BEAUTY | FASHION | HOME | WELLBEING | PARENTING | LOCAL ISSUES Bahrain Edition TRAVEL Following the spring flowers FOOD • Sneak peek at the new collections • Mums and daughters FASHION March 2017 | Issue 169 | BD1 / SR10 www.womanthismonth.com MOTHER’S DAY SPECIAL TREATS AND FABULOUS GIFTS Wellbeing When stroke strikes - Lagoon dining - Lovely lamb Artist Maya Jashanmal, Photographer Jodie Baker and Doctor Iris Brune Erber PEOPLE
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www.womanthismonth.com March 2017 4 MARCH 51 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 [email protected]. The publisher reserves the right to edit, reject or comment editorially on all material contributed. 8 Over To You 10 The Month in Focus SHOPPING 11 Pick of the Month: Pretty as a Flower 12 Editor’s Choice: SS17 Sneak Peek FASHION 14 Fashion Trend: Mum Jeans 16 Fashion Forward: Backstage Pass 18 Get the Look: The Classic White Shirt PEOPLE 23 Maya Jashanmal: The artist's eye view 24 Jodie Baker: Life through a lens 25 Dr Iris Brune Erber: Battling breast cancer FEATURE SHOPPING 26-27: Retail Therapy BEAUTY 32 News: The latest products in the stores 34 Make-up trend: Outlandish Eyes FEATURE MOTHER'S DAY 38-40: Gifts, treats and more LIFESTYLE 41 Advice: Dr Jinan Harith Darwish 42 Wellbeing: When Stroke Strikes 45 Food: Chef's Special 49 Food: Eat to Your Heart's Content 50 Homes: Clear the clutter with clever storage 54 Travel: Chasing spring blooms PARENTING 60 Ouiam Charkani El Hassani: Don't force toddlers to share 61 Tech Kids: Educational apps and gadgets 62 Kids' Playground: Mother-daughter looks 63 Horoscope: What to expect this month 64 In Her Shoes: Esther Leiyian 34 57 23 12 16
www.womanthismonth.com March 2017 6 What is going on with the weather at the moment? It seems strange to be looking at all the lovely spring and summer fashions while wrapped up in our woolies with the heaters going full blast. But look at them we have and our fashion pages this month feature a few sneak peeks at what's coming up in April's big fashion issue. Our interviewees this month are a group of accomplished women who've all succeeded in their respective fields. Maya Jashanmal is known as much for her philanthropy as her art, Jodie Baker's pictures are putting Bahrain on the social media map and Dr Iris Brune Erber is a tireless advocate for women's health, bringing a sensitive, female point of view to issues women sometimes find difficult to discuss. It was a pleasure to meet them all and share their stories. March is, of course, the month when we celebrate all things motherhood and we've put together a range of treats to help you spoil that most special of women. Check out the Over to You page for the chance to win a rather lovely surprise that would be sure to put a smile on your mum's face. And, while we're on the subject of gifts and shopping, we've also rounded-up some of the island's newest malls. They seem to be springing up at a rate of knots, so we thought we'd take a look at what's on offer. The wellbeing pages this month investigate stroke — a topic very close to our hearts here at WTM. Make sure you know the signs, it can strike anyone at any time and speed really is the key to recovery. There’s also our regular round-up of fashion and beauty news, events coming up on the island and fabulous food as well as spring time travel to inspire your next trip. We hope you enjoy this month's mag and would love to hear your thoughts. chairman & publisher GEORGE F MIDDLETON editorial director LIZ O'REILLY contributors APPLE SHARMA BEHNAZ SANJANA PUJA TIWARI DR JINAN DARWISH RAPHAEL OUIAM CHARKANI EL HASSANI head of digital operations NEIL F VAZ print production manager SABU SEBASTIAN layout & graphics ROMEO SAN MIGUEL JAYATH TEKI media coordinator SARAH ANSARI media managers FARHEEN AHMED PEARLYN D MEHTA circulation KADAMBARI S research assistant, sales and database coordinator ADITI PRASAD photography editor MONA ABDUL JABBAR photographers RANJITH MOHAN SUBEESH KUMAR NS printing press UNION PRESS, BAHRAIN Contents copyrighted 2016© 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 March 2017, Issue 169 On the cover: Zadig & Voltaire SS17 BEAUTY | FASHION | HOME | WELLBEING | PARENTING | LOCAL ISSUES Bahrain Edition TRAVEL Following the spring flowers FOOD • Sneak peek at the new collections • Mums and daughters FASHION March 2017 | Issue 169 | BD1 / SR10 www.womanthismonth.com MOTHER’S DAY SPECIAL TREATS AND FABULOUS GIFTS Wellbeing When stroke strikes - Lagoon dining - Lovely lamb Artist Maya Jashanmal, Photographer Jodie Baker and Doctor Iris Brune Erber PEOPLE EDITOR’S NOTE Woman This Month is a member of BPA Worldwide The only women's magazine distributed with the GDN Our month: I joined in a dim sum cooking class to celebrate Chinese New Year at the Four Seasons Bahrain Bay and Behnaz got a lovely thank you gift for the magazine's support of the Mother & Child and Schools Expos. Liz O’Reilly Editorial Director
March 2017 www.womanthismonth.com news 8 Over to you # Trending What’s caught our eye in the news this month. Pink Tax – A Montreal woman plans to take eight major retailers to court in a proposed class action lawsuit for allegedly charging women more for hygiene products than men, despite the fact that some products have identical ingredients. The so-called “pink tax” – a consumer phenomenon in which women pay more than men for the same products – has been widely reported on. Analysis from data mining company Parsehub found that women pay on average 43 per cent more than men for 3,000 products surveyed. ctvnews.ca Saudi Arabia has announced it will allow female-only gyms to open across the country – but only for people to lose weight. The conservative Islamic country has maintained a ban on women participating in competitive sports but has now relaxed rules on them going to the gym for health reasons. Princess Reema bint Bandar said that the Islamic Kingdom planned for every district and neighbourhood to have a gym, saying: ‘It is not my role to convince the society, but my role is limited to opening the doors for our girls to live a healthy lifestyle away from diseases that result from obesity and lack of movement.” Okaz Win, Win, Win We’ve got a very special exclusive gift from those lovely people at Amouage to give away this month. Blossom Love is the most recent addition to the luxury brand’s floral-themed The Secret Garden Collection. It reveals the romance of a perfumed secret garden where the light, sweet and delicate nature of cherry