CITY CENTRE BAHRAIN • SEEF MALL • THE CENTRE - AL ALAWI • SEEF MALL MUHARRAQ
2 September 2015 www.womanthismonth.com SEPTEMBER 12 72 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. 36 16 8 Diary 10 News: Hot Shots SHOPPING 12 Editor’s Choice: Back to School 14 Pick of the Month: Animals to the Rescue FASHION 16 Trend: Desert Tone 18 Fashion Forward: New Season Sneak Peek 20 Style Radar: What the stars are wearing 22 Get the Look: Plus Size Fashion PEOPLE 29 Sawsan Taher: A Journey to Remember BEAUTY 36 News: The latest products in the stores 38 Beauty Review: Pampering for any Occasion FEATURE 42 What Women Want LIFESTYLE 58 Home: Different Strokes 60 Home: Nuts & Bolts 65 Parenting: Fresh Beginning by Ghada Salem 67 Parenting: Kids’ Playground 68 Parenting: Bon Voyage by Dr Jinan Darwish 70 Wellbeing: Put your Best Foot Forward 72 Travel: Sultanate Sojourn 74 Travel: Incredible Escapes 75 Food: Chef’s Special 78 Horoscope 80 Last Word: In Her Shoes – Vinny Aseeja 20
4 September 2015 www.womanthismonth.com This month, our cover features one of Sawsan Taher’s pictures from her adventures in Ethiopia, Africa. The amateur snapper spent 11 days with five different tribes and we bring you an exclusive interview and a series of photos that are impossible to miss! Learn more about her experience and check-out her incredible shots. Summer holidays are ending and a new school year is about to start. Get yourself ready to brave the busy roads again and, if you have kids, it’s time to get them back into a routine. It can be stressful, but Ghada Salem has some tips for you in our parenting section. In addition, there is also a good side; with the kids in school, the mums among you can have your mornings back to spend time on yourself! As some would say, after some holidays, you need another vacation to recover. So now’s a good time to enjoy the pampering offers available and have a full beauty treatment. Our editorial director, Liz O’Reilly, had a great experience at Yara Beauty Lounge and Ankita Mamgain got herself a refreshing facial massage from Rimal Spa at Mövenpick. Read about their experiences on our beauty pages. If you have small kids that don’t go to school yet, this is the best time to take some days off. I’m sure the destination you pick won’t be that crowded. Dr Jinan Harith Darwish has all the best advice for travelling with tots, so don’t miss her article in parenting. We understand our readers and we know that not all of us are size 10. So if you are a plus-size woman, check out our tips on how to create outfits respecting your body shape. We bring together three different style ideas to help you look fabulous! Turkey may not be on your travel radar but I’m sure you will think twice after reading our travel article this month. Discover hidden places and the best spots to enjoy some days off in this amazing country which is only a few hours away. Enjoy your reading! Fernanda Langhammer, Editor @Ferlanghammer chairman & publisher GEORGE F MIDDLETON editorial director LIZ O'REILLY editor FERNANDA LANGHAMMER assistant editor ANKITA MAMGAIN contributors APPLE SHARMA BEHNAZ SANJANA DR JINAN DARWISH GHADA SALEM RAPHAEL creative director ANDRE BIGG print production manager SABU SEBASTIAN layout & graphics ROMEO SAN MIGUEL JAYATH TEKI media coordinator SARAH ANSARI media manager FARHEEN AHMED circulation TARA VAMADEVEN PILLAI photography editor ZILIA MONTEIRO photographers RANJITH MOHAN SUBEESH KUMAR NS printing press UNION PRESS, BAHRAIN Contents copyrighted 2015© 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 September 2015, Issue 151 On the cover: A shot from Sawsan Taher's journey in Africa. EDITOR’S NOTE Woman This Month is a member of BPA Worldwide The fashion world is already embracing the trends of the cold season. We here on our sunny island are still dealing with the heat. However, it is time to start looking forward to the new season and its cool-weather pieces. I’ve selected my favourite items from the preautumn collections to share with you! Michael Kors Gucci Tory Burch
PRETTY, COMFORTABLE & SEXY womensecret.com #womensecret ABU DHABI DUBAI AL AIN SHARJAH BAHRAIN MUSCAT Dubai: The Dubai Mall, Dubai Festival City Mall, City Centre Mirdif, City Centre Deira / Abu Dhabi: Al Wahda Mall, Marina Mall, Abu Dhabi Mall, Yas Mall / Al Ain: Bawadi Mall, Al Jimi Mall / Sharjah: Sharjah Mega Mall / Bahrain: City Centre Bahrain / Muscat: Oman Avenues Mall www.dubaiholdinggroup.com
6 September 2015 www.womanthismonth.com letters Write Here Write Now We want to hear your thoughts on Woman This Month. Write to us at [email protected] Get in touch by email, Twitter, Facebook or Instagram! 150th Issue I would like to give my best wishes to your publication. Congratulations! I hope you keep up the good work. I love receiving your magazine every month. The first things that I always check are the fashion trends and tips and the interviews. I really enjoy the fact that you find and give coverage to local talent. It is nice to see that we have interesting women doing amazing things on this island. Fatima. The Exclusive Boutique Contest on Woman This Month social media channels was the most liked picture on Instagram. #Qup #WTMContest asked the fans on social media to Like & Tag the contest post on #WTM FB, Instagram & Twitter. The contest had four lucky winners. Congratulations! Denim Mania Who doesn’t have a trusted pair of jeans? We all do, but it is good to see different cuts and designs in this practical material. I really enjoyed the article “Genius Jeans” that showed three ideas of how to create a look with them. The jumpsuit is quite common, but a pleated