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 Launch of Namshi's SpringSummer '17 Collection

If you live in the GCC and aren't aware of Namshi.com, then you've been living under a rock. Having said that, I love Namshi. It's one of those online shopping websites that can do no wrong (atleast in my books). They are hassle and drama free, stock some of the best local and international brands (hello Topshop!) and have free (prompt) delivery + returns. Can they get any better than that?

Yes, they can and they did with the launch of their Spring/Summer '17 collection. Did I mention how much I love Namshi? I want almost everything from the new round of clothing, accessories and shoes. I love how they have incorporated some of the (intimidating) trends straight off the catwalk and made it easy to wear. I don't know who their styling team is. They do such a good job, it makes me want to impulse buy.

Summer is usually the time I tend to spring clean and buy a few pieces here and there. And Namshi makes it so much easier. Whether it's the beach or a dinner gathering, the online shopping site has you covered. From pastel tops to bright bottoms and everything in between, here's a look at the funky (and elegant) SS'17 collection. Also, find out how you can get a 10% discount off your order.

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.

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!

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 2014 Holiday Gift Guide: C.Wonder, JBR Dubai

It's a few days before the holidays and if you are still scurrying around trying to figure what to buy, here's the first bit from my quick gift guide series. First up is one of my favorite stores in Dubai- C.Wonder.

Mall of the Emirates houses their first store in the Middle East, followed by Bloomingdale's and now they've opened at The Beach, JBR, Dubai. The  store has a wonderful atmosphere and enough things to keep you busy. C. Wonder's Holiday 2014 Collection is perfect for the festive season- either for yourself or friends, families and the likes.

From clothing and jewelry inspired by the latest trends to footwear and homeware, the collection doesn't fail to impress. Here are your gifting options- there's something for everyone!

I for one, love the dainty jewelry- how gorgeous are these bracelet? I'd like one!

Banana Republic Launches Their Holiday 2014 Collection In Dubai

With a new Creative Director at the helm of the Banana Republic universe, you sure can expect a redefined game-plan. The latest Banana Republic collection, or as it is known The New BR was launched in Dubai as part of the Holiday 2014 Collection and showcases a chic, modern yet fresh take on what the brand has up its sleeve.

Creative Director, Marissa Web brings alive elegance and effortless style within easy to wear pieces- think leather, chambray and cashmere; think different textures, layering and a pleasant color palette.

The women's collection is incredibly beautiful. From cashmere coats and leather skirts to well-fitted blazers and tailored trousers, the New BR has you covered.

Swarovski Launches Fall/Winter 2014-2015 Collection In Dubai

Swarovski's Fall/Winter 2014-2015 Collection is so pretty, I had my mental wishlist filling up as I browsed through the collection at Zero Gravity, Skydive Dubai.

The collection entitled Facets of Light was inspired by holograms, LED lights and kaleidoscopic motifs. Absolutely gorgeous accessories including necklaces and bracelets were on display. I feel this is one of Swarovski's best collections to date.

I also have a few select pieces that landed on my wishlist!

Jewel tones were in full swing and so were statement necklaces. I absolutely love how Swarovski does cuffs and necklaces.

I love how there are so many things happening with this necklace but it all comes together and looks quite unique. This is easily a stand-out-from-the-crowd piece.

A closer look reveals the gorgeous pearls, crystals and beads...beautiful!

Take it from Swarovski how to make black accessories look stunning. While the necklace may seem way too chunky, you can take off the bottom pendant and wear it as a brooch!

Did I tell you how much I love Swarovski's bracelets?

More of the gorgeous bracelets. I LOVE these. I love the narrow silver bracelets so much, I plan to score them for Eid!

Swarovski, you did a good job with these.

Anyone up for this gorgeous Swarovski crystals embedded iPhone case? I want!

Swarovski makes the most delicate looking watches. If you haven't tried this on, I suggest you do. You won't leave the store without it.

This necklace is a stark contrast from what you've seen so far but looks absolutely beautiful when worn. It's one of my favorites!

I am in awe of this collection. Do you have a favorite?

Koton Spring/Summer 2014 Collection

Koton launched their fun Spring/Summer '14 collection at Story Lounge, Holiday Inn, Dubai and it was great to see florals making a huge comeback. Florals are like a breath of fresh air and when brands revamp florals, it's even better.

Turkish brand Koton's Spring/Summer '14 collection featured a combination of different catwalk trends for men, women, kids and teens.

The women's collection featured monochrome with pops of color thereby infusing a little life into the standard black and white look. The Riviera collection boasted of nautical themes with rope detailing and embellishments. Let's not forget the florals and lace making up the other part of the collection.

The Urban Luxury featured revamped denim for a more casual chic look.

The Safari collection was very much one that took you back to the jungles of Africa. I loved the detail on this coat where you have the leopard print peeking out from the sleeves.

The Tribal collection brought together boho chic and elements from the modern wardrobe. Pale pink, emerald green and more were prominent within the collection.

Statement necklaces in bold and pastel colors along with handbags and watches made up the Spring/Summer accessories set.

The men's collection featured marine inspired pieces along with tailored jackets, shirts and chino trousers.

