Camila Cabello can’t get enough of Lebanese designers  

Camila Cabello showed off Andrea Wazen heels this week. (Instagram)
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Updated 08 October 2024
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Camila Cabello can’t get enough of Lebanese designers  

DUBAI: US singer-songwriter Camila Cabello is proving to be a loyal fan of Lebanese designers, stepping out in Andrea Wazen heels this week following a high-profile appearance at the MTV Video Music Awards in a Tony Ward dress.

Wazen took to Instagram to share two photos of Cabello showcasing her designs. In the first, Cabello wore chic black open-toe heels called “Carol,” featuring a slender stiletto and white insole. She paired them with a fitted black halter-neck dress, styled with platinum blonde hair and dark sunglasses. 

In the second photo, she wore the “Carol” heels again, but this time in white. The heels feature a signature strap across the toes with a twist detail at the front. 

 

 

For this look, Cabello opted for a tailored beige blazer and matching mini skirt, paired with a light blue button-down shirt styled asymmetrically. An oversized bow on one shoulder and an untucked hem added a playful, relaxed touch to the polished outfit.

Her Tony Ward dress, worn at the Video Music Awards in September, featured a black lace design with intricate embroidery across sheer fabric. With a fitted silhouette and semi-transparent sleeves, the look was completed by a dramatic black lace veil.

 

 

Trained in Paris and London, Wazen launched her eponymous brand in 2017. Her designs are known for their sleek silhouettes and meticulous craftsmanship.

Recognized for her impact on the fashion world, Wazen has become a prominent name in luxury footwear, putting Lebanese design on the global fashion map. Her creations have been worn by the likes of Jennifer Lopez, Katy Perry, Kylie Jenner, Hailey Bieber, Cardi B, and more.

 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by camila (@camila_cabello)

 

The latest celebrity to embrace her designs was US actress Sydney Sweeney, who wore the designer’s “Denver” heels in white nappa and mesh.

Additionally, US singer and songwriter Kelsea Ballerini recently attended the premiere of “Doctor Odyssey” in Wazen’s “Rouches” sandals in beige. 

 

 

Beyond celebrity endorsements, Wazen has earned industry acclaim, receiving the Fashion Trust Arabia Accessories Designer Award in 2019 and the Emerging Talent prize at the Footwear News (FN) Achievement Awards in 2020. 


Looking great: Skincare in the spotlight at Hia Hub

Updated 01 November 2024
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Looking great: Skincare in the spotlight at Hia Hub

DUBAI: Hia Hub, Saudi Arabia’s conference for fashion, beauty and lifestyle, returned this week for its fourth edition in Riyadh’s JAX district, featuring discussions, masterclasses, workshops, interactive exhibitions and live performances.

Among the highlights were several appearances by Patrick Chalhoub, president of Chalhoub Group, where he and the guest speakers discussed the latest developments in the skincare industry as part of “The Skincare Edition: Unfiltered” summit.

“The whole idea of the summit is to take our visitors — be it professionals, skincare lovers, or customers who don’t have enough knowledge — through different experiences,” Chalhoub told Arab News ahead of the event.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Hia Hub (@hiahubofficial)

“They get to diagnose their skin, so they know which areas to focus on, but in a playful way, where people come and engage in all these different experiences, each one brought by a different brand. They’ll learn more in a non-commercial way, almost like a discovery game.”

Speaking about the skincare landscape in Saudi Arabia and the Gulf region, Chalhoub said he had noticed different trends among younger and older consumers.

“The more mature group, I would say, tends to be quite traditional in their skincare habits. They prefer brands they know and trust more than anything,” he said.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Hia Hub (@hiahubofficial)

 

“Although mature women are the ones who might benefit more from extensive skincare routines, they tend to use fewer products that target specific needs.”

By comparison, people under 30, including men, were “much more conscious of their wellness,” Chalhoub said.

“They use skincare products more frequently and are willing to experiment with innovative products, even with brands that are not necessarily very popular.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Hia Hub (@hiahubofficial)

“They read more. They are more curious and adventurous, which is why South Korean and Japanese brands, even though they’re not that well known here yet, are making a strong impact in the region.

“Asia has such a big skincare market, with a lot of laboratory research,” he said.

Chalhoub also discussed how climate and culture can influence people’s skincare habits.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Hia Hub (@hiahubofficial)

“For example, in the Gulf region in general and Saudi Arabia in particular, we know the sun here is very strong. So, sunscreen and products that protect against sun-related damage are essential here.”

People also used more moisturizers to ease the irritation of sun-dried skin, he said.

Chalhoub said that while he believed an era of homegrown skincare products could be on the horizon, it was not an easy industry to break into.