skirt and a dress? Really nice! Next time I go shopping, I will definitely look for a denim dress. It seems easy-to-wear and, with the right accessories, it can be transformed into perfect casual-chic. Lilian. Best on the Island I’m new in Bahrain and I was recently introduced to your magazine. It fell into my hands by accident and I am very pleased it did. You have no idea how helpful your “150 Pearls of Bahrain” list is for a newcomer. The fact that it is divided by category is another big plus for me. Now I have a reference on where to go for specific things. I will keep watching out for your magazine from now on! Beth. The Most Liked Post on Facebook The most talked about picture on WTM’s Instagram Woman This Month Contest Winner This #WTM post was the most Retweeted on Twitter Follow us on: Instagram: @woman_this_month Twitter: @WomanThisMonthB Facebook: Woman This Month Letter
مجمع انما الرفاع - مجمع مدينة عيسى - مجمع السيف المحرق Seef Mall Muharraq - Isa Town Mall - Enma Mall Riffa
8 September 2015 www.womanthismonth.com SAVE THE DATE SEPTEMBER We have your monthly diary sorted out ‘to a T’. From sales to date-night ideas, there’s much to look forward to in September. diary Inaugural Promotion It’s no secret – we all love shoes, and the only other thing that can give them competition is a good bag. Shop for both, under one roof, at the newly opened Coral Shoes and Bags store on Isa Town Mall’s ground floor. Take advantage of the ongoing promotional offer on the latest collection and go home with some new arm candy. The offer lasts till September 15. Call 17 006-502. Movie show It's the time of the year when the mercury levels begin to drop (hopefully) and you can enjoy a little open-air entertainment. Come down with your family or make a good old movies-and-dinner date night at Nasmat at The Westin Bahrain City Centre. Check in advance for which movie is playing and we suggest you make a booking beforehand as the space is limited. And the best part of the deal – you don’t have to go too far for great food as the pool side venue serves host of delicious offerings. Call 17 171-144. Musical Concert Celebrate Eid Al Adha with Bollywood singer Shreya Ghoshal at the Indian School Bahrain. Come down and for a desi night and dance away to her hit songs. Having performed in more than 12 languages, she’s been known to enthral packed stadiums with her melodious voice. She last performed in Bahrain in 2012 and is back for an encore. Call 33 577-971. Monte Carlo Party Get ready for one of the most happening nights of the month with international DJs bringing the best tunes from the party capitals of the world. Bushido is throwing a Monaco-style bash in partnership with Jimmy’s nightclub of Monte Carlo. This is night dedicated to luxury, excess and entertainment. Head to this chic venue to shake a leg and soak in some glamour, Riviera style! Call 17 583-555. Golf for Ladies The Royal Golf Club’s team of PGA professionals is looking forward to introducing more ladies and children to the game this September. If you’re interested in taking up the game sign up to attend special group golf clinics. These three-hour crash courses will introduce you to the basics, setting you on the path to playing great golf. A six-week Junior Golf programme also gets underway this month with groups for beginners as well as improvers. Call 17 750-777. 15 TUESDAY 20 SUNDAY 24 THURSDAY 25 FRIDAY 19 & 26 SATURDAY Bushido Coral Shreya Ghoshal
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10 September 2015 www.womanthismonth.com NEWS | hot shots WIRELESS CHARGING Smartphones have become our day-to-day companions, so running out of battery is a stressful thing in many people’s lives. To solve this problem, Samsung has launched its newest wireless charging technology created for its Galaxy S6 and S6 edge. The new charger is smaller and with a simple design while maintaining its functionality. COFFEE MANIA To celebrate the love the Arabic world has for its coffee, Nespresso has come up with a series of new recipes to elevate the coffee experience even further. The four exquisite options feature beautiful spices and fruits that encapsulate Arabic flavours and aromas. Visit the Nespresso store at City Centre Bahrain to learn more about its coffee range and recipes. DESIRABLE AUTOMOTIVE Rolls Royce and haute couture have similar philosophies of taking the very finest materials and crafting them into luxury goods. In this spirit, the car brand unveils its Wraith – Inspired by Fashion. The car is built just as a tailor would compose a suit. Customers can choose final touches and accoutrements according to their requirements. This option is now available in Bahrain for a limited time. STORE RE-CREATION The lingerie brand Victoria’s Secret is opening its first full assortment store in the Kingdom at City Centre Bahrain. You will find the full lines of the brand’s popular fragrances as well as all the PINK beauty products and lingerie. The whole design of the space will be changed to guarantee the best shopping experience. LADIES’ MORNING As a treat to its female clientele, the lingerie store Sarah has launched an exclusive and creative event called Sarah’s Ladies Breakfast. Organised every Tuesday from 10am to 1pm at the Seef Mall Muharraq store, customers are pampered with a 25 per cent discount on the entire collection, a free breakfast and free make-up lessons by a professional from Lifestyle. Don’t miss the opportunity to be indulged. This month, enjoy a pampering morning, shop in a new destination, get tuned into a new gadget and luxury lifestyle or just sit and appreciate a new coffee recipe.