The kids and teen wear were dominated by bright colors, tassles, safari shorts, linen shirts and more.



I loved the accessories especially the statement necklaces and here are my favorites:

The SS '14 collection is now available across all Koton stores in the UAE.

C.Wonder Launches In Dubai, UAE

Let me start off by saying I'd like to purchase almost every single thing at the C.Wonder. Now, let's talk about the store.

C.Wonder is the brainchild of Christopher Burch (designer Tory Burch's ex-husband) and first opened its doors in New York, USA. Fast forward to three years and the UAE witnessed C.Wonder launch it's first Middle East store in Mall of the Emirates.

One look at the store and it will instantly put you in a good mood. The use of color, the interiors, the clothes, shoes, accessories, home decor, and more will make you create a mental wishlist while gawking at the wallets and bracelets. C.Wonder also offers monogramming and other personalized items. It's pretty cool to have you initials monogrammed on a C.Wonder handbag.

Here are my favorites:

I absolutely love these. The honeycomb detailing make the shoes look pretty! This was the first thing that landed on my wishlist.

It was accessories galore on fellow blogger, Ekta's hand. Love the cork bracelets!

This striped jacket seals the deal. It will complete an outfit in a jiffy!

More favorites...

All this and more are available at C.Wonder, Mall of the Emirates. Head down there today and let me know what you got. I know I'll be getting those honeycomb pumps.

Swarovski Picks For Mother's Day

I've grown to love Swarovski; they have some of the best jewelry when it comes to pendants and bracelets. For Mother's Day, the brand offers an array of beautiful creations that will make your mum fall in love with whatever you choose.

Here are my favorites:

How pretty does Miranda Kerr look here? And even more gorgeous is that slake bracelet and bangle combination.

These are a handful of the pretty accessories. Make sure to head down to Swarovski to view the full collection and get your mum that special gift!

The Swarovski Mother's Day Collection is available across stores in the UAE.

Shopping Deals With MasterCard

 Are you still stumped in terms of what presents to get your family members, friends and others? If your ‘Gift Ideas’ list looks like a blank paper, fear not, as I’m here to save the day (like Batman). At least I’ll try and by the end of this post, you should have a good idea of what you will be gift wrapping.

How do these sound- special offers, free shipping, discounts and the likes? For those who like to shop online like me, free shipping is a bonus. When items from wishlists go on sale, it’s an even bigger bonus (whip out that credit card and never look back!).Thanks to MasterCard, shopaholics have access to online discounts, free returns, discounted/free shipping and more from select merchants such as Bloomingdales, Neiman Marcus, Gilt and more.

Purchase your favorites by Dec 31, 2013 using your MasterCard credit card, enter the code MCSHOP at checkout and you will be entitled to redeem the fab offers!

Since my wishlist is larger than life, I browsed Bloomingdales, J.Crew, Neiman Marcus and Gilt. All of them have crazy discounts and offers. J.Crew for me is synonymous to gorgeous statement necklaces (which are not available in the UAE), Gilt always has some seriously special deals on shoes, bags and dresses; Bloomingdales and Neiman Marcus have the best selection when it comes to…well, everything. I looked around for hours on what to buy because all of them had items with prices slashed to the ‘are-you-kidding-me’ level.

I finally made a purchase; this was after sitting next to mum for about 30 mins straight, nudging her to give me feedback on every single item that was in my shopping cart, cancelling a few items, adding those back to the cart...well, you get the idea. After using the MCSHOP code, I received confirmation on my order. It was a pretty smooth experience and even better when I am not being charged for shipping (hurray!).

Now that I know about these special offers like the back of my hand, I shall lead you into the world of a few of my favorites and recommendations.

How incredibly beautiful is this Carolina Herrera dress? It had my name written all over it, even before I saw it. I love the flared dress and the scattered sequins. It would usually cost you AED 25,557/ US$ 6,946, but now you only pay AED 4,262/ US$ 1,161. Available at Gilt.

This lilac flower necklace is apt for all seasons. Available at J.Crew for AED 444/ US$ 121 (original price: AED 977/ US$ 266).

This has to be the prettiest cuff ever! Available at J.Crew for AED345/ US$94 (original price: AED 484/ US$ 132). 

I love shoes and have a growing collection of flats. So, when I saw this silver glittery(!) pair of DKNY flats slashed to AED 183/ US$ 50 from the original AED 458/ US$ 125, I couldn’t resist adding it to the shopping cart. Available at Bloomingdales.

Another pair of red hot shoes from Ivanka Trump slashed to AED 183/ US$ 50 from the original AED 458/ US$125. Major bargain at Bloomingdales!

Love these skinny denims print. Now available for AED 877/ US$ 239 vs original AED 1,254/ US$ 342. Available at True Religion.

Gorgeous Tory Burch wallet was previously priced at AED770/ US$ 210. Now available for AED 402/ US$ 110. Available at Neiman Marcus.

This is a small list of what’s available. Remember, in order to be eligible for different offers from participating merchants, you must use your MasterCard credit card and use MCSHOP at checkout.

Happy shopping and let me know what you got!

*Terms and conditions apply.

Disclaimer: This post was created in connection with my appointment as blogger for the MasterCard Cross Border Promotion Program.