Anna Miriam

Maybelline's "Born to Be" Winner  − Design

Alf mabrook to Afiifa Moin for winning the Maybelline "Born to Be" abaya design competition.

Afifa won 10,000 USD, Maybelline products for a year and internship at DAS Collection.

We're looking forward to seeing what's next from the budding designer!

Enjoy your prize, you've earned it!

Noon Tees  − Trends

We've recently come across Noon, a tee shirt brand from Saudi. Theirs tees incorporate modern pop culture Arab design. As a huge Flintstones fans, we completely fell in love with their Fred tee and the Arabic spelling out "Yabadoo" (or actually, "Yabayoo" as it says). We also really liked their polo shirts with an embroidered camel, nice touch.

Noon tees have amazing quality, their shirts fits like that one favorite shirt you've had forever, which you'll swear you'll never get rid of.

Check out:

www.noongroup.com

Visit:

Noon in the Dubai Mall

New Obessesion: Khawla Al Marri  − Art

Dubai based pop artist (and we really do mean artist, not singer!), Khalwa Al Marri is our new obsession. The fine artist recalls on her childhood of the 80s and 90s for inspiration, drawing heavily on the vibrant colors and atmosphere - resulting in some of the coolest art we've seen in a while.

Khawla's fashion portraiture features legends such as Karl Largerfeld, Coco Chanel and of course the Louboutin shoe (yes, our beloved Louboutin shoe belongs up there). We love Khawla's quirky and colorful approach. We especially like the touches of Arabic on her paintings (see Karl portrait).

We think Khawla Al Marri is a refreshing breath of pop/fashion/fine art air.

Check out more of her work @:

http://kayforkhawla.com

Email her @:

kayforkhawla@gmail.com

Tweet her some love @:

KhawlaMarri

Harper's Bazaar Fashion Illustrator of the Year  − Design

Are you Harper's Bazaar Fashion Illustrator of the Year? Well they're looking for you.

Harper's Bazaar Arabia is holding a competition, calling all amateur illustrators to submit original illustration of a key autumn/winter 2010 catwalk look shown during New York's Fashion Week last February.

Selected entries will be displayed on the Harper's Bazaar Arabia.com website and at an exhibition taking place during the Harper's Bazaar Fortnight of Fashion 2010 at The Dubai Mall from 7th-20th October.

The winner will receive some pretty fantabulous prizes valued at over DHS 10,000.

This is a great opportunity to get recognized and to cash in on, well, major cash dollar bill!

Entries will be open until September 1 2010. Go to www.harpersbazaararabia.com to enter.

Snog Opens in Dubai  − Food

Finally, our favorite, Snog, has opened up in Mirdif City Centre! We love, love, lurrrrve a bit of Snog. We can't wait to get down there for some green tea froyo. We're loving their interior design too (although that doesn't surprise us), it's uber garden gnome meets space age.

YUM!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY LAMIS!!!   − Happiness

LOVE YOU!!

Rima Fakih, Miss USA 2010  − People

We're not sure how we missed this but the uber beautiful Rima Fakih, winner of Miss USA 2010 is Lebanese. Rima was born in Srifa, Lebanon, her family moved to Michigan in her young childhood.

Rima won Miss Michigan USA 2009 and then won Miss USA 2010. Rima, a proud Muslim and Arab will continue on to the Miss World pageant where she will compete with Miss Lebanon. When asked about her feelings on the topic, she simply commented on how amazing it is that there are two Lebanese women in the competition. (Side note: We love a girl with a good built in PR filter)

We do have to agree with Rima and we're excited to see such a beautiful and eloquent Arab/Muslim woman representing Miss USA.

Marami is Happiness  − Happiness

I've been eyeing this necklace at Marami for a week or so and I finally came to my senses and bought it.

Marami is happiness, every time I walk in there I walk out with the most amazing piece - like those giant pink crystal glasses and now this necklace.

I'm a pink fanatic so the necklace immediately stuck out to me but I also really love the unique placement of clasp in the front, it gives the necklace a real edge. It feels more like a collection of little treasures than your typical necklace. I found the combination of the pink stones, gold clasps and turquoise coral to be so attractive.

Jewelry is such a personal experience and this necklace was definitely calling me.

Every time I put on a piece I bought from Marami, it's like wearing happiness - I get a huge smile on my face and it puts me in such a good mood.

Whoever said money can't buy happiness clearly hadn't shopped at Marami.

Check out:

Marami in the Dubai Mall

Follow Marami @MaramiOnline

Princess Ballerina Outfit from BabyBling  − Happiness

We have a new edition in the fam, so of course I immediately drove down to the BabyBling in the Village Mall.

When you don't have a little tot to spoil, baby shops seem to stock cute items BUT when there is a baby in the picture EVERYTHING becomes the most adorable item you have ever seen and you need it immediately. Blinged out VIB (Very Important Baby) onsie? Yes. Sheikha pacifier? Yes. White mini Mercedes convertible? Yes. She may not fit for two years but it's never to early to think about your baby's first toy car.

I finally decided to get this cute cotton tee and shorts (think onsie made into twosie). It combined my two favorite careers, princess and ballerina!

Check out:

BabyBling @ the Village mall
+971 4 344 1115

www.babybling.com

Huda Kattan  − People

How pretty is Huda Kattan! Kteer helwa, mashallah! Huda is a Hollywood trained makeup artist and beauty consultant based in Dubai.

We've been obsessing over her site, www.hudabeauty.com. Huda blogs on beauty products, fashion looks and personally uploads make up tutorial videos. Her vids include celebrity looks such as Kim Kardashian, Megan Fox, Beyonce and answers your make up questions via video tutorials. Her videos are super easy to understand as she guides you step by step on how to get the look.

We definitely love the Huda beauty look and we think you will too.

Now time for us to go play with some make up!


Check out:

www.hudabeauty.com

tweet Huda @hudabeauty

E.VIL a la Burj Al Arab  − Design

The glittery/Swarovski/crystalized/iced fashion brand, E.VIL, has designed a black and white graphic tee which reads, "THE PRIVATE BEACH OF BURJ AL ARAB".

I love my graphic tees and this one is pretty fantabulous. Who gives a fudge about being a recessionista? Bring on the mocktails, dip my ice cream bars in gold and pass me my Chanel surfboard.

In the words of Lady Gaga, "bang bang, we're beautiful and dirty rich".

The private beach of the Burj Al Arab? Yes, please.


Shirts are available at Harvey Nichols in the Mall of the Emirates.

Thursday Nights at OneOnOne  − Places

Quickpic, me and the lovely Lady GlaMO, Tamara Al Gabbani @ OneOnOne in the Monarch Hotel.

New Niftee Collection   − Fashion

The beautiful Aljoud Lootah, founder and designer of Niftee is featured in this month's Harper's Bazaar, along with two items from her latest collection.