12 September 2015 www.womanthismonth.com SHOPPING | editor's choice Mothercare Marks & Spencer 1. Map backpack: 10 Little Birds; 2. Sharpener: Paperchase; 3. Water bottle: Lakeland; 4. White shirt: F&F; 5. Notebooks: Zara Home; 6. Girl’s shoes: GEOX; 7. Boy’s shoes: Lacoste; 8. Swimsuit: BHS; 9. Battle boat erasers: NPW. Summer holidays are coming to an end and it’s time to start thinking of school days again. Does your kid need a new lunch box or uniform? We made a selection of items to help you out! BACK TO SCHOOL 8 9 1 3 7 5 4 2 6
City Centre Bahrain | Seef Mall | Isa Town City Centre Bahrain | Seef Mall | Isa Town City Centre Bahrain | Seef Mall | Isa Town
14 September 2015 The Coach Pups campaign captures the unique personalities of celebrities’ dogs who are modelling the brand’s new handbag collection and Coach has made donations to Downtown Dog Rescue (downtowndogrescue. org/), Best Friends Animal Society’s No Kill Los Angeles (nkla.org) and Chicago French Bulldog Rescue (frenchieporvous.org), on behalf of each dog model’s devoted owner. The new campaign features the canine stars Miss Frankie Kerr and Mr Toulouse Grande, the four-legged companions of Miranda Kerr and Ariana Grande respectively. A new visual of Lady Gaga’s Miss Asia Kinney will also be circulating in print, online, on outdoor media globally, and on social media via #coachpups. The pets were photographed by Steven Meisel. "I'm so excited to have Toulouse starring in the Coach Pups campaign and to partner with the brand in efforts to protect animals from cruelty and harm. Can’t begin to express how thankful I am to Coach for bringing this important issue into the spotlight and for their generous donation to No-Kill Los Angeles, a Best Friends Animal Society Initiative to make Los Angeles the nation’s largest no-kill city by 2017,” says Ariana Grande. In the visuals, Frankie Kerr models the Coach Swagger, Toulouse Grande models the new Ace, and Miss Asia Kinney models the Explorer bag. Get inspired by this campaign and check out the dog rescue facilities in Bahrain to do your bit locally! Animals to the Rescue SHOPPING | pick of the month The fashion world is all about beautiful looks; however, some brands are supporters of good causes through creative and outstanding initiatives. www.womanthismonth.com
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16 September 2015 www.womanthismonth.com FASHION | trend Get your wardrobe ready for winter breezes with natural shades. The transitional moment is the perfect time to adapt your style to autumn and winter trends. We’ve selected a few items from summer and some from pre-autumn collections. Enjoy the transition! 1. Watch: DKNY; 2. Skirt: H&M; 3. Bracelet: I Am; 4. Flat shoes: New Look; 4. Sandals: Schutz at Tilly’s Closet; 6. Handbag: Bulgari; 7. Sunglasses: Celine; 8. Parka: Massimo Dutti. DESERT TONE 3.1 Philip Lim at Saks Fifth Avenue Mango Loewe 2 8 5 1 3 4 7 6
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www.womanthismonth.com September 2015 18 FASHION | fashion forward NEW SEASON SNEAK PEEK It’s that time of the year again when we are caught between seasons in the fashion world. The pre-autumn collections are here to put us in the mood for the new season. Check them out! MADE FOR WALKING Booties are the first sign that we are allowed to start taking out our cold weather wardrobe. This item of footwear ends at the ankle and usually has a small heel or none at all. They are best worn with leggings or, if you like to be creative with your looks, try them with skirts, in all sorts of lengths and styles. These ones are from the Jimmy Choo pre-autumn collection. WINTER MOOD Gucci’s winter options reflect classic elements. The versatile jeans are teamed with a knitted top and tweed jacket. The traditional straight cut is painted in easy-to-wear shades such as black, white and eye-catching red. Masculine Oxfords and a sleek, black handbag complete the cold-weather dress code. PERSONAL CARRYALL The practical woman needs a functional carrier and the cross-body handbag is a great solution. Celine’s collection brings a variety of options in winter colours. The clean designs are easy to mix and match. If you like to carry half of your wardrobe with you, this bag is maybe not the best option for your everyday wear. However, if you’re seeking the minimal look, embrace the trend! STATEMENT FOOTWEAR Your choice of shoes is an important element to define your look, so if you like neutral shades and clean lines for your clothes, be inventive with your footwear. Tory Burch espadrilles come with laser cuts in forest green to steal the fashion show. This is a perfect choice for the transitional weather.
www.womanthismonth.com 19 September 2015 SECOND SKIN The technology applied in the fashion industry has had a big impact in fabric development. Nonflexible textiles such as leather, after different treatments, are now easily treated to create all sorts of designs. This Alexandre McQueen at Saks Fifth Avenue dress represents the versatility of this type of material. Don’t forget to look for eco-friendly options! COOL COATS Take your leather out of the wardrobe to get some air. Sooner than you think you could be wearing it again. At Michael Kors invest in a leather trenchcoat to kick-off the cold season. The brand is also reviving leopard print in its accessories collection. This pattern is actually an easy-tospot autumn and winter staple.
