Bahrain Edition BEAUTY | FASHION | HOME | WELLBEING | PARENTING | LOCAL ISSUES According to Dana A Film that Truly Speaks Try the Tribal June’s Feature Trend Looking Good Cosmetic Procedures Protect that Smile Care for Your Teeth JUNE 2012 | Issue 112 www.womanthismonth.com
www.omegawatches.com STARRING NICOLE KIDMAN
4 | June 2012 | woman this month People 16 Bahrain Female Strength: Joseph Tito’s Latest Film Fashion 18 Fashion Forward: Trend Forecast 20 Fashion News Bulletins: All the Latest 22 Tribal Tales: Jungle-Chic Cosmetic Procedures and Dentistry 38 Consumer Report: All the Best Clinics 40 White and Bright: 20 Tips for Looking After Teeth Beauty 34 News: The Latest Products 36 Fragrances: Summer Scents Wellbeing 46 Feature: The Joys of a Yoga Lifestyle 52 Campaign: Bipolar Disorder Explained Parenting 54 Feature: Dealing with the In-Laws 57 Column: Too Young to Change? Regulars 8 Write Here, Write Now 62 Recipes: Snacking Through June 64 Travel: Enjoy the Solstice 68 Horoscope: June in the Stars 72 Columnist: The Gift 16 54 38 54 46 contents | JUNE 2012 June 2012, issue 112 Summer styles from Misguided.co.uk. More SS12 fashion inside… woman this month JUNE 2012 ı THE SPRING-OVER ı www.womanthismonth.com HOME SUBSCRIBERS COPY ISSUE 112 Bahrain Edition BEAUTY | FASHION | HOME | WELLBEING | PARENTING | LOCAL ISSUES According to Dana A Film that Truly Speaks Try the Tribal June’s Feature Trend Looking Good Cosmetic Procedures Protect that Smile Care for Your Teeth JUNE 2012 | Issue 112 www.womanthismonth.com 12 14
6 | June 2012 | woman this month Welcome EDITOR's letter Personally, I am an advocate of celebrating what your mother gave you and being proud of unique qualities and little imperfections. If you can build on your own sense of self-esteem to fix a problem of low-confidence, then this should always be your first move. It is tough to imagine that cosmetic procedures are fast becoming the natural response of those that feel down about themselves. After all, we were all made differently for a reason — no one wants to live in a place full of identical clones. I will accept, though, that for some people, large imperfections can feel like a real hindrance to every day life. They can affect, not just your own confidence, but the way prospective employers see you, or the way yours and other children respond to you. In certain cases, physical imperfections can become a disability — affecting hearing, sight or movement, for example. In these cases, when other options have been explored, surgical or non-invasive medical solutions can be a real life-saver. It is for this reason, that we have put together a cosmetic procedures and dentistry feature. We have focused on the most reputable clinics in the Kingdom, looking at the procedures that they specialise in, when they should become an option, recovery times and much more. Other than this, we have a great tribal fashion piece; we take a look at the benefits of practising yoga and we speak to some amazing creative types about their latest projects. Enjoy! Natasha Bird Editor For of the moment news, tips, advice and fun links, follow Woman This Month on Twitter @WomanThisMonthB responsible editor Jubran AbdulRahman chairman & publisher George F Middleton publishing director David M Robertson editorial consultant Dr Paul Balles editor NATASHA BIRD contributors Dr Claire McInroy george r vaughan James Claire staff writers Elma Bartholomew Maryam A. Toorani ALISON COLDRIDGE KEERTHANA LOUIS print production manager Sabu Sebastian layout & graphics RODOLFO A. REYES JR. Dalal Al-Sabbagh media coordinator SARAH ANSARI media executives ESKY Girmay SHANI DAVEL 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 Kingdom Cookie Cutter
8 | June 2012 | woman this month Letters Keep Telling the Truth STAR LETTER Write Here Write Now 73 woman this month | May 2012 | Parenting Discovering the right balance between perfect parenting and a meaningful marriage can be difficult. Dr Clare helps us address the issue. Finding the Balance | April 2012 | woman this month 72 By Dr Clare Beckett-McInroy F inding balance is one of the most common concerns among people seeking help from a life coach. Some people need help finding the right balance between their working and private lives; others need help finding the balance between their parenting and their marriage. Many of these people seek help from coaches, despite the fact that they have confident, thriving children. Why is this so? The main reason is because they are struggling in their marriage. The transition from being a married couple to being a married couple with children can be a real challenge. It demands a totally different routine and for many people, this can come as a great shock. Let’s go back for a moment to the life of a childless couple. Pre-children, there was time for you, time for exercise, time for friends and family, time for your husband, career, study, travel and everything was relatively calm. You were in control and you had the freedom to do a great deal of exactly what you wanted. You had uninterrupted time with your partner and, quite often, less to worry about too! In contrast, after children enter your lives, having even a little time to nurture your relationship with your partner is a real treat. The needs of your children can leave you drained and exhausted, both emotionally and physically, at the end of each day. Despite all the joy of sharing the successes and milestones together, many boats capsize while navigating these rapids. Marriage breakdowns happen for many different reasons. However, neglect, owing to the fact that both parents spend more time attending to the needs of their children than looking out for each other, is a popular contributing factor. 