Issue 127, September 2017
Family Attitude Class Entertainment Success
Editor’s Note
Founder / Essa Bin Mohammed Al Zedjali As summer gives
Chairman & Editor-in-Chief / Mohammed Issa Al Zedjali way to autumn and
Chief Executive Officer / Ahmed Essa Al Zedjali all things nice,
Business Director / Sophia Raman let’s usher in a fresh style quotient to give the new season a
Editorial Consultant / Suzy Fontes fitting welcome. Let’s celebrate the spirit of fashion this September
Art Director / Pushpender K. Sharma with a bit of spice, a dose of fresh appeal and lots of chutzpah.
Operations / M.V.V. Sagar
This issue of style and fashion takes a stroll along the new fashion path,
highlighting the trend dictates from around the globe, with inputs from
local designers and picture spreads of new collections. Besides, with all
the back-to-school promotions done with, the fast approaching winter
will open up new shopping options that will be dictated by the fall-winter
collections hitting the market. For fashionistas who want to stay abreast of
the global trends, the presence of several established brands and fashion
lines in the capital is bound to make shopping all the more attractive.
Alongside clothes and accessories that underline fashion, we have also
taken a quick peek of the bright style and beauty horizon to present
little nuggets of style inputs, be it your home or your
Published By / Muscat Media Group look GOOD TAhceceFsinsoerAisritnogfwdmaigrodedrseot.lbseFwo, trao,lkmfianasghkietohtnehisirsaimsnspou;et itamicseoraemlllyptrhedehicestmnastaeivldleafbnaydshbtiohigne
PB 770, PC 112, Ruwi, Oman details that make one stand apart.cmltoahFtsdeahteeseihmfrsieinoopdennobetrihystwaemtniehrcoaoferraseseso;hftwihitaohaicnsoncasejhtnusaasstvaoteerrtmthilefeeeosanrrttmont
Tel: +968 24 811953 . Fax: +968 24 813153
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Tel: +968 24816952, 24815330
cover STORYSCaSodlzlectionStwamaSIlinrtkotaayjhshotnsShamlaatbtTedeaAsaarsdbwabeaoararsebgtflfptlote“oeplakasorwgabfaw,lfeerTatmnusrsfoituoarggkaoZaneonvnsahhgrabohnuats.sSregdmecbydiaahadsnras.uokt“dehulstutiytlsdaAemmbnbMhsdSahswaalrtsbb–ukereyorhenliev,tmo-naajporynyutetseZrhestmahmyfnseu,p,ltoanatfhvadeehrbdoswtosloumasoduevasoaeofrisohrrhaninfhueinjnornre.fodneaaioattpe,gss@kto”soihnngsnlmrghlattphienIeutyhhutids,eesfn2umfoyiitnleebahrrfsmscu0msgelh,asauroieteoStoa0crgcgahanweteswhnccfr8uiliuskarogrrictnoreoaieh…oneonepaiatrttwanmidddislntmehclnatcorsthsf”oswaateremeyhmvazshet–fyMtsflssrhiefehhrleretdhiesiesoaoltenhhcgerDan,oepeeedfhehmufersaon4sdhtpsbhaaicedrmgrsrieaimisaengeotaa0,cSatgoo.esiysadudsrcsuegesahfnonDdtsllhtngsansfldeeitlepeaiieoaeheeagnrctonrpzhsrsteorbrosesthotn,ierystnsp,lhwpnenrbreaeilo,arhDenlipyigfiaisetcyisaratwoomxsgneioreeeeogacesSforpoptgsbshgGsgntlasosacjsnpaoliobteste.isagobuiheuimorreaiaaatcinifnSnfcnenahypnnnsueldasgtgcganeals,dilstadedsetosMinnleikgshapsaafochogdbiso,tkisniiutnqntonairtonthreasmoselydtuletwntahahwgofecbrolismowelteeraae,plaahresettlsaaygbledhhhrtnsshregeeeid.garirftht 2017 Sara Al Zadjali BTsnfbhhauefavleoelmaellcrrllrrletefeeselssraddirhtorlaaaesoneoirponueneai,etsetavp.,issTlnteagohhrteantsehteongeboohes.elsferebllaTmlyeeleholsev,ylehuvel,wsaerssehphsacaielocrsore.erhmlmeTetfevhegieertaveistsvneetshweddshasaioutntanhihnrrtdtteetaheainler Style FILe
Contact eGTsltwbahhleileeaolgeswavgbo.bepiotgootiotsuspottwulmsfelillad.aeerImeetvivabnieestosttyoahhareednttrht1oae8cpml0ola0aetnsthgi,dce-wosnsf.ha-tymirclreuhotwttwohaanatst
16 September 2017 style FILe SPtaotweFemrePnut fSfsleaenvdesFfssartposahmlteeitThoDnmerocesveuehnsdftWteoaftsfwaiehftyeaatstairsotslhahshoegilnelssekyepnpnoneaendemhihrinormsidmelroyskrktiie.weetaetootopsemhwiEeorrasoialofisnpnntundtsrietahxsosnihasrdhrallltteeschhaeeatmtaheyetmshotovioagtarrwowoerlicoiernehveveoscngaweofunuiohiune,eeufcgetnvtitkasxliiahstrvliiaeddcttnrisflodtieeahpcdaealeolh.ngrwvinrkir,gsptpsaenndgfns,uaiechhe.aefmvotacleu,mrW,aoaagiontserhnr-nuchrwsayrhefufadei,thlsshhreotasnoyicniliti,ieyokaditor,ictgoctoshsscdtitwnetlsateonnuaaylnhfhmhaiepril,leiotncgptastadtolheaeefthenstia,apraoatyuhevwaortidshsendteneshuvleeivehedsidemayfdnanetstrfvtmoathrerbraddutyioedhspoucsbhn-nbelirhift,roglmaereietefeadsldlaanih-lna,nresonamrdtme,saabdtea.hsrtenhpdrobwsesiuacieisavltegenwitbfhhrreet-irfoodficeistsuoaoeeltwirncdhnpeernhnonutueeh2taisssgodvrtewenoosltaa0ylhduclsemcdeundgavtasceeetelaeoewpeyhdi,aeibtnfnrngrvnrdoriprtevieaesaeooatstnrwhbseerri5l,wcydmdytlnelmsefahe0esoiesaooueanislttaseltrptaoflpyihredb.htyrliavnraraphonlmmtIemaid,eiegetceigwartsgpvtrseseodioyitehteastt.eacfcnnohnthhh,dtisrtroc.nettaiapaniaassiTaorgauwitlndvsreutnieyuhtlhriaseuiw…irdlodmessentenhethnoahqghdaigsalsldnauaeopdkrtdenioaoseryazke, e,, BIsetrghiulEiabaosstfhtfvuophahlelweeedpolsorrepeesnoyrtdgalontseorasltfeslthewaeetv,ehleersbeivevcshhoetuwew–,iaftorsfhssfaifansi.entntTadaibthdsuaynfefrliadyaitfnrtlodecaegaudduricefcfrfefes.rrtsovo,a…emmurneipt
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September 2017 43
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FACES Features FACES Travel FACES SPECIAL
12 Cover Story 34 Explore Oman 46 Fashion Special
As global fashion continues to influence our
everyday life and dictate our social media Relish the tranquillity of a mountain village Take a walk down the fashion aisles and
approach, find out what it takes to create fashion and bask in its reflections of human tenacity explore the endless avenues to find your style
accessories and clothes that define the local and resilience quotient and experience the feel good factor
mores and translate the cultural nuances on a emanating from clothes that accentuate your
modern canvas 36 Just Travel persona
Holidays that spell ‘nature’ are gaining
20 In Conversation popularity, with travellers seeking destinations FACES Razzmatazz
“Fashion is a strong statement and can have that are intrinsically oriented towards
a great deal of impact on a woman’s self environment conservation 08 Star Light
confidence,” maintains fashionista Yonelle 10
Coetzee, one of the founders and creators of FACES Style Linkin Park frontman Chester Bennnington
Luxury Children’s Boutique - ‘Amira La Petite 32 In The Luxe died of an apparent suicide on July 20, leaving
Couture’ 38 behind a massive void in the music industry
‘Clutch the pearls’, literally, as we present some and a multitude of heartbroken fans
22 In The Spotlight 40 of the most expensive handbags in the world
- Gulf Business’ list of the region’s most 42 Razzle Dazzle
talented entrepreneurs of 2017 features Look Good
Omani businessman Qais Al Khonji Latest celebrity gossip from
Fashion is more than just the clothes one wears; the world of Hollywood
- Muntasir Shaaban Saleh Al Farsy checks out it is an art form mastered by those who have
the Ethnic Home outlet at Azaiba to present learnt the importance of accessories to define 11 Tittle Tattle
a quick peek into its antique furniture and their fashion statement Heard through the grapevine...
unique merchandise
Take a Spin FACES Digest
24 Centre Stage 58 Movies & Books
The Royal Opera House Muscat (ROHM) is all Described as a progressive vehicle, Reviews of upcoming movies
the Cadillac XT5 is packed with advanced and books
set to launch its seventh new season, featuring features that are crafted to help you stay safe
and connected
a hand-picked selection of stellar performances
Style File
26 Feast On 60 Gadget Notes
Tucked, literally, in a by-lane off Azaiba’s busy From cold shoulders that turned runway Roundup of new gadgets
fashion into an everyday trend to dramatic in the market
commercial zone is Muscat’s only Korean statement sleeves, fashion is, indeed, a many
splendored thing
restaurant - Amazing Chicken
28 Let’s Cook FACES Elements
- Indulge your fancy for Korean food with
these easy to prepare recipes 50 At Home
52
- Give the staid pumpkin a soupy texture If you believe home is where all the fashion
and turn the everyday bread into a toasted should be, get busy stylising your home with
mushroom cup with savoury recipes from some easy to adopt ideas
Simran Dhanju
Mandate
FACES Health
30 Health Check Whether you are on a smart casual spree or
a formal do, understand the basics of style to
15 percent of the global population of put your best look forward
reproductive age is affected by infertility –
find out the causes and remedies
Hello Karachi
Foodies looking to savour Pakistani food have a new outlet to frequent. Hello Karachi, which opened recently in Al Amarat, is
offering traditional and authentic Cuisine from Karachi. The restaurant has on its menu a wide variety of mouth-watering dishes
to satisfy diverse palettes. The Menu consists of an assortment of BBQ dishes, a variety of kebabs, Karachi specials, finger-licking
curries, tandoori naans, breads and rotis, in addition to sweet temptations such as Zarda, Labi Shereen, Kheer and many other
traditional puddings. According to Haider Jawad Sultan, owner of Hello Karachi, the restaurant was conceptualised keeping in mind
the fondness of local Omani and expatriates for true flavours of Karachi cuisine at affordable prices.
Crafty Kitchen at
Muscat Bay
Muscat Bay has announced a sweet new addition to
its Experience Centre. Crafty Kitchen, which opened
recently at Muscat Bay, will serve a selection of
refreshing beverages, light meals and confectionary.
Visitors can experience first-hand the imminent
completion of phase one properties while enjoying
fresh juices, perfectly crafted coffees and delicious
homemade cakes from the vibrant café.The innovative
brand, known for its high quality and healthy food has developed a menu to reflect the
healthy, outdoor lifestyle of future residents at Muscat Bay by offering fresh juices,
smoothies, salads and more. Crafty Kitchen will also offer a Business Lunch and Saturday
Afternoon Tea to cater to all visitor needs, from a business investment meeting to a
family outing. The Experience Center has all the ingredients of a perfect short escape
from the city for the whole family; Crafty Kitchen, a children’s play area and natural
surroundings help give visitors a real insight into everyday community life at the luxury
destination.