20 September 2015 www.womanthismonth.com ARIEL WINTER The young actress picked a Paule Ka number to attend the ATAS Screening of the Modern Family season finale in Los Angeles. The short leather dress is a great choice for her age and its smart cut makes it look even better. The length is actually not that short and the fact that it’s not a tight fit is a big thumbs up! FASHION | snaps Store openings, film screenings and TV appearances are some of the extra work celebrities have to do and they must look always their best. Get inspired by their outfits! Style Radar GIGI HADID The American model chose a 70s-inspired look for the 2015 CFDA Fashion Awards held at Lincoln Center in New York City. The metallic paillette-embroidered jumpsuit with bell-bottom trousers is from the Resort 2016 Michael Kors Collection and is an outstanding pick to dress a slim body like hers. You have to be quite bold to pull this off.
www.womanthismonth.com 21 September 2015 BELLA HEATHCOTE Another young lady showing off her beauty on the red carpet. The Australian star, best known for her role in Tim Burton’s film, Dark Shadows, was spot on at Entertainment Week’s ComicCon Celebration in San Diego. She wore a burgundy floral lace spaghetti strap top with golden bee patches and a light tan nappa leather pleated skirt from Gucci. The romantic look goes very well with her angelic and soft features. MICHELLE MONAGHAN The American actress wore a black Salvatore Ferragamo dress during her appearance at The View TV show in New York City. The number has a tan and black python bodice and is part of the brand’s spring and summer 2015 collection. She perfectly complemented the look with caramel highheeled sandals. Pure laidback elegance. JESSICA ALBA To celebrate the opening of Tory Burch’s Paris flagship store, the actress wore an autumn 2015 Jacquard gown and sandals from the American brand. The mid-calf dress is one of those stand-alone pieces that you don’t have to add anything to. No accessory is required and the hairstyle should be kept minimum. CHLOE MORETZ The blond, rising Hollywood star wore a pair of black nappa Stuart Weitzman sandals while attending the 5th Annual Coach and Friends of the High Line Summer Party in New York City. Her casual, yet eyecatching choice comes from the Coach Autumn 2015 collection and makes a smart pick for this daytime event.
22 September 2015 www.womanthismonth.com FASHION | get the look Loose tops are always a way out to minimise problem areas however, be careful! Sometimes the trick turns against the magician and you may end looking bigger. So look for tops that, despite the looseness, have some sort of shape or subtle details. To spice-up the outfit, search for interesting colour combinations. Black and soft pink work really well for a classic and classy result. Chunky necklaces and smart handbags are the best final touches. You can wear this look for a day at work or casual weekend dinner. ELEGANCE SIMPLE Melissa McCarthy Sometimes when your body doesn’t follow society’s standards of the models we see in magazine ads, it may be difficult to put your wardrobe together and create looks that please. We’re here to help with ideas to make the most of your curves. PLUS SIZE FASHION 1. Bracelet: Chopard; 2. Necklace: New Look; 3. Handbag: Dune, 4. Top: Evans; 5. Trousers: BHS; 6. Flats: Mango. 1 2 3 4 5 6 Rebel Wilson Danielle Brooks
www.womanthismonth.com 23 September 2015 1. Watch: I Am; 2. Earrings: Majorica at A La Mode; 3. Handbag: Tory Burch; 4. Sunglasses: Next; 5. Dress: Simply Be; 6. Sandals: Nine West. Dresses are always a way to look feminine and stand out in the crowd. Graphic prints are a great way to play with illusion resulting in a slimmer look. However the biggest trick here is the solid colour applied in the waist area that gives the illusion of a fake (and to-die-for) silhouette. This optical distortion only works in tight dresses, so you must be comfortable with a fitted shape. Another detail that is worth mentioning, is that if plus size is your style, opt for tops and dresses with some sleeve. It doesn’t have to be long, but a bit longer than the usual like that shown in this look. Accessorise yourself and enjoy the compliments! This kind of dress is an easy-to-go piece and usually comes with a belt that marks your waistline creating an interesting silhouette. When going for pieces that have some sort of tie or belt, don’t forget that it must lay right on your waist and not in the area where your breasts end. Otherwise it will create a lot of volume on your chest area. Another important thing is to leave behind some fashion myths, like the one that says larger ladies should avoid prints. Embrace them, mainly the modern ones like the one in this look. Trendy shades and patterns will give oomph to your outfit. Also go for bold accessories to impress. DRESS SHIRT VISUAL EFFECT 1. Necklace: Accessorize; 2. Handbag: Mulberry; 3. Earrings: Sonia Rykiel; 4. Shoes: Charles & Keith. 5. Sunglasses: Dolce & Gabbana at Sunglasses Shop; 6. Dress: Elvi. 1 1 2 2 3 3 4 4 5 5 6 6
24 September 2015 www.womanthismonth.com showcase At Devji since 1950, this desire is recognised and the brand works towards satisfying women’s passions. The inspiration to keep innovating comes from the discerning clientele who demand the best. This season, Devji since 1950 presents Treasures of the Ocean and the Candy Collection. The first features pendant sets in exquisite mother of pearl, studded with diamonds. Mother of pearl is a naturally occurring material that is obtained from the nacre of the oyster. The iridescent lustrous material offers a perfect backdrop to the brilliant diamonds, making this collection a distinctive addition to your jewellery wardrobe. The entire collection is created with a three dimensional perspective. The elements used come alive with this technique, making the pieces beautiful and elegant, while being distinctly different. The Candy Collection features semi-precious gemstones such as rose quartz, citrine and whiskey quartz as the centrepieces, accentuated with diamonds. The collection swells with pops of colour, adding glamour to your everyday wear. Both these collections are available at Devji since 1950, G-25 (Ground floor), City Centre Bahrain. For further information, call 17 179-881. DEVJI TREASURES OF THE OCEAN All women love jewellery, particularly if it is a unique piece. The desire to own something special, be it couture, footwear or accessories is a given. Candy Collection Treasures of the Ocean Treasures of the Ocean New Splash Store Al Rashid Group opened a new Splash store at the Al Hayat Mall in Segaya. Ribbon-cutting ceremony Haidee, Kiran & Ahmed Pauline & Nishtha Amrinder & Surendra Anil & Matthew Sasi & Rizwan Bina, Mario & Michel Russel, Vikas, Irfan, Jayaram & Anil
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26 September 2015 www.womanthismonth.com showcase GAP COOL VIBE This brand welcomes the new season with its warmest outerwear for the entire family. Check out the collection and fall in love!
