#TRESMakeover: A Beauty & Style Session With TRESemme

I quite love sessions with the beauty and haircare industry thought leaders. You know you are going to walk out of that session empowered with tricks of the trade and secrets that make you go, "Why didn't I think of that?".

It's always enlightening to listen to experts converse about how a particular trend initiated on the global runways, would work in the region or how you could emulate Victoria Beckham's gorgeous choppier bob and still look glam despite not having her cheekbones. Haircare expert, TRESemme launched the #TRESMakeover campaign, showcased some beautiful hairstyles that can be easily replicated for occasions and invited me to be part of a session to witness a live makeover. Hairstylist Georges El Mendelek, fashion designer Alanoud Badr and makeup artist Sarah Al Wadaani dished out some interesting tricks and trends.

Have you ever used a hair mask and witnessed that it weighs down your hair? How about trying to put on false eyelashes? I have to raise my hand because I can't put on falsies. I just can't, no matter how much I try. Kudos to the girls who actually apply it in seconds!

Centrepoint Launches Its Autumn/Winter'17 Collection

Winter is my favorite season. While in this region, we don't have months and months of this wonderful season, the moment it arrives we tend to bust out the beautiful winter wardrobe (for me, it's my trusty leather jacket and a couple of other things).

And since winter will dawn upon us any week now, Centrepoint is all prepped when they launched their Autumn/Winter'17 collection in Dubai, UAE.

Catering to men, women and kids, the collection features some of my favorite color palettes and texture on clothing.

The Food Byte: Experience A Pop-Up Iftar in Dubai

If you've been in the UAE long enough, you've definitely experienced iftar/suhoor in hotels and or cafes. The iftar/suhoor tents are decked, the spread is lavish and the ambience is laced with the conventional Ramadan vibe.

Arabic cuisine is the common thread across venues hosting iftar and suhoor tents. You will find a bit of international cuisine thrown into the mix as well but that's about it. The buffet gives you the option to eat at your will and you really can't miss the desserts station. Ask anyone and they will tell you the tents have evolved into glamorous ones and it almost feels like you are experiencing an Emarati wedding (you'll know what I mean if you've been to one).

That's how iftar/suhoor is however, Dubai is a city that has established itself in doing things differently and with much success. There's one particular venue that checks off all the boxes when it comes to a unique iftar proposition. It's an iftar pop-up that furnishes different dishes from a menu that will leave you raving about the food.

Ramadan Nights by Dish is an alternative iftar venue located at Warehouse Four, Al Quoz. Featuring dishes inspired by recipes across the Middle East, the venue, ambience and food will take you on a surprisingly pleasant gastronomic journey.

The Food Byte: Iftar At Fairuz Ramadan Tent, Fairmont Hotel

While several hotels across the city of Dubai set up Ramadan tents, only a few manage to capture the essence of Ramadan and true Arabic hospitality. The venue, the interiors, the food, the service and ambience, among other things all make it either a good or bad experience.

I've been fortunate not to have any bad experiences when it comes to iftar/suhoor tents. Of late, I had iftar at the Fairuz Ramadan Tent hosted at the Fairmont Hotel, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai and it was a delight to see quite a few elements of the Arabic culture as part of it.

The Food Byte: Iftar At Amiri Tent, The Address Hotel Montgomerie

When we welcome the month of Ramadan, we also welcome the lavish tents and the food spreads across the city of Dubai. While the holy month isn't really about the food, hotels have taken it upon themselves to create visually appealing and satisfying food whilst creating a menu featuring local and global cuisines.

It's nice to step out of the home once in a while and break the fast in a Ramadan tent. For those who aren't accustomed with what that is, it's not a tiny tent but one that is air-conditioned and can host upto 1,000 people. One of the best things about Ramadan tents is the fact that it welcomes all individuals (non-fasting included), regardless of caste and creed to dine with the rest and learn about the origins of this month. Top level info that you need to know about Ramadan is that we fast for a month (yes, "not even water"), iftar is known as the time we break our fast and suhoor is when we eat prior to fasting. We celebrate the end of Ramadan with Eid (that's one day when nobody cares about calories or gyms). 