Al Baleed Walk
Salalah’s shoreline will welcome over eight different food and beverage concepts creating a walk of international cuisine at Al
BaleedWalk.Located on a unique waterfront,Al BaleedWalk offers an ideal location for those looking to invest in prime destinations.
Shops will have direct access to the beach, making it a perfect location for guests, as well as an easy access car park that occupies
260 cars. Currently, there are 8 fully equipped outlets available for rent with a total space of 185sqm; 120sqm dedicated to indoor
space and 65smq for the outdoor terraced areas. Each outlet is connected by one long promenade so guests can enjoy walking
across the seafront, overlooking the sandy beaches whilst choosing where to dine, unwind and take in the view. With its one-of-a-
kind location and exceptional facilities, Al Baleed Walk is set to become the foodie-destination of Salalah, expanding the current
lifestyle offering of the region to welcome Salalah’s throngs of annual visitors and inhabitants.
6 September 2017
Prizes and mall giveaways at City Centre Qurum
City Centre Qurum has a cure for weekday blues. The mall has several winning opportunities in store for visitors who shop on
Tuesdays, until December 26.Visitors who shop for RO15 any day of the week, get a coupon for a chance to win a weekly prize of
RO250. And, if visitors indulge in some retail therapy on Tuesdays, they will receive two coupons for the same spend. Two winners
will be selected every Tuesday. Besides, purchasing an RO25 gift voucher on that day will also get them an RO5 cash back voucher.
With their recently expanded retail offerings, adding a 3150 sqm Centrepoint – the multi-brand store that houses Babyshop,
Splash, Lifestyle and Shoe Mart, there is something for everyone at City Centre Qurum. Foodies can choose from a selection of 13
restaurants and cafes and those seeking to unwind and have fun indoors this summer will find plenty of options from the 7-screen
VOX Cinemas to Magic Planet at the mall.
OAMC introduces new
baggage policy
In line with the highest standards and global operating
procedures in the aviation industry, Oman Airports
Management Company (OAMC), is introducing a new
baggage policy across its major airports, including
Muscat International, Salalah and Sohar. Effective from
September 1st, passengers will no longer be allowed to
check in round and irregular shaped luggage such as
items wrapped in blankets, linen or tied with rope. This
change is applicable to all passengers regardless of
airline, cabin class or destination. For travellers, the new
policy will result in faster pickups, less baggage jams, and an overall smoother and hassle-free experience. For airport personnel,
it will ensure the safety and security of baggage handlers, efficient check-ins and seamless access to checked baggage in case
of further security screening. The Company is currently working closely with all airlines, travel agencies, and tourism promoting
websites, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, to ensure that this policy is clearly communicated to all travellers to and from
Oman.
FRiENDi mobile 7
launches breakthrough
app
Good news for FRiENDi subscribers. The mobile
service provider has launched a new mobile app,
with a range of features designed to give customers
complete access over their account from the
convenience of their mobile. Commenting on the
efficient features of the new app, Alex Bennett, CEO,
FRiENDi mobile Oman noted, “The design is simple,
the functions are secure and allows customers to
recharge within the app. This great feature is our
new in-app payment service, allowing customers to
securely purchase recharge using a credit or debit
card and store their card details for future payments.
This means customers can recharge when they want,
24/7, wherever they are.” Through the app, customers
can easily transfer mobile credit to their family and
friends, locally as well as internationally. The app
also allows users to monitor their credit and data
September 2017
RIP Chester
Bennington
Linkin Park frontman Chester Bennnington
died of an apparent suicide on July 20,
leaving behind a massive void in the music
industry and a multitude of heartbroken fans
As fans of singer and Music proved to be a redeeming Association of America in 2005. It
songwriter Chester Charles factory, though.While studying at was the best-selling debut album
Bennington grappled with Greenway High School he started his of the decade, as well as one of the
the news of his suicide first band ‘Grey Daze’, a post-grunge few albums ever to hit that many
at his home in late July, the world band, which recorded three albums sales. The band consolidated on its
mourned the death of a talented – ‘Demo’,‘Wake/Me’ and ‘...no sun successes from then on, enjoying
musician, who had, in a brief span of today’. He left the band in 1998, but fame with every album – from
time, demonstrated his vast acumen struggled to find another one to ‘Meteora’ in early 2000s to the recent
to create perceptual changes in the pursue his talent. ‘One More Light’.
music horizon. Tributes kept pouring
in from celebrities across the globe, But there was lots of music left in Following the news of Bennington’s
as fans gathered in Los Angeles’ him to let go of what he loved most. death, the band cancelled the North
Grand Park to sing, collectively, Following fame in later years, he is American leg of their ‘One More
classics from Linkin Park, in memory quoted to have said,“I have been Light Tour’, demonstrating the void
of Linkin Park’s late singer. able to tap into all the negative that his death had left in the group
things that can happen to me and the music horizon of the world.
41-year old Chester Bennington had throughout my life by numbing
created a revolution of sorts with his myself to the pain so to speak and Alongside Linkin Park, Bennington
singing style and his unpretentious kind of being able to vent it through had also formed his own band ‘Dead
approach as a performer. Born in my music.” by Sunrise’ in 2005 and worked with
Phoenix, Arizona, to Susan Elaine, a ‘Stone Temple Pilots’ in 2013. He is
nurse, and Lee Russell Bennington, Bennington first gained prominence widely regarded by music lovers as
a police detective, he found his as a vocalist following the release of one of the top rock vocalists of the
interest leaning towards music, early Linkin Park’s debut album,‘Hybrid 2000s. The ‘Hit Parader’ magazine
on. But childhood didn’t turn out to placed him at No. 46 on their list of
be blissful, following his parents’ Theory’, which ‘100 Metal Vocalists of All Time’.
divorce, sexual abuse from an older was certified Although Bennington had addiction
male friend and the subsequent Diamond issues from early on, he had, on
drug addiction. by the a couple of occasions, stated that
Recording he had gone clean. Apparently, it
Industry had come to hound him in his final
moments of life.
8 September 2017 Now that he is gone, some of his
words come haunting…
“Alone in a world,With millions of
souls
Walking in circles
Trapped in their dreams
unhealthy, unclean
walking in circles, now
do not disturb
scream in silence
everyone’s sleeping”
HANDS ON THE WHEEL
EYES ON THE ROAD Safe
MIND ON DRIVING
GET HOME SAFE
Demi Lovato’s
‘Tell Me You Love Me’
Demi Lovato has new music on the way. The 25-year-
old singer is all set to launch her upcoming album
‘Tell Me You Love Me’ on September 29. She recently
released a video review of one of the title song from
the album, where she sings ‘Tell me you love me.
I need someone on days like this, I do. On days like
this. Oh, can you hear me heart say oh-oh-oh-oh.’
‘Bad Boys 3’ scrapped?
Looks like the third installment of Bad Boys will not take off as planned. The director
has, reportedly walked out of the project and the release date has been scrapped,
causing disappointment for the legion of Bad Boys fans. However, Martin Lawrence and
Will Smith, who made the franchise famous, seem to want to make the film happen, with
Smith telling his fans that the project was progressing and that it was very close, and
Lawrence maintaining that he is ready right now…
‘Straight Outta
Compton’ actor
charged
One of the actors of ‘Straight Outta Compton’
seems to have taken his role too seriously. R.
Marcos Taylor, who played Suge Knight, has
been charged with multiple counts of assault. He
New album from K-Pop Group BTSreportedly got into an argument with the manager
of Carrabba’s Italian Grill in Green Brook, New K-Pop Group, BTS are officially returning with a new album this September. The
Jersey, and punched him in the face several times. 7-member Group, which recently beat out Justin Bieber for the Top Social Artist award
He was, allegedly, dragged out of the restaurant at the ‘2017 Billboard
by the employees, where he then punched a Music Awards’, will
woman on the side of the head. release their new album
Simon Cowell on September 18th,
called ‘Love Yourself
upsets Mel B ‘Her.’ The album will
come in four packaging
versions, and include
a hidden track written
Mel B, co-judge of ‘America’s Got Talent’, and produced by group
displayed her ire against Simon Cowell during leader, Rap Monster.
the show, recently, by throwing water on him
before walking off the stage. The former Spice
Girl, who is in the middle of a nasty divorce
from her second husband, was, apparently,
upset after he made her the butt of one of his
jokes. It started when the show’s host, Tyra Bank, asked Cowell how he felt about escape artist Demian
Aditya’s performance that went wrong following technical difficulties. “I think it will be like Mel B’s
wedding night…” he said, which shocked the singer.
10 September 2017
Tittle “I was nicknamed after
this professional wrestler Bruno
a Sammartino. Tonight, in Pittsburgh, I had
“It has come to the honour of meeting him!”
my attention that one or - Bruno Mars, whose real name is Peter
more scam artists have taken to Gene Hernandez, captioned a photograph
impersonating me online and asking with his namesake, professional wrestler
some of you via private message or chat Bruno Sammartino, who he met at his
for ‘donations’ for various causes.”
- Robert Downey Jr. warns fans Magic World Tour.
to not be fooled by people
“A little
impersonating him. while ago I was
actually on bed rest, and
it’s probably the worst time
to watch ‘Heaven Knows What’,
or the best time, depending on
your mental state. I ended up
becoming extremely fascinated
with the boys and kind of forced
them to become my friend a
little bit.”
- Selena Gomez shared her
personal journey with mental
health while moderating a
panel for upcoming film
‘Good Time’.
“We had always “When I was, like, 11
meant to work together for 14, having thin eyebrows was
years and years and years and we’d the cool thing, so I literally plucked
had little falling outs here and there… we them all off… My sisters yelled at me
had some Twitter spats… and it was time to and threw out all the tweezers in the house.
I’ve never touched them myself ever since.”
put that behind us.”
- Katy Perry said music helped her put her - Kendall Jenner shares her
extpweor-iemnicneutienma ovridnienogdmeSamekpoetneusmptrJbrauoetliuyrntg2in0he1e7r
‘spats’ with DJ Calvin Harris behind her,
when she was On Air With Ryan for fans!
Seacrest.
cover STORY DSteosriigesner
As global fashion continues to influence
our everyday life and dictate our
social media approach, find out what
it takes to create fashion accessories
and clothes that define the local
mores and translate the cultural
nuances on a modern canvas
Oman may have its reservations when it comes to adopting style and fashion launched on global runways
by international designers, but it has not shied away from staking a claim in the fashion arena, albeit on
a tradition platform, with many talented Omanis joining the fashion designing fold to craft accessories
and clothes that cater to fashionistas in the country. While new designers prefer to rely on Instagram to
reach out to potential customers, several have found strong foothold in the vibrant world of fashion through their
boutiques.
In the following pages, we present the stories of four designers who have coloured Oman’s fashion canvas with
their craftsmanship.
ODemeamna
From financial operations to jewellery
designing and conceptualising fashion for
homes and offices, Shadya Al-Ismaily, the
brain behind Deema Oman, has proven her
versatility in the complex world of style and
fashion
The year was 2011 when Shadya Al-Ismaily,a committed
career woman, decided to put the brakes on her full
time occupation in the field of finance and investment
and devote all her time to Deema, which had been
registered in 2008 as the first ever national designing house
for luxury jewellery to be born in Oman.
Pan to 2017, not only has her dream turned into a successful
brand; she has let her passion soar in the world of style
and fashion by branching out into other related areas of
designing.