18 | May 2012 | woman this month 19 woman this month | May 2012 | Interview I f Mala Kumar is anything to go by, a visit to India should become a must on everyone’s checklist. She is a wonderful combination of colour and energy and she speaks about her home country with real exuberance. “We have just got so much to offer in terms of art, music, dance, food, clothes and jewellery,” Mala exclaims, “India is an amazing country. The simply vast richness and heritage that we have is astonishing and I feel we should show it more and more. India is an emerging power — it is a ‘soft power’ as my husband would say.” In a bid to share India’s greatness, Mala, along with a couple of other India-enthusiasts, has embarked on a mission to showcase India in the Middle East. This mission is taking the form of a series of lavish events, collectively known as Irresistible India, designed to give guests a total immersion in Indian culture. Mala plans to start the series with a real bang. The first event, which will have just taken place when this magazine hits the shops, is a luxurious evening of food, music and dancing. Guests to the first Irresistible India gala will have dined on a sumptuous fourcourse meal, which blends traditional and modern Indian cuisine. They will also have had the opportunity to watch two exciting dance troupes — one a Rajisthani folk group and the other a Bollywood troupe from Mumbai. And finally, they will have danced the night away as DJ Benson from Dubai spun a mix of modern and Bollywood tunes. The main idea, according to Mala, is to allow people to discover the lesser known aspects of Indian culture. “People in Bahrain love Bollywood, which is great, of course. It is already so popular that it is what people think of when they think of India, but there is so much else too,” Mala explains. “The Indian cuisine that most of the restaurants in Bahrain serve is usually the butter chickens and the tandooris", she says, “but people should try something else. The food from other parts of India like Gujarat, Goa, Andhra Pradesh are very different. They use different spices and it would be nice for people to come and eat this and say, ‘Wow, I didn’t know this was also Indian’.” “After this first event,” says Mala, “who knows? I want to showcase the full extent of the culture of India. We are hoping to bring in contemporary art and then have some more traditional music too, with wellknown stalwarts in Indian music. We might bring in some stand-up comedians, theatre and perhaps have a culinary festival. I have big plans!” I asked Mala how the idea for Irresistible India came about and why it is so important to her to bring India to the people of Bahrain. “It all started with a private sari show that I did at home for the Jusoor programme, led by the wife of Bahrain's foreign minister, Shaikha Wesal. It was a gathering of prominent Bahraini ladies and diplomats' wives. It was to show them that saris are not just worn in one way and that, even though they are traditional dress, they can also be stylish and timeless. Many people didn’t know that there was a sari of nine yards. The Italian ambassador’s wife volunteered to have a sari draped on her in the traditional style. People were fascinated because they thought it was all stitched, but it’s not, it’s all folded and draped in a matter of minutes,” describes Mala. “After this event, I teamed up with Renuka from La Bonn V and Irwin Rego, because we share the same passion for our country and it became our joint venture to produce the Indian gala evening” It isn’t just this passion which has spurred Mala on to creating the Irresistible India series, though. She feels that the Middle East and India have a special bond, which shouldn’t go overlooked. “There is such a huge population of Indians in the Middle East, especially here. Bahrain has been strongly influenced by Indian culture for many centuries,” Mala explains. “Bahrainis eat a lot of Indian food, a lot of people are familiar now with the mainstream music of India. Bahrain imports a lot of textiles and embroidery from India — a lot of the kaftans that you see are actually made in India”. There is also a sense that India is inextricably tied to the progress in the Middle East. Mala agrees: “Indians have contributed a lot to the development of the Middle East. I think that Bahrain is one of the countries where Indians enjoy a lot of respect, for their intelligence, their work ethic and their contribution to the economy. It is my delight to strengthen this bond and this relationship.” We, as well as Mala, are very excited to see how the Irresistible India series develops. Be sure to keep an eye out for upcoming events, because they are sure to be lavish, colourful, enlightening and a whole load of fun. India Discovering Woman This Month sat down with Mala Kumar, wife to the Indian Ambassador in Bahrain and all-round India enthusiast, to talk about her plans to bring the culture and vibrancy of her home country to the people of Bahrain. Mala Kumar First Time Mother This month's parenting section article, "Finding the Balance", is a must read article for all new parents out there. Being a first time mother, with a full time job, is quite a task. It is really difficult to combine all the duties you find yourself with and 24 hours a day is usually not enough to cover the tasks of being a mother, a wife and a manager in a company. This article is very helpful and so true! I am looking forward for your next edition, where there is always an article for everyone. All the best, Cristalyn, by email. WRITE IN AND WIN Send