“There is a certain level of research and professionalism required in order to be able to do it,” he said.

“It’s not just about creating packaging and making it attractive, you really need to make sure that the product contains high-quality ingredients. Entering the skincare market will always be more complex.”


Saudi designer Nouf Al-Rashed launches latest collection in London

Updated 01 November 2024
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Saudi designer Nouf Al-Rashed launches latest collection in London

RIYADH: Narma, the label founded by Saudi designer Nouf Al-Rashed, showcased its inaugural collection, titled Agal, in London this month. 

The womenswear line features the black cord of the agal — the Arab men’s clothing accessory that keeps the ghutrah in place — as a central theme throughout each piece. 

“The Agal collection is inspired by the rich heritage of the Middle East, particularly the agal, a symbol of honor, pride, and identity,” Al-Rashed told Arab News. “By reimagining this traditional piece, we are blending the past with the present, offering modern fashion that pays homage to our roots while embracing a contemporary, global aesthetic. 

The designs prioritize inclusivity and accessibility, moving away from traditional gendered pieces. (Supplied)

“While we are not exclusively a womenswear line, in the context of the agal we do feel drawn to highlight it most,” she continued. “Our womenswear line seeks to empower women with designs that are not only luxurious and beautifully crafted but also deeply connected to a meaningful narrative. It’s about sharing heritage and offering elegant pieces with character. Moreover, the collection is a blend of heritages, a concept that resonates deeply with the Narma brand.” 

The designs prioritize inclusivity and accessibility, moving away from traditional gendered pieces, she explained. 

“In this collection, the agal — a traditional male accessory — has been transformed into a bold and symbolic design element.  As women were traditionally excluded from the Agal, we wanted to bring in the idea of a woman’s crown. We aimed to share this symbol of honor with a female audience, making it more inclusive and accessible to all,” said Al-Rashed.

Saudi designer Nouf Al-Rashed is the founder of Narma. (Supplied)

 Sustainability is also a core principle for Al-Rashed, who is dedicated to crafting durable, ethically-produced ensembles. 

“We use eco-certified fabrics to ensure our materials are responsibly sourced. We also upcycle dead stock fabrics, minimizing waste and promoting circularity in fashion,” she said. “We work with partners who follow fair labor practices and prioritize minimizing environmental impact. Our designs are optimized to eliminate fabric waste, and we embrace a slow-fashion approach, producing just one carefully curated collection each year. By releasing limited editions, we avoid overproduction and remain true to our sustainable values.” 

While the inaugural showing of the Agal collection was in London, Al-Rashed plans to bring it to the Kingdom before the end of the year.  (Supplied)

Al-Rashed also revealed the deep influence that her parents have had on her career. Her mother May Aljabr's philanthropic efforts with the Saudi Cancer Foundation, along with her father Rashed Al-Rashed's achievements in the world of business, have inspired her to make a meaningful impact in her own right, she said. 

While the inaugural showing of the Agal collection was in London, Al-Rashed plans to bring it to the Kingdom before the end of the year. 

“Although the inspiration for the Agal collection is deeply rooted in Middle Eastern culture, the idea and the brand of Narma were born in London. It felt natural to launch the collection here, in the city that shaped so much of our creative journey. Soon in Riyadh, we will be bringing Narma back to the culture that inspired the collection. 

“We hope to evoke in all audiences the same sense of playfulness, curiosity, imagination, and lightness that we felt while bringing this collection to life.” 


Bruna Biancardi explores Saudi Arabia ahead of Hia Hub appearance

Updated 31 October 2024
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Bruna Biancardi explores Saudi Arabia ahead of Hia Hub appearance

DUBAI: Brazilian influencer and model Bruna Biancardi arrived in Riyadh to attend the fourth edition of Hia Hub, Saudi Arabia’s conference on fashion, beauty, and lifestyle.

The model, who is soccer superstar Neymar's partner, shared an Instagram story to remind fans of her special appearance at the event on Nov. 3.

She also gave fans a sneak peek of her time in Riyadh, sharing an Instagram Story post from her dinner at Japanese eatery Myazu with her 11.7 million Instagram followers.

The model and footballer also seemed to spent time on Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea coastline, with Biancardi sharing images from a resort in the area.

Hia Hub, Saudi Arabia’s fashion, beauty and lifestyle conference, returned for its fourth edition in Riyadh’s JAX District and will run until Nov. 3.


Where We Are Going Today: ‘Nails Glow’

Updated 30 October 2024
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Where We Are Going Today: ‘Nails Glow’

Nails Glow, a cozy and inviting nail spa, offers an elegant and calming ambiance perfect for a relaxing pampering session.