We are such huge fans of Niftee at www.annamiriam.com, so we couldn't be more excited to see one of our fav brands in Harpers. We love the playful graphic hippie look. That jumpsuit and the braiding on the maxi dress definitely screams Anna Miriam to us. Absolutely cannot wait to get our hands on the new pieces!

Go buy the Harpers mag and get ready to be stunned!

Check out:

www.niftee.ae
http://twitter.com/NifteeAE
http://www.facebook.com/Niftee

Gold Queen Performance Artist @ Dubai Mall  − Trends

The Dubai Mall never fails to impress me, it is without a doubt, my favorite mall. The Dubai Mall has everything, shopping (over 1200 stores!), restaurants, entertainment (Sega Republic, KidZania, Cinemas), a massive aquarium, ice skating - the list goes on.

What I really love is when the Dubai Mall puts on events, such as the Young Entrepreneurs Competition, the Karate Contest or their Paintball fair on the waterfront. You can tell that they really care about the user experience at the mall, it's not just about getting people to shop.

Yesterday, while heading to Bloomies from the ice rink - I saw a performance artist dressed up as a gold statue of a queen (she was cleverly placed outside of the restaurant, Shakespeare). She was amazing, surrounded by loads of people watching her to see when she'd make a move.

It was such a nice little surprise to see a performance artist at the world's largest mall. The Dubai Mall is an experience, and every time I go I seem to pick up on all the small details they put into making it such pleasant one.

Anna Miriam featured on House of GlaMO  − Happiness

So check us out on the House of GlaMO blog, http://www.houseofglamo.com/1/post/2010/07/fashion-bloggin-glam.html

We absolutely j'adore House of GlaMO and couldn't resist snapping up some pics of us in our fav tee.

We're in UBER BLUSH mode after we read what MR and LADY GlaMO wrote about us.

<3 x x

Left-Handesign  − Design

Check out these modern, kitsch and quirky invitations designed by Dubai based graphic design boutique, Left-Handesign.

Led by Radhika Mayani, Left-Handesign is one of the coolest graphic design companies to come out of Dubai.

I really love the invitations above, the cards are simple but you can see there has been a lot of attention to detail.

Their site, www.left-handesign.com, is great too. They have a quote on their homepage from Paul Valery that says, "the best way to make your dreams come true is to wake up". I think this quote is perfect and so true, it says a lot about Left-Handesign that they chose to put it up.

As a graphic designer myself, it's really exciting to see genuinely good work to come out of Dubai instead of just importing Western designs. This is amazing time for home grown culture, designers and artist.

We <3 Left-Handesign!

Check out:

www.left-handesign.com
left-handesign.blogspot.com

BabyBling, Village Mall  − Trends

A few years ago, ummi bought me the sweetest, softest, pink stuffed animal of a kitty. Being in my 20s, it's not often I receive stuffed animals as gifts, especially from my mom. I asked my mother what made her think to get me such a gift, she told me that she had actually bought the same stuffed animal for my newborn baby niece and thought that I would like one too.

I learned that it doesn't matter how old you get, because you will always be your mother's baby, that baby stores have an endless supply of all things pink and if it's good enough for a baby then it's good enough for me.

BabyBling, is the coolest, cutest, blinged out baby store located in the Village Mall in Jumeirah (pictured above). In a world where celebrity babies have become trendier than their actor parents, it's important your babies status cool starts early.

BabyBling has the most adorbs onesies and blinged out pacifiers. The shop can personsalize hospital rooms to welcome your newborn, customize hampers, they organize baby showers, murbarakiyas and birthday parties. Basically, anything you want - BabyBling can do it.



Check out:
BabyBling @ the Village mall
+971 4 344 1115

www.babybling.com

World Cup Anna Miriam Fan Art  − Happiness

Ahhh soo check out this amazing artwork from Reem in Ajman! She made us the coolest Anna Miriam football kits, home and away! Glad to know that we're not the only fifa obsessed girls out there. Anyways, we couldn't be happier with the kits as we've been thinking about making our own dreamteam for the for World Cup. You know Wesley Sneijder, Robin Van Persie, Kevin Prince Boateng, Mesuit Ozil....

Thanks so much Reem, we love it!

Maryam Keyhani Jewelry - We're obsessed!  − Design

We're officially obsessed with Maryam Keyhani jewelry - just about the prettiest we've seen. Her jewelry is playful, luxurious and delicate, often combining unexpected textures such as pearls and feathers. There is a lovely sense of asymmetry to Keyhani's jewelry.

What I love most about Maryam Keyhani's jewelry is that when I look at it, I see art - not accessories. Her website, www.maryamkeyhani.com, reminds me of being a child in museum where your mother tells you not to touch anything but all you want to do is run your hands over everything.

Yes, I'd like to get my hands on all of her jewelery!


Check out:

www.maryamkeyhani.com

Sweetcover Laptop Case  − Design

I have been looking for the perfect laptop case for the past year and a half or so. I love my MacBook Pro, I like to pamper it with lacie external hard drives or Lady Gaga headphones (yes, I'm a bit of a geek) but I still have never found a laptop case/bag that I felt was good enough for my mac.

I have an extensive list of characteristics that I take into consideration when searching for the perfect laptop case/bag.

1. It has to be cute.

I hate bags that look like they're made for a computer. They are generally way too big, black with shiny polyester material and it looks like some ancient Dell laptop belongs in it.

2. I don't want it to be made out of cheap material.

It doesn't mean it has to be expensive but I've paid a lot of money and put a lot of love into my laptop, so it only deserves the best.

3. It needs to be unique.

There are millions of people out there with the same laptop as me, so it's really important that I can customize my computer - even if it's just a little bit.

4. The case/cover/bag has to have straps

I used to have a simple cover for my laptop. I thought it was cool to take a minimalist approach (ie you don't need a laptop bag) but when you travel it's really annoying to try and fit your computer into a bag that's really not made for one. It can also be dangerous to your puter (yes I meant to say puter). Plus, if you don't have the right support (ie straps) it can be uber painful carrying around computers.

5. Does it come in pink?

I'm pink obsessed, just because you grow old doesn't mean you have to grow up. I will probably end up being one of those crazy 80 year old women that wear pink from head to toe but at least I'll be happy. I see no exception for my puter.

My ongoing search for the perfect laptop case has been a major stress in my life. One time I spent six hours googling cases. Every time I found one I remotely liked I felt that I had to compromise on one thing or the other.

Earlier this year I thought I had found my perfect match with Mulbery's magenta clutch laptop case. I thought it would be really cool if my laptop case looked like an oversize clutch from Mulbery - but then I thought, "do i really want to carry a 15-in laptop in my arms every time I go somewhere?" - no.

It's been a miserable search, until tonight. On my way to watch Prince of Persia in the Mall of the Emirates, I stopped at a kiosk selling black and pink laptop bags/cases/etc. At first glanced I brushed it off, assuming that it was probably some cheap brand - clearly why they would be at a kiosk, right?