blossom nectar marries with rose to reveal inner boldness and a memorable heart caressed by the exotic sophistication of Ylang Ylang. This floral love story is embraced by the seductive allure of amaretto, tonka bean and vanilla before melting into sandalwood and cashmeran, to create an intense and enduring fragrant bouquet of memories. After a strictly limited launch in February, Blossom Love will be available at Amouage stores this month and we’re giving one lucky reader the opportunity to be among the first to get their hands on a 100ml bottle, worth around BD100. Perfect for Mother’s Day – or for yourself! For a chance to win visit Woman This Month’s social media pages and keep your eyes peeled for our competition. Good luck everyone. Our post about the region’s largest IKEA store opening in Bahrain got the highest engagement. On Instagram Woman This Month’s post about the collaboration between Debenhams and Aab, to cater to broader customer needs, received the most likes. On Twitter, Woman This Month’s post about the IKEA store opening in Bahrain was the most liked. Your Shout I was so inspired after reading about the Iron Ladies in the February issue. Sometimes, in our culture, it seems women are lagging behind and not so encouraged when it comes to sport. However, seeing Hannah, Rana and Mariam’s achievements and reading their words encouraging other girls has given me the push I needed. I’ve been out on my bicycle for the first time since I bought it and I even managed to get my husband away from the games console to join me. Thanks and keep up the good work. Fatima. I loved, loved, loved last month’s ‘Get the Look’. I’m really not a girly girl and I’m always stuck for inspiration when it comes to going to posh events but the idea of teaming a jumpsuit with a tux is perfect for me. I might not be able to splash out on the gorgeous Naeem Khan sequinned version, but I’ll be keeping my eyes open for something similar. And the tuxedo jacket has already become a wardrobe staple. Naimh. Got something you want to get off your chest? Congratulations, commiserations and remonstrations all welcome. We'll carry the best one each week. Follow us on: Instagram: @woman_this_month Twitter: @WomanThisMonth Facebook: Woman This Month We want to hear your thoughts on Woman This Month. Write to us at [email protected] February 2017 22 www.womanthismonth.com PEOPLE | interview Hannah Al Khalifa, 26, was the first Bahraini woman past the post. Born to a Bahraini father and a Scottish mother, she was living in London and moved to the island in September 2015, which is when she took up competition seriously. A freelancer in architectural design, she says: “I’ve always been very sporty and just decided to give it a go. I was the fifth Bahraini woman to finish last year; this year I was first!” Rana Al Alawi, 24, is the baby of the bunch and was the second Bahraini woman finisher. A lawyer working with Batelco, this was her first Ironman. She says: “I was never sporty at school; in fact I broke my hand playing volleyball. But I always felt happy when I was running.” Her first proper race was the November 2015 Cross Island and she got her triathlon bike for her birthday in April 2016. Mariam Turki, 32, took part in last year’s event but only did the cycling leg. The mum of two, who works in banking, says: “I was crying on the bike and didn’t think I would make it, but I did. Afterwards I thought ‘That’s not enough, I want to do the whole thing now!'” She started training in March last year and also got her bike for her birthday. Mariam was the fourth Bahraini woman to complete the race. So what is Ironman? It’s a multi-discipline race in which competitors, or teams, swim 1.9km, cycle 90km and run 21.1km; the overall distance is 70.3 miles – a half Ironman. As a way of promoting the sport, HH Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, himself a keen triathlete and Ironman competitor, announced that he would pay for the first five Bahraini men and first five women to attend the world championships. But really, this sounds HARD! Why would anyone want to put themself through months of brutal training and seriously taxing competition? Rana explains: “I heard about it through Sarah Al-Thawadi [in fact they all did]; she was second last year but was injured and couldn’t compete this year. She told me about the benefits of Ironman training. You might think of it as a commitment, but it’s a lifestyle. It gives you more discipline and not just in your training but in all areas of your life, for example at work. And it’s sociable; you can train with a group or by yourself; the community is very supportive.” Mariam adds: “After I gave birth to my second child, I was desperate to lose weight. My uncle has a running group called the Happy Team and I asked if I could join them; that’s when I heard about triathlon. I decided, if I was going to do it I wanted to train properly so I contacted Greer [Sansom], who trains us all and then I met these girls, who make training fun.” “When we first rode together, I couldn’t keep up, all I could see was Mariam looking behind her to see where I was,” says Rana. “I couldn’t even keep up with the warm-up!” confesses Hannah. Yet, they all went on to not only complete the What makes someone want to travel 70plus miles under their own steam? Liz O’Reilly met the Bahraini stars of the most recent Ironman 70.3 who will be representing their country at the coming world championships in Chattanooga, Tennessee, in September. Iron Ladies Bahraini finishers, from left, Hannah, Rana and Mariam with their trophies and, below, the three women with coach Greer Most favourited and retweeted post on Twitter Most Liked Post on Instagram Most Liked Post on Facebook
www.womanthismonth.com 9 March 2017 SOCIAL BUTTERFLY Art Exhibition Jawad Group hosted the art exhibition of Aimé Venel at Jawad Dome. Jacques, Judith & Faisal Jawad Rabih, Aimé Venel & Ugo Lilian, Claudine, Alexandra & Chiraz Rose & Lynne Juma & Adel