your letter to editor@womanthismonth. com, by fax to 17 813-700 or by post to PO Box 20461, Manama. The star letter will win BD60 worth of delightfully scented products from the amazing Zohoor Al Reef perfumery and cosmetics company. The winner can choose to receive three perfumes, from a selection offered by the company. So, to make sure you feel and smell great next month, be sure to write to us! I think it is fantastic that you decided to include such a lively article about India in your last issue. Although some people have already discovered it and tend to head there year after year (it is definitely a favourite with backpackers), there are so many people who still don’t know what delights are in store when you set foot on Indian soil. People think it is not your typical holiday destination — they don’t imagine beach resorts and lazy days by the pool. But the truth is that there is so much to India. There are beach resorts and there are also mountain resorts and lakes and trips into the plantations. You can have a serene time or a holiday filled with action and adventure. Keep helping your readers to discover new places and the world will become better and better. Rajinda, by email. Discover the World Hi WTM! Thanks for the great article "The Wholesome Truth", because it tackled an important issue about healthy living. The very first time I heard the words "organic food " was during my course in Caregiving, as the newest way to provide a healthy diet for children with special needs, like Autism. Many of them have food allergies from dairy products, yeasts and metal toxins, thus, the introduction of a GFCF diet (Gluten-free, Casein-free) and the avoidance of foods high in toxic chemicals, fertilisers and pesticides helps to improve their speech and behaviour. Nowadays, organic food has taken a different, but wholesome meaning. Not only does it help the children with special needs, but everybody can actually benefit from good healthy-eating habits, which prevent the various types of cancer, heart problems, diabetes and other related diseases, like obesity, which is one of the main problems here. It is great to know that Bahrain has taken big steps to build stores like the Organic Shop and Café and set up areas especially for organic products in various supermarkets and restaurants. It is surely the time for the organic revolution. Keep the good articles coming because we are definitely enjoying every bit of information you share with your readers. Goodluck! Delle, by email. 66 | May 2012 | woman this month 67 woman this month | May 2012 | Organic Foods & Café offers plenty of options to alter your eating habits for the better. For example, you can switch your caffeinated drink intakes for an energy water drink, which includes higher-energy levels, but with less additives and sugars. You can shop for fruit, vegetables, glutenfree breads, dairy products, delicious free range meats, and good quality pork. The shop’s eggs — imported from Holland and Saudi Arabia — fly off the shelves, as do the products in the specialty Italian and Japanese sections. Food items and merchandise for babies, plus cleaning solutions can also be purchased, and are, of course, organic. Similarly, a whole corner of the shop is dedicated to skincare and makeup — a learned employee will outline how best to treat your skin and what to use. Additionally, the supermarket boasts a café, which is unique to Bahrain. All of the chairs, tables and furnishings are recycled and the expansive menu features tantalising options for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Live on the wild side and try a slightly obscure juice, or opt for one of the chef’s daily specials, such as a cold roasted vegetable salad. A helping hand Organic products can be confusing unless you know the brands, so for a first timer it can be tough to know what to choose. This is something that Ali and his team are working on, by highlighting the top selling products to give you an idea of what may be a good first option. Similarly, you can ask for direction from the staff or take note of the menu cards scattered around the store. These suggest easily preparable meals that can be made from food purchased in the store. If you are at a complete loss with where to begin to suit your dietary needs, it can be a great idea to put forth your questions on the company’s Facebook and Twitter pages. Your questions will be forwarded on to a professional dietician and nutritionist who will respond with a detailed answer. If you are looking for a good place to start, begin by purchasing one of the specialist books or DVDs sold in the shop. With these resources, you can educate yourself about how eating healthy and organic products can reduce the risks of cancer and other such illnesses. Regular events As one of Organic Foods & Café’s aims, Ali regularly visits schools around the Kingdom to teach children of all ages the importance of eating well. It is a great idea to explain to children whilst they are young that there are many options available, which are far more delicious than fast food! This tutoring is available to adults as well, as the café is used as a host for regular events, such as talks from experts in the field. Previously, Ali has invited Nils El Accad, the brand’s founder, to conduct a talk to the parents of young athletes. Nils outlined the importance of maintaining a healthy diet whilst completing strenuous exercise. Famous nutritionist Patrick Holford has also held an event, providing his insight into the world of healthy eating. Many more guest speakers of this calibre are expected to be showcased in the future, and generally the events are