Her inception into the world of jewellery designing was
spurred by her observations that most Omani traditional
jewellery pieces weren’t practical for office wear or everyday
wear. She’d noted early on that the use of Omani jewellery was
12 September 2017
and marketing side of the business. considered as a source of inspiration
in the designing process. The ‘Palm’
Deema Oman has been gaining collection, for example, was inspired cover STORY
recognition for its revolutionary by the date tree, and was the first
impact on the Omani jewellery collection under the ‘Nature’ line.
designing approaches, and has been Every element of the tree was carefully
celebrating the brand’s successes employed in a piece of jewellery.
through its presence at prestigious Architecture: A line dedicated to both
events like Jewellery Arabia (2010), historical and modern architecture and
International Jewellery London landmarks in Oman was introduced in
Exhibition (2011), the celebration 2014. Designs of jewellery, including
of 150 years anniversary of life and men’s’ jewellery and luxury sticks,
legacy of Sir Henry Royce (2012), corporate gifts, chinaware, and linens
Knooz for Fine Jewellery and Watch were created, drawing inspiration
Exhibition (2012) and the celebration from landmarks such as the Sultan
of 110 years anniversary of Rolls Qaboos Grand mosque, Royal Opera
Royce (2013), among others. House, Al Riyam monument, etc.
The latest at Deema was the launch of
Shadya Al-Ismaily with her During mid 2011, the house revealed the house sub brand ‘Leila by Deema’,
daughter and partner, Suad its fine dining tableware collection which was developed to bring about a
for the first time to the public. balance between creating elegant yet
becoming more and more restricted to Today, unique chinaware sets are comfortable, and well-made garments
important social events and festivals. being commissioned by the house’s for children. The brand is specialised
It was this that compelled her to find clients to meet their requirements in children’s formal and casual wear
ways to encourage modern Omani for customised features and for age group starting from 1 year to
women to readopt traditional jewellery. represent limited edition issues. 14 years.
It soon led to the creation of Deema With increasing market appetite for
collections, whose sole objective other Deema Oman’s products, the September 2017
was the incorporation of traditional house introduced a new line aimed
Omani jewellery and the latest trends at designing sophisticated
in the exalted international jewellery high-end corporate
markets. gifts in 2013.
Having a natural leaning to all things I n te re s ti n g ly,
art and design since school days, Deema Oman’s
Shadya found it easy to relate to designing
her designing venture. Despite her philosophy has
ensuing higher education in finance, been largely
her passion for art remained unabated. influenced
She dabbled in painting and other by four key
home designing projects, before elements:
heeding the suggestions of friends
and family to jump into the designing Omani
field. She started designing jewellery heritage:
as a hobby in 2008 and strengthened
her aptitude with formal professional Oman is
jewellery designing courses from
Birmingham School of Jewellery. rich in its
Eventually, she became a professional heritage and
designer and has since won the
‘Women Super Achievers Award’ other legacies
from Femina Mumbai, India (in 2017),
been featured in a luxury book issued that cannot be
to mark 90th birthday of HM Queen
Elizabeth (2016), got selected as one ignored. Hence,
of Oman’s most powerful business
women by a local publishing house it was logical that
(2015), offered the role of ‘Ambassador
of Innovation’ by Dr. Zahra Al Rawahi of Deema be affected
The Research Council (2014), awarded
‘Women Award of Excellency’ (2013), by this beautiful legacy.
and was one of the ‘Super Achievers
of the Sultanate’ by a publishing house The viewer of Deema’s
(2012).
collection would instantly
In October 2014, Shadya’s daughter,
Suad, joined Deema as a partner, realise that it tells stories
bringing in with her sound legal
experience and strong interpersonal as diverse as the ancient
skills. She has, since, been taking care
of the legal and contractual affairs of stories of our seas and marine
the company; covering public relations
journeys.
Islamic art and design:
Islamic architecture and
its designs also have
a special imprint on
Deema’s work. This
line was included to
promote the beauty
of Islamic art and
creativity.
Nature: The nature 13
in Oman is also
cover STORY SCaodllzection
Sara Al Zadjali of Sadz Design fame Sara Al Zadjali
talks about making style statements
with bags and defines her fashionista
moments through Muscat Street
Styles, her popular fashion page on
Instagram
Sara Al-Zadjali, owner of Sadz Design and
founder of @muscatstreetstyles, is a fashion
maker, having turned her passion for bags into a
business and her love for all things style into an
art forum through social media. Despite a full time job
as a senior manager in risk management at a local bank,
she has found avenues to create designer bags and
keep the fashion momentum up with her pet project,
Muscat Street Styles, an Instagram page presenting
styles adopted by fashionistas in the country, region, as
well as global style inspirations from celebrities.
Talking about her fashion sense, she says she acquired
a penchant for style from her mother who has always
dressed up, whether it was to go for a social do or her
work. “Most of my clothes as a growing up girl were
bought by her,” she recalls, hastening to add that she
always – even as a kid – had her eyes on shoes and
bags. She soon became a bag collector and all her
travels out of the country ended in shopping for bags.
“That was until 2008…” she muses, explaining that that
was the year she got her hands on a Gucci bag, a gift
from her brother, which ignited her obsession for high
end brands.
14 September 2017
A year or so later, she went to cover STORY
London to complete her higher
education, where she explored the To follow up on her debut collection, end brands… I am not doing anything
vibrant fashion horizon and found she introduced casual bags called less than all those brands. Basically,
her inclination for bag designing Sadz Collection in 2015, featuring where I am doing the bags is where
growing. Although she’d dabbled in two styles – shoppers’ bag and Bella you see the high end brand factories
bag designing on note books since bags. That year she also ventured into too,” she points out, noting that she
high school years, a dedicated sketch wallets for men and complemented intends to start her own boutique in a
during a lazy weekend in London, it with wallets for women. During this couple of years’ time.
changed things for her. It was an time she partook in local exhibitions
idea put forth by her father... “At that and followed that up with exhibitions
time I was obsessed with high end in Kuwait and London. In 2016 she
brand bags and he was like why don’t designed the Abeey clutch with a
you create your own brand instead detachable strap and added card
of spending that much of money,” holders in crocodile and python skin.
she quips. But the idea didn’t take off Although she has had her share of
immediately. The sketch got forgotten trials on the way, Sara has ensured
in between her notes and she that all her designs are unique and
returned back home after completing the quality is maintained by creating
her Masters programme. all the pieces exclusively in the
designated factory in Italy, where she
It was when her friends prodded her personally supervises the process –
to turn those sketches into bags that from choosing the leather and the
she brushed the inertia away and colours to all the little details.
turned her dream into a reality. To
makes things easier, she had an aunt She relies on social media to market
living in Italy, who provided her with her collection, but she admits
the right platform to channelize her that there are challenges, as most
creativity and explore the avenues to buyers of high end products prefer
set her designing business in motion. to patronise only internationally
She soon found herself in Italy where recognised brands. She has realised
she checked around specifically for that the market can be slow, but her
a small family run factory, dealing in dreams have not waned.“I would love
handmade bags. to see my brand next to all those high
And so, in May 2014 she launched
her first handbag collection and also
started the now popular Instagram
page @muscatstreetstyles. Called the
Abeey Collection, after her favourite
cousin, it featured one style of bag in
two sizes – mini and classic. The bags,
designed in exotic leather, python and
water snake, were mostly for night
wear; the mini bag was created in a
size that catered to Sara’s personal
requirement. The collection was
sold online using her Sadz Design
Instagram page. That same year, she
also participated in the Dubai Fashion
Forward exhibition.
September 2017 15
STORY RReaewmanand
cover Sisters Reem and Rawan al Mashrafi Reem and Rawan al Mashrafi
of RnR fame have made fashion an
expression of simple, modern and For the designer sisters, the spur to get into the world of
elegant works on fabric fashion designing came from their family.“It all started with
the support of our family,” they note, pointing out that they
What started as an experiment for designing began their journey by designing and tailoring clothes for
duo Rawan Said Al Mashrafi and Reem themselves. “We always got compliments for our clothes…
Al Mashrafi has turned into a full-fledged That encouraged us to move ahead with the idea of entering
fashion affair, with a relentless pursuit to create and the fashion world,” they state.
present stunning outfits for women who want to stand
apart. While the experiment turned up challenges The sisters have always been passionate about fashion and
from different quarters, it was the fun factor that kept design and, in fact, aspired to have a business of their own,
them going. In fact, looking back on their fashion in addition to their day jobs. “We wanted to do something
foray, Rawan comments that it has been all for the that we enjoyed so that it wouldn’t feel like a burden… And
good. “The challenges made us want to become fashion was where we arrived at; it was the one thing we
better,” she observes. shared and loved and it worked out just right,” they add.
Picture Credit: Photographer @pixbywij
Makeup and hair: @labella_house @rihamalsamad
16 September 2017
Nevertheless, they had their apprehensions cover STORY
and they admit that it sounded quite
unrealistic initially. “We started buying they state that it gave them a wide range of options in choosing their
readymade clothes from abroad and reselling designs. “We try to incorporate them into our designs; we strive
them locally. Then we took it one step forward to build a name that serves all Omanis,” they maintain, adding that
by creating newer versions of the clothes we they also stay in tandem with new trends even while respecting the
bought, by altering the colours or the design cultural boundaries and taste. But they agree that Omani fashion has
and somehow adding our touch to it. Slowly, evolved over time to keep up with new trends. “It is now neater and
we learned how to design a whole piece and less colourful than the traditional clothes used to be. For instance, the
add it to our collection,” recounts Rawan. jalabiya has become more like a dress, even while maintaining some of
the older concepts. This had made it more likeable for people, as it now
Soon, their first collection was all set for suits many tastes,” they state.
buyers and, to their amazement, the entire
collection got sold within a matter of days. Their collection, at present, is displayed to their buyers via social media,
“All the pieces were sold even before we alongside exhibitions and occasional presentations in boutiques.
could do a photo shoot…this gave us the Explaining about their methodology, they state,“We try to be accessible
confidence to continue,” she adds. by taking part in exhibitions and providing private viewing. We also
exhibit part of our collections at special occasions at some multi brand
The positive reviews have continued since boutiques. But we mainly we do photo-shoots of our collection, so that
and have helped bolster their move to grow we can share pictures of our designs on social media.”
further in their business. As they maintain:
“The feedback we got after the release of
every collection pushes us to do more and
move forward…”
Both sisters are self-taught in the field of
designing; however, Reem has more
experience when it comes to fabrics, designs
and trends, points out Rawan. “Working
together, I have learnt so much from her…”
she notes.
On their designing agenda are expansion
plans, which also include adding abayas and,
some day, even ready-to-wear clothes, to their
line of collection. With cultural influences
resplendent in their designs, they have a wide
canvas to explore.They have been inspired, in
no small way, by Oman’s rich heritage, culture
and tradition. Talking about the influences
derived from Oman’s culture and heritage,
September 2017 17
cover STORY N-11 Collection
Noof Al-Zadjali’s N-11 Collection is a reflection
of her designing genius to balance traditional
Eastern fashion with modern fads
An early initiation into
the big, bold, colourful
world of fashion has set
Noof Al-Zadjali on the right
track. Although she describes
her initiation into the world
of fashion as a soft start, as it
was restricted to designing
her personal outfits for special
occasions, it was, perhaps, the
perfect entry for someone who
has nurtured fashion all her life.
“From the very early stage,
fashion design has always been
the perfect getaway to follow
and study and practice during
my free time,” she maintains,
pointing out that her passion for
designing grew along with the
support from family and friends,
who also sought her advice and
assistance in different aspects of
their outfits.
Noof Al-Zadjali
18 September 2017
With positive feedback and active endorsement came the realisation that Personally, she is inspired by the cover STORY
she could turn it into a career and make good the opportunities to share her traditional Omani national dress
thoughts, ideas and design beliefs, as a young and upcoming Omani designer. code for women which is centered on
This ignited in her the desire to establish her own brand and, as she notes, “By simplicity through a dress worn over
the time ‘N-11 Collection’ was established, I was ready and confident to share my trousers (sirwal) and a headdress
fashion beliefs with a wider audience.” (lihaf) infused with the latest fashion
trends and top designs.