March 2017 www.womanthismonth.com news 10 What’s on our radar this month? March in Focus If you missed out on the Rio Carnival (that would be most of us, right?), fear not, you can get in on the act when Brazil comes to the Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain, on March 9. It’s the opening Beach Party of 2017, with entertainers flying in from London, headlined by international DJ and percussionist, Joshua Roberts, accompanied by Chris Sharp on saxophone and Danni Veal and her team of dancers, who will also provide a fire display during the evening. Carnival Time Love Your Mum Bahraini Mother’s Day falls on March 21 and there are a number of special pampering and lunch deals available across the island. However, if you’re a British expat, the day to say thanks to your mum is a little later — on Sunday, March 26 — so don’t forget to get your card in the post early and make that call to Interflora. You’re welcome. Canada in Bahrain Speaking of rockers, we’re more than a little excited at the prospect of Canadian multiplatinum singer/songwriter Bryan Adams taking to the stage at Bahrain International Circuit on March 13. He’s touring in support of his 13th studio album Get Up, and fans can look forward to a set filled with hits such as Summer of ’69 and (Everything I Do) I Do It For You as well as a range of stuff from the new album. See you there. Taste of Havana Asia de Cuba, loved is some of the world’s coolest cities, including New York and London, has brought its unique Chino-Latino concept to Bahrain. Known for a fun, highenergy environment with food that is intensely flavoured and imaginatively presented, it’s inspired by Havana’s famed Chinatown – ‘El Barrio Chino de la Habana’. You’ll find it in the new high-class Gallery 21 complex in the heart of Adliya, alongside brands such as Art Gallery and Cigar Lounge. A visit is highly recommended. One for the Girls While Bahrain has its own Women’s Day, towards the end of the year, March 8 is International Women’s Day and, though it’s not an official national celebration, lots of the hotels and spas will be putting on special offers. So if you feel the need for a bit of pampering to help celebrate the fabulousness that is womanhood, keep your eye on our social media and we’ll let you know as soon as we hear anything. Culturally Speaking It’s that time of year when Bahrain goes entertainment crazy with the annual Spring of Culture. This year events will run from February through to April, with some of the highlights being a performance from UK reggae rockers UB40 at Bahrain Bay on March 31 and a film festival taking place at the National Museum with various screenings from March 1-8.
You can almost smell the gorgeousness of these earrings from the Paule Ka S/S 17 collection which complement this season’s array of delicate florals. Perfect teamed with a floaty frock or dazzling when used to dress-up your everyday denims, we think they’re an essential for the summer wardrobe. Paule Ka items can be found at J Boutique Bahrain in Moda Mall and also online at www.farfetch.com Pretty as a Flower www.womanthismonth.com March 2017 11 SHOPPING | pick of the month
March 2017 www.womanthismonth.com SHOPPING | editor's choice 12 Sneak PeEk It’s that time of year when the new collections are arriving in the shops and our pulses are quickening at the thought of the spring shopping spree – ok so we don’t actually need an excuse but there really is so much adorable stuff around this year. We’re loving the bright colours and funky accessories and looking forward to channelling our inner flower child. So, here are a just a few of the pieces team wtm is coveting this season in advance of next month’s big fashion issue. Alice + Olivia SS17 Floral mini storage, IKEA www.ikea.com Printed cami, ba&sh https://ba-sh.com/fr/en Pastel ballet flats with ribbon Ballin www.ballin-shoes.com Sunglasses, Parfois 17 178-054. Tasselled mules, Mango 17 179-718. Disney foldaway overnight bag, Cath Kidston 16 686-209. Pure Pigment eye shadow, Inglot 16 686-200. Tasselled boots, Naturalizer 17 179-320. Fun bunting, H&M 17 110-305. Tulip candle, H&M 17 110-305.
www.womanthismonth.com 13 March 2017 SOCIAL BUTTERFLY Bahrain Family Expo Groovy Events organised the Bahrain Family Expo 2017 at the Bahrain International Exhibition Convention Centre. The ribbon-cutting ceremony Mahmood, Zainab, Haifa & Neil Symmetria Opening Symmetria Bahrain held a grand opening ceremony at its premises in Tubli. The ribbon-cutting ceremony Elena & Dr Nikolaos Metaxotos Daniel & Harish
March 2017 www.womanthismonth.com FASHION | trend 14 WEAR IT WELL It seems the world of fashion is having another ‘80s throwback love affair with the return of the, previously much maligned, high-waisted mum jeans. They’re a bit like a cross between our beloved skinnies and the sloppy boyfriend we’ve all be sporting for so long. And it seems, as long as the waist actually sits on the waist, pretty much anything goes. From bellbottoms to cropped, or loose fitting, roll them up to show a little skin and team with sneakers or flats for daytime or add delicate sling-back heels and a sparkly top for evening glam. We hate to break it to you, but they’re back. And no, we really didn’t see it coming either but mum jeans don’t have to be the stuff of nightmares. MUM JEANS Prenda high-rise Pull and bear 17 172-305 Poison-Jean Ragged Priest www.dollskill.com Max SS17 campaign Ryley embroidered bell-bottoms Alice and Olivia www.net-a-porter.com Mango Special Denim SS17 Straight-leg floral Desigual 17 178-059 Dark blue high-rise Mango 17 179-718 Glamorous petite multi badge detail mum jeans Shopperboard www.shopperboard.com Mike black stone ba&sh https://ba-sh.com
www.womanthismonth.com 15 March 2017 SOCIAL BUTTERFLY Richard, Alex, & Brian Liz & Veronika Amira & Mohammed Marise & Josie Dim Sum Cooking Class Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay held a dim sum cooking class with chef Brian Becher for the media to mark Chinese New Year at re/Asian Cuisine. Brian Rumena
March 2017 www.womanthismonth.com FASHION | fashion forward 16 SPANISH BRAND CHASES ME MARKET Mango has adapted its website and e-commerce portal for the Middle East, one of the brand's main markets. There’s a more user-friendly design and customers can now see an Arabic translation of mango.com, alongside a new payment method to make shopping easier. This involves a virtual purse for each customer. The Middle East is one of Mango’s key markets and accounts for more than seven per cent of the chain’s total turnover. For more than 10 years, the brand has had a special collections department which focuses on creating exclusive designs adapted to the needs of the Middle East market, taking its cultural and religious aspects into consideration. Luxury fashion and lifestyle destination retailer, Maris Collective, has officially opened Rhodium, its first premier boutique in the Middle East, at the Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay. The store offers an expertly curated selection of unique and exclusive global designer