I could not have been more wrong. The bags were from a brand called Sweetcover, from France. It's made out of a faux crocodile skin leather, which feels great and is heat resistant. The bag has handles, which you can pull up or push in to hide them - so you can hold the bag like a brief case. The bag also comes with a very comfy removable shoulder strap (which is almost impossible to find laptop bags with cute shoulder straps). The bag will carry your laptop but if you open the bag it also acts as a cover (see above images). Of course, best of all, the bag comes in pink!

The bag retails for about 300DHS, depending on which one you buy. Head down to the Mall of the Emirates or check out www.sweetcover.com

Mega Exhibition @ Bloomingdales, Dubai Mall  − Design

The Mega Exhibition has moved from the DIFC to Bloomingdales in the Dubai Mall (the household section opposite Wafi Gourmet).

The exhibition displays all sorts of cute little Megas designed by various artists. They can be seen all around the Bloomies shop. One my favorites is featured in the window, it's brown and says "little brown mega", carrying loads of litte brown bags! Too Cute!

I really lurve the window display, I like the cut out, the big void, the colorful silhouettes of the Megas against the black background.

If you're lurving the Megas too then you can go to Bloomies and purchase your own to decorate or keep a crisp white. I'm huge customizable vinyl toys collector so of course I had to get my hands on a Mega! I'll be decorating it in the next few days and will post pics!

Francisco Yeste  − People

Footballer, Francscico Yeste just signed today to the Al Wasl football club, joining us from Atletico Bilbao. Of course, wwww.annamiriam.com joined in on the festivities to welcome the Spanish footballer. We were dressed up in our fav Holland kit, and of course knocked Brasil out of the Cup.

Here's to more EU footballers joining UAE football club and to Holland winning the cup!

House of GlaMO Tee  − Happiness

Check out my new tee from House of GlaMO, which I bought down at Marami. I absolutely love this shirt, I think it's funny, I like the message and I like that it's says Dubai <3;s U, as opposed to everyone copying I <3 NYC shirts. I also adore the fact that I got the shirt in grey, my fav.

Shirts can be bought at Marami in the Dubai Mall.

Also check out:
www.houseofglamo.com

Now go ahead and tell me how adorable I look.

Back in the UAE  − Places

Phew! Finally back in Dubai after a few trips. On my way to the airport (flying to Dubai) I saw this huge Fly Emirates AD. Emirates Airline ADs seems to be everywhere these days, including @ the World Cup.

Now, can anyone guess what city I was in?

A x x

Skype to Open Regional Office in Bahrain  − Trends

Skype has just announced that they will be opening a regional office in Bahrain. This is quite an exciting move, although it is surprising that they did not choose Dubai.

I'd like to see Twitter and Facebook make the move as well but I'm quite pleased with Skype.

Etisalat - lift the Skype credit ban, now please!

Funky Bling Ring from S*uce  − Happiness

So the other month I posted about the cool acrylic Funky Bling that S*uce had custom made.

Obviously I'm S*uce fanatic, so I couldn't be more excited when I got a "Shou Hellwa" (Look Pretty) Funky Bling ring! The ring fits across three fingers, it's very Gaga fabulous - it's humorous, cool and playful. I tend to wear a lot of black so it really makes an outfit for me.

Ahh I love it!

Go check them out @S*uce x

Fashionation.me  − Fashion

The other month my mother called me up and asked if I was member of Gilt Group - I was not. She told me all about the amazing fashion deals available, each day there are new designer products available to purchase at super discounted prices. She then offered to send me an invite as the site was invitation only.

Fashionation.me is the Middle East's version of Gilt Group. Every few days there are different sales, also featuring all sorts designer brand and products.

The site is also invite only but I've signed up to the site for a visitor monthly pass. I like Fashionation.me, I like the fact that the site translates into Arabic and prices are in AED. It's exciting to see Middle East based sites with such authenticity and commitment so the region.

I think these new discounted sites are the way of the future. I love a bit of window shopping Net-A-Porter.com but I don't tend to spend a lot $$$ on a site unless it's a piece I've been trying to track down forever and I've already tried it on in the store.

Fashionation.me is a fashionita's and recessionista's dream. I absolutely love feeling like I got a deal on things.

Now someone should either make me a millionairess so I can shop on Net-A-Porter.com all the time or send me an invite to hello@annamiriam.com!

Urbansouq.com  − Trends

Urbansouq.com is my new fav ME site. Urban Souq is mix between Grazia and Net-A-Porter with a Middle Eastern twist. The site covers fashion and lifestyle, I love their style tips. They also have great articles, ones that you can tell people thought about as opposed to generic "summer trends" reports etc.

Defo go check it out!

www.urbansouq.com

Maybelline's "Born to Be" Finalists  − Design

A few months ago we put a post on the Maybelline's "Born to Be" Cosmetic Couture design competition. Maybelline asked people to design a collection of abayas, which had to be inspired by their new make up line. The prize includes: 10,000USD, an internship at DAS collection and Maybelline products for a year! It's a pretty sweet prize.

The five finalist have been chosen (which can be seen at www.maybellineborntobe.com/vote.aspx).
My fav finalist is Areeb Malik, a Preston University student who has designed some beautiful abayas. I really like her illustration style and her designs are romantic, gothic and glamorous all at the time same time.

The finalist are required to now construct and make their design (hard!), I can't wait to see them.

Will keep you all posted.

www.maybellineborntobe.com

Arab World Online Stats  − Trends

According to SocialMarketME there are 66,000,000 online users in the Arab World. The Middle East has a population of 202,687,005, so about 33% of the pop is online.

If the internet was more Arabic friendly, would more of you be online?

Expose Communications  − Trends

As a blogger I have to think about what to post every single day. Sometimes things will jump out at me, like the World Cup mega screen at the ice rink or I may receive emails from PR companies with press releases about a brand/product/event/etc. It doesn't matter how I find the content because ultimately whatever goes up on my site is handpicked by me.

Recently, I've been internet-ing with Expose - you know, skyping/tweeting/emailing. Expose is a PR firm, they represent Middle East talent, providing their clients with offices in Dubai and London.

What struck me about Expose is their individuality. They've handpicked their clients, representing cool brands like KAGE. You can tell that they've really thought about their brand/personality as a PR firm. I love brands/companies with a real sense of individuality - Lamis Khamis, Amato Couture, House of Glamo, Niftee - they've all got it.

So now that I've been exposed to Expose, I'm kinda a little obsessed. I check out their twitter to see what they're talking about and I read their blog to see what they're up to. They've got their finger on the pulse.

