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.

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.

Reviewed: Palmer's His & Her's Cocoa Butter Body Lotions

In an industry that is saturated with beauty products, there are only a few that become firm favorites and make it to the list of re-purchases. There are some that I love in an instance and others take a while to grow on me. One such brand that had the instant love effect is Palmer's. While the first product was a body lotion (discovered through Glambox), the product that caught my attention was their face oil. I loved the consistency and how my skin felt after using it.

From then on, I went on to try their variations of body lotions (Coconut and Olive Oil are my favorite!) and was quite impressed by the brand and the overall performance of each product. For Valentine's Day, Palmer's sent across a his and her version of their classic Cocoa Butter body lotion. While I have used the lotion previously (it is one of the most hydrating lotions I've used), I was quite intrigued by the version developed for men.

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.

The 2014 Holiday Gift Guide: Gap

I love Gap's 2014 Holiday collection- it is fun, versatile and a breathe of fresh air into the wardrobe. Featuring themes such as Crazy Stripes, Fair Isle Shine and Party, the collection is a palette of vibrant colors, airy fabrics, glamorous and sophisticated pieces for both men and women.

If you are looking to shake things up in your wardrobe (because the new year is approaching!) or simply want to gift your best friends or siblings with something different for a change, you might want to check this collection. 

The Crazy Stripes theme exhibits just that- hip, colorful and fun stripes in knit top dresses, knit pants, puffer vests and cashmere crewneck jumpers. The Fair Isle Shine themed clothing offers a pop and sparkle in sweatshirts, pants and accessories. It seems to be the best choice for this holiday season. 

I quite like the dark floral print dress (part of the Party theme collection) and the silver sweatshirt. They'll fit into the different seasons without any effort. 

The 2014 Holiday Gift Guide: Mamas & Papas

As part of the second holiday gift guide series, I bring you some festive goodies for your little one. While the holiday season means finding the perfect gift for friends and family, it also means gifting the kids something they will like or look good in.

Mamas & Papas is the new destination to shop for the mini-you. The Holiday Collection treats them to casual and formal wear that is inspired by the colors of the season and things festive. There are also mini tuxedos and party dresses for those who love to emulate their dad's or mom's style. Apart from that, there are a number of accessories that will fit snugly into their rooms, the Christmas tree and their hearts. 

How awesome is that hanging silver star? It's a perfect customized gift. Also makes a brilliant desk accessory (for me). And the passport holders? I have a penchant for them, the fancier, the better! I might just go pick that one for myself. 

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.

Marks & Spencer Launches Their Autumn/Winter 2014 Collection in Dubai

If you know me well, you'll know how much I love London (second home!). And it is brilliant to see several brands in Dubai embracing British themed collections, such as Marks & Spencer.

The 2014 Autumn/Winter Collection for men and women featured an array of chic designs and highlighted key trends. Think powder pastels, prints, metallics and more in the form of pretty skirts, tops, jackets and accessories. If you ever wanted to revamp your wardrobe, now's the time as Marks & Spencer has you covered for this season.

I particularly love the striking reds and the cobalt blues against a subtle palette of neutrals. And let's not forget, my favorites- lace, leather and sequins. Several pieces have landed on my wishlist already!

What He Wore: Swatch

My obsession with watches will never end. How amazing is this Swatch camouflage/ military print watch for men? I loved it to the moment I saw it.

Love the digital screen too. If you told me about watches with camouflage as a print, I'd roll my eyes and ignore. But seeing this wants me to get one for myself (pretty sure girls can pull it off without raising eyebrows).

My camera and I will be on the lookout for more fab watches.Watch this space.

View the previous versions of What He Wore and What She Wore.

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.

Banana Republic Spring/Summer 2014 Collection Launches In Dubai

I said it before and I'll say it again. Banana Republic is one of my favorite brands. I love their collections and each happens to surpass the other in terms design, collaboration and other factors.

I recently attended the Spring/Summer 2014 Collection launch at the Montgomerie Golf Club, The Address, Emirates Hills. I had shopped the collection earlier on after I spotted a particular skirt (featured below), so I had an idea of what I was in for. Nonetheless, I loved how each outfit was paired with complimenting pieces of clothing and accessories.