free to attend. The Wholesome Truth As we approach bikini season we tend to panic about how our bodies look. But how about how we look inside? WTM investigates how we can change what we’re eating for the better. By Alison Coldridge In the past 20 years there has been a dramatic increase in obesity levels worldwide and this rate doesn’t show any signs of slowing. This statistic is particularly shocking in this part of the world, where records show that, on average, 25 per cent of people are classified as overweight and, in Bahrain itself, a shocking 37.9 per cent of women are obese (‘Journal of Obesity’, August 2011). The strain put on the body from this excess fat has been shown to lead to various types of cancer and heart defects, as well as many other illnesses. So how can we combat this? It’s simple: eat healthily. We all know it, we’ve all been told it and how to do it should be firmly ingrained in our minds. However, in addition, you need to ensure that the good food you eat actually is just that. Sometimes, even though you feel you are eating healthily, the food that you are putting into your body can be harmful, in ways you won’t have predicted. For example, picking the biggest, shiniest tomato in the store might make you feel self-righteous about adding to your five-a-day, but you might not actually have cause to celebrate. Many of the more attractive looking fruits and vegetables have been chemically enhanced — injected with antibiotics and hormones — additives that are not easily digested by the body and which can cause some really unwanted side-effects. Organic lessons Organic foods are foods that are produced without the use of toxic chemicals, synthetic pesticides and fertilisers or growth hormones. Here in Bahrain, although it can be tricky to purchase healthier foods, there is hope. One supermarket stocks and serves everything you need to better your lifestyle and improve your diet. The Organic Foods & Café shop, located in Seef Mall, is bursting with healthy options that are not only wholesome, but entirely delicious, and the products are at least 95 per cent organic and affordable. The brand now has four outlets — two in Dubai, one in Abu Dhabi and the Bahrain store, that owner Ali Al Khalifa opened last year. The aim of the shop is to educate customers on the importance of eating quality, healthy and safe products. Similarly, we should only use makeup, skincare and cleaning products that are also gentle and kind to skin, as it is just as important to care for our exterior as our interior. Wellbeing The benefits of healthy eating: l You will have more energy. l You will be less prone to illnesses. l You may live longer. l It’s a great weight loss solution. l You will increase your productivity at work. l You will be less bloated. l You will handle stress better. l Your skin and teeth will be healthier. Call 17 822-230 or visit www.organicfoodsandcafe.com. Ali Al Khalifa Organic Foods & Cafe
10 | June 2012 | woman this month Shopping New This Month Head to the Neon Brights! Koton. Bahrain City Centre Top Shop. Bahrain City Centre DVF @ Saks Fifth Avenue Anselm Reyle for Dior. Moda Mall Accessorize. Bahrain City Centre Mango. Bahrain City Centre Jimmy Choo. Al Aali Shopping Complex Bvlgari. Moda Mall Carolina Herrera. Bahrain City Centre
Something Pure in a synthetic world Welcome to a world where you can experience nature at its very best. Take your pick from our refreshing menu of signature treatments fashioned with rich, super-natural ingredients, and let our therapists craft a ritual around your whims and wishes. Breathe in the scent of Pure relaxation, right in the heart of Manama. Revive! Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel Bahrain City Centre MANAMA BAHRAIN
12 | May 2012 | woman this month Shopping Fancy Footwear As we all know already, pastels are the shades of the season. If you don’t want to dress head-to-toe in blush pink and ice blue, why not start at the bottom and work your way up gradually. Pastel footwear is all the rage at the moment. We especially love the Jill Stuart SS12 varieties. Dune Next Miu Miu Sportmax Massimo Dutti Dorothy Perkins Jill Stuart Zara Marks & Spencer Fratelli Rossetti Top Shop Tod's Head Over Heels Bertie Hogan
14 | June 2012 | woman this month Shopping Daytime Floral The floral trend is back with a passion. Where best to showcase it than during the day — to a luncheon, at a music festival, to the park, or even to an informal work meeting. The little floral dress is definitely the way to go, especially in the brighter shades that are available this season. Here’s a selection for you to check out. Oasis Punt Roma Promod Wallis Warehouse Ann Taylor Dorothy Perkins Carolina Herrera Top Shop
The Children’s Academy Kingdom of Bahrain Affiliated with the prestigious Alpha Plus Group of independent schools in England. A specialist education provision provided by a team of skilled teachers and therapists. A caring and child-centred approach based upon successful practice in England and supported by an exciting learning environment with emphasis on promoting positive self esteem. A broad curriculum based upon the English National Curriculum and the International Primary Curriculum. Individual Education Plans tailored for the need of each pupil. A low teacher- pupil ratio facilitating an individualized approach to each child needs. Classrooms equipped and resourced to exceptional standards supported by the latest in educational technology, including interactive white boards and a PC for each pupil. A state of the art Sensory Room and a Soft Play area that are unique to the Gulf Region. A specialist developmental delay/autistic classroom. A unique private school for children with mild-to-moderate learning difficulties For more information: Call +973 176 13234 or visit website www.childrensacademybahrain.com Write to: [email protected]