www.womanthismonth.com 27 September 2015 Gap speaks the language of youth that we all want to embrace. With comfortable and fashionable pieces created from high-quality materials, the brand offers versatile pieces for a casual style with innovative elements. The autumn collection is rooted in Gap’s denim heritage. The material is pivotal in the label’s history and a must-have from all its collections. Girls, round out the ‘70s look with girlfriend or bell-bottom jeans which pair well with linen T-shirts and embroidered tops. For the finishing touch, layer with lightweight sweaters and jackets. For men, indigo denim is the focus in the new collection, an array of washes can be found in the slim five-pocket style. Women can choose from a variety of Bohemian tops offered in different fits and colours that can be teamed-up with your favourite pair of jeans. Check out the 1969 denim, this iconic cloth is not just available in pants, but also as overalls and shirts. This season also highlights the new Resolution pull-on leggings which add a touch of comfort to your everyday style. Gap’s favourites for him are the Black Fill Slim five-pocket jeans that can be layered up or down with a trendy bomber jacket or a smart sweater to create an effortless day-to-night look. As the temperature drops, we look for cosiness and, for the cooler weather, you’ll find a variety of sweaters, outerwear and layering pieces for women, men, kids and babies. Women’s Bi-Stretch and Ponte trousers pair well with textured and wool sweaters to create warm and relaxed looks. Men’s musthaves include slim and straight fits, coupled with basket weavetextured sweaters, parkas and puffers. Kids and babies will also be comfortable in sweater dressing across pullovers, cardigans, dresses and trousers. Stop by Gap and check out the new collection to start feeling the much anticipated wintry breeze. Call GAP, City Centre Bahrain, 17 178-607.
www.womanthismonth.com 29 September 2015 PEOPLE | cover story Since I was in school I have loved watching documentary programmes,” says Sawsan. “I’ve always had a curiosity about different nations and their people. Information about tribes around the world fascinates me, especially remote peoples, how they manage and their societies.” That curiosity came to the fore when Sawsan got her first professional camera in 2011. She says: “I had been taking pictures almost all my life but when I got my first professional camera, that really opened things up for me and I started focussing on different kinds of photography.” Specialising in macro-subjects, such as tiny insects, Sawsan took part in the Bahrain Wildlife Exhibition and she is also keen on capturing street life and landscapes. She joined various camera clubs and soon discovered one in the GCC that had recently visited with the Masai in Kenya but when she asked to go on the next trip she was told it was men only. “They said they did not accept women because of the places they go to but I wasn’t willing to give up and the guy suggested another group. There was an advertisement for a trip to Ethiopia that was open to females so I signed up to get some more information. “This is a trend for people getting together over Instagram, usually photographers, to visit less accessible places. The guy putting together to the group had previously been to the area so was able to organise guides and hotels etc. “There were another three ladies in the group, one from Qatar and two from Bahrain and, I believe, we’re the first GCC women ever to visit the Lower Omo Valley. “It was honestly a great challenge. We were there for 11 days and visited five different tribes and we spent a lot of time driving and travelling between them which was pretty tough going over rough terrain. “Guides make a payment to the village elders to allow travellers access and in one village we had to run away after the people got angry over a payment misunderstanding. “Visiting the Mursi tribe we were escorted by an armed member of the Ethiopian National Guard because we were warned they can be aggressive. “To visit the Dassanech tribe I crossed the Omo River in a hollowed out tree trunk and on a trip to Chamo Lake there was lots of bird life, huge crocodiles and several hippos. “I was sad to see the ‘mingi’ children, who are considered to be bad luck and are usually killed if they are not taken in by the Omo Child organisation which provides schooling and accommodation for them. “But overall it was a brilliant experience, one I will never forget and I would love to go back, perhaps to camp next time and spend longer getting to know the people and really experiencing their lifestyles.” One of Sawsan’s pictures from the trip, showing a family of the Hamar tribe, has since won a gold medal from the American Photographic Society. You can follow her on Instagram at Finish_Last. “ A Journey to Remember Bahraini Sawsan Taher first picked up a camera seriously just four years ago, but following her passion recently took her to Ethiopia’s remote Omo River Valley from where she shares with us this series of stunning images. 8
30 September 2015 www.womanthismonth.com PEOPLE | cover story
www.womanthismonth.com 31 September 2015 MURSI TRIBE Perhaps the most famous of the tribes thanks to the tradition among the women of inserting a plate into their bottom lips, the Mursi have featured in a television programme for the UK’s BBC and are very popular with visitors, despite being armed the hilt, often unfriendly and having a reputation for aggression and even, it’s claimed, going so far as to kill and eat their enemies – hence the need for an armed guard! Fascinating to look at the Mursi adorn themselves with bright paints and elaborate headdresses made of bone and woven leather. Before the lip plates, young women start by putting small and then progressively larger plates in their ears to stretch their earlobes. As they reach their mid-teens, the lip plate is inserted and, though it is seen as a status symbol, the wearers have no bottom teeth and must live on a diet of mushy food. The Mursi are a traditionally pastoral people for whom their livestock are extremely important to the point that calves will often be kept inside the family hut to protect them. Cattle are not just valuable possessions but are also commonly used to pay the bride price in a tribal marriage. 8
32 September 2015 www.womanthismonth.com PEOPLE | cover story