labels, including Chloé, Emilo Pucci and Jean Paul Gaultier as well as iconic US brands such as Rosetta Getty, Prabal Gurung, as well as fine jewellery designers Suzanne Kalan, Kimberly McDonald and Nina Runsdorf. The ideal destination for the sophisticated jetsetter, Rhodium’s dynamic mix of global fashion brands allows guests to create the perfect wardrobe for transitioning from lounging poolside to glamorous evenings out in Manama’s famed nightlife. FRENCH HOUSE GETS NEW CHIEF French fashion house Carven has appointed Serge Ruffieux as creative directo, overseeing women's ready-to-wear, accessories and footwear collections. He’ll be showing his first Carven collection during the Resort 2018 season. Serge has extensive design expertise, including close to a decade spent at Christian Dior as head designer of the women's ready-to-wear and haute couture studios, and as co-artistic director between 2015 and 2016. His previous role includes time spent as right hand to the late French designer Sonia Rykiel. He says: "I am thrilled to embrace my new creative role at Carven, feeling a real affinity for Madame Carven and her vision of fashion. I look forward and am very honoured to be leading the creative direction of the house as it enters a new chapter." REUSE AND RECYCLE Calling on friends of the environment, the Swedish multinational has launched the new ‘Bring It’ campaign to create a global movement towards recycling unwanted garments. H&M first launched its worldwide Garment Collecting initiative in 2013 and since then has collected more than 40,000 tonnes of clothing. The goal is to increase this amount to 25,000 tonnes a year by 2020. Customers can drop off unwanted garments and textiles, from any brand and in any condition, all year round, and the campaign aims to raise awareness of the importance of garment recycling. By recycling, fewer garments go to landfill and, in 2014, the brand also introduced its first Close the Loop collection made with recycled textile fibres — an important step in closing the loop for fashion. Visit http://about.hm.com/en/sustainability/get-involved/recycle-yourclothes.html for more information. BACKSTAGE PASS Our take on what’s cool, trending and fashionable Bahrain Hosts GCC Style Debut
www.womanthismonth.com March 2017 17 White Deal, a Bahrain based e-commerce website supplying the finest brands at the click of a button, has announced the launch of its new online fashion website. Now customers of all ages can enjoy shopping for their favourite international brands such Armani, Calvin Klein, Gucci, Rolex and various other well-known international and local collections, in the comfort of their own home. Shoppers have the option of visiting the web page www.whitedeal.com or downloading an iOS and Android compatible app. The service is 24/7, with experts on hand to answer questions and delivery across all areas of the GCC areas. Shipping is free and there are several payment options including cash on delivery. CEO, Rehab Sharif, says: “To ensure customers get the best products, our team of experts made sure to select only the most fashion-forward brands. The aim is to mix shopping with comfort and that is what makes us the perfect choice for everyone. We are accessible everywhere, every day.” The region’s fastest growing grassroots fashion brand, Redtag, has extended its celebrity ambassadorship agreement with popular Arab model, actress and singer Cyrine AbdelNour for 2017/18. Redtag has gained strength across the region, opening 21 stores in the past 12 months alone. And it’s not just in women’s fashion that the brand leading the race; it offers variety for the entire family as well as homes products. Commenting on her ongoing association with the brand, Cyrine AbdelNour says: “Since our partnership began in 2015, Redtag and I have worked together to bring to life the real meaning of fashion for everyone every day with collections which are on trend and on budget and, most importantly, made for the women of the Middle East. I very much look forward to unveiling what promises to be another exciting seasonal collection for summer 2017.” Cyrine Extends Ambassador Contract One-Stop Fashion Shop Rehab Sharif
March 2017 www.womanthismonth.com FASHION | get the look 18 OFFICIALLY ELEGANT You simply cannot beat the combination of black and white for a chic, contemporary take on the slick office/business look. But look for a shirt that has an interesting detail, be it tied sleeves, like this Mango option; tailored cuffs, allowing you to add some jazzy cuff-inks; or a single black ribbon tie, as in Ms Herrera’s own latest offerings. Team it with classic, good-quality black pants and add interest with awesome shoes and a pop of colour in your jacket. THE CLASSIC WHITE SHIRT Carolina Herrera Hbz-denim-rosie The search for the perfect white shirt seems eternal, but once you’ve found it, or them, how you style it is equally important. From catwalk classy to downtime chilled, we’ve got the answers – with a little help from Carolina Herrera, who had her very own ‘white shirt moment’ on the catwalk at New York Fashion Week. Black tassel earrings, Mango 17 179-718. Pink wool blazer, Balmain 17 178-395. White tie-sleeve shirt, Mango 17 179-718. Black cropped pants, Stella McCartney www.stellamccartney.com Bee motif Dessie bag, Dune 17 179-314. Black embellished heels, Kenzo 13 320-550. Mango
www.womanthismonth.com March 2017 FASHION | get the look 19 LAID-BACK STYLE From Jennifer Aniston to Rosie Huntington-Whitely, our style crushes have a serious jeans and white shirt habit. And who can blame them? It’s the easiest style to nail and whether you’re going for cropped skinnies, shabby-chic boyfriends or the latest mum jeans, the addition of a simple but stylish, plain white shirt means you’ll always look classy. Punk it up with an embellished leather biker jacket and reptile-style boots for a look that’s as much at home in a jazz bar as a juice bar. AFTER-DARK AWESOME Go for all-out glamour with your evening shirt. Puff sleeves, ruffles, billows of light silky material, they’re all welcome here. Add pants with their own interesting detail, maybe embroidery or a super-wide flare and top the combination with an interesting jacket. For this look, embellishment is the key to glamour, so make your accessories count. Top off the look with a messy up-do or sharp, short cut, smoky eyes and a slash of crimson on the lips for a look that will certainly get you noticed. Luna jacket, ba&sh www.asos.com White shirt, H&M 17 110-350. Lotty Tatoo Circus scarf, Zadig and Voltaire www.zadig-et-voltaire.com Kawai Tattoo Deluxe jacket, Zadig and Voltaire www.zadig-et-voltaire.com Cropped high-rise jeans, J Brand www.jbrandjeans.com Fun embellished tote, Fly With Karl, Karl Lagerfeld 17 112-715. Mods pink snake bookts, Zadig and Voltaire www.zadig-et-voltaire.com Charm necklace, Parfois 17 178-054. Chandra bag, Jimmy Choo 17 582-402. Super flared pants, Ellery www.farfetch.com Joylyn heels, Nine West 17 179-260. Gathered cotton-poplin shirt, Sonia Rykiel www.net-a-porter.com