N-11 proved to be the perfect platform to create a balanced fusion between
traditional Eastern fashion and modern fashion trends, while channelizing her As a designer, she follows the
fashion interests in the right direction. Today, her latest designs and collections following fashion beliefs:
are released on regular basis, along with size guides, on the Instagram page,
with the potential of setting-up a fashion boutique in future to provide a more Practicability: practical designs
interactive experience for buyers. providing fashion buyers with
multiple uses ranging from day-
She attributes the success of N-11 to her personal expertise and observations. to-day formal office outfits to light
She states:“The progress accomplished today through the successive collections casual dresses;
of N-11 has been a result of both personal experiences and encounters in
fashion design, as well as following and appraising top fashion designers and Modernity: contemporary designs
the latest international fashion.” aimed at equipping end-users with
trendy fashion solutions for their
She has been strongly influenced by Omani culture and heritage, which, she daily affairs;
says, will always be at the core of her fashion designs and collections. “It is
simulated by the belief that a girl’s outfit has to be respectful and sincere to her Affordability: smart and affordable
society and religion; however, not forbidding the right to glow and shine with the designs set to attract and a wider
latest fashion trends and designs,” she states. range of fashion audiences.
* Find ‘N-11 Collection’ on Instagram
@n11_collection, or call +968 99049491 for orders
September 2017 19
in CONVERSATION SAtFaatsehmioennt
“Fashion is a strong statement and can have
a great deal of impact on a woman’s self
confidence,” maintains fashionista Yonelle
Coetzee, one of the founders and creators of
the luxury children’s boutique ‘Amira La Petite
Couture’
Like most things in life, even fashionistas, it appears, are
born, not made. Yonelle Coetzee certainly exemplifies it.
In her words: “I have always been into fashion…fashion is
in my genes.”
She was inspired, early on, by her great grandmother who was a
fashion designer in South Africa, and a stylish one at that. “Even
in her old days she always dressed to a nine. I used to go through
her photos when I was young and dream of wearing the same high
heels, perfect makeup and hair - and oh those dresses!” she
recalls, pointing out that she, in fact, found an avenue to
explore her interests for fashion designing from her.
Her granny used to have a suitcase full of cut fabrics tension of personality. “You can immediately
from her clients and Yonelle, who was then in see if a person is creative, serious or insecure
grade 1 and 2, would hand-sew these to make by looking at what they are wearing. Fashion is
fashionable dresses for her Barbie dolls. “All a strong statement and can have a great deal
my friends used to be so envious of my Barbie of impact on a woman’s self confidence,” she
doll clothes - I had the most exquisite casual maintains.
and evening wear Barbie doll clothes…” she
reminisces. Talking about her fashion foray in Oman, she
points out that she first visited the country as
Soon Yonelle developed her own unique a tourist in 2009, and made it her permanent
home in 2012, becoming one of the founders
sense of style and recalls that she would and creators of ‘Amira La Petite Couture’,
a luxury children’s boutique in Shatti Al
never leave the house without looking Qurum, Muscat. In February this year, the
team presented a fashion show at the ‘Oman
stylish. In fact, she would dress up even Bride Show’ exhibition, wining an award for
outstanding fashion show. “It was a huge
when she had no plans to go out and her milestone in my life to have started such an
amazing venture in Oman, as an expatriate,
mother would enquire, ‘Where are you and being only 25 years of age at the time of
starting the company,” she notes.
going looking so fine, if I may ask?’
However, in June 2017, she sold her shares
Describing fashion in the company to start a new and exciting
venture on her own, which is due to be
as a form of art and launched in 2018. “I have so many exciting
plans and ideas for the future… I never stop
expression, she dreaming, for I am a go-getter and always
think of new business opportunities. Failure
says, “Fashion is does not scare me; I will get up and fight until I
reach my goals. I am excited to launch my new
all about making company in the coming year, which I expect
will be my dream come true; it is what I have
it your own and worked hard for all these years of learning
and growing,” she states.
owning that look.
Fashionistas/
stylists know
which clothes
suits their
personality,
what works
for their body
type and what
doesn’t.”
To her, fashion
is an ex-
20 September 2017
Up Close Center’, back in 2013. I met I will not leave my house without… in CONVERSATION
& Personal the most incredible people and I Hand sanitizer, Dior Lip Balm/scrub,
am fortunate that some of these wallet, perfume and iPhone.
With incredible people are my best Five things I like about Oman…
friends today. All the hidden gems of nature; the
Yonelle My greatest inspiration... humble and kind hearted people; the
People inspire me in so many strong religion and friendship bonds;
The home I grew up in... ways. I love how each and tolerance for different races and
Was very strict and conservative. Being the everyone is so unique and di- religions; and that I am able to call this
oldest of three girls in the house made me a verse and I draw my inspiration my home, for the people make you feel
responsible and a strong person that I am from everyday conversations. so welcome.
today. My sisters reside in South Africa, where My hero… A book that changed me...
all three of us were born to a loving father, who God. He has carried me through ‘Redeeming Love’, a novel by Francine
is a businessman, and a caring mother. so many difficult roads in life. Rivers.
When I was a child I wanted to... If I could change one thing On top of my wish/bucket list is...
Travel the world to learn as much as possible about myself... To be fluent in Arabic. I can speak and
about other cultures and religions. I feel very It would be to stop worrying if I understand small sentences, but I wish
fortunate that I have had the opportunity to am good enough. to continue learning and make it my
explore the world and learn about so many I dream of... third language.
amazing cultures and religions in the past 8 World peace and leaving a My success mantra is...
years, especially the Omani culture. mark in this world. I believe we ‘Do unto others as you would have
The moment that changed me forever... are all born to do something them do unto you’, and to respect other
Was when I started to work as a manager for extraordinary with our talents people’s ideas and views.
a company in Muscat called ‘Lilac Beauty and to inspire and help each other In 10 years’ time, I hope to be...
achieve greatness in life. A successful inspiring individual that
What I see when I look in the I strive to be
mirror...
My scars, which are my battle September 2017
wounds; they tell a story about
me. At the young age of 9
months I had a tragic accident
with boiling water where I got
second and third degree burns.
My whole life I believed I got a
second chance in life and that
kept me fighting to live life to the
fullest.
My greatest regret...
Worrying too much about how
other people perceive me.
You may not know it but I’m
no good at...
Public speaking…but I am
working on that.
You may not know it but I’m
very good at…
Reading people.
If I have time to myself...
I read a book, usually written by
historic fashion icons, or play
with my two dogs Chloe and Milo
at the beach.
My house is...
Very calm and relaxing and is
at a walking distance from the
beach in Qurum.
My favourite haunt/holiday
destination...
Bali - it is the place where I find
peace surrounded by nature.
My favourite weekend spot in
Oman…
There are so many, but if I have to
choose one, it will be camping in
the middle of the desert during
winter months.
21
in the SPOTLIGHT Qais Al Khonji
listed in GCC’s Top 10
Entrepreneurs
Gulf Business’ list of the region’s
most talented entrepreneurs of 2017 features
Omani businessman Qais Al Khonji
Omani businessman Qais Following his listing in the Top and investment. We started from
Al Khonji has made it 10 GCC Entrepreneurs by Gulf scratch, and today we have contracts
to Gulf Business’ ‘Top Business, he attributed this new with oxy and are on trials with other
10 Entrepreneurs in the feather in his entrepreneurial cap companies.”
GCC-2017’, which is open to public to the financial performance of
voting to pick the most coveted his companies. Talking to FACES With his business portfolio spread
‘Entrepreneur of the year’ award*. about his personal achievement across fields including energy,
and the honour from Gulf Business, smart technology, medical education
Al Khonji, who has made winning he defined it as a motivator to do and trading, Al Khonji has also
a habit, is the founder of Qais more and achieve even greater made it his business to give
United Enterprises Trading and heights. “I started my business in oil fellow entrepreneurs the benefit
Genesis International. He has been and gas at a very tough time in the of his experience. He is also an
a central figure in the sultanate’s region, but we have made it… This angel investor, has represented
entrepreneurial scene for several will encourage me further towards his country as part of a team
years. He launched his first company success,” he maintained. discussing Indian-Omani business
Qais United Enterprises Trading in relations, and has helped introduce
2010, followed by IT solutions firm Tracing his entrepreneurial journey entrepreneurship into the country’s
Genesis International in 2012. A year in Oman, he stated: “I started in schools. Commenting on his interests
later he established an enhanced oil 2010, but some of the ventures to help local startups to find their
recovery business, Genesis Projects didn’t take off. So, my actual success niche in the market, he pointed out
and Investments LLC – EOR Lab started some time in 2013, with my that his role as a board member
Services. current company Genesis projects of Sharakah, which supports local
22 September 2017
entrepreneurs to start their business HEOthMnicE in the SPOTLIGHT
with funding support as well as
consultation, was to lend a helping Muntasir Shaaban Saleh
hand. Besides, he has been involved Al Farsy checks out the
in networking events such as the Ethnic Home outlet at
Entrepreneurs Conclave and has Azaiba to present a quick
been invited to different universities
and colleges in Oman to speak about peek into its antique
his entrepreneurial journey and give furniture and unique
advice, if needed. One of his pet
projects has been to encourage the merchandise
introduction of entrepreneurship as
a subject in schools, which he hopes Meeting with The outlet, which opened in
will become a reality soon. entrepreneur Aijaz March, last year, began with
Ahmed Kurpal of the objective of showcasing
However, entrepreneurship isn’t Ethnic Home was a the product-line to interior
without its challenges, he admits, sheer accident, and, honestly, it designers. But, as word of
pointing out that he has had his share has been a blessing in disguise. mouth spread and brought
of personal trials too. “Any journey, It is an enchanting place with clients directly to the outlet to
even if it was well established, will old treasures and beautiful see and feel the products, it
have a lot of challenges. Nothing is trinkets. soon got converted into a retail
easy - from obtaining certificates to showroom.
actually operating the business... Located on the first floor of
But I take challenges positively,” he the Azaiba Mall, it has on One would, of course, be
notes, adding that it has been a spur display items ranging from curious to know where this
in the learning process. aesthetic furniture to old-styled modern Aladdin gets his
telephones and gramophone… merchandise - certainly not
Having reached thus far, he now It is a travel back to the past. from the genie or the Magic
plans to grow his business further in Aijaz attributes his business to Lamp…
terms of manpower and equipments, an early hobby where he would Aijaz explains that he has a
while concentrating on the oil and up-cycle any kind of waste that manufacturing facility in India
gas sector. “I believe it’s a sector that he would find in the backyard where he produces most of
is full of opportunities. Although it’s a of his home. Eventually, as he the items, while others are
very high risk one, it’s worthwhile if gleaned information on the outsourced from different parts
well established,” he opines environmental benefits of such of the country. He is, however,
up-cycling projects, he took on keen to set his own factory in
(Log on to http://gulfbusiness.com/ the initiative of converting his Oman, where he could share
vote-now-your-top-entrepreneur- passion into a business. his knowledge of up-cycling
gcc/ to vote for your favourite industrial waste to interested
entrepreneur) Today, Aijaz runs this ‘make- youth.
believe’ antique shop, whose
items project an ancient look, What began as an individual
but are not necessarily from effort for Aijaz has now turned
yesteryear. The focus is on into a team work, with inputs
creating unique pieces, he from buyers around the world,
admits, pointing out the sofa that which are incorporated into
has been upholstered from used the designs to turn them into
jeans. Buyers are not scammed practical products and not just
into thinking the pieces are as showpieces
from another era, nor are they
overpriced to add to the enigma
of novelty.