Interview Other Side From the Perceptions of women in the Arab world vary from place to place. Arguably, though, there is a propensity for negative stereotyping. Natasha Bird talks to writer, director and movie-maker Joseph Tito about his upcoming project — a film seeking to bring the strength and character of Bahraini women to light. Loredana Mantello The Arab world has been experiencing a particularly high level of global exposure in the last few years. The Arab Spring in Tunisia, Egypt, Libya and beyond has attracted our attention and journalists and self-appointed commentators alike have flooded the internet with accounts of brutality, tyranny and revolution. Whether consciously or not, most of the news-aware population has begun to form opinions about this part of the world — relating to politics, history and even the traditions and cultures. Although a lot of the focus has been on government organisations, other components of the Arab world have come under scrutiny. The women of the Middle East have seen the spotlight turn firmly in their direction. Unfortunately, though, this hasn’t been an overwhelmingly positive experience. From condemning the hijab to lamenting the idea that women aren’t allowed to drive in certain countries, there has been an alarming level of criticism. | June 2012 | woman this month 16
17 woman this month | June 2012 | The idea that the women in the region are weak and inferior or designated as second-class citizens by their male counterparts is something that this magazine has been fighting against since its inception. Luckily for us, there are others out there on the same mission. Joseph Tito, a young film-maker from Italy, currently based in Bahrain, is one such person. Joseph might still be a relatively young buck in the film industry, but that isn’t to say he doesn’t already have some big achievements under his belt. His work has had showings at a variety of prestigious international film festivals, including those in Toronto, Washington, Madrid and Sydney and some have gone on to be distributed by the likes of the Canadian Filmmakers Distribution Society and Indican Pictures. His latest project is a film called Dana, which chronicles the lives of three generations of Bahraini women within the same family as they fight for the right to be educated, to travel, to be independent and to follow the religion of their choosing. “I came on holiday to Bahrain to see a friend and I met a lot of Bahraini women — from different age groups, classes and religious denominations. And it completely changed my impression of Arab women. I realised that I had this view of them as covered, silent, weak and even beaten. This isn’t the case,” Joseph explains. “Too many films and too much of the literature that comes out about the Middle East focuses on the negative. Osama, by Siddiq Barmak, A Separation, by Asghar Farhadi or The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini, for example,” he continues; “The media and then the films and books are what form our opinion and they display women as seemingly having no power.” A need to overturn these sorts of stereotypes is what fuels Joseph’s enthusiasm for his current undertaking. “For me,” he says, “it is important that my films make people think. I enjoy watching films that, when the credits roll up, you are thinking or arguing with someone about it. As a film-maker, I see it as my chance to tell a different story, or a different viewpoint. I don’t want to tell people what to think, but I want to leave them with several accounts and then leave them to think about which they agree with and which they don’t.” It has been important to Joseph, of course, to make sure that some of the strong Bahraini women that he admires so much are a part of the project: “I have this amazing Bahraini writer. I won’t give away her identity just yet, but she was recommended to me by the lovely Shaikha Mai. It is women like Shaikha Mai that make me want to do this film. She is powerful and strong and shows a real determination and love for the project.” The film will demonstrate the changing role of women over the course of three generations. Dana, the main character, is outspoken and determined. She travels abroad to go to university and she joins the political student union whilst there, but her mother Hessa and her daughter Layla’s stories are very different. Hessa, although one of the first women to drive in Bahrain, was married at 12 and didn’t go to university. Layla, on the other hand, has a much greater degree of freedom, but establishes a strong religious identity and chooses to wear the burqa. Joseph is certain of the topicality of his project. “The women in this film are going to be real people”, says Joseph, “Yes, this is an Arabic story, but it is also universal. My own grandmother was married at the age of 12 in the south of Italy. Women’s roles have evolved everywhere.” When I ask him about his motivation for concentrating on women, his answer is more than a little heart warming: “All my films are womenbased. I love my mother. She is strong and open and goes on and fights. I think that if women ruled the world we would be living in a much happier and safer place. Women are mothers and when you are a mother and you give birth to something, you are just kinder and more compassionate.” There are a large number of parts to be played and Joseph is determined to cast as many local Bahraini actresses as possible. If you are interested in taking part in the film, you still have a chance to audition. Bahrain’s first wave of castings will take place on May 17, 18 and 19. Details of further auditions and a breakdown of each character can be found on the JEO Productions website. For more information visit www.jeoproductions.com or call Leila on 34 394-517. Joseph Tito