March 2017 www.womanthismonth.com showcase 20 Iconic fashion label Tommy Hilfiger recently presented its Spring 2017 Hilfiger Collection and TommyXGigi capsule at the Spring 2017 TOMMYNOW event, the brand's second in-season fashion show held at TOMMYLAND, Venice Beach in Los Angeles. The gala is the ultimate fashion festival celebrating California-inspired music, art and creativity. The TommyXGigi line is designed in collaboration with Gigi Hadid, who also headlined the event. The highlight of TOMMYNOW was that every look showcased on the ramp was immediately available for purchase across various sales channels in more than 70 countries around the world. Gigi is the global ambassador for Tommy Hilfiger women's, including apparel, footwear, accessories, sunglasses, watches and fragrance. The TommyXGigi collection celebrates her relaxed, West Coast aesthetic fused with Hilfiger's signature East Coast heritage. The inspiration for the collection stemmed from California itself; with its youthful attitude, laidback lifestyle, and the spirit of festivals where music and style collide with its pop culture heritage. The brand worked with favourite American staples – lots of denim, nods to western culture and patches to make things personal. TOMMYNOW is built on Hilfiger's vision to make high fashion quickly accessible through numerous channels, thereby delivering instant gratification to consumers. The brand has employed top-end digital innovation to connect with global consumers in a personalised way that reflects how they live and shop. Tommy Hilfiger became the first brand to launch 3D image recognition commerce on the runway at this show, introducing a seamless and instant way to shop the TOMMYNOW runway. Consumers can use the custom branded TOMMYLAND SNAP:SHOP app to shop from photos of 3D moving images, such as models walking the runway or products in store, or 2D images such as ad placements and editorial shots. With rapid increases in image search queries and over three billion photos shared on mobile apps every day, image recognition commerce has incredible potential to change how consumers search and shop for the looks they love. All spring 2017 runway looks are available to purchase through the brand's global wholesale network and own retail website, social media content and shoppable live stream. The Tommy Hilfiger range is available at City Centre Bahrain City Centre. Call 16 686-208. This exclusive brand has empowered the fashion conscious by allowing them to choose and purchase new looks hot off the catwalk. TOMMY HILFIGER LOVE IT, BUY IT!
www.womanthismonth.com March 2017 showcase 21 For the lady of substance and style, Charles & Keith is the perfect footwear and accessory brand to express individualism, good taste and impeccable poise. Whether it is the corporate fashionista or the girl next door, this label has swoon-worthy items for every woman who takes pride in herself. The brand is guided by the vision of creating a line of innovative lifestyle accessories with a clear design aesthetic for the chic woman. The name, which is well known in global markets, has upheld its reputation for being innovative and experimental, yet integral to any wardrobe. Be it bags, belts, shades, key chains, tech accessories or costume jewellery, the line easily appeals on all levels. The latest collection from Charles & Keith stands testimony to how creativity manifests in unexplainable ways, and only those who seek undyingly shall find the exceptional. Creations are reworked with an additional touch of design, giving new interpretation to the classics, all the while proving that monochrome is forever here to stay. that is both sturdy and attractive. Let your own creativity be inspired with exuberant pops of colour, textures and facets such as chains and snap hooks, vibrant, handmade tassels, macramé details, embroidery and leather whip stitch details which are found on mules, open-toed heels and peep-toe booties. The line also offers on-trend bags for any occasion with box clutches enhanced with the application of delicate embroidery. The brand also has a collection of costume jewellery, characterised by practical yet charming designs that are easy to wear and maintain. Call City Centre Bahrain 16 686-206 or Seef Mall 16 686-262. Footwear staples are reinvented with fluid textures, altering perceptions and proportions, adding subtle new twists to keep things interesting. Basic loafers are transformed to something that deserves a good second glance through the inclusion of glitter. Dress loafers, pumps and heels are made more elaborate, creating the ultimate statement-makers. The collection expresses ingenuity with unexpected elements, emphasising details, elements and textures and creating an openended visual narrative. The line comprises pom-pom heels, floral beaded footwear, laceup pointed heels and embroidered bags. Exquisite floral beadwork in multicoloured patterns and fabrics adds a feminine touch to the line. Sling-back sandals and slip-ons are explored in a thoughtful reduction of details, making them wearable for the everyday as well as special occasions. Colourful semi-precious stones in various shapes are used to further enhance the beauty of the shoes and the neat layering design in their arrangement lends a unique characteristic to the overall look, fully embracing the simplicity of art at its best. Soft pastels accompanied with bold studs represent a new take on femininity This noteworthy brand has elegant wardrobe accessories to complete your look, allowing easy transition from high-end sophistication to off-duty playfulness. CHARLES & KEITH A FRESH TAKE
22 March 2017 www.womanthismonth.com SOCIAL BUTTERFLY Corporate Party Crowne Plaza Bahrain held a corporate party event at its premises. Gilles, George, Ebrahim Kooheji & Robin Christy, Florissa, Priya & Ridma Priya & Farheen Jonel, Christy, Ehab & Belle Jan & Sally Evening with the Kapoors Crowne Plaza Bahrain held a Flavours of Bollywood event at Indian Spices Restaurant which was inaugurated by guest of honour, Randhir Kapoor, Bollywood Star, and Anand Prakash, second secretary of the Indian Embassy. Management, staff & guests with Randhir Kapoor Himanshu, Santosh, Madhu, Anil & Gilles Salman Al Dosari Dr Mustafa Al Sayed