The Banana Republic Spring/Summer 2014 Collection is all about the laid back, chic California style with chinos, jackets, shirts and denims for the men and beautiful dresses, skirts, embellished tops and silk shirts for the women.

Accessories include monochrome clutches and leather handbags. If you spot something that catches your eye, hurry to Banana Republic today. Chances are, you may still be able to get what you want (some pieces are limited in quantity!).

How absolutely gorgeous is this mint blazer? Love the detailing and the cross body bag.

I love these dresses and the floral shoes. I'm eyeing those black and white floral heels. They would go with almost everything in my wardrobe.

This collection offers men some exceptional clothing from well tailored shirts to blazers. No more excuses to dress sloppy!

And here's the skirt that I hopped, skipped (more like ran lest it be sold out) and bought.

The Banana Republic Spring/Summer 2014 Collection is now available across stores in the UAE.

Exclusive Shopping Offers With MasterCard

Still struggling to find that perfect gift for the festive season? You won't have to, not for long.

MasterCard's collaboration with Borderfree lets cardholders in Asia/Pacific, Middle East and Africa enjoy a host of online discounts and more from top US retailers.

The promotion lasts from now until Dec 31, 2013 and provides MasterCard cardholders free and discounted shipping, exclusive discounts up to 25% - 75% in the UAE and free returns from US brands such as Bloomingdale's, J.Crew, Neiman Marcus, True Religion, Gilt and more! Special weekly offers for eligible markets will also be available at participating merchants. 

To redeem free shipping and special offers, MasterCard cardholders need to enter the code MCSHOP when checking out at participating merchants. 

If you always had your eyes on those gorgeous pair of shoes or that party clutch, now is the time to log on to www.pricelessarabia.com/borderfree-UAE and score that item!

*Terms and conditions apply. 

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

Banana Republic Holiday Collection 2013 Launches In Dubai

Do you guys remember the fab 2012 Holiday Collection by Banana Republic? Time to make some space for the new pieces from their 2013 Holiday Collection that featured beautiful prints, textures and vivid colors.

From structured coats to fit-and-flare dresses, the collection showcased pieces fit for Dubai's mild winter season.

The womens collection a featured vibrant palette of pinks, blues, reds and minor baroque-esque print along with the monochrome stripes and animal prints. Accessories were washed in solid colors including bowling bags, totes and gloves.

The mens collection included leather jackets, trousers, shirts and accessories for a polished look.

Being a huge fan of leopard print, I loved the leopard print bag and the striped top with a hint of pink. My favorite though, is this dress.

The Banana Republic Holiday Collection 2013 is now available across stores in the UAE.

Koton Autumn Winter 2013 Collection Launch In Dubai

Koton launched their beautiful Autumn/Winter 2013 Collection in Dubai a few weeks ago. The collection that caters to men, women, teens and kids has some eye catching  pieces. Staying true to what we've witnessed on the catwalks of Paris and the likes, Koton brings prints, leather, floral and tweed among others back in style.

The women's collection features bold pieces cushioned with feminine prints and vibrant colors. Think leather jackets with the floral print or a pitch black quilted jacket paired with a bejewelled top and a turquoise midi skirt.

Pastels make a comeback in the form of lady-like chic dresses, tops, fitted trousers and jackets. I absolutely loved the pastel pink top with the beads detailing- simplicity at its best.

Shiny textures and bold colors with statement stones/accessories made the entire collection a delight to view.

How cute is this top with the miniature hearts print? I'm going to snap this piece up when I visit Koton next!

I immediately spotted leopard (my favorite print in the world) not only on clothing but also accessories that were washed in studs, spikes and faux fur.

The Men's Collection projected smart casual and business wear. From chinos and tweed jackets to classic denims and check shirts, this collection gives men a variety of smart options. Keep an eye out for those funky looking skinny ties.

The kids and teens wear showcased prints (hello again, leopard print) and rich reds along with accessories.

The Autumn/Winter Collection is now available in Koton stores across the UAE but hurry, they're flying off the shelves like crazy!