18 | June 2012 | woman this month Fashion Fashion Forward Hooray, the balmy weather is here and with it comes the opportunity to wear the lighter colours, the pastel shades and to experiment with new hair and makeup styles… Fashion Expert Want It I wanted them so much, I bought them from Massimo Dutti. What’s Hot Within the tribal trend, chunky wooden cuffs are on point. This one is Parfois. Bin It Tatty flats. It’s all about the stacked wedge in the coming months. Natasha Bird tells us about her fashion highs and lows. The Jil Sander shopper enjoyed some fame last summer and it is back with a bang for the coming months. We love this cherry coloured one that you can pick up in Saks Fifth Avenue. The Shopper Olivia Palermo has been on our radar for a while now. Her fashion prowess is undeniable. So, when we heard she had become an ambassador for Carrera Y Carrera, we knew we had to check it out. There are some great Summer accessories. Anything Olivia Does Lipsy lovers, get your hands on this great abstract print dress. The shapes are modern and exciting and the colours are attention grabbing. We would suggest you layer up some bold, gold jewellery to complete the look. The Printed Bandeau
19 woman this month | June 2012 | Sported here by Nikki Minaj, colourful hair is having a revival. From dip-dyed ends to full-on matching your hair to your outfit, you can be sure to get the fashion tongues wagging with a bit of help from a DIY dye kit. Colourblock Hair 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 Seeing as the pastels are enjoying such fame this season, be sure to find some interesting, complementary accessories. These Fenton SS12 necklaces are sublime. Colourful Accessories
20 | June 2012 | woman this month Fashion Fashion There’s all sorts going on in the fashion world at the moment. We take a look at some of the highs and lows… Peaches Geldof, daughter of the legendary Bob Geldof and his late partner Paula Yates, has given birth to a baby boy. The journalist and model, who has written for Elle girl, ES Magazine and Nylon and has posed for Ultimo and PPQ, to name a couple, has happily announced the arrival of her first child. True to form for the Geldof family, Peaches has picked a suitable unusual name. Her first born is called Astala Dylan Willow Cohen-Geldof. She might be known to all of us as a model and a Victoria’s Secret angel, but apparently Miranda Kerr has a few other tricks up her sleeve. She recently admitted to having recorded a couple of songs, which means she’s been hiding a singing voice behind those famous lips. However, she says she has no plans to release them just yet: “I’m doing so much at the moment, modelling obviously, my books and my family.” We’ll just wait and see about that… The Bun’s Out of the Oven Hidden Talent Bad News for Aquascutum The UK-based luxury fashion brand recently went into administration. Unfortunately, efforts to resolve the money issues have been largely unsuccessful. Aquascutum has now decided to close its UK manufacturing offices in Corby, which will mean the loss of a whopping 115 jobs. The company is now tasked with finding a suitable buyer to pull them out of the crisis. They claim to have had a “high level of interest from potential purchasers”, but are yet to settle on one. We love Aquascutum for its sophisticated chic, so let’s hope this gets resolved quickly! Miranda Kerr Peaches Geldof News Bulletins
21 woman this month | June 2012 | It has been announced that London-based accessories designer Anya Hindmarch is the winner of this year’s Veuve Clicquot Business Woman Award. This award isn’t confined to just fashion — other nominees included the likes of Helena Morrissey, CEO of Newton Investment Management and Ruth Rogers, founder of the River Café. Home Secretary and Minister for Women and Equalities Theresa May delivered the keynote speech and Hindmarch said “It is a very real compliment to be deemed to share some of the qualities of Veuve Clicquot herself.” Louis Vuitton has triumphed in their counterfeit case in America. They have won the rights to protect the company from “large-scale international counterfeiting”. This will stop products from being imported in to the States bearing the LV trademarks and companies, such as PayPal, which facilitate the buying and selling of these products, will be liable to be penalised. To be honest, we always thought the Louis Vuitton fakes were pretty obvious and more than a little bit tacky, so maybe this measure will save a few people from making the odd fashion faux pas. The Kardashian clan have just launched their latest fashion and modelling venture — the three older sisters have brought out a new lingerie brand. However, this isn’t what has got the public tongue collectively wagging. No, the thing that is becoming the talk of the town is Kim’s most recent choice of suitor. She’s moved on from ex-husband Kris Humphries and is now dating rap superstar Kanye West! You Win Some… On to the Next Hanaa Ben Abdesslem The Real Deal Anya Hindmarch Louis Vuitton Kim