www.womanthismonth.com March 2017 PEOPLE | interview 23 A tête-à-tête with Maya will warm the cockles of your heart. Her gracious nature captivates you the moment you meet her. Her shock of gray hair is something she wears with pride, saying: “I’ve earned it. Who I was when I was 16 is definitely not who I am at the age of 73. It’s my time to think of what I want to do, not just for myself but the community that I live in.” Maya was born in Karachi and moved to Bahrain with her parents in 1945, at the age of two. “My earliest memories are of Bahrain – It has been home in my mind forever,” she says. “I grew up here and went to Sacred Heart till I was about 12. At that time, they didn’t have an English high school for girls, so my family sent me off to a boarding school in India.” She returned to Bahrain in 1960 and spent a couple of years working with Jashanmals as an assistant to her father. She recalls one of her memories from those days: “Across the street from the old Jashanmal was Dorabjee, then Novelty Stores, Ashrafs down the street from there and then the post office. So every morning around 10.30, I would go to collect the mail. I would stop at Dorabjee’s – their son was my best friend – and I would have a pineapple juice and a Bounty chocolate bar. I would then go to Novelty and see what kind of new costume jewellery they had. Next stop was Ashrafs, family friends, and I would have coffee with Ellie Khedourie to catch up on the daily news. Finally I would make it to the post office. My father used to say ‘How long does it take for you to get the mail?’ “There was no television, just a few theatres that showed Arabic and Indian movies. As far as I remember it was always about people who you met and knew.” She’s still in touch with her friends in Bahrain and, although she moved to the US after her marriage, there’s never been a year that she hasn’t returned to visit. Maya’s artistic journey started when she went to study at JJ School of Art in Mumbai, a few years before she got married and moved to the US. “I found that I really have the soul or spirit of the artist,” she says. However, she didn’t pursue it until after her children were older, when she started teaching drawing and painting for a while. For the past 10 years, she has made Turkey her home, living in an idyllic little village called Turkbuku. “I think if you’re an artist, you have to have time for yourself; you can’t do art and everything else,” she says. “I have that luxury in Turkey. I have a studio. I paint and I read.” Maya recently had a solo exhibition in Bahrain at La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art, titled ‘Memories’. “I am fascinated with texture, and acrylics work very well for me. I paint on books, pieces of paper, newspapers, whatever is available. I rarely paint on canvas; it’s on wood and objects – on windows, doors – anything that doesn’t move is a canvas for me.” She is inspired by the American artist Robert Rauschenberg among others around the world. An avid art collector, some of her prized possessions are paintings from the likes of MF Hussain, Nasreen Mohamedi and Altaf. Maya is also a great advocate of community work and has been involved in various projects over the years, from opening a non-profit community bookshop in California to co-founding the Bahrain Art Centre. Her latest endeavour is to launch a website, called ‘Connect the Dots’, to give a voice to women who have stayed home but have much to share and contribute. “I want to acknowledge them, reach out and tap into their knowledge – they are unsung heroes,” she explains. A voracious reader, Maya is also working on a series of short stories for children, collected from various countries, to help them appreciate and understand different aspects of humanity and culture. Looking to the future, she wants to continue painting and influence relations between Turkey and Bahrain socially – anything that will bring her back to Bahrain. g An artist and a humanitarian at heart, Maya Jashanmal Lalvani talks about her deep connection with Bahrain and shares her goals for the future. The Soul of an Artist Maya Jashanmal
March 2017 www.womanthismonth.com PEOPLE | interview 24 As a 10-year old, Jodie remembers doing a school project on Egypt and promising herself that, some day, she’d visit the pyramids. This New South Wales Australian was probably born with wanderlust, leading her to resign from corporate life in Sydney to pack her bag and experience the world. “I made Ireland my base, where I worked for over four years. My professional experience landed me a good job, which allowed me to travel all over Europe and America,” she says. Jodie bought herself a camera to capture the different cultural experiences she’d anticipated, and auto mode was the way for the novice to go. “I remember thinking that the images were not coming off the way I actually saw them. I wanted to capture not just the print of the image but the essence of that moment,” she says. So she started educating herself about the craft, undergoing training and using trial and error to hone her photographic skills. Her love for images continued to bloom as she experienced strange places and new things, which strengthened her drive to capture moments for their simple beauty. “If you want to ‘expand’ yourself, getting up and travelling the world is the best thing you can do,” she advocates. When she decided to head back home, the intrepid traveller took, of course, the scenic route. “I went through Egypt, India, Nepal and other parts of Asia. A gypsy at heart, photographer Jodie Baker has an unconventional eye for sights and scenes that capture the human spirit. Behnaz Sanjana chats to her about her craft and why people are talking about it. Every Picture Tells a Story her to tangibly change an image during its developing, bringing out just the effect she wanted. Last year she arrived in Bahrain with her husband and adores the island for its accepting, kind and tolerant populace. expatriates from all over pouring in, telling me how much they miss Bahrain and how my photos made them feel they were right here again. It’s nice when you can touch somebody somewhere in the world just through a photograph – it is immensely satisfying.” She has also focused her lens on a