www.womanthismonth.com 33 September 2015 HAMAR TRIBE This is one of the best-known tribes in the region as both women and men use oil and ochre mud to paint their hair and bodies giving them a bronze-like cast to their skin. The women twist their hair into locks, a style distinctive to the tribe. The men, as in all the tribes, adorn themselves with white body paint, giving a leopard-like effect alongside the bronzed skin. Mothers use white paint on their babies to ward off evil spirits and small boys paint each other since there are no mirrors. Married Hamar women wear two heavy iron rings around their necks. However, the tribe practises polygamy (men can marry as often as they wish) and the first wife sports an additional torque with a phallic protrusion signifying her status. Women decorate themselves with cowrie shells, glass, seeds and metal beads and wear beaded goat-skin dresses while courageous men, who have killed an enemy or dangerous animal, wear a style of mud cap decorated with feathers. The may also have their chests marked with rows of hero scars to show the number of enemies slain. 8
34 September 2015 www.womanthismonth.com PEOPLE | cover story KONSO TRIBE Unlike their tribal counterparts, the Konso frequently wear Western clothes as well as their more traditional dress. Their village is hard to get to situated on a series of hard rocky slopes and is reached through a gate and a system of winding maze-like alleys which form a security system. Though friendly, the Konso are the tribe Sawsan and her fellow travellers had to flee thanks to a payment mistake which saw some of the group surrounded by villagers loudly demanding cash! DASSENACH TRIBE This tribe is quite isolated, reached by crossing the Omo River in hollowed out tree trunk canoes. Women wear pleated cow skin skirts and many necklaces and bracelets. And all sorts of recycled objects are used for adornment such as bottle tops attached to caps and rows and rows of brightly coloured beads used as necklaces and bracelets. Shells are also widely worn since the tribe is so close to the river and arm bangles each have a meaning. Girls in the tribe are usually married at the age of 17 and boys at 20.
www.womanthismonth.com 35 September 2015 MINGI CHILDREN Many of the river tribes are still extremely superstitious believing evil spirits or a curse will bring bad fortune such as drought, famine, disease or death if they do not kill, so called “Mingi” children who are born in the village. Children can be considered Mingi for various reasons such as being born out of wedlock or from a marriage or pregnancy that has not been sanctioned by the village elders, children whose top teeth come through before their bottom ones and twins. Traditionally, all these children should be killed. However, Sawsan visited the organisation Omo Child which saves, educates and rehabilitates these children, giving them a chance at a normal life. g KARA TRIBE The Kara live in a unique location on the banks of the Omo River and, again, white paint is used from childhood to ward off evil spirits. Colourful beads and cloths are used to designate position and family association and to attract the opposite sex. Women scar their chests, believing it makes them look beautiful. Men’s scars represent foes or dangerous animals killed. On the outskirts of the village they had built huts for food storage, the only one of the tribes to do so. Sawsan says: “I found the Kara to be the friendliest of the tribes we visited, perhaps they are more used to visitors. But I was sad, when we were leaving to see a school building but when I asked our guide he explained that many of the children don’t go to school as they are needed to fetch water, watch the animals or other tasks. Those that do go to school often run out when they hear a vehicle coming as they know the visitors will give them gifts and, sometimes, money.”
36 September 2015 www.womanthismonth.com BEAUTY | news The heat is not showing any mercy, so update your beauty routine to beat it! And, if you’re looking forward to the cold season, check out the autumn nail polish collection. Beauty Essentials GUERLAIN MY TERRACOTTA. This bronzing powder comes in a limited edition packaging of turquoise or coral silicon. The formula remains the same with moisturising elements to deliver natural looking, sunkissed skin. Available at all leading retailers. CLARINS MISSION PERFECTION SERUM. This new dark spot correcting solution is a combination of plants and science. Its formula includes acerola extract and hexylresorcinol. The new product fights pigmentation disorders and restores the complexion without altering your skin tone. Available at all leading retailers. OPI AUTUMN 2015 COLLECTION. In the new season you can match your nails to your outfit. Inspired by the catwalk trends, OPI brings an array of colours that will complement your look. Shades such as intense dark red, deep blue, glitzy grey, Swiss gold and pink mauve are the tones to go for! Available at all leading retailers. L’EAU D’ISSEY SUMMER BY ISSEY MIYAKE. The eau de toilette is a fruity, floral fragrance with a feminine feel. It has tangy notes of pink grapefruit and lychee combined to accents of passion fruit and guava. Aquatic floral notes, woods and vanilla infusion finalise the aroma. Available at all leading retailers. INGLOT FREEDOM SYSTEM FRAGRANCE. The line comes with five floral, fruity, creamy fragrances. The light fresh notes can be used separately or mixed in order to create a unique composition. The eco-friendly case is reusable and perfect to be carried in your handbag or pocket. Available at Inglot.
37 September 2015 www.womanthismonth.com LANGÉ MICELLAR WATER 2 IN 1. The French product removes make-up and impurities leaving the complexion cleansed and toned. The special water acts as a toner which helps to reduce visible pores. Active ingredients in its formula include plantago leaf, kukui oil and camomilla. Available at Gulf Pharmacy. MAKE UP FOR EVER AQUA MATIC. The new gliding waterproof eye shadow pencil has a light and creamy texture making it easy to apply and effortless to blend. It is resistant to sea and swimming pool water and rubbing. The shadow line comes in ten wonderful shades, ranging from nude to diamond effects. Available at all leading retailers. BATH & BODY WORKS TAHITI ISLAND DREAMS. The brand’s newest collection takes you to an island escape with crisp ocean air. The fragrance notes are fresh coconut water, sparkling mandarin, jasmine petals, water lily, Tahitian vanilla musk and Australian sandalwood. Available at Bath & Body Works.