September 2017 23
Centre STAGE ‘A Legendary
Season’
at ROHM
Titled ‘A Legendary Season’, the The Royal Opera House Muscat (ROHM) is all
new season perfectly translates set to launch its seventh new season, featuring a
the remarkable repertoire of hand-picked selection of stellar performances
opera, ballet, world music, concerts
and much more, that will grace the plots to match. Through a cleverly successful interactive operatic show,
ROHM stage from September 2017 entangled web of amusing obstacles, ‘Magic Flute for Children or Defeating
until May 2018. ill-fated deceptions and lucky twists the Monsters’. School children
of fate, those who are meant for each participating from the audience will
Following are some of the highlights other eventually realise their hopes use props and sing in Arabic, English,
of the new season, which will be and dreams. and Italian.
presented from September to
December 2017. The Moth Princess: Designed for Ballet
families and school children, this
Operas engaging interactive opera will be Swan Lake: Among the most famous
performed on the 9th of December. and best-loved ballets of all time,
Aida: The seventh season opens with The opera was inspired by ‘Turandot’, this masterpiece composed by Pyotr
Giuseppe Verdi’s ‘Aida’ on the 14th, Giacomo Puccini’s last grand Ilyich Tchaikovsky will be performed
16th, and 17th of September. The masterpiece. ‘The Moth Princess’ on the 28th, 29th, and 30th of
opera is set in the Old Kingdom will be performed by Teatro Sociale September. The ballet is performed
when Egypt was at war with Ethiopia. di Como AsLiCo, the company that by Kazakhstan’s prestigious Astana
An Egyptian military commander, brought to ROHM the immensely Opera Ballet Company and tells
Radamès, struggles to choose the story of Odette, a young woman
between his love for the enslaved
Nubian princess Aida and his loyalty transformed into
to the Pharaoh, while Aida, heir to the a swan by an
endangered Nubian King, must face evil sorcerer. It
the conflict between her love for the is only at night
military commander Radamès and that Odette can
her loyalty to her father Amonasro emerge as her
and her people. human self.
The spell will
L’occasione fa il ladro (Opportunity be broken if a
makes a Thief): Gioachino Rossini’s prince swears
light one-act opera will be performed eternal fidelity
on the 27th and 28th of October; it to Odette. A
tells the story of identity theft and prince passes
mixed-up rival lovers. Rossini had the by the lake
amazing skills of making his music during a hunting
vividly express humour and finding expedition
24 September 2017
and is about to shoot the swan, but intriguing narrative, and innovative Marcelo Álvarez: A concert by the Centre STAGE
stops when, to his amazement, the staging. Argentinean singer Marcelo Álvarez
most beautiful woman he has ever will be performed on the 31st of
seen appears, as the swan vanishes. Concerts December, celebrating the end of
Mutually enraptured, the two fall in the current year. One of the most
love and it seems all will be well, until Homage to Luciano Pavarotti: An important tenors in the world, Álvarez
the sorcerer intervenes. important highlight of the season will is also famous for performing Tango
be a tribute to one of the world’s music and popular Spanish and Italian
Cinderella: This modern, abstract all-time greatest opera singers, folk songs to great acclaim. Since the
fantasy ballet, performed by Ballet de the legendary Luciano Pavarotti. beginning of his career in 1994, he
L’Opera de Lyon, will be presented To honour the man who made the has won many prestigious prizes and
on the 21st and 22nd of December world love opera, a gala concert has toured regularly, participating in
in the evening, with an afternoon will be performed on the 14th of thirty-four premier performances in
matinée on the 23rd. This unusual December by some of today’s top prestigious venues.
and intriguing interpretation of the opera stars. They will sing a number
ballet ‘Cinderella’ is set in a doll’s of Pavarotti’s greatest arias such as The Alexandrov Red Army Chorus:
house with costumes to suit. This ‘Nessun Dorma’ (None shall Sleep) This performance will be presented
avant-garde, break-through version of and ‘La Donna e Mobile’ (Woman is on the 12th of October. The choir,
the tale of Cinderella, described as a Fickle). In addition, ROHM will hold founded almost a decade ago, has
brilliant theatrical triumph, has toured an exhibition of treasured Pavarotti gained popularity worldwide with its
the world, and is widely acclaimed memorabilia. rousing voices and robust singers.
for its amazing manipulation of mood, This stunningly impressive super-
Cliff Richard: Knighted in 1995 masculine choir gave more than 1,500
for his remarkable contribution to performances during World War II
popular music, the British singer and is now the official choir of the
and musician Sir Cliff Richard will Nation’s Armed Forces. Since the
be giving a concert on the 7th of 1990s, army women have occasionally
October. He has sold more than 250 been included as sopranos. A military
million records worldwide with many dance troupe has been added with
gold and platinum hits. In the UK, some performances by both men
sales of his singles have exceeded and women. The Orchestra for
twenty-one million, making Sir Cliff the Alexandrov Red Army Chorus
Richard the third-best-selling artist in includes both traditional and Western
UK Singles Chart history. instruments with a repertoire that
ranges from folk tunes to operatic
Ann Hampton Callaway (The arias and popular music.
Streisand Songbook): This concert
will be performed on the 29th of Dance
November. Ann Hampton Callaway
made her mark as a multi-platinum Traditional Dances: The Igor
award-winning singer-songwriter Moiseyev Ballet Company will
as well as a pianist, composer, present a programme of its most
lyricist, arranger, actress, educator, popular dances on the 9th and 10th
TV host and producer. Callaway will of November. One of the world’s
sing some of the legendary Barbra greatest traditional dance companies,
Streisand’s timeless classics - ‘Cry me acclaimed by some as the greatest
a River’ and ‘The Way We Were’. of all, the Igor Moiseyev Ballet is
renowned for technical brilliance,
professionalism, and exuberant
virtuosity
September 2017 25
feast ON ‘Amazing’
world of
Korean
food
Bi Bim Bab Tucked, literally,
in a by-lane off Azaiba’s busy
Amazing… We concur commercial zone is Muscat’s
with Seung Ho
Seok, head chef and only Korean restaurant -
proprietor of the Amazing Chicken
Amazing Kitchen
restaurant,whose moniker -‘Amazing’
- befits everything that spells food
in the restaurant. Not only was the
chicken, crisp fried in spice and soy
sauce, amazing, every dish on our
luncheon menu, from Kimchi Jeon to
Bi Bim Bab was absolutely amazing! It was a blazing summer noon when no choice for foodies to home in
we decided to park our car in the on the restaurant from the road.
Seok’s unpretentious approach to marked parking area, adjacent to the A little pathway, at the end of the
décor, whether in the façade or the restaurant, and find our way by foot. barricade, opens to an unpaved
interior, is reflective of his modest As instructed, we looked for the road parking lot, facing which is the
personality. Even as he hosted for us a leading towards the back section Amazing Restaurant, with its quaint
festive spread of some of the choicest of the Taste of India restaurant, and picket fence and the simple dark
dishes on the menu, he hardly made found it convenient to walk from the façade stating, matter-of-factly, ‘Taste
his presence felt, letting us devour first available parking spot and work of Korea’.
our lunch with abandon. He would up an appetite.
only pop up to pronounce the Korean And we had our taste of Korea. A
name for us and demonstrate, in his The restaurant does lose out on the traditional Korean fare…a culinary
own quiet way, his love for cooking visibility factor with a construction trip to Korea,replete with the country’s
and for all things Korean. barricade along the road, leaving flag, little Korean trinkets, K-pop in
Half and Half Dak Gang Jung
Photographs: Pushpender Sharma
26 September 2017
the background and music videos of pancake and quite a scrumptious Japchae
young Korean dancers screening on affair. Another Kimchi that we
the large television set. savoured came in the form of a soup. The big platter of Half and Half Dak
It is a tangy and spicy soup with tuna Gang Jung took us completely by
We have to admit that Korean food was and vegetables. surprise. This large platter, filled with
a novelty to our palate, but we weren’t two heaps of chicken, is just what a
apprehensive about the luncheon, With dishes coming hungry stomach needs. It features
having read all the rave reviews from in quick succession to two portions of fried chicken - half
foodies and the media. We were, in our table, we stopped with spice sauce and half soy sauce -
fact, looking forward to the Korean keeping a count on the and an accompaniment of shredded
Kimchi and the Japchae. And were we starters and the mains. The cabbage. The luncheon also got us to
in for a treat… generous portion sizes and taste a Korean version of sushi called
appetising presentations was all that KimBab.
The dishes came marching to our table got our attention. And, of course, the
like food soldiers, all assigned to keep taste. We made sure that we had a To give our luncheon a proper Korean
us busy with scrumptious starters, sampling of everything that came to finale, we sipped on warm Korean
mains, sides and the quintessential our table, to compare and make notes Green Tea and made our bows in
Korean tea. While the names of the on what to repeat the next time we appreciation of an amazing meal.
dishes took some learning to get the visit Amazing Kitchen. While Japchae
pronunciation right, recalling them will most definitely feature in our
has been another task. Like this dish next tryst with the restaurant, what
with glass noodles in it… It is called will also remain the highlight of our
Japchae and is said to be one of the current Korean rendezvous is the ‘Ju
most popular Korean dishes – even Mul Leok’, marinated beef with garlic
at Amazing Kitchen Restaurant, most sauce, which is barbecued right on the
guests choose it over the others. The table on an electric grill, with onions,
dish is a sight to behold with colours mushrooms, garlic and green chilli.
so vivid. Packed with stir-fried potato
glass noodles and mixed vegetables, We quite relished the Bi Bim Bab
the Japchae stays with you long after with the bulls-eye egg resting on
you have burped your satisfaction. top of a bed of rice and a variety of
fresh vegetables. It is accompanied
Another popular Korean starter on with chilli paste and a clear soup,
our menu was the DukBokki, a dish of making it a complete meal by itself.
seasoned rice and fish cakes with chilli Interestingly, the main course is
paste and vegetables. The confluence complemented with an array of sides,
of vegetables, rice and fish, in a rich including Korean dry fish, squids and
gravy, gives it a wholesome taste and rolled eggs among others.
feel. The Kimchi Jeon, in contrast, is a
crispy fried starter; it is a Korean style
Ju Mul Leok
KimBab Kimchi Jeon
September 2017 27
A Korean Fare
Indulge your fancy for Korean food with these
easy-to-prepare recipes
let’s COOK Spicy Cabbage 4. Place the cabbage in a large container which has a fitting lid. Stir in the fish sauce,
Kimchi green onions, white onion, garlic, sugar and ginger. Sprinkle the Korean chili powder over
the mixture (if needed, wear kitchen gloves while rubbing the chili). Seal the container and
Ingredients: set in a cool dry place.
l 2 heads Napa cabbage 5. Leave it undisturbed for four days. Refrigerate before serving.You can store it in the
(a type of Chinese cabbage) refrigerator for up to one month.
l 1 ¼ cups sea salt
l 1tbsp fish sauce
l 5 green onions, chopped
l 1 small white onion, minced
l 2 cloves garlic, pressed
l 2tbsp white sugar
l 1tsp ground ginger
l 5tbsp Korean chili powder (or Kashmiri
chili powder or Cayenne pepper flakes)
Method:
1. Cut the cabbages in half lengthwise and
trim the ends. Rinse and cut into pieces of
about two-inch square.
2. Place the cabbage in a large re-sealable
bag and sprinkle salt on the leaves and
use your hands to rub it on the leaves and
coat them evenly. Seal the bag and leave
at room temperature for six hours or
overnight.
3. Rinse the salt from the cabbage leaves;
drain and squeeze out any excess liquid.