number of weddings, engagements, births, family and commercial photo shoots. “Each of the Arabic weddings I have shot have been unique in their own way, and I vividly remember every single one of them. I collaborate with other photographers, too, like for Hindu weddings, which are massive events spread over a few days and are great fun. Clicking personal moments of the bride and groom on their special day feels great. The day goes by so fast for them, but when I present my work to them, they live the day again through my pictures,” she says, getting goosebumps as she speaks. On what inspires her, her answer is as thoughtful as her pictures: “The inspiration is life, in general. Everyone is so different, and I quite like to celebrate that. Whether it’s the couple about to be married, or the man walking the street collecting cardboard or the vendor at the market – it’s the essence that goes with it that inspires me. My pictures tell a story, rather than being just ink on paper.” g Jodie Baker These countries are so different, and they gave me the opportunity to walk up to complete strangers and capture their life stories, narrated in all of five minutes.” Once back in Australia, and seriously committed to her craft, Jodie also learnt dark room exposure, which she loved, as it enabled “People here willingly pose for pictures and love sharing their stories with me; so I’m quite at home here!” she laughs. Jodie’s street photography, displayed on her Instagram handle @jodiebakerphotography, is getting lots of attention on social media. She says: “I’ve had messages from former
www.womanthismonth.com March 2017 PEOPLE | interview 25 Please tell us about your history, how you got started and what made you decide on this particular field of medicine. My mother, father and both grandfathers were physicians; so medicine was never really a question. I chose surgery because it is one of the active disciplines where you can intervene and make things happen. However, medical development over recent decades has put surgery, which in the past was the only treatment for breast cancer, somewhat to the background. Today surgery is only one element alongside chemotherapy, radiation, hormonal treatment and other developments. With progress, not only the role of surgery but also its invasiveness has decreased. Today, an increasing number of ladies are candidates for breast preserving surgery, which is a smaller procedure and more respectful of the woman’s body image. How long have you been in the Middle East and what brought you to this part of the world? We were actually very happy in Munich where I was a surgeon at a teaching hospital. However, I felt ready for change and wanted to utilise my skills and personal capabilities where they could make a big difference. Since breast cancer is mainly a women’s disease and it is sometimes difficult here for women to approach a male physician, combining my expertise with a purely female environment has made it easier for women to come forward. Are there any specific problems you see here? The fear of breast cancer is probably equally scary for women everywhere. The incidence has shown to be around 12 per cent – one in eight women will suffer from breast cancer. However, based on the cultural environment, the perception of this fear may vary. While some countries have an open approach to the disease, others still consider it a punishment the woman should be ashamed of. Social stigma is another hurdle. A more practical implication is the uncertainty as to the husband’s reaction, support and loyalty when faced with the consequences of treatment such as cosmetic changes and hair loss. Economic dependence on the husband may enhance this fear. How is this dealt with? The only way to help women overcome their fear is education and information. The only way to improve treatment success is early detection and treatment. Bahrain has shown really exceptional activities in both areas in recent years, both in quality and quantity. The information campaigns are very well designed, provide excellent information and are within everybody’s reach. A substantial number of ladies have joined support groups; many of them are speaking up from first-hand experience, having survived the disease and serving as exemplary figures for those trying to overcome the social limitations in doing so. These groups provide the ladies with advice, moral support and also practical help. Availability of early detection and all treatment modalities has grown at a very fast pace and continues to do so. Today, ladies in Bahrain have access to the most modern breast imaging such as digital mammogram, ultrasound, MRI of the breast or PET CT scan. All treatment modalities such as surgery, chemotherapy or radiation are available and several major projects catering to oncological patients are in the pipeline. What services will you be offering at Awali? Awali Hospital has just recently installed a brand-new breast imaging suite to the highest standards. The new digital mammography unit is providing excellent imaging while radiation is significantly reduced as compared to older-generation equipment. We can offer ladies a one-stop-shop breast cancer screening [annual for women with no symptoms, in order to detect a mass while it is still so small it cannot be felt] and diagnostic examination [for women who have symptoms such as pain, a mass, nipple discharge or axillary lymph node enlargement]. We are working on streamlining the processes. So when the patient comes, we can take the history, examine her, do the required X-rays, inform her of the result and give her the recommendation for further management. The whole range of breast surgery for benign and malignant conditions is also offered. In addition to breast problems, I have a clinic dedicated to proctology: all anal problems such as haemorrhoids, anal fistula or fissures can be dealt with in a very private setting. Whenever possible, we favour management that is not invasive or destructive. What are your plans for the future? Having worked the last 13 years as a surgeon in Al Khobar, Saudi Arabia, I am looking forward to participating in developing breast cancer management activities within the framework of Bahrain. The quality of life here in Bahrain, combined with the drive towards continuous improvement of breast cancer treatment, makes it a wonderful base for my family and me to work, live and enjoy. g Call Iris on 3941-7861 or email [email protected]. Eminent breast surgeon Dr Iris Brune Erber has relocated to the Kingdom after many years practising in neighbouring Saudi Arabia. She talked to Liz O’Reilly about her medical journey and making the move. Improving Breast Services Dr Iris Brune Erber