If you're a cool brand looking for representation then check out Expose. If you already have representation then take a moment to think about what your PR company says about you. Let's be honest, we're all label snobs.

www.expose-communications.com
exposecommunications.wordpress.com

tweet: exposecomm

Coolest & Comfiest Place to Watch the World Cup  − Trends

I love the Dubai Mall! Earlier this week we posted a pic of the World Cup being played on the mega screen at the ice rink in the Dubai Mall. Well if you head down to the ice rink during their featured games, you can relax on bean bags in the middle of the rink while watching the match.

The ice rink at the Dubai Mall is definitely the coolest and now comfiest place to watch the World Cup.

Niftee Scarves  − Fashion

I've literally become a Niftee obsesseeee over night. Check out (above) their limited edition scarves made especially for the President's Cup - which will be given away to VIPs!

I absolutely love, love, lurrrrve these scarves. I adore the geometric print horse, I think it's perfect graphic compliment to any outfit and I'm also uber obsessed with the Arabic calligraphy horse. I need both!

Niftee is giving away limited edition scarves to people that follow them on twitter, so hurry up and add them @NifteeAE.

www.facebook.com/Niftee

Niftee Tees  − Fashion

I'm a tee shirt kind of girl. I love my shoes, I love my handbags and I love my leather jackets but what can really beat a simple cotton tee?

The Emarati brand, Niftee, are the perfect every day tees. The tee shirts are 100% cotton adorned with beautiful illustration.

The Inkblot collection are designed to test your personality. Each design can be viewed in multiple ways. Of course, my favorite is the Cute Bug tee (pictured above).

Cute Bug, has "Arabesque designs combined with Arabic caligraphy topped with large blue Swarovski crystals and blue metallic studs". The shirt is available to purchase for 200 AED.

Check out:

www.niftee.ae

:D  − Happiness

A x x

The Coolest Place to Watch the World Cup  − Trends

The ice rink at the Dubai Mall has fifa fever. Not only have the participating countries' flags been hanged from the ceiling but now you can ice skate while watching live games on their mega screen.

Thankfully the screen is so big that you can enjoy the match from the bleachers or the surrounding cafes.

I love the whole idea of this. The World Cup just kind of takes over people's lives (including my own), for a month social activities revolve around what game is showing when. So if you're going to be watching the game, there's no need to let it interfere with your other activities.

Besides, you'll feel so much better if you're actually getting a work out while watching the football!

Meet Mega @ the DIFC  − Design

Meet Mega, an eight inch customizable toy created by Emirati designer Mohammed Abedin. 100 UAE based artists were invited to customize their own Mega, which are now down at an exhibition at the DIFC.

My favorite Mega, is the lovely little Lady Gaga, designed by Mohammed Hindash. The pint size Lady G looks absolutely faboosh in her acrylic black jacket.

You can order your own customizable Mega from the Cuadro art gallery in the Gate Village for less than 200 Dhs.

www.foo-dog.com

Meet Mega @ the DIFC  − Design

Meet Mega, an eight inch customizable toy created by Emirati designer Mohammed Abedin. 100 UAE based artists were invited to customize their own Mega, which are now down at an exhibition at the DIFC.

My favorite Mega, is the lovely little Lady Gaga, designed by Mohammed Hindash�. The pint size Lady G looks absolutely faboosh in her acrylic black jacket.

You can order your own customizable "Mega" from the Cuadro art gallery in the Gate Village for less than 200 Dhs.

Gucci Hotel to Open in Dubai  − Places

Gucci will be opening up a hotel in Media City at the end of this year.

I guess the Armani Hotel has been doing well if Gucci is looking to open their own hotel. It's a little unexpected, Gucci is great brand - I'm just not sure how distinctive their interior design will be. Armani and Gucci are both Italian brands with quite a similar sleek and modern aesthetic.

I think DSQUARED should open a hotel. I'd love to see/live in that!

Footballer Fabio Cannavaro Moving to Dubai  − People

Fabio Cannavaro, captain of the Italy football team has just signed a deal to play for the Al Ahli club.

While the price of his contract is undisclosed, it is said that he'll be getting EUR 500,000 for every 20 appearances.

There is also rumor that Alessandro Del Piero, the Juventus captain, is about to sign for Al Ahli too.

Could Euro footballers playing for Dubai clubs become a trend? I hope so!

BECKHAM! BECKHAM! BECKHAM! Come to Dubai, we want Posh!!

More Amato Couture on GNTM  − Fashion

Here's another picture from the finale of Germany's Next Top Model, all the models are in stunning Amato Couture designs.

I absolutely love, love, lurrrrve Amato Couture. Furne is such a genius, his clothes are magical, feminine and strong. I'd love to see an Amato Couture exhibition.

Let's Face It @ Bloomingdales  − Beauty

Bloomingdales Dubai (Dubai Mall) had a little party to celebrate "Let's Face It" - what I believe is a cosmetics line. Whatever it is, they got a DJ and some very talented graffiti artists to do some live art.

I think the graffiti is beautiful and the vibrant colors of the illustration really make me want to try on some make up.

Amato Couture on Germany's Next Top Model   − Fashion

The finale of Germany's Next Top Model featured specially designed dresses from Dubai's master of haute couture, Amato Couture. The models wore Amato designs down the finale runway.

Heidi Klum, uber super model and host to the show is a bag fan of Amato Couture, this is also the third consecutive year that Amato has been featured on the show.

Above is picture of Heidi Klum with this year's winner, Alisar Ailabouni, in Amato Couture.

Love, love, loves it!

www.amatocouture.com

Fly Emirates Ad @ World Cup South Africa  − Trends

The Fly Emirates Ad debuted at the World Cup's first game with South Africa VS. Mexico. The ads were displayed with video screens that acted as border for the pitch.

I love how much Fifa fever Dubai has.

I Fancy a Snog in Dubai  − Food

My fav, fav, faaav frozen yogurt, Snog, is coming to Dubai. The amazing British froyo, will be opening shop in July at Mirdiff City. Thank goodness, only Snog can get me through Dubai's summer!

I've heard that they'll be opening up in more GCC countries, will keep you all posted.

www.ifancyasnog.com

MyFashDiary.com  − Fashion

I've been on a web indulgence lately, (this my third post this week on sites) and I have to say, I"m quite obsessed with this new site.

MyFashDiary.com is a blog run by Tala Samman, a "Dubai girl at heart" and a London College of Fashion student. As a St. Martins girl myself, I love to see what the University of the Arts students get up to.

Tala's site is an exciting mix of fashion inspirations, her looks of the day and designer lookbooks - after all this is her fashion dairy.

We look at a lot of sites every day at www.annamiriam.com, and boy do we see a lot of fashion sites! Myfashdiary.com is defo one of the most intriguing fashion sites we've checked out. Tala's site is personal and commercial, there's something for everyone. Her looks of the day leave us with "omg I really need that jacket, bag, etc". Plus she even posted my Virginia Johnson pink shark scarf, how could we not love??