Bulgogi - Korean BBQ Beef Method:
Ingredients: 1. Combine yellow onion, white and light green parts of
green onions, soy sauce, sugar, sesame seeds, garlic,
l 1/4 yellow onion, thinly sliced sesame oil, red pepper flakes, ginger, salt and black
l 2 green onions, chopped (separate dark green pepper in a bowl and mix well.
parts separated from white and light green parts) 2. Add steak slices to the marinade mixture; cover and
l 1/3 cup soy sauce refrigerate from an hour to one day.
l 3tbsp white sugar
l 2tbsp toasted sesame seeds 3. Heat a skillet over medium heat. Now, in batches, cook
l 3 cloves garlic, minced and stir steak and marinade together in the hot skillet,
l 1tbsp sesame oil adding honey to caramelize the steak. Stir until steak is
l 1/4tsp Korean red pepper flakes cooked through – it might take about five minutes. Garnish
l 1/4tsp minced fresh ginger bulgogi with green onions.
l 1/8tsp ground black pepper
l 1 1/2 pounds beef sirloin steak, cut into thin pieces
l 1tsp honey (or to taste)
l Salt to taste
28 September 2017
Pumpkins and Give the staid pumpkin a soupy let’s COOK
Mushrooms… texture and turn the everyday
bread into a toasted mushroom
cup with these savoury recipes
from Simran Dhanju
Roasted Pumpkin 3. Bake in pre-heated oven
and Garlic Soup at 220˚C for 25-30 minutes.
Remove the garlic from
Ingredients: 4. vegetables and peel them off.
In a large saucepan, add all
l 4 cups pumpkin, peeled, deseeded and diced 5. roasted vegetables and half
l 1 pod whole garlic/ 10-12 garlic cloves the quantity of roasted garlic,
l 1 large red onion, cut into chunks add stock cube and roast on
l 1 cup bell pepper chunks (red & green) low flame until stock is mixed.
l 1 cube vegetable stock Add tomato paste, sugar
l 2 tsp tomato paste and lemon, roast for further
l 2 tbsp oil 2 minutes, add 3 ¼ cup of
l Parsley leaves, for garnishing hot water, let it simmer for
l 2-3 tsp brown sugar 2-3 minutes. Season well with
l 1-2 tsp lemon juice salt and pepper if required.
l Salt and pepper, for seasoning Add little more water if soup
l Dash of cream, for garnishing (optional) is too thick and adjust
seasoning.
Method: 6. Blend them together in a
blender, crush few parsley
1. Heat oil on a very low flame, put parsley leaves and leaves with fingertips and
add to soup.
fry for a minute or until just crisp, but still green in 7. To serve, pour soup in deep
dish, garnish with crispy
colour. Remove on absorbent paper. parsley leaves, garlic cloves
and cream.
2. Pour the oil left in pan to the baking tray, put all
vegetables (pumpkin, bell peppers, onions and whole
garlic) in it, season well with salt and pepper and toss
to coat well with oil and seasoning.
Cheese Egg and Method:
Mushroom Toast cups
1. Pre-heat oven to 180˚C.
Ingredients: 2. Generously, grease muffin tray with oil, place bread slices in it;
l 8 large bread slices (white/brown) gently press down to give cup shape and make a well to pour the
l ½ cup cheddar cheese, grated filling in. Brush oil on the corners of bread hanging out.
l 4 eggs 3. In a large pan, heat oil on low, add garlic, toss for few seconds and
l ½ cup cooking cream add mushrooms. Sauté mushrooms on high flame until well roasted;
l 4 tbsp milk season it with salt and pepper and remove from fire.
l 1 ½ cups button mushroom (brown and white), sliced 4. In a pouring jug, mix eggs, cream, milk and cheese, season with salt
l 1 cup baby spinach and pepper.
l 2 cloves garlic, chopped 5. Now put mushroom and spinach leaves in bread cups, distributing
l 3-4 tbsp oil equally, pour eggs and cheese mixture on top to cover mushrooms
l Salt and pepper for seasoning and spinach.
l 1 large muffin tray 6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until eggs are cooked and bread is golden
brown.
7. Let the cups rest for 3-4 minutes in muffin tray, run a bread knife
around the edges to loosen it; remove gently. Serve hot with ketchup
or any sauce of your choice or just like that.
Simran is a celebrated chef and a winner of multi cooking
competitions; she creates visual delights artfully by merging
traditional flavours.
September 2017 29
Health CHECK Alzheimer’s
Demanedntia
As many as 46.8 million
people around the world
are battling with dementia
As Alzheimer’s organizations unless an imaging test is done to obvious. The patient forgets even
around the world focus reveal whether he/she has got details about him/herself and about
on raising awareness Alzheimer’s. important things. He/she even has
about Alzheimer’s and trouble doing everyday chores.
dementia on World Alzheimer’s This is followed by very mild Soon, they will lose track of time and
Day, this September 21st, find out changes where you will not outwardly place and have trouble remembering
how a little help, lots of support, notice anything amiss but there may even residential address, telephone
and unconditional love can help be small changes or differences in numbers... This stage is pronounced
the patient find the right balance behaviour. For example, forgetting a with very noticeable changes. And
to mitigate everyday problems word or misplacing something – this, as the disease progresses, he/she
associated with the disease. of course, might also be dismissed as will have problems recognising
a mere sign of ageing. faces and names and mistake
The early phase people’s identities. He/s she might
The third stage is where mild decline become delusional and need help in
Alzheimer’s disease is the most happens, when you will see changes managing simple everyday tasks.
common form of dementia; it is a in the way he/she is thinking or
group of disorders that impairs reasoning. It could be something as The last stage is when severe decline
mental functioning. Often, the obvious as forgetting something that occurs and the patient’s basic
disease progresses, rather unfolds in he/she just read or common trouble abilities such as eating, walking and
stages; however, the symptoms may in recalling names. sitting are affected. Many might not
vary in different patients. even be able to tell when they are
Dementia and decline thirsty.
In the early stage, the patient will
display normal outward behaviour This is the stage when the little signs
and may not have any symptoms, you noticed earlier become more
Tips for caregivers:
l As a caregiver, the onus is on you to ensure that the surroundings and
situations are injury-free.
l Identify the stressors that could cause frustration for the patient and
find ways to overcome it.
l While safety requires you to create a plan of action, that doesn’t
mean undermining his/her ability to do a task. Help only if the patient
demonstrates inability to do something. Also, ensure that the help you
are rendering is in the right direction.
l Make a checklist of activities to help him/her with daily care, including
grooming, bathing, dressing up, eating and physical activities.
30 September 2017
Acocntisviidtieers: to Health CHECK
Memory box calm the patient and create a more patients. Mild exercise and fresh air
conducive environment. can help relieve tension and anxiety,
Create a memory box with personal while providing personal space for
items of significance that can be Technology reflection. Even sitting in the garden
linked to people and events in or the backyard can have a positive
the past, like a favourite holiday While assistive technology has effect on the patient’s sense of well
destination, old office, a family proven to be effective in promoting being. However, it is important to
event, newspaper clippings or even independence and managing ensure that the outdoor is accessible
jewellery and clothing. This will help potential safety risks around the and the walking path is circular, so
the patient recall those memories house, Alzheimer’s patients can also as to take away the confusion and
and start conversations and boost benefit from electronic tablets to stay ensure that the patient returns to the
happy emotions. calm and reduce stress. Encourage same spot.
the patient to carry one along
Music to increase their interaction and Travel
communication with relatives.
Music has healing powers, and for Make travel time simpler and
patients with Alzheimer’s it could The outdoors enjoyable by planning the route and
play a role in help recall memories. creating a relaxing travel option, as
Music could take them back to the Like for most physical and mental the chances of anxiety attacks are
memorable times in the past. The problems, the outdoors has higher in patients with dementia.
music you choose could also help therapeutic value even for dementia
September 2017 31
in the luxe C&luBtacgh
‘Clutch the pearls’, literally, as we
present some of the most expensive
handbags in the world
‘1001 Nights’
Love all things bling and bright? Have the moolah to
back your penchant? Check out the 1001 Nights Diamond
Purse by House of Mouawad, if you haven’t already. It
has a Guinness certificate to back its most expensive
tag and is encrusted with precious stones to make it
completely exclusive. This purse, made up of 18 carat
gold, is encrusted with 4,517 diamonds in yellow, pink and
the colourless variants. It is a masterpiece created by 10
artisans who put in a total of 8,800 hours on it.
Price: $3.8 million
A platinum affair
This Hermes Birkin bag by Japanese designer Ginza Tanaka
is a complete platinum affair. It is 100 percent platinum and
has 2,000 diamonds to give it that wow effect. That is not all…
it also has an 8-carat, pear shaped diamond, and detachable diamond
studded straps. The idea behind the detachable straps is to add value to the
bag by giving the user a choice of turning it into an exclusive necklace or even
a bracelet. The pear shaped diamond on the centre, which is also detachable,
can double up as a brooch.
Price: $1.9 million
All about Diamonds
Right, there is nothing new
about diamonds and their
forever status. Yet, at the cost
of sounding rhetorical, Chanel
has named its expensive
hand accessory as ‘Diamond
Forever Classic Bag’, proving
that diamonds are, indeed, a
girl’s best friend. The Chanel
Diamond Forever Classic
Bag features as many as 334
diamonds (a total of 3.56 carats),
which are set in 18-carat white
gold. Even the shoulder straps
are made from white gold.
Price: $261,000
32 September 2017
Crocodile adaptations in the luxe
Named after actor-singer Jane Birkin, the
Hermes Matte Crocodile Birkin Bag is, by all
counts, an expensive affair. It is crafted from
crocodile skin, and the bag features a diamond
studded clasp, comprising 10 carats of white
diamonds.
Price: $120,000
Rose by any other
name…
This bejewelled
beauty is just what Clutch that alligator…
the style guru would Made from the skin of the underbelly of
American Alligators, this Lana Marks
have recommended Cleopatra Bag is designed specifically for
celebrities who love to adorn themselves with
for avid jewellery exclusive clutches/handbags. Lana Marks is
known to design her handbags with skins
lovers. Designed by of alligator, crocodile, ostrich and lizard.
She produces only one Cleopatra bag every
Hungarian designer year, made of metallic silver alligator skin,
featuring a clasp with 1,500 black and white
Judith Leiber, the diamonds in 18-carat white gold. According
to the designer, the clutch was inspired
‘Leiber Precious Rose’ by Elizabeth Taylor’s role in the movie
‘Cleopatra’ and is supposed to represent
bag comes across as a ‘powerful women with their exquisite jewels’.
Price: $250,000
perfect hand accessory,
Purple Crocodile
with more than 1,000 diamonds
Marc Jacobs Carolyn Crocodile Handbag is a
totalling 42.56 carats. Shaped as a purple quilted affair, made of crocodile skin.
Listed as one of Marc Jacob’s most popular
fully bloomed pink rose, it also bags, it is produced using crocodile calfskin and
comes with sectioned leather, both inside and
features 1,169 pink sapphires and out. There are additional pockets which imbue a
smooth finish and a polished look.
800 tourmalines, which are all set in Price: $38,000
18-carat white gold.
Price: $92,000
Get Gadino
Norwegian designer Hilde Palladino
has made luxury her signature style,
with her bags finding regular listing
among the most expensive bags in
the world. Her Gadino Bag, especially,
features 39 white diamonds that are
strategically placed
on the clasps made
from white gold.