38 September 2015 www.womanthismonth.com BEAUTY | review Pampering for any Occasion Whether you’re a frazzled mum celebrating the end of the long, long school holidays with some much-needed pampering or a child-free traveller ready for a new look as you jet off on a cut-price, out-of-season break, you won’t go wrong with one of this salon’s packages, testifies Liz O’Reilly. I arrived at Yara Beauty Lounge in Amwaj not really knowing what to expect. Many of the venues around The Lagoon are quite small and specialised but, sitting at the base of one of the Zawia towers, YBL, as it’s also known, is light, airy, spacious and rather luxurious. To prepare for my upcoming overseas trip, I’d planned a Keratin hair treatment, but one look at my locks convinced salon manager Georgina White that deep conditioning was not really necessary and she suggested a restyle instead. I should point out here that I’m a hairdresser’s worst nightmare. I usually have only a vague idea (if any at all) of what I want and expect them to be almost psychic in interpreting my sketchy descriptions. Not surprising then that I have been avoiding the salon since my last hair-raising experience in January, opting instead for a succession of up-dos, with varying degrees of success, and resorting to the kitchen scissors when my fringe becomes a vision-impairing danger zone more suited to a Shetland pony (on which the style would be far cuter). To say Georgina had her work cut out (pun intended) would be an understatement, but she was more than up to the challenge both listening to me and then consulting as she went along to create the exact long, layered style I was craving making sure I still have enough hair to put up, but when down it softly frames my face. I always think, the true sign of a good cut is that you can wash it and it will fall back into place with the minimum of effort and, the next morning, I was proved right when I did just that. Admittedly, my own effort didn’t have that salon perfect swing but the style and shape were intact with little more than a comb through. From the hair station I moved onto the beauty salon for a collagen mani-pedi, something I’d never heard of before. Hands and feet are first placed into thin plastic gloves lined with moisturiser before the regular trimming, filing and buffing of the mani-pedi, then it’s on with plastic/rubber mits and socks pre-filled with a hot liquid paraffin mixture. This is allowed to set and cool around the hands and feet before being peeled off to reveal visibly moisturised, soft, silky skin – an effect that is still noticeable several days later. I opted for bright popping nail colours to complement my holiday wardrobe and, as these were expertly applied, I was treated to a neck and shoulder massage which started out painful, as the therapist got to work on my knots, and ended with me feeling as if the holiday had already started. The range of treatments I enjoyed left me feeling very pampered and ready for my holiday and YBL offers a range of packages to suit all budgets and occasions from weddings to girly pampering days. There are also monthly special offers with details posted on the salon’s social media. Call 16 010-999. YBL has introduced Bahrain’s first vitamin D solarium bed. It is well known that spending time in the sun helps supply the body with necessary vitamin D and, after a year of research, YBL has managed to find one of the most advanced and beneficial solarium beds, which uses technology to help expose vitamin D, instead of harmful UV rays, offering the safest salon tan available. Solarium sessions are available in a number of packages and when using any tanning bed always make sure to speak to a trained member of staff ensuring your skin type and sensitivity are taken into account to achieve a lasting glow. Instagram: @yarabeautylounge
department of obstetrics & gynecology
40 September 2015 www.womanthismonth.com Bahrain’s extreme weather puts additional strain on mechanical components like cooling systems, batteries, tyre pressure and air conditioning systems. Euro Motors suggests the following self-check tips to make sure your car is in top working condition. CHECK THE PRESSURE Never underestimate the importance of having your tyres in pristine condition. For the correct tyre pressure, simply check and see what is listed on the side of the driver's door, the glove compartment door or in the owner's manual. When checking the tyre tread, keep an eye out for an uneven wear pattern, meaning that the tyre is more worn on one edge than the other. This usually means that your car needs a wheel alignment. Also, run your fingers along the tread and feel for lumps. The presence of lumps could mean that the tyre is not balanced correctly. OIL CHANGE Oil keeps hardworking engine parts running clean, smooth and, most importantly, cool. This is particularly important in the summer since a hot engine needs all the lubrication it can get. All service information, including when the oil needs changing or topping up, is projected on to the on-board computer inside all BMWs, making it easy and efficient for owners to receive service information. AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM During the summer the AC requires more power than usual, which puts pressure on the battery and generator. Ensure that cool air is coming out of the vents and that you have the sufficient coolant levels in the compressor. BRAKE EASY Your brakes are the single most important safety feature on your car, especially in the summer when the roads can become overheated and slippery. Here are some signs that your brakes may be in need of a check-up: • Your brake pedal is very hard and resistant. • Your brake pedal rests too low or too high. • Indication or warning lights on the dashboard. • Loud scraping and grinding sounds coming from the brakes. BUCKLE UP Euro Motors recommends that you make sure all passengers in your vehicle are buckled up properly at all times. INSURANCE & ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE Make sure that you have the correct motor insurance to cover you on the road in case you are involved in a collision. Also check with your insurance company what your roadside assistance entitles you to. IN CASE OF EMERGENCY Euro Motors offers a whole host of 24-hour roadside assistance options and insurance packages. Should you find yourself in an emergency, you are advised to stay calm and follow these two simple steps: • Turn your hazard lights on and park on the far right lane of the road out of the way from other drivers • Keep your boot open and use your redemergency triangle to warn other motorists that you are stationary. Call 17 750-750. EURO MOTORS TIPS FOR SAFER DRIVING One of the Kingdom’s leading automotive dealers offers driving tips to help keep you safe during the hottest months of the year. showcase