We defo think that Tala is the next Jameela Jamil (sorry Alex, we're kinda over it).

Tala - we think you should start vlogging.

Check out:

www.myfashdiary.com

Boutique1's Uber Chic Site  − Fashion

Boutique1 has to be one of the world's chicest stores. If Net-a-Porter had a real life shop mixed with some Middle East flare, it would be Boutique1.

Boutique1 has recently relaunched their website (www.boutique1.com), which does remind me of Net-A-Porter.com with it's modern design but with more of an edge. Boutique1's online shop offers women's fashion, men's fashion and lifestyle products (such as books, household ware, etc). They even have their own style look books - I lurve.

I'm super impressed with the total revamp and new addition of their online shop. I'm not a huge online shopper but I'm a redonkulously huge online window shopper. I like to see what's a available, formulate my next fashion vision and then go into their store to buy.

If you don't live in Dubai then Boutique1's new online shop is perfeKt (with a capital K) for the overseas shopper.

Happy Shopping!

Dubizzle.com is Booming  − Trends

Dubizzle.com is about to launch in about 15 Middle East countries, apparently they are also UAE's largest classified website.

For those of you that aren't with familiar with Dubizzle (I'm talking to my overseas readers), Dubizzle.com is similar to Craigslist.com but obviously orientated to Dubai.

I've never actually bought or sold anything on the site but it's really useful to get a perspective on Dubai and Abu Dhabi. I like to see what apartment prices are going for or what different places look like and Dubizzle always serves up.

Another congrats are due to Dubizzle.com, it's great to see home grown sites do so well.

Satwa Exhibtion by Zayed Univeristy  − Design

Head down to the DIFC (in the exhibition hall next to EDGE) to see Sen10r Exhibition - a Senior Exhibition by Students from the Department of Art and Design, Zayed University, from June 5 – 17, 2010.

The exhibition generally commented on the revamping of Satwa. My favorite pieces were by Arwa Salahaldin Sharafi, who said, "My works are intended to evoke feelings and emotions. They are not mere pieces of art, but are mediums for spreading a message, an influential one."

Two of her designs (above) read, "Did you know 10,000 Satwa residents were asked to evacuate their homes for a new project called Jumeirah Garden City? – Maintain Satwa's People".

As a graphic designer myself, I think Sharafi's pieces are subtle, delicately drawn and bold in it's message.

Congrats to all the designers for getting their thoughts across so beautifully. Now let's just hope some people are listening!

Air Arabia Adds New Route to Iraq  − Places

Flights to Najaf, Iraq will be available from Air Arabia starting on June 8th. The flight will run twice a week.

This is the airline's 64th destination but also their only route to Iraq.

I don't particularly follow airline routes but Air Arabia and FlyDubai has recently launched new destinations within weeks of each other.

I think I smell a flyoff.

Lamis Khamis Online Shop Now Open  − Happiness

I'm so excited to announce that the Lamis Khamis online shop is now open at www.lamiskhamis/store/.

I'm such a huge LK fan. Every time I wear a Lamis Khamis piece I always feel like this really cool girly tomboy. Her clothes have such great personality and I definitely can't wait to buy items directly from her site.

Lamis is sending loads of love to her customers and fans by giving a 20% discount. When you check out enter TWITTER20.

As always:

www.lamiskhamis.com
or tweet her @lamiskhamis

Paris is in Egypt  − People

The beautiful Miss Paris Hilton is in Egypt. I have to wonder if Paris will be stopping in Dubai as she's in this part of the world.

Come visit us Paris, we want to see you dressed up in pretty Gulf clothes!

DAS Resort 2010 Collection Preview  − Fashion

On Wednesday the 9th of June, DAS will be be previewing their Resort 2010 Collection. It will be ladies only from 4-6pm.

Reem Beljafla said, "the new resort collection was designed with summer, travel, hope and luxury in mind. We designed the collection thinking of a woman who dresses with effortless elegance, but who also loves fun, colour and doesn't take herself too seriously - she's on her way to St Tropez already! Our muse is a strong female, but who doesn't mind attention. The look is hot and brave, we've used bright patterns and prints."

I love their muse, so I'm really excited to see how their abaya approach
has influenced their Resort aesthetic.

For more deets on their events, check out:

www.dascollection.com

Christopher Lee Sauve & House of GlaMO Collaboration  − Fashion

This has to be on of the coolest collabs to happen. My favorites, Christopher Lee Sauve (I wore his "Save Anna" bag for the "What's in my Wardrobe" Grazia shoot) and the amazing Bonnie and Clyde duo of House of GlaMO are teaming up. House of GlaMO took to their own blog, describing their new venture as "fantastic East meets West combo".

I'm one of those girls who really takes pride in wearing and finding cool, individual brands - so it's amazing when two of them come together. It's like when Chloe Sevigny did a line with Opening Ceremony. It was just perfect, either you get it or you don't.

Anyways, I'm curious to see what they come up with. CAN'T WAIT X

Fifa Fever @ S*uce  − Fashion

Dubai is really getting into the World Cup spirit and of course S*uce has the coolest accessories to match.

S*uce is selling panama hats from Bil Arabi, decorated with Arabic script of different countries. You can choose from England, Brazil, Germany, Holland, Argentina, Italy, Spain. Obviously Holland is the coolest.

Between S*ucy outfits and watching the Cup at Grand Cinemas, I think we're all set, no?

www.shopatsauce.com

World Cup @ Grand Cinemas  − Places

Grand Cinemas will be showing the World Cup on 20 of their best screens, which is pretty awesome. Comfy seats, AC, all the best junk food - this sounds better than going to South Africa for the cup!

Tickets go on sale June 1st, starting at 35dhs. Tickets can be purchased at the cinema, on their site (www.grandcinemas.com) or on 042328523.

Sex and the City 2  − Trends

I saw SATC 2 today, it was great to see the girls but TBH, it wasn't the greatest. Considering the show is over, I'll take whatever I can get. The clothes were amazing but I miss the days when they worked hard to buy their expensive clothes (well relatively hard). Maybe I'm the odd one out but their lives are so redic, living in massive penthouses with endless Choo, Louboutins and gowns.

I get can get beyond all of this over-redonkness but their depiction of Abu Dhabi was too much, it was just wrong. They filmed the movie in Morocco, which looks nothing like AD. It's actually quite insulting to the audience.

I wonder if they shot a different version for the UAE.

FlyDubai Adds Desitinations  − Places

FlyDubai, Dubai's cool low-cost airline has now added two new destinations, Luxor and Assiut in Egypt. The airline now flies to over 20 cities, perfect for weekend trips out of the UAE.

Lamis Khamis Goodies Giveaway   − Fashion

My beautiful friend and uber talented designer, Lamis Khamis, is giving away the most amaze LK goodies. Lamis is doing this to celebrate the future opening of her online store (www.lamiskhamis.com). To win prizes, you must be one of her tweetpeeps. So add her @lamiskhamis and send her some love/retweet.