Price: $38,470
September 2017 33
explore OMAN Bilad Sayt
Relish the tranquillity of a mountain village and bask in its
reflections of human tenacity and resilience
Bilad Sayt, which has been pathways connecting the homes and opening up a panorama of options
described as a tranquil mountain some of them even stretching to a to explore and indulge the driver in
hamlet, is a paradise for those storey or two high, the village belies you.
seeking to savour the old world its old status. In the neighbourhood However, experienced or otherwise,
charm of village life. The village is a square tower, which apparently caution needs to be exercised
has retained its traditional mien, played a strong role until it turned as the rugged terrain could hold
even the air is redolent with the into a ruin. The tower stands on top unexpected surprises. Hiking is
years that have been trapped in of the hill that oversees the village, another matter though. Bilad Sayt
its ramparts. making it look like a sentinel. is an excellent hiking place with its
Located on the north-eastern To add energy to the drama interesting landscape and the village
slope of the Al Hajar Mountains, unfolding in the horizon, nature has life it opens up.
near Jabal Shams, Bilad Sayt can endowed the place with its very own With most travellers describing Bilad
be reached through Wadi Al bounty. Contrasting sharply with the Sayt as one of the most picturesque
Sahtan and Wadi Bani Awf or via sheer earthy tones of the dwellings villages in Oman, the onus is on all
Al Hamra on a four-wheel drive and the rugged hills that it is holding visitors in maintaining its sanctity.
vehicle. on to, are the lush date palms and And that means respecting the
As the unspoilt beauty of the the terraced fields in the foreground. wishes of the villagers, who prefer to
village beckons, you can be The village looks as if it is sharing an see visitors trekking in rather than
assured of a time away from time embrace with the rugged hills in the driving through.
experience and feel the stress area, creating that scenic enigma for
and monotony of city life ebb nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts.
away to get lulled by the nature With Jabal Shams mountain range
laden vistas. The stone and mud creating value addition to the village
homes, clustered together to trip, it is bound to be a visually
resemble an unsteady staircase gratifying experience.
along the sloping terrain, is Adventure enthusiasts can look
reminiscent of most villages in forward to an off-road trip, with the
Oman. But what makes Bilad striking landscape of canyons, deep
Sayt stand apart from others gorges and valleys along the way,
is its esoteric ambience, as if
the village has been crafted by
nature itself. With labyrinthine
34 September 2017
explore OMAN
As you near the village, you will come
across the open grass field, which,
obviously, acts as a football ground.
You could park your car here and
trek along the cliff paved with natural
black granite, to have an eyeful of the
breathtaking scene.You could trek
on and feel the mesmerising effect of
the village or give the villagers their
privacy and enjoy the vistas of the
village from the cliff.
But with hospitality running in their
veins, the villagers are bound to
welcome your presence and even
be willing to chat up.You could also
experience the falaj system, which
runs throughout the village. The
gentle burbling sound of the water,
in cadence with breeze, adding
harmony to this visual fare…
How to get there:
The distance from Muscat to Bilad Sayt is about 155-odd kilometres. The
village is within easy reach of Al Rostaq town. Once you reach this town,
drive towards Al Awabi, and turn right in the direction of Wadi Bani Auf.
Drive for about 25kms through the Wadi and you will soon come to an
intersection that will take you to Bilad Sayt.
September 2017 35
Just TRAVEL RweitchoNnnaectture
Holidays that spell ‘nature’ are gaining popularity,
with travelers seeking destinations that are
intrinsically oriented towards environment
conservation
Reconnect with nature on your next holiday to experience mental and physical gratification that only
nature can prescribe with its scenic bounty. Take time to soak in the beauty that nature has carved out
to appease all your senses and, perhaps, appreciate the essence of William Henry Davies’ poem ‘Leisure’:
What is this life if, full of care, we have no time to stand and stare.
No time to stand beneath the boughs and stare as long as sheep or cows.
No time to see, when woods we pass, where squirrels hide their nuts in grass.
No time to see, in broad daylight, streams full of stars, like skies at night...
If you are a nature lover, you need no ruse to shake off the daily monotony and wander off to a nature
retreat; but if you have a busy schedule, with ‘no time to stand and stare’, and require that little prod in the
right direction, check the list of destinations below, sourced from TripsToDiscover.
Dominica
This is the ‘Nature Island of the Caribbean’ and
perfectly fits into any nature lover’s agenda. Its
lush landscape includes volcanic hot springs,
natural mud baths, rivers and waterfalls and
pristine rainforest.You could find opportunities
for whale watching and visit a leatherback,
hawksbill and green turtle sanctuary. Divers
could indulge their fancy, as the sheer
underwater drop-offs around Dominica create
deep, sheltered bays along the western
coastline.
Finland
Aurora Borealis, that spectacular show of
colourful natural light, is what you get if you
travel to Finland.You could catch aurora
sightings from Oulanka National Park during
its special season which falls in October and
November as well as March and April. There is
a glow of silence in Finland that will captivate
you immediately, whether you are traversing
through the 20,000-island Finnish archipelago,
walking along the rocky beaches, exploring
the national parks and the wilderness areas or
hiking it up.
36 September 2017
The Baths on Virgin Gorda Just TRAVEL
Located in British Virgin Islands, the Virgin
Gorda is a nature capsule, with its famous
Baths providing the magical lure. The Baths
are made up of giant granite boulders that
form sheltered sea pools. It is a perfect
destination for travelers who are lured by
water bodies – whether it is The Baths, the
Devil’s Bay or The North Sound. There are
opportunities for hiking as well at the Gorda
Peak National Park.
Gros Morne National Park Durmitor National Park
Gros Morne National Park, located in Newfoundland, is a picture of The Durmitor National Park in
striking natural beauty. The park, a part of the Long Range Mountains, Monetenegro is home to nearly 50
stretches across nearly 700 square miles. It is encircled by tiny seaside peaks that tower over 6,500 feet. It
communities and features dense forests, freshwater fjords, dramatic presents a dramatic landscape that
cliffs and picturesque shorelines, which stand in stark contrast to the has been carved from limestone
barren lowlands, bogs and moose.You also get your fill of the jaw- by ice and water over the years. Its
dropping sight of Tablelands, a mountain of flat-topped rock. magnificent vistas open up to three
canyons, including the Tara River,
The Matterhorn which is home to the deepest gorge in
Europe. There is also an ice cave that
The Matterhorn, or the ‘Mountain of you could visit.
Mountains’ in Zermatt is Switzerland’s
most famous peak, stretching up
to 15,000 foot like a pyramid. It is a
towering beauty that overlooks the
picturesque village of Zermatt, which
has also earned repute as a car-free
zone.You could, of course, get to the
top by riding a cable car that leads all
the way to the summit.
Lake Atitlan
Guatemala’s Lake Atitlan has been
described as the most beautiful
lake in the world. Situated in the
Guatemalan Highlands of the
Sierra Madre mountain range, it is
surrounded by three volcanoes and
has a tranquil ambience around it,
which is accentuated by the inspiring
backdrop. There are options for hiking,
kayaking and biking.
Palau
Palau is a small collection of islands in the western Pacific Ocean with some
of the best diving and snorkeling sites in the world. The islands are mostly
uninhabited and are also home to the first shark sanctuary in the world
September 2017 37
look GOOD TAhceceFsisnoerAisritnogf
Fashion is more than just the
clothes one wears; it is an art form
mastered by those who have learnt
the importance of accessories to
define their fashion statement
Simply put, accessorising is the art of putting the ‘look’ together. It is the value addition to even the most
exclusive designer outfit; it is the style quotient of the wearer. However, while right accessories can make or
accentuate a look, wrong, or say loud accessories can completely put a spoke in the fashion wheel.
It can ruin even the best of clothes, bringing to fore the importance of learning the finer nuances of
accessorising, either by following a trial and error method or emulating those who have mastered the art.
You could, of course, learn it right here, with this quick guide for the accessory-challenged:
ACCESSORISING TIPS
Create a harmony: When choosing accessories, make sure that it harmonises with
your outfit, whether it is the shoes, the handbag or even something as simple as a clip
on your hair. Accessories include everything that you add on to your outfit. Broadly
speaking, it includes shoes, handbags, eyeglasses and sunglasses, jewellery, scarves
and ties, hats, belts, hosiery and socks and hair ornaments. The idea should be to
ensure that there is a common element or an idea that flows between the accessory in
question and the outfit you are wearing. It could be the colour, texture or some aspect
of the design that adds to the harmony of your look. In addition to harmonising the
outfit with the accessories, try and find a balance between the different accessories.
It could be a metal appendage on the shoes and the bag or in the ornaments you are
wearing. Having said that though, do not hesitate to experiment with contrasts. Use
the trial and error method to find which contrast helps to rock your look.
38 September 2017
Size and shape: What is also important, besides harmony lifestyle mantra
between the accessories and the outfit, is an understanding
of your body scale and the size of the accessory. And that CASuAl
means a knowledge of your height, weight and the bone ChIC
structure while picking up accessories to accentuate your
look. So, if you are of small built, choose accessories that By Sophia Raman
range from small to medium accessories, and, if you fall
in the large scale, anything from medium to large will CASuAl CAN AlSO bE
work for you. Medium built ones have the liberty to pick STylISh, IF yOu lEARN
accessory of any size. The idea should be to accentuate hOw TO mASTER ThAT
your positive features. This also applies to the shoes you dISTINCTIvE CASuAl ChIC
select to complete the look. Find a balance between the lOOk, ThAT IS
scale of your ankles and calves.
When it comes to casual chic, you need to think
Accessory shopping: It is, generally, uncommon to buy beyond your meticulous office wear and the glam
clothes because it complements a piece of accessory evening look. You need to find the middle way to
in your collection. Consequently, you might wear some adapt that ‘effortless’ look, without taking away the relaxed
piece of accessory without considering its value addition mood or the refined look. The easiest way to go about it is to
to your outfit. This might simply defeat the purpose of find right accessories and ensure clean lines in your overall
accessorising, unless your collection of accessories is presentation.
wide enough to complement various shades, textures
and designs. The best way to avoid any fashion faux pas Casual chic is essentially about getting the accessories
is to make a concerted effort to shop for accessories for right. While ballet flats and attention-grabbing sandals can
particular outfits, by taking the clothes with you when easily add up on the casual chic counter, you could give
shopping. your appearance that special touch with jewellery – without
going overboard, of course. Stick to simple main pieces and
don’t overdo it: Have a clear idea why you are get your hands on neutrals that can help you mix and match.
accessorising (definitely not to look like a tinselled
Christmas tree). Stick to the moderation rule. Any attempt Casual dressing is, generally, about pairing simple wardrobe
to overdo it will spoil the fun for you. It is best to follow the essentials; but giving it the chic overture is about enlisting
tried and tested method, which dictates that you stick to the assistance of trendy accessories. Pick an outfit that has
one main layering area.You cannot have your arms filled comfy written all over it. It should be something that you feel
with bangles and bracelets, neck overloaded with chains you could wear all through the day and even carry it to your
and necklaces, fingers packed with rings…unless you are evening do with an addition of, say, a scarf and some bling
at an Indian wedding and are wearing one of those loaded jewellery...or a change from the flats/flip-flops to a heeled
kanjeevaram saris. shoe.