22 | June 2012 | woman this month Showcase Talk aboutTribal There were plenty of tribal styles sashaying their way down the runway for this season. We take a look at two of the tribal trends. Gwen Stefani For someone who used to be pretty punk rock, Gwen is more of a tribal princess these days. Her own line L.A.M.B. has some visible African influences. She uses a lot of tribal prints and textiles. Marni for H&M Marni’s prints are usually just exciting abstract patterns. But this dress has traditional tribal written all over it. A great way to emulate Gwen Stefani’s look. Donna Karan If you want something a little bit more abstract, Donna Karan has incorporated the traditional colours and tribal patterns into her upmarket eveningwear, showing tribal can suit day or night. Traditional Tribal These are the sorts of tribal styles that turn up year after year. A brown, dusky red, amber and black colour palette, with the odd animal print accent is the traditional tribal staple. Look out for loose-fitting peg-leg trousers, colourful bead embellishments, touches of crochet, the odd stud or animal tooth. Imagine safaris across African plains or trips to the Amazon. Gwen Stefani in L.A.M.B. Donna Karan Marni for H&M Desigual
23 woman this month | June 2012 | Footwear We absolutely love some of the sandals that are available within the tribal trend. Who needs stacked heels when you could have some of these beauties? From colourful beads to animal print and straps of macramé, everything is on offer. Accessorize Michael by Michael Kors Michael by Michael Kors Michael by Michael Kors Michael by Michael Kors Wallis Promod Salsa New Look Top Shop Dorothy Perkins River Island at ASOS Balmain Dune Jimmy Choo
24 | June 2012 | woman this month Showcase Modern Tribal This is a more high-end take on the trend. Instead of the usual browns and terracottas, this trend makes use of vibrant neons, usually set against a white background. This isn’t a trend for safaris in Africa. It’s more suited to fashion events and roof top cocktail parties. Mara Hoffman Mara Hoffman’s collection is a great example of how tribal has gone upmarket this season. Wear this dress to a soiree or even with a pair of heels at a posh beach resort bar. Nankin ring. Carrera Y Carrera Koton Desigual Massimo Dutti Valentino Mara Hoffman Accessorize H&M H&M
25 woman this month | June 2012 | Sass & Bide The modern take on tribal ramps the colour-spectrum right up into the bright neons. The abstract shapes have been translated into sharper, bolder, more geometric patterns. Sass & Bide’s bandeau dress is a great example. Modern Tribal Dresses Taking the lead from Sass & Bide and other high-end designers, some of the high street brands are cottoning on to the modern tribal dress. Smart, fitted, structured and with neon panels. Top Shop Sass & Bide Dorothy Perkins Missguided.co.uk River Island Dune Christian Louboutin Giuseppe Zanotti
Showcase Luxe Timing OMEGA It’s high time you treated yourself to a new watch. It’s definitely a must-have piece of jewellery and is a great way to define your style and personality. 26 | June 2012 | woman this month
27 woman this month | June 2012 | A watch is one of the outfit-completing accessories that every woman loves to wear. As well as being practical and useful, the right watch can enhance an outfit and add a quick flash of glamour. Omega’s line of women’s watches has been top of its class for decades. The luxury brand fuses the most compelling design elements with the best mechanical watch movements possible, to create lusted-after pieces that become an essential part of your jewellery collection. New styles: new faces Newly launched are two styles, each with a different story and a defined design. The Ladymatic presents a new golden age of fashion and will excitingly be modelled internationally by Academy Award-winning actress Nicole Kidman. Having been a brand ambassador since 2004, Kidman is the face (and wrist) associated with the Ladymatic line. The watches in the new Ladymatic line feature polished 34 mm cases with a distinctive ceramic ring between an outer wave and the inner case body. The cases are crafted in 18 carat red or yellow gold, displaying pure class and style. You can choose between polished or snow-set diamond-paved bezels, and each model is enhanced by a sapphire crystal case. The other new arrival is an addition to the Constellation family. The Co-Axial 27mm has been created in 18 carat red gold and is the perfect companion for a woman who cares as much about the functionality of the watch as she does for its beauty. Both elegant and equipped with the brand’s proprietary Co-Axial calibre 8521 mechanical movement, the luxurious timepiece is guaranteed to go with any outfit. The bezel is exquisitely paved with 32 fullcut diamonds whilst the dial is encrusted with mother-of-pearls. This particular watch is easy to read in low-lighting conditions, as the hour and minute hands are coated with white SuperLumiNova. Additionally, you don’t need to be worried about taking this watch for a dip, as it is water resistant up to 100 metres/330 feet. Call 17 537-753 Moda Mall (Sheraton Complex) or 17 100-135 Bahrain City Centre.
28 | June 2012 | woman this month Neon Lights As you’ve seen from our shopping pages, bright shades are in this season and we’ve found a store that can cater to all your neon needs. Showcase PROMOD Neon stripes, bags, bikinis, halter-necks, skirts, trousers, jackets and jewellery. You’ll need all of this stuff to keep up with the Summer 2012 craze for bright attire. Promod’s new collection houses a fantastic variety of neon garments, including colourblock t-shirts for the casual days, white shifts with neon stripes for those fashion-conscious office-goers and even some great neon accessories and footwear. Head down to the Promod stores at Bahrain City Centre and Bahrain Mall today and snap up some of these goodies. Call 17 172-309 (BCC), 17 556-188 (Bahrain Mall).