If you're already a follower, I've heard that you can still win prizes, so do retweet!

Lamis' clothes always sells out on Spoiledbrat.co.uk, so I can't wait to be able to buy it directly from her site.

Love you Lamis!

Fulla Doll  − People

I'm pretty obsessed with Barbie, she has to be the coolest chick ever, EVER. She has about a billion cars and mansions, she has an extensive resume, oh and she happens to be stunning with just about every outfit you can possibly imagine.

But lately I've been obsessed with a new plastic friend, Fulla. Fulla is the Middle East's answer to Barbie. Fulla is clearly more modest, her outfits range from casual yet covered Western dress to beautiful abayas. Physically, Fulla is a stunning brunette, her beauty is comparable to Barbie.

What I like about Fulla is that she represents a lot of excitement and fun of Barbie but in a much more real way. One thing that is very noticeable is that Fulla sports a much smaller bust size than Barbie. It's "refreshing" that Fulla isn't sexualized, she may still be disgustingly skinny but in world where Heidi Montag is famous, I'll take skinny and small chested over any over-inflated blow up doll.

I'm really excited to start buying some Fulla dolls to add to the collection, however I also want a whole Fulla house!! Now if Dubai can only make a life size Fulla house, that would be amaze.

Mercedes-Benz AD Competition  − Design

Mercedes-Benz is having an AD competition for their new GLK Grand Edition, which they say is uber unique (actually I added the uber).

They want you to design an ad for the GLK Grand Edition and the winner will actually receive a GLK. This is a pretty sick prize.

I'm totally going to enter it. If I win, I'm going to take it to BRABUS and get it done up!

For more deets and to enter the competition go to:
www.mb-glk.com

S*UCE CAKE  − Food

As if I couldn't love S*uce enough, they went and made their own S*ucy cake. Food and fashion, my fav. Check out their tweetpic and follow them @saucetweets.

Dreamdays.ae  − Happiness

A few weeks ago my friend Samer asked if I wanted to do a scuba course, he sent me a fb msg with some info and a link. The link was to www.dreamdays.ae, a Dubai based site that focuses on making your dreams come true.

The site lists various experiences, with the price and also provide a call centre. You could having a cooking lesson at Nobu, drive exotic cars or dive with sharks.

www.dreamdays.ae is genius and I'm all about making my dreams come true.

DAS RESORT 2010  − Fashion

Reem and Hind from DAS Collection are launching their resort collection and had a few words to share.

"A brief explanation of the new resort collection, inspiration of collection, colours, themes and why they have stepped away from abayas for this collections" The new resort collection was designed with summer, travel, hope and luxury in mind. We designed the collection thinking of a woman who dresses with effortless elegance, but who also loves fun, colour and doesn't take herself too seriously - she's on her way to St Tropez already! Our muse is a strong female, but who doesn't mind attention. The look is hot and brave, we've used bright patterns and prints. We've focused on bringing the camouflage print into summer infulinced by John Galliano when he introduced camouflage to his runways nearly a decade ago, and using it to create a feminine silhouette in various colours. We have also experimented with embroidery using a unique range of metallic beads imported from France. I design for myself, so i haven't stepped away from Abaya's at all. I wanted to create a range of cruise wear that i felt wasn't available, which mirrored our signature abaya styles; modest, but still strong and dramatic."

Reem & Hind

ActiveHybrid BMW X6 comes to the GCC  − Design

BMW is launching a hybrid version of the X6 and one from their 7 series. Both cars will be sold commercially to the GCC countries.

As an SUV girl, I'm tres excited for the ActiveHybrid X6. Gas is significantly cheaper in the M.E. and we/I tend to forget that it's not great for the enviro. I think BMW's new ActiveHybrids will be an awesome car to introduce to the UAE. I heard it's not cheap but hey, did we really expect an SUV from BMW to be cheap?

Besides, can we really put a price on a clean environment?

BTW, I couldn't resist putting up this lush gold X6. Was that your work FOILACAR?

Abu Dhabi Grand Prix Ticket Sales  − Places

Starting Sunday the 16th of May, tickets to the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix will be available to purchase. The event will take place in November.

I went last year to the GP @ Yas Marina and it was absolutely incredible (above is my action shot taken from my BB). The circuit is on the marina (hence the name Yas Marina). There is also the most amazing view of the Yas Hotel which is based on the circuit (it also changes colors).

If you want to go make sure to get your tickets on Sunday because they will sell fast. Last year there were a few concerts to celebrate the race, including Beyonce, Kings of Leon and Aerosmith. No word yet who will be playing, if at all but of course I'll update once I find out.

For more info or to hype up your excitment:

www.yasmarina.com

Dubai Metro Breaks Record  − Trends

I'm not sure why we're just hearing about this now but on May 2nd 2010, 100,368 of you took the metro, breaking Dubai's record for most passengers in one day.

I have to admit that I still haven't been on it but after this I will.

Harrods Sold to Qatar Holding  − Places

Mohammed Al Fayed has sold his beloved Harrods to our Qatar Gulf neighbors for £1.5 billion (or AED 8,154,282,093).

We'll miss the Al Fayed family but hey, congrats on all the money!

House of glaMO Model Search  − Fashion

Ok so this pretty cool, quirky chic brand, House of Glamo is looking for their next model. They are looking for someone with personality and obviously glaMO tee owners.

Take a picture of yourself in your GlaMO shirt and you could be pictured on their blog.

Shirts can be bought at www.houseofglamo.com or visit Marami Boutique at the Dubai Mall ground floor.

Send your name (age is optional) to pix@houseofglamo.com.

Funky Bling @S*uce  − Design

So if you don't already know, S*uce is one of my favorite stores - and not just in Dubai. Even in New York people are talking about S*uce (I'm here for the week).

I'm S*uce obsessed, because everything they touch turns to gold. Their most recent addition is defo something to be obsessed about, hand custom cuffs from Funky Bling.

The cuffs at S*uce include the words Helwa (Arabic for pretty) or
Kashkha (Arabic for a cool/awesome girl) and come in all sorts of delicious neon candy colors.

I think these cuffs will go great with an abaya. I like the visual of a soft black sleeve with the contrast of the hard colorful cuff.

Full collection of Funky Bling rings, cuffs and necklaces is available at
S*uce, Dubai Mall, The Village Mall and Marina Mall, Abu Dhabi.

The Armani Hotel Party  − Places

Since the opening of the Burj Khalifa and the Armani Hotel have been one of the most anticipated events of the year, I've decided to rinse it and discuss every aspect.

Giorgio Armani came out for the event himself (actually I'm convinced they brought out a wax figure of him), which they postponed due to the volcano (I love that excuse, I'm using it for everything now). I really have to wonder if all the other celebrities also couldn't make it because of the volcano, it seemed like a celebrity-less party.