Think beyond jewellery: On a count of ease and When in doubt, remember the key to a casual look is your
convenience, jewellery works as the easiest accessory quintessential denim jeans and a smart tee - a blazer and
to set your look. But jewellery is not the only item of a scarf can help you dress it up any time, if the occasion
accessory to help you get it right. Shoes are powerful and demands.
so are handbags, not forgetting sunglasses... Some of the
high end brands might require a hefty investment, but if Casual chic will never go out of style!
you are innovative, you could easily find the ones that can
fit the budget and accentuate your personality
September 2017 39
take a SPIN Cadillac XT5:
progressive and
versatile
Described as a progressive vehicle, the Cadillac XT5 is packed
with advanced features that are crafted to help you stay safe and connected
It is, perhaps, the look and feel
of luxury that first draws you with adjustable space options. It has can be reverted back to its regular
to the Cadillac XT5, beckoning reinvented versatility to give luxury view with just a toggle. According
you to come hither and take a new name. to a product brochure, there is an
notice. But it is its air of casual integrated washing system that keeps
nonchalance that captivates you, As we drove around the busy highways the camera lens exceptionally clear.
indulges your fancy for cars that can and cruised along vacant inner
reflect an intellectual bearing. Soon, roads, we got to taste its progressive With winter slowly making its way
you will find it conversing with you, features. Like the surround vision, home, the ‘UltraView’ Sunroof will
highlighting the overriding comfort which, we learnt quickly, is all about prove to be a boon.The sunroof covers
factors and underplaying the luxury establishing a higher perspective. It both the seating rows, ensuring that
angle. provides you with a bird’s eye view every passenger can have his/her
of the area surrounding your vehicle share of the sky view. You could have
when you are driving in low speed your eyeful of sky even in the noon
Our white beauty was sobriety or reversing your car, giving you that time with power sunshade, which
personified. A graceful leader, who added advantage in reducing blind blocks out light and helps keep the
knew just how to prod us to get the spots and better maneuverability in cabin cool.
most from its advanced features, tight spots. As we said earlier, the focus is on
which have been described as To complement surround vision, the enjoying its progressive features…
progressive. While our tryst with the Cadillac XT5 also has a rear camera Like the visionary lighting system
Cadillac was a brief test drive, it mirror,which streams what lies behind that frames its sharp exterior while
didn’t fail to convince us that it was the driver on to the rearview mirror. earning you envious glances from
tailored just for us - whether it was This makes driving so much fun as it other road users. LED Cornering
the smart and spacious interior with provides a wider and less obstructed lamps cast light into curves as you
enough and more legroom for all field of view, in comparison to other drive along, while available LED
the passengers, or the cargo room traditional mirrors. What is more, it Intellibeam headlamps automatically
40 September 2017
switch between high and low beams take a SPIN
as other vehicles approach you. And,
whether you call it a functional Cruise Control, which allows
feature or a beauty addition, you to follow a vehicle ahead
the XT5 also comes with at a selected gap time while
Illuminating Door Handles, you steer and also reduces
which light up when the doors your need to brake or accelerate.
are unlocked, giving you a
welcome glow in low light conditions. The XT5 also has Automatic Stop/Start, a fuel saving technology that stops the
vehicle’s engine under certain conditions; Electronic Precision Shift (EPS), a
Safety is, of course, a top requirement technologically advanced feature that allows you to use a console mounted
and the XT5 relies on technology to lever to shift gears electronically; and Wireless Charging, which enables you to
assure safety. Using a sophisticated charge your Smartphone without ever having to connect cables.
network of radars, sensors and
cameras, its safety features are The XT5 is definitely a smart choice.
engaged in monitoring the road and
alerting you of possible hazards. Of
particular importance are the Side
Blind Zone Alert and the Pedestrian
Collision Mitigation, which scans the
road ahead for pedestrians and sends
an alert, while engaging automatic
braking to help avoid collisions.
Other safety feature is the Adaptive
Photographs: Pushpender Sharma
* OTE Group is the exclusive dealer of Hyundai’s range of vehicles in Oman. September 2017 41
Photographs: Pushpender Sharma
style FILe Power Puffs and
Statement Sleeves
From cold shoulders that turned runway
fashion into an everyday trend to dramatic
statement sleeves, fashion is, indeed, a many
splendored thing
Fashion has, apparently, found inspiration from fairy tales
and historical plays, with eye-grabbing gigot sleeves and
an array of dramatic flares and ruffles continuing to rule
the fashion circuit.
The more exaggerated the sleeve, the better…
Designers have taken to sleeves in a big way this year,parading
every kind of sleeve conceivable, even embellishments and
ruffles. Exaggeration, it appears, has found newer definitions
of the sleeve kind, with the fashion runway scoring high on
statement sleeves.What made these trends win followers is the
ease with which fashion savvy ladies have adopted catwalk
styles without flinching at the drama on their sleeves.
While the cold shoulder and off-the-shoulder styles have had
their moments in the sun, the cold shoulder trend continues to
work its magic, carrying with it a sweet appeal that has made
it popular with fashionistas from their 20s to 50s. It is, perhaps,
the ease with which cold shoulder tops can be paired with any
skirt or trouser, unlike other dramatic sleeved tops that require
some attention to detail and panache to carry it right.The idea,
say fashion gurus, should be to create a harmonious look,
not an overdramatic ensemble with sleeves that could graze
people in a one-foot perimeter.
Some of the
sleeve trends
to look out for
include…
Ruffled sleeves
Ruffled sleeves look feminine,
even if you opt for a dramatic
touch. Depending on the
occasion and, of course, your
preference, you could opt
for a toned down version or
check out the different fits and
volumes in the style.
42 September 2017
Bell sleeves Style FILe
There are long bell sleeves and
shorter ones too. These sleeves are
named so, as the sleeve comes with a
full flare at the hem, which gives it a
bell shape. The sleeves are fitted until
a certain part of your arm and then
flared out in a bell shape. The shorter
version is, generally, shorter than the
elbow.
Gigot sleeves
The gigot sleeve or the leg-of-mutton
sleeve is wide at the top and narrow at
the bottom. It is a dramatic style that
was popular in the 1800s, which was
all about flamboyant clothes.
Bishop sleeves
It is a long sleeve that is fitted from
shoulder to elbow and flared from
elbow to wrist, featuring even
ruffles on the cuffs. The flares are
gathered at the wrist by a cuff.
Every fashion addict, it
appears, has an ace up
the sleeve – find yours…
September 2017 43
style FILe EVEMRaYlaDbaAr Y...
One for everyday… That, in a crux, is the
implication behind Malabar Gold & Diamonds’
Everyday Collection, which is designed to meet
the everyday requirements of ladies who have
their fingers on the fashion pulse and know just
what can give their style quotient a perfect touch.
44 September 2017
esque It wIth ALe
In ThE dEfEnSE of
malE rompErS
AlE Al ZADjAlI chEckS ouT MAlE
RoMpERS To pRESEnT hIS pERSpEcTIvE on
ThE vERSATIlE pIEcE oF gARMEnT
Even though it is
still scorching hot
outside, summer
is technically over
and I feel like this is
the perfect time to try
out the season’s most
controversial clothing
item - the romper
(‘Romphim’ to anyone
who’s masculinity is
fragile).
What is a romper?
It’s essentially a one piece and, despite being mostly
popular in a baby’s wardrobe, it has made its way to
the grown-up sections of stores. now, women have
been wearing them for a while and they come in
different styles, but earlier this summer they were
introduced for men.
The Internet blew up back in May/june and everyone
was talking about them, mostly negatively. They
became the joke of the Internet because people
compared them to the baby onesies. clearly, anyone
who’s a media sheep and is easily influenced would
have forgotten that women wear them, and I’m pretty
sure coveralls (construction, field engineering, etc.)
falls under the same category. Also, let’s not forget
that james Bond (Sean connery) donned them back
in 1964. Anyway, I decided to take some time to invest
in a custom-made pair (2…fine it’s 4).
I took them out for a test drive at a casual gathering at
a friend’s place to test the wear ability, and it fit like a
glove. A week later, I wore the other one to a karaoke
night and performing the hannah Montana song that
night was extremely easy - because of the durability
of the romper.
In conclusion,
rompers are brilliant,
incredible, amazing,
show-stopping,
spectacular, never-
the-same, and totally
unique; I recommend
them
Ale Al Zadjali is a 23 year-old award-winning
fashion designer; he is the brain behind
the ‘Esque By Ale’ line of clothing
September 2017 45
Summer Special Fashion
Forever
Take a walk down the fashion aisles and explore the endless avenues to find
your style quotient and experience the feel good factor emanating from
clothes that accentuate your persona
Do you have the wardrobe essentials that
every woman should have to fit into the
trends established for this year?
Say, you have a couple of jeans, some tees,
a formal trouser, a black skirt some silk
shirts/blouses and an evening gown, in your
wardrobe... But what about those perky essentials
that have been prescribed by style gurus to add up
your style quotient?
Do you have the following essentials in your
wardrobe…?
Slogan T-shirts
Blame it on the influence of
social media, loud slogan
T-shirts have become a
wardrobe essential to get
46 September 2017
Summer Special
White tee Cashmere sweater
Call it the staple of every wardrobe, A winter must-have, cashmere sweater
whether you are a man or a woman. is a timeless wardrobe essential; just
A white tee can do wonders to your what your weekend would need in the
style. A white crew neck tee is a perfect coming months.
starting point when you get ready to
pair it with, say, a slip dress or a pair of Pencil skirt
jeans. The same applies to white button
down shirts too – it is your best fashion You probably have one in your
accomplice. wardrobe and must have turned it into
your office staple. But for this year, you
Blazer could give it a weekend flavour, as you
go shopping or attend a social do. Pair
Office-goer or not, what you need is a it with a tee or a silk top for those after-
strong-shouldered blazer to give your hours.
everyday jeans and t-shirt a makeover.
With winter getting set to turn things Lacy tops
cooler, you would need it now more than
the beginning of the year. For some reason, the sheer lacy top
keeps making its presence felt at the
Smart trousers trend counter every once in a while. It
has been classified as a 2017 wardrobe
A must-have for your office… Wear it essential and is perfect if you are
with heels or trainers to add that chic looking to layer it around a white or a
factor. neutral tee.
Wide-Leg Pants Athleisure…
Wide-leg pants are in this year in a big This is a cool piece of fashion that has
way. With interesting options to choose its say almost every year. It will instantly
from, you could consider either the make your wardrobe sportier and give
extra long pants or the one cropped you an easy opportunity to feel trendy.
right above the ankle. There are high
fit and paper-bag (loose fitting) ones to Khakis
look out too.
It’s the season for outdoors, and what
Skinny jeans better to make the most of it than a pair
of khaki pants… It is classic and a must
Some things are for keeps - like skinny have to complement your dressy tops
jeans. They are still very much a part or jackets.
of every woman’s must-have. This time
around, though, opt for a cropped
version or go for a high-waist one if you
want your legs to look long and slim.
your perspective across on anything
under the sun. The idea, perhaps, is
to give you a Tweeter like platform to
make a statement about your opinions,
whether it is about your personal likes/
dislikes or your political ideologies.
September 2017 47
Summer Special Ymoaunrtsratyle
Don’t know what to wear or don’t know
how to wear it…?
Taking a cue from the clichéd ‘style cannot be bought’, we take you
on a fashion circuit to show how you can find your panache with
the clothes you already have. You would be surprised how a little
tweak here or there can turn your outfit into a fashion ensemble.
Learn the fashion ropes to assess the clothes in your wardrobe and
find clever ways to style them to put your chic foot forward.
Button-up Scarf right
Who said button-up tops With winter all set to make a grand entry, you
are boring? Simply pop could easily bring out the scarves lying at the
the collar, push the sleeves bottom of your wardrobe and find exciting
up, knot the ends and ways to style it with your outfit. A quick online
complement it with a high- tutorial on draping scarves will help you
waist skirt or pant. If you attain your style nirvana.
are wearing it with a jacket,
wear it long to let it peek
from under the jacket. And, if
you prefer, wear it buttoned
all the way up and pair it with a statement necklace that doesn’t
clash with the top.
Tee time
Give your regular tee a style punch with twists and tucks. If you are
wearing mid rise pants, give it a careless half tuck in the middle,
and, if it is a high-waist skirt that you plan on wearing, opt for a
tighter tee, which you can tuck neatly in. Alternately, depending
on the occasion, go for the carefree look by giving it a small knot
on one side. If you are a white tee person, you could pair it with
bottoms of any colour or print or add a blazer or cardigan to add
some colour to your ensemble; if not, go for scarves or statement
necklaces.
Roll up
There is something just so distinct about rolled up sleeves…as if
comfort is all that matters to you at the fashion alter. Rolled up long
sleeves, even if you are wearing a classic shirt, can give you that
cool look.
48 September 2017
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