While there are certain tents I always prefer, I love exploring new ones (i.e. those I haven't visited yet but have been around). I was invited to the Amiri tent located at The Address Hotel, Montgomerie, Emirates Hills. 

Review: Maison Francis Kurkdjian's Oud Satin Mood

I love oud. And it's not because I live in a country where oud and oud based fragrances are the epitome of local Arab households when it comes to scents. In the UAE, oud has taken a rather interesting turn. While we have local perfumeries that create classic oud fragrances, established global brands have studied and understood our love for oud thereby, developing their own versions.

Oud is beautiful and luxurious. It gives off a wonderful and pleasing fragrance. For some, it is overwhelming and immediately disregarded. For the rest (like me), it is one of the most unique ingredients in a fragrance. Having said that, I buy only a few oud fragrances as opposed to the collection of oriental/woody fragrances I own. And I don't really deviate from the local brands that develop my favorite oud fragrances. Having said that, there's one particular French perfumerie that blew me away with their oud fragrance.

Centrepoint Launches Its Spring/Summer '17 Collection

Centrepoint, the store has been around for a while and over the years, with a combination of Baby Shop, Splash, Lifestyle and Shoe Mart, it has improved ten times fold in what it offers.

The launch of the Spring/Summer '17 collection proved just that when the latest trends off the catwalk blended seamlessly through inspirational boards for each brand. The season's palette features romantic pinks, soothing blues, ruffles and graphics for both men and women.

I've selected a few of my favorites from the collection.

Iconic Launches Spring'17 Collection

Iconic is a home grown brand and one of those that I've come to appreciate over the years. They're always one of the few brands to quickly tap into the latest fashion trends. And it's a delight to see a plethora of Iconic's clothing, accessories, shoes and the likes being rolled out promptly in the UAE, especially Dubai, a city that always has its finger on the fashion pulse.

The brand launched their Spring'17 collection this month and I usually have a few select pieces that I like/love. But this time around, almost everything I saw was brilliant! The collection caters to men, women and kids whilst tapping into designer trends.

A Special Offers Filled Tuesday At City Walk, Jumeirah

I appreciate brands that offer something special to women especially when it comes to cosmetics. I mean, how many times have we all been swayed by Sephora's almost perfect deals and free gifts upon purchase?

Dubai is one of those cities where retailers go out of their way to construct offers that are, at times unbeatable. I shop quite a lot, in-store & online and end up buying things I may or may not use (clothes with tags still on in my wardrobe, I'm looking at you!). At times I regret not waiting for the sale/promotion period because it seems like I've just lost out on good deals. 

And the most recent example is that of my purchase at Bobbi Brown. I love this brand and Bobbi has really gone out of her way to create products that are not only beautiful but also have a wonderful effect on the skin. I bought a handful of makeup the other day and then realized I should've waited for Tuesday to avail a 20% discount! 

Why? Because City Walk Mall launched the second edition of Her Tuesday, where women can avail discounts at select stores in the mall. And that includes Bobbi Brown!

Saturdaze Brunch At Vida Downtown, Dubai

Of late, I've fallen in love with brunches. I'm not the kind of person who gets all excited at the prospect of waking up before 12pm on the weekend and driving to a venue to eat. I am very much a milk & cornflakes watching Tom & Jerry person. But when you attend a brunch and walk out of the hotel with a smile on your face ready to take on the day, that's when you know you've been to a good brunch that is worth your time (and effort).

The 3in1 restaurant at Vida Downtown never ceases to surprise me. I've been to the place several times after I discovered it last year. The quality of food and selection is always as expected (sometime, surpassing the expectation) and the vibe is quite pleasant. When they launched their new brunch, Saturdaze I was all too excited.