The picture of Armani with Sarah and Saif Belhasa was the only celeb-worthy pic I could find to post. What would Giorgio have done without them??

Last month the W Hotel in Doha celebrated it's 1 year birthday. The event included Kate Moss, Kevin Spacey, Jade Jagger and Camilla Al Fayed (just to name a few). So what gives? Maybe Mr. Armani should have booked Kate for one of his shows before opening up the hotel.

Studio 8 turns 1  − Fashion

Happy Birthday Studio 8!

"It has been an incredibly busy and exciting year but I am extremely happy
with what we have achieved in such a short time. As well as establishing the
Studio 8 name and concept in the local and international fashion industry, we
have established a loyal client base of all nationalities. I am looking forward to
another exciting year and taking Studio 8 to even greater heights." - Sarah Belhasa, owner

Piggy Free  − Food

I'm in New York at the moment and as much as I love this city, I really miss everything being pork free like in Dubai. Once you leave the UAE everything seems to have pork in it. :/

Who would want to eat these adorb little creatures anyways?

Armani Hotel Thoughts  − Places

I feel like we've all been awaiting the real opening of the Burj Khalifa that it almost seems unreal that the Armani Hotel is up, running and serving guests!

Pictures of the various 180 rooms have now been released. They look chic, modern and sophisticated.

Armani was an interesting choice of brand to be the Burj's premier hotel. I don't wear a lot of Armani, Emporio Armani or Armani Exchange. By "a lot" I mean none but I do enjoy browsing Armani CASA and I have ate at the Armani Cafe in Dubai, Hong Kong and Boston.

Hopefully the hotel will attract new customers but will not take business away from the Address and the Palace.

Again peeps, let me know if you've stayed at the hotel yet. I want deets! (that's details to people who don't speak innernets!)

Grazia Style Awards M.E. 2010  − Trends

* I don't know how S*uce lost Best Window Display to Ted Baker. RECOUNT.

** MCQUEEN FOREVER <3

Best Boutique
Winner: S*uce
Second place: Desert Rose

Best Multibrand Store
Winner: Harvey Nichols
Second place: Saks Fifth Avenue

Best Department Store
Winner: Debenhams
Second place: Marks & Spencer

Best Shopping Experience
Winner: The Dubai Mall
Second place: Mall of the Emirates

Best Shop to spend Dhs500
Winner: Zara
Second place: Splash

Best Shop to Spend Dhs1,500
Winner: Diesel
Second place: Karen Millen

Best Jewellery Brand
Winner: Tiffany & Co
Second place: Cartier

Best Regional Designer
Winner: Cest Moi
Second place: Ayesha Depala

Best International Designer
Winner: Dolce & Gabbana
Second place: Alexander McQueen

Best Accessory Designer
Winner: Chanel
Second place: Louis Vuitton

Best Shoe Designer
Winner: Christian Louboutin
Second place: Jimmy Choo

Best Grazia Insider Value for Money
Winner: Splash
Second place: New Look

Best window display
Winner: Ted Baker
Second place: S*uce

CRYSTALLIZEDTM - Swarovski Elements Young Designer of the Year
Winner: Kimberly Alphonso
Second place: Prerna Khushalani

Most stylish reader
Winner: Annie Novak
Second place: Claudia de Brito

Amato Couture Showroom  − Fashion

The other day I had the honor of being invited to the Amato Couture showroom. I met Furne and the team, who were just loveliest people ever. This is definitely the best part about running my site, the opportunities to meet such creative geniuses.

The showroom was AWH-mazing, it was really like nothing I had ever seen before. The showroom was massive, with pink walls and about 40 stunning mannequins all wearing Amato Couture dresses. It was like being on the set of the mansion in Gone With The Wind. Obviously before the war.

The gowns were so beautiful, I was actually speechless. The workmanship and the detail was phenomenal, this was really haute couture.

I had a guided tour around the showroom by Furne. He pointed out their vintage baroque-esque sofa and chairs that they bought at a flea market in Dubai, then used denim to fabric the chairs. I had a sneak peak at their bridal section and I heard they are going to do a ready-to-wear collection. How amaze would that be?

Above is pic of some of the gowns in the showroom. I am absolutely dying over the blue layered one. Amato Couture is what little girl dreams are made of.

You absolutely have to go check out the showroom. Visitor are welcomed, either drop in or phone ahead. Go to the Al Hana Centre on Al Jafliya St.

For more info:

www.amatohautecouture.com

Me and Furne of Amato Couture  − Fashion

My new fav thing, taking pictures with redonkulously talented designers!

Oops!  − Trends

A x

90210's white nail polish  − Beauty

Check out Annalynne Mccord wearing white nail polish on this week's episode of 90210. Naomi is my fav fav favvvvvv character on the show, so I couldn't be more excited to see her doing the white polish trend. lurves it!

Glamonyou  − Fashion

I've recently been introduced to the Dubai homegrown brand, Glamonyou. (Lurve homegrown brands!)

Glamonyou is feminine, soft and really just beautiful. Nadine Arton, creator behind Glamonyou is dedicated to making clothes that people want to wear, clothes that make you feel glamorous and ultimately comfortable.

Who doesn't like comfortable? It also has to be said that the quality of the fabrics are amazing, which so super important.

Glamonyou also makes custom pieces, and from what I hear, Nadine's the one to go to.

Above is a pic of my personal favorite, which can be bought at Soiree down on Al Wasl.

Check out:

www.glamonyou.com

Armani Hotel Opens  − Places

The Armani Hotel in the Burj Khalifa is now open as of tonight. So what's the good word people? Let me know if you were at the opening or stayed the night. Give me the deets!

Pinkcom's blog  − People

I love checking out other people's blogs. I'm really liking pinkcom.wordpress.com at the moment.

Pinkcom's blog is about her and her daily life in the UAE. I love that Pinkcom updates from her phone, she is completely honest in her writing and funny too.

Go check it out:

pinkcom.wordpress.com

x

White Nails  − Beauty

When I did Grazia's "What in my Wardrobe" section, I was asked to describe my style in 5 words.

It wasn't easy coming up with only 5 words but I finally decided on "wednesday adams meets carrie bradshaw". I know this sounds a bit weird but tbh, my style is a bit weird. One day I'm channeling all black, skulls and studs and the next day i'm wearing pink bows, a starwars tee and a skirt.

Clearly my style is a bit out there but it is always me.

One thing that I rarely change is my nail polish colour. I've been wearing white polish since last September (the 7th to be exact). When I first posted a pic of my white nails (back in Sept) to my FB, it sparked quite a few comments. Some people loved it and some people clearly hated it, saying it looked like tippex!

Turns out that I was on the money because MAC has just produced white nail polish for their new line: MAC Give Me Liberty of London. Thanks Emma!