March 2017 www.womanthismonth.com SHOPPING 26 Life’s too short to dress badly. So that’s why we’ve taken a look at what’s on offer at some of the island’s newest shopping destinations. DID YOU SAY SHOPPING SPREE? GALLERIA: An open-plan mall, Galleria looks every bit the swanky hangout it claims itself to be. The boutique retail destination is the epicentre of activity in the residential locale of Zinj, anchored by Lulu Hypermarket. Other popular commercial brands such as Lifestyle, Shoe Express, Sketchers and Olympia join the melee. Canadian favourite Tim Hortons has made its debut in Bahrain at Galleria Mall and food and beverage outlets like Wok Station, Macchiato Café, Yas-e-Isfahani and Wafflemeister are also popular with the young and old. The area is ideal for families to stroll the wide walkways and soak in the laid-back atmosphere. Children can frolic at the Kids’ Corner and visitors can spend leisurely hours by the water feature. Editor’s choice: Innovation Coffee House is part of the funky Innovation Themes home store, we love the coffees and the tables. SEEF MALL MUHARRAQ: On the lines of the old favourite in Seef district, this newer version in Arad has brought some bustle to the area. Offering the ease of convenience and proximity to local residents, Seef Mall Muharraq has a fun, positive buzz about it that brings on the weekend mood instantly. Besides go-to high street brands like Claire’s, Aldo Accessories, and New Look, local favourites like Wool House and A La Mode are also open here. The venue offers a plethora of dining options to suit all tastes and budgets along with the added advantage of keeping kids entertained at Magic Island. Editor’s Choice: Yours London offers up-to-the-minute fashion for larger ladies who often struggle to find stylish separates and accessories. EL MERCADO: Perched on the fringes of upcoming Janabiya, El Mercado has positioned itself as the vicinity’s friendly neighbourhood market. With a very contemporary design that is unusual in Bahrain, the outlets also are refreshingly new. Besides Alosra Supermarket, the mall houses Boots Pharmacy, Anytime Fitness Gym, Vanity Ladies Salon, The Groom Room for men and Festivity for fun party supplies. A good selection of cafes and restaurants completes the mix here, including some of the latest dining concepts in Bahrain such as Wangs Funky Chinese Eatery, Maison Mathis and Choox Chicken Coop. Editor’s fave: Joe Mama’s just for the double entendre slogan on the staff uniform T-shirts. Sorry, we’re not telling, you’ll have to check it out for yourself. AL RAYA MALL: This mall brings Alosra Supermarket, Starbucks, Pomodorini, Purple Swirl and Bluefield Burger Company as well as Charm Salon and Desire Boutique to Juffair’s hip hotel-lined street. With an opulent blend of sophistication and modernity, the mall boasts 4,000sq/m of shopping, along with entertainment and children’s recreation areas. Editor’s choice: Challenge Chambers is a new twist to gaming for adults, bringing players a real-life experience. Participants are in it together to solve riddles, crack codes and figure out the missing links in the game by using intellect and intuition to make a successful escape from a locked chamber and thus win the challenge. Games are offered in English and Arabic.
www.womanthismonth.com March 2017 SHOPPING 27 JUFFAIR MALL: This one is a weekend staple for islanders in and around Juffair, with its family-centric layout and cinema screens for lovers of the motion picture. Ample parking space makes the approach in and out of the mall a breeze, thereby saving precious time to shop at the many retailers, relax at the cafés or catch the latest box office hit. The USP of this arcade is the great balance of products it offers. Whether youre looking for groceries, gadgets, apparel, accessories or jewellery, gorgeous carpets and home décor items, it’s all here from the likes of Lulu, Royal Carpet and Evershine. A satisfying shopping spree can come to an equally enjoyable end with a stop at a host of food and beverage options at the food court or any of the stand-alone dining outlets here. Editor’s fave: The American outlet store offering cut price US-branded fashions – sizes can be a bit limited though, so you need to search the racks. DRAGON CITY: The sprawling shopping concept on the newly minted Marassi Al Bahrain is one of a kind in the Kingdom. Literally bringing China to your doorstep, the swathes of commercial space bring customers some unique items; ranging from kitchen ware, furniture, apparel and accessories to lighting, wallpaper and children’s toys. The seemingly unending labyrinth of the mall spans over 54,000sq/m, encased in typical Chinese-inspired architecture, and accommodates 787 outlets. There are some great bargains to be had. Editor’s fave: The Asian Dining Street offering the finest in Asian cuisine. All the walking and browsing through unique items will leave you hungry, for which the food court offers some hearty and pocket-friendly options. SAAR MALL: This one is the cherry on the cake of the upcoming Saar area. This stylish shopping haven has something for everyone with its myriad leisure, dining and shopping alternatives. The highlights include top-notch brands, restaurants, cafés, banks, an indoor play area, the Big Game Zone, and a mini-cinema for kids alongside the convenience of Geant Easy supermarket on its premises. Here you’ll find high-quality goods and services at prices that are consistently lower than other local retailers. Besides offering over 70 international points-of-sale, it also hosts regular social and cultural events, enabling the community to share great times together. Editor’s fave: Galata – fresh flowers and a huge selection of Turkish sweets, including totally sinful Turkish delight, served up by a very sweet assistant. GARDEN’S PLAZA: This one is a luxury shopping centre just off the Budaiya Highway that has a good range of stores and gourmet spots as well as MJ’s Bowling Lounge and Hospitalia by Yara, a top-notch cosmetic and medical clinic. If you are looking for art and craft materials that are not available easily on the island, head to Touch of Art at this mall for all your creative needs. Editor’s fave: Ahmed’s Predator Studio for insane workouts and occasional free classes such as Zumba.
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