for yummy recipes, fun photography and the feel good factor. #Instagrub @aliaalmoayed Nutritional therapist and health consultant, Alia Almoayed has lots of great video recipes with healthy variations on your favourite local cooking as well as top health expert interviews. @allyskitchenstories Devon based foodie blogger and wellness wonder woman, Ally Mac, whips up nutritious food combos with artistic presentation and lots of love. And she has a cute dog too. @madeleine_shaw_ Madeleine Shaw is the original girl that coined #gettheglow. She is a household name in the health world, combining yoga, raw food and sunshine in her clean eating philosophy. @deliciouslyella This plant-based blogger and smoothie lover lives gluten and sugar free. Ella Woodward has an app and cookbook coming out in January 2015. Now that’s how you work social media! @hemsleyhemsley A sister act duo who love to cook and eat together, Jasmine and Melissa Hemsley make real, wholesome food and have a book called The Art of Eating Well. They are also regular food writers for Vogue. @papaya_sunshine Marie always has a market worth of fruit and vegetables in her food plan. Her photos are reliably happy and you feel healthier just by scrolling through her account.

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