29 woman this month | June 2012 | Pick Your Pastels This Spanish brand knows a thing or two about the current season. You’ll find all kinds of demure and sophisticated garments that fit with the current pastel craze. PUNT ROMA As we all know, the pastel palette is among the most popular of colourschemes this season. The pastel look is fresh and airy, a lively change from the androgyny and darkness that took over the last few months. Coral tops, powder pink shirts, baby blue blouses... It’s all in style this season. If you want to pick up a few items that will ensure you look smart and sophisticated, as well as fashion-forward, then head over to Punt Roma in Bahrain City Centre and check out their selection. Call 17 172-307.
30 | June 2012 | woman this month Showcase Season Essentials BEBE Welcome in the SS12 trends with a touch of sophistication and colour. Embrace bright shades and exude radiance, whilst staying ahead of the fashion game. Stock your wardrobe for summer with hot new styles from Bebe. The international brand, located in Bahrain City Centre, is full of bold colours and the most up-to-date styles with a decidedly contemporary edge. The store is the go-to destination for chic and modern fashion and evokes a mindset — an attitude, not an age. Rows upon rows of dresses, separates and accessories will entice you to revamp your wardrobe. Inject some life and colour into it; choose a patterned dress, a pair of aqua blue jeans, or a lime green maxi dress — and these are just a few of the colourful pieces to grab hold of! In addition to the bolds and the brights, there are plenty of jewelled tone pieces, perfect for evening attire. Shapely cocktail dresses and floor-length gowns are in abundance, providing a solution to every event. Accessorise your evening outfit with a woven clutch bag — available in a variety of colours — and add some chunky jewels for an added enhancement. You will note inspiration from the 60s and 70s, with oversized sunglasses, a floppy hat, stacked bangles and even leather mini dresses. Plus, in keeping with this season’s trends, there are a number of wedges in all manner of styles, for a comfortable way to elevate yourself. Call 17 178-670.
31 woman this month | June 2012 | Showcase Modern Style ANNE KLEIN Keeping up with trends is never a pointless goal; you will be sure to always look current, contemporary and cool. Anne Klein is all about being on the ball with the catwalk trends this season. The stores are filled with metallics, brights, monochromes, animal patterns and embellishments making this shoe shop your one-stop solution for both footwear and handbags. Known for being a sophisticated brand, each pair is great for wearing to the office and throughout the evening until the end of the day. A special range of flat shoes have been designed to ensure complete comfort; they feature iFlex technology — a split-sole so that they bend with the foot and can be folded up and put in your handbag. A number of large totes are also available from Anne Klein. Each is durable and spacious and, of course, oh-so-stylish. Call 16 686-204 (BCC). and 16-686-224 (Seef Mall).
32 | June 2012 | woman this month Showcase It's All About Colour! NINE WEST Embrace the brights and the bolds to build up a fun and summery accessory collection this season. Take a look at this inspiring collection. Whether you like to strut your stuff in chunky heels, courts, wedges, sandals or flats, it’s all the same, really. And where is better to go and stock up on the latest season essentials than Nine West? The high street brand constantly refreshes its shelves with new launches, so every time you pay a visit you will probably spot something else. It’s all about colour, currently. Coloured shoes will vamp up any outfit, no matter how dull, and show that you know what fashion is all about. Canary yellow, hot pink, apple green, aqua blue and bright orange are just some of the hues brightening up the stores, enticing you to slip your feet into a pair and see how they fit. These colours can also be found in the ample bag selection, creating the perfect companion to any outfit. Call 16-686-207 (BCC), 16-686-220 (Seef Mall) and 16 686-228 (Bahrain Mall).
33 woman this month | June 2012 | Fitness can be Fashionable SKECHERS Amp up your fitness regime with a fabulous pair of sport shoes that will protect your feet and leg muscles whilst keeping you looking style-conscious and in touch with fashion. If you like to hit the gym hard, but still retain some essence of style, then there is no doubt about it — Skechers is the brand for you. The style-savvy sportswear brand boasts stacks of trainers, ideal for working out; the speciallymanufactured shoes protect the feet from the intensity of running and fit feet well, ensuring a more comfortable fitness session. The Shape Ups SRR are the ‘intelligent’ shoes. The design aligns with the laws of human biomechanics and returns your stride to its natural state, ultimately helping to achieve higher levels of fitness in shorter workouts. The Shape Ups Livs are ultra-lightweight and fitted with natural stride technology, for intuitive motion. Shape Ups SRT shoes are fitted with kinetix response to increase resistance training and accelerate muscle activation. A wedge is fitted in the midsole to help with shock absorption. Or if you are after a style that will increase muscle, opt for the Tone Ups, which feature a gradual density midsole that stimulates the underused calf, thigh and gluteus muscles with repeated wearing. Call 16 686-212.
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