Tommy x Gigi: Tommy Hilfiger's Best Collaboration Yet

I fell in love with Tommy Hilfiger when I bought a jacket a couple of years ago. I loved how it complimented my favorite pieces and made the entire outfit look quite beautiful. Later, I went on to purchase a watch, which even my mum loves and wears.

Over the years, I've noticed the Hilfiger collection not only improve but also stay ahead of trends be it in clothing, shoes or accessories. I particularly love Hilfiger shirts- they're quite versatile and comfortable. I love the Fall collection because that's my favorite season of the year. Does anyone remember when the brand collaborated with Zooey Deschanel? They had some beautiful pieces that were sold out real quick!

Having said that, the most recent collaboration with Gigi Hadid is, in my opinion the best. I love how the current nautical theme is brought to life whilst infusing Gigi's sense of style.

The Food Byte: Sugar Factory, Dubai

When 2016 bows down and the curtain is raised for the next year, I will proudly state that 2016 was the year I discovered some great places to eat. It's surprising because I'm a picky eater but with two of my friends transferred temporarily to the city of gold, Dubai all the way from San Fran stumbling upon food venues became an adventure.

Long gone are the days where I gravitate towards tried and tested restaurants. I also tried more seafood this year than ever before (no, seafood will never be a favorite of mine, just wanted to put it out there). I also happened to discover cafes catering to the sweet tooths (me!) in Dubai- these are cosy cafes that are perfectly secluded from the world. I still have more than a handful of places to visit!

And with this in mind, I present to you a not so secluded gem of a candy store and restaurant, Sugar Factory. Even if you don't have a sweet tooth, this venue will end up in your top places to visit on a weekend. 

Valleydez's Gorgeous Ramadan Collection

I love Ramadan for what it brings. Among other things, people tend to turn a new leaf, they abandon habits that don't benefit them (smoking is one!), the chefs in random people come to life, the kitchen is filled with goodies and of course, fashion is redefined in this month.

Local designers always tend to stay true to culture and religion whilst infusing the standard clothing with innovative elements. And international brands have taken note and strive to work towards checking off all the boxes. I appreciate and love the work of local designers. These are young empowered women who know exactly how to capture a woman's attention- be it through quirky accessories or crazy but cool handbags. And they apply the same when it comes to clothing. 

Valleydez is one of my favorite boutiques in Dubai. Previously located at Wafi Mall, the boutique is now at Galeria Mall, Al Wasl Road. The last time I was there, I picked 3 dresses in one visit because everything is so beautiful there. And so is the new collection for Ramadan. The best bit? Buy your favorites now and flaunt them during Eid. 

Give Tthe Gift Of Clean Water With The Body Shop

Drink at least 8 glasses of water. It helps in keeping your body hydrated, skin supple, joints movement fluid, prevents headaches and a list of things. 

How many times have you read or heard that? I'm willing to bet it's almost every second article regardless of the content of the website/magazine. Earth constitutes of 96% of water yet about 650 million+ people don't have access to it. Let me reiterate- they don't have access to water fit for drinking. There are families with kids who resort to contaminated water and in return end up contracting diseases that are life-threatening. Receiving treatment is another obstacle for them. 

We take so many things for granted. Almost everything in our lives is of significant value (humans and objects, alike) but we only tend to devote time and attention where there's a fear of loss. When was the last time you consumed 100% of the water poured into your glass at a cafe/restaurant? We are truly blessed to have access to almost everything we wish for. Why not do your bit this Ramadan by gifting families with clean, drinkable water? 

It's made easy with The Body Shop. Do you recall last year's initiative? 

Puma: Redefining Sports Style

For as long as I can remember, Puma has been a firm favorite of mine. While my first pair of sneakers were from Fila (tennis lessons for kids can be interesting), I bought my second online (years ago) from Puma. There was something about a white pair of nifty sneakers with an elongated blue swish and an air-borne puma that intrigued me.