42 September 2015 www.womanthismonth.com Comfortable, good — looking and safe car. FEATUREWHAT WOMEN WANT We want so many things! Is it even possible to list them? Well, our Woman This Month team put together the things that we want most. What about you? What do you want? I WANT A NON-INVASIVE BEAUTY TREATMENT THAT WILL MAKE ME LOOK 10 YEARS YOUNGER I WANT GENUINE COMPLIMENTS. Sparkling jewellery – diamonds, gems and much more A day for myself. Mainly if spent in a spa! A new pair of shoes, you can never have enough. Good-value lingerie that is comfortable and makes me feel sexy. New wardrobe for the new season Devji since 1950 Rimal-Spa at Mövenpick GAP BMW Tod's Women'secret
www.womanthismonth.com 43 September 2015 I WANT ORGANIC FOOD, PRODUCE WITH A CONSCIENCE. I WANT TO GET INVOLVED WITH THE ENVIRONMENT. Coffee. Hot and fresh! Crueltyfree beauty products with labels I can trust that make me look gorgeous. Travel more to places where I can learn something. A new handbag, because you can also never have too many! Well-designed plus-sized clothing with great cuts in bright colours. I want to celebrate my curves, not hide them. Funky accessories that reflect my individuality. Mulberry A La Mode Nespresso Studio 8
44 September 2015 www.womanthismonth.com FEATURE I WANT SPARKLING WHITE TEETH. I WANT TO EAT AND NOT PUT ON WEIGHT. A good book to read, right after the one I’m currently reading. To sail away without a specific destination. An exercise that doesn’t feel like a core. A dog or cat to be always there for me. We can share love with no pressure or miscommunication. Healthy diet without having to cook. Beautiful eyebrows. Maybe get them tattooed and, if I’m feeling really brave, my eyeliner too.
46 September 2015 www.womanthismonth.com Joz Salon & Spa introduces a radical new treatment that promises to bring life to listless hair. A Botox treatment with collagen – designed for all types of hair - BTX Smoothing is a revolutionary product in the line of hair straightening technologies. Its formula contains a proprietary combination of keratin, wheat protein, aloe vera and collagen processed in a unique way to favour the infusion of amino acids deeply into the hair cortex. “BTX Smoothing delivers spectacular results repairing hair and reversing damage from overtreating or environmental factors,” explains Joz Salon’s hairdresser. “This product contains supplements to nurture damaged cortices, reconstruct shaft cuticles and give lifeless hair health and strength.” Results are extreme repair for all hair types, smooth, healthy and shiny hair and effective protection against environmental factors. Q: How long will the smoothing treatment results last? A: Although designed for all hair types, BTX Smoothing treatment produces the best results in fine hair and can last for up to five months. Q: Can the smoothing treatment be used for coloured, highlighted or relaxed hair? A: Yes, in fact, it works to repair damage caused by chemical treatments. It’s recommended to wait two weeks between any chemical services and adjust iron temperature based on hair type as listed in the instructions. The treatment effect lasts longer in previously chemically treated hair than in virgin hair. Q: Should hair be coloured before or after the treatment application? A: The best time to have the smoothing treatment is right after permanent colouring, semi-permanent colouring or highlights. The treatment seals the colour in, making it last longer and look more vibrant. If colour is applied before the treatment, it is recommended to wait at least two weeks. The exception to the rule is the Apple Keratin Treatment, which can change the colour of coloured hair, so in this case, colouring should be done after the treatment. JOZ SALON & SPA BOTOX FOR YOUR HAIR! Get the hair you’ve always dreamed of with a revolutionary new treatment that will leave you with smoother and shinier locks, now available on the island. showcase Q: Should hair be cut before or after the treatment? A: It is recommended to have hair cut after the treatment, as it will have a smoother texture and will lie differently. Q: How long after the treatment can hair be washed? A: In the case of Apple Keratin treatment, it’s best to wash hair immediately after. For the other treatments, wash hair after 24 hours. Q: What should be done if hair gets wet during the 24-hour waiting period? A: Blow-dry and flat iron with medium to low heat as soon as possible. Q: Can hair be pulled back or clipped up during the 24-hour waiting period? A: No. Avoid putting any pressures on the hair from clips, ponytail holders, hats or sunglasses. If this happens, hair should be flat ironed before washing. Q: What results can be expected after the smoothing treatment? A: Hair will be more manageable, easy to style, resistant to humidity, feel noticeably softer and silkier with added life, shine and vibrancy. Q: How often can the treatment be repeated? Should it be done to the whole head or just the new growth? A: Every four months or as needed, depending on the type of hair. However, the minimum interval should be 30 days. It should be done to the whole hair. Q: Can regular shampoo and conditioner be used after treatment? A: To maximize treatment results, it is recommended to use the Amazon Keratin maintenance line (keratin care shampoo, keratin care conditioner and deep hair mask). These products are free of salt and sulphates and were specially formulated to prolong the effects of the keratin treatment. Q: Can the treatments be done for pregnant or nursing women? A: It is not recommended. Call 17 369-133 (Juffair), 16 031-120 (Amwaj) and 17 756-449 (Awali) for appointments.
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