During my visit, I was greeted by friendly and welcoming staff. The minimalist decor and soft lighting set the tone for a tranquil experience.

The process began with meticulous hand cleansing, followed by the nail technician gently filing and shaping my nails. I appreciated the attention to detail and the professionalism displayed throughout. The technician wore gloves and maintained hygiene, ensuring a clean and safe environment, which is a must for a wholesome nail spa experience.

Nails Glow stands out not only for its professionalism but also for its variety. The spa offers an impressive selection of services and a wide range of nail polish colors, from subtle neutrals to bold, vibrant shades, catering to every preference.

To elevate the experience further, the staff serve a complimentary drink, adding a touch of hospitality that enhances the overall atmosphere.

What truly makes the experience special is the short massage provided after the manicure. This thoughtful gesture leaves your hands feeling refreshed and rejuvenated, making the visit feel more like a complete pampering session rather than a simple manicure.

However, one downside to Nails Glow is the difficulty in securing an appointment, as the spa isn’t too flexible with scheduling. This can be a challenge for those with busy or unpredictable routines.

Prices are reasonable for the quality of the experience, the cleanliness, and the extra touches — such as the massage and complimentary drink — making it a worthwhile investment.

For more details, check @nails.glow.sa on Instagram.


Hia Hub: Day 1 sees industry experts explore growth opportunities in Saudi Arabia

Updated 30 October 2024
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Hia Hub: Day 1 sees industry experts explore growth opportunities in Saudi Arabia

  • Patrick Chalhoub kicked off the discussion by highlighting the significant differences in the Saudi consumer landscape compared to other markets
  • Mazroua Almazroua contributed to the discussion by exploring how integrated luxury experiences can be designed to appeal to Saudi consumers

RIYADH: Hia Hub, Saudi Arabia’s fashion, beauty and lifestyle conference, returned for its fourth edition in Riyadh’s JAX District with the opening day on Wednesday featuring panel talks on the growth of market opportunities in the Kingdom.

One such panel discussion, titled “Capitalizing on KSA and Beyond: Unveiling Market Opportunities in Saudi Arabia,”  was moderated by journalist Ritu Upadhyay. The session brought together industry leaders including Burak Cakmak, CEO of the Saudi Fashion Commission, Patrick Chalhoub, Group President of the Chalhoub Group, and Mazroua Almazroua, Chief Marketing and Experience Officer at King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD).

The conversation focused on the unique attributes of the Saudi market and the potential for growth in various sectors.

Chalhoub kicked off the discussion by highlighting the significant differences in the Saudi consumer landscape compared to other markets, stating: “What’s different first is the size of the population. We have a much bigger and wider demographic.” He emphasized that wealth in Saudi Arabia is not confined to a small elite but is increasingly found within a growing middle class. This demographic shift presents a wealth of opportunities for businesses, especially as consumer preferences evolve, he said.

“Understanding the local consumer is crucial,” he added, underscoring the need for brands to engage meaningfully with this diverse market.

Chalhoub also pointed out the cultural aspects that distinguish Saudi consumers, noting: “In Saudi Arabia, there is a stronger cultural attachment to luxury. Consumers are looking for creative, personalized, and exclusive products.”

This cultural context influences purchasing behaviors, with consumers placing a high value on the story behind luxury goods. However, he cautioned that the luxury market in Saudi Arabia remains relatively small, indicating room for growth.

“We have to change the environment and adapt,” he remarked, suggesting that brands must innovate to capture the market's potential.

Almazroua contributed to the discussion by exploring how integrated luxury experiences can be designed to appeal to Saudi consumers. He shared insights on the importance of understanding local preferences, stating, “Over 70 percent of Saudis travel specifically for fine dining and unique experiences.”

He emphasized that events blending cultural elements with luxury offerings have proven successful. For instance, a KAFD initiative to host Michelin-star chefs has garnered significant interest. “We sold out every weekend,” Almazroua noted, indicating the strong demand for high-quality, culturally resonant experiences.

Cakmak further expanded on the opportunities for local designers as Saudi Arabia's lifestyle destinations evolve, remarking: “There is a burgeoning local design scene that has often been overlooked. We need to celebrate Saudi creativity.”

The discussion at Hia Hub illuminated the vast potential for brands in Saudi Arabia. As the market continues to evolve, understanding the unique characteristics of the Saudi consumer will be key to capitalizing on emerging opportunities. The integration of cultural insights, innovative experiences, and a focus on local talent will shape the future of luxury in the Kingdom. As Cakmak aptly put it, “We have a chance to create something unique that reflects our identity while engaging with global trends.”

Taking place from Oct. 30 to Nov. 3, Hia Hub will feature discussions, masterclasses, workshops, interactive exhibitions and live performances.