When my package arrived, I opened it with bated breath and the sneakers turned out to be perfect. Hurray for experiencing zero disappointed from an online purchase! I wore those sneakers regularly, much to mum's confusion, "Do you not have other shoes?". Eventually, I went on to buy a chromium Puma ring, which to this day is intact and I still wear it, on and off. It's one of those rings that is a favorite because firstly, its Puma and second, I bought it even though it didn't quite fit my finger, Don't judge me. I have a tendency to buy rings and then make them fit my finger (don't ask how). Besides, the ring was awfully wonderful to let go of. And it was the only one left.

Puma also happens to be the official kit provider of my favorite football club, Arsenal. I tell you, it was meant to be. For some odd reason, it gives me a sense of pride when I watch the Gunners racing past their opponents wearing a Puma manufactured kit.

Happy 44th National Day, UAE!

National Days are filled with pride and genuine love. In a place like the UAE, almost everyone jumps on the bandwagon to express their love for the country that's home away from home.

There are brands that create unique elements to celebrate the day and people take it upon themselves to parade the colors of the flag in various formats- from leveraging their cars to clothes and everything in between. Have you noticed the malls decked with everything UAE on 2nd December? And those crazy special offers? This year, most of the stores in the mall have 44% off! Sephora is generously giving away 44 reward points with every purchase. Pretty cool, huh?

The Body Shop & You: Empowering Children This Ramadan

Over the years, The Body Shop has regularly made an effort to champion environmental and social changes across the world. They make their voice heard through fundraising and charitable activities that in turn helps to improve the state of human rights, animal and environmental protection.

I appreciate a company that looks beyond their profit margin. In the region, The Body Shop develops and implements numerous charitable initiatives that require minimal effort from us. This year for Ramadan, they've partnered with War Child, a global charity that aims to improve the lives of children in war-trodden countries such as Syria, Iraq, Afghanistan and more.

I was invited to be part of the launch event and was introduced to two new products. I got my hands on this gift set of fragrance mists- how amazing are the illustrations? If you look closely, it depicts the country of inspiration!

Reviewed: Miller Harris Cassis en Feuille Fragrance

If you read my blog, you will be aware of my penchant for fragrances. While some may argue that you only need 1 to 2 fragrances that serve as your signature scent, I say experiment. Sure, we all have that all-time favorite fragrance that was love at first sight. No matter what, it will always remain a favorite and evoke certain memories. But there's always room to discover other fragrances that may end up in your beauty case.

For me, those fragrances are unique in the sense that they are a far cry from the bottles of scented liquid I own. I usually go for woody/oriental; I do dabble in subtle floral fragrances every now and then but had the chance recently to be part of something new (and unique).

British perfumery Miller Harris celebrated its 15th anniversary and selected our very own Dubai to launch the vibrant, inspired by the gardens Le Jardin D'enfance collection. I was invited to discover the world of Miller Harris at my favorite place for tea, Fortnum and Mason (I love it!).

The Food Byte: A Moroccon Iftar at Pullman Hotel, Deira City Centre

The month of Ramadan is quite special for Muslims. It's a month where things change for several people and to some extent, it is almost a new year for us. One of the best things about Ramadan is the time of breaking the fast, also known as Iftar.

For me, it is the time when my brother and I sit across each other and not fight (like cats and dogs). It is also a time to eat (more like chow down) all the amazing dishes mom prepares especially desserts (who doesn't like mohalabiya?). I mean, after a day's worth of fasting you have got to consume sugar to kickstart those energy levels, right? 

The Food Byte: Taste of Wafi '15, Dubai

I have a crazy sweet tooth. I will happily make the most complicated desserts than cook savory dishes. While I love a serving of chocolate mousse, I appreciate cafes and restaurants that have a unique selection of desserts.

Dubai has its fair share of food tasting/sampling events and I happened to pay one a visit recently. A food bazaar that celebrates culinary culture, the Taste of Wafi will woo all the foodies. It also happens to be a dessert lovers heaven.