Personally I just like the way the white looks. It's clean, modern and it doesn't matter what your style is because it goes with everything.

What other colors am I loving, black (always), hot pink, nude and I'll be trying out some more shades of gray soon.

BTW I got my pedi at the Nail Spa in Dubai Mall. The only place I go to x

www.thenailspa.com

Yuki reading me in Grazia  − Trends

Check out the beautiful Yuki reading my article in Grazia.

Aigner Collection @Zuma  − Trends

Last night German luxury brand Aigner displayed their new fine jewelery and timepieces at Zuma.

I'm always really interested in how companies market their brand, particularly when everyone everywhere are trying to sell you something, including ourselves.

I thought Aigner's approach was spot on. They set up on the Zuma terrace with their new collection and pretty soft pink lights. It was the perfect backdrop for Aigner, high end Japanese restaurant, filled with bankers and lawyer (let's face it, they are the ones buying "timepieces") and Hed Kandi-esque music pumping in the background. I liked that Aigner clearly knew their audience but even more so, I liked their attitude. They weren't pushy or annoying, they let you come to the collection and talked you through the brand.

I did eye some men's watches I liked very much (pictured above) but at the same time my 7 year old niece just got me a turquoise blue plastic watch from Claire's.

www.aignermunich.com

Fire and Ice @Raffles  − Food

Fire and Ice is a super lush, super fancy steakhouse at the Raffles hotel. You know, the big pyramid next to Wafi. I'm not a huge steak person, I find the idea of eating one thing and only that as a meal tedious. I'm also not the type to order fish or a non-meat dish at a steakhouse, when in Rome...-right?

Well Fire and Ice provide the perfect alternative, the cheeseburger. I love it when fancy places does comfort food. Who said comfort food can't be gourmet?

My burger (last night) was absolutely delish, and I'd like to consider myself a burger connoisseur. Their chunky chips are also really faboosh, definitely worth ordering that as a side. Oh, and as if I couldn't have ate more...I also stole my friends' mash potatoes which were, perfectly creamy.

This is a great place to go on a date, or out with friends but civilized friends, not the rowdy ones!
Posted by Anna Miriam on Monday, April 26, 2010, 11:57 pm

London College of Fashion in UAE  − Fashion

Ok so this is pretty rad. London College of Fashion are running classes in Dubai running form May 22 2010 till May 26 2010.

There are a a variety of classes available (see below). I highly urge people to sign up. University of the Arts have really good short class and it will definitely make your CV more attractive. But most importantly, these classes will definitely open up your creative minds and inspire.

Book 'Courses in Dubai' by Friday 30th April to receive a 25% discount on your course fee. From 1st May fees will return to the regular level.

To book your class check out the link below.

http://www.fashion.arts.ac.uk/dubai

* Introduction to Fashion Journalism, (a three day course)
* Fashion Buying and Merchandising, (a five day course)
* Principles of Personal Fashion Styling, (a five day course)
* Luxury Brand Management and Product Design, (a five day course)
* On-Line Fashion Marketing, (a one day course)
* Introduction to Fashion Marketing, (a three day course)
* The Power of Visual Merchandising, (a one day course)
* The Business of Fashion: An Industry Overview, (a one day course)
* Starting your Own Fashion Label (a three day course)

I met Dean and Dan from DSQUARED  − Happiness

Tonight I met Dean and Dan from DSQUARED, my favorite brand since I was 17. When I was first introduced to the brand 8 years ago, my life completely changed. Their clothes were weird, beautiful, funny. It was inevitably a part of me, instantly.

Meeting Dean and Dan tonight was such an amazing honor. Their clothes really gave me the confidence to be me, that it was ok to be funny and weird.

Thank you Dean and Dan.

x DSQUARED x

Maria Bonito  − Happiness

I love Mexican food, it is by far one of the most superior cuisines. Is there anything better than guacamole, salsa, nachos, tacos or facos (fish tacos) as my best friend Steph refers to them.

I'm always on the search for the best Mexican restaurants, some include Maui's upcountry Mexican eatery (where they make fresh buttery almost pastry like chips), London's Cafe Pacifico (where the salsa is so amazing that you can buy it in tubs to go) and now Dubai has official entered my list.

Maria Bonito is down in Jumeirah and is without a doubt the best Mexican in Dubai. Their restaurant has a lovely traditional boho feel, with seating outside and a parrot too.

The guacamole and salsa are mouth-watering, filled with my favorite, cilantro.

All great Mexican restaurants can be marked by one drink, horchata. All the greatest Mexican restaurants can be marked by homemade horchata.

Horchata is a traditional Mexican drink that can be made with rice, almonds and cinnamon. It's quite possibly what I imagine the rivers in heaven must flow with.

Maria Bonita's homemade horchata is really unparalleled to many I have tried. In fact every week I have to control my many stops to MB for horchata.

In fact, enough with this post. I'm driving down now to get a drink.

Come join!

www.mariabonitadubai.com

City of Life  − Art

Dubai's homegrown first feature film, "City of Life" is finally out in cinemas. Directed by local director Ali F. Mostafa, the film has been generating a lot of excitement.

The trailer has an extremely alluring storyline and the fact that it was shot on location in Dubai makes it even more appealing.

I'm hearing really good things about the film, will definitely go see it this week.

For more info:
www.cityoflifefilm.com

For tickets:
www.reelcinemas.ae

Photographer Isidora Bojovic  − People

You should always have lists of your favorite designers, bands, books, etc. Preferably at least 3 to a subject because you never know who or when someone is going to ask you what you're reading at the moment or where your favorite city is. These questions may seem trivial but your answers require thought because otherwise you may end up saying the first thing you can think of.

Isidora Bojovic, needs to be added to your list of favorite photographers. And you definitely have to have a favorite photographers list.

Isidora is Dubai's premier photographer, photographing everyone who's anyone. Isidora photographs for Harper's Bazaar, Grazia and her work can also be seen @ isidoraphoto.blogspot.com.

Above is a stunning picture of HellwaFashion.com's Bebhinn Kelley by Isidora Bojovic.

Go check Isidora's site out and next time you pick up Harper's or Grazia, look at the photographer's name.

Dean & Deluca @Souk Al Bahar  − Food

I'm a huge NYC fan and huge food lover too, it has to be said that one will never eat better than in New York City. Whenever I visit NY, my best friend Steph and I always discuss the list of restaurants we have to go to. It always includes Mexican, sushi and whatever the new dessert trend is.

I'm so super excited because I'm actually off to New York next week! Will defo be going to all my favorites and all the new places I need to catch up on, including the new rice pudding cafe.

One of my fav places to eat in Dubai is the NYC eatery Dean & Delcua down at the Souk Al Bahar. Think deli meets new American cuisine. I love their casear salad, waffles, quesadillas and their blondies are unbelievable! I'd also like reiterate how amazing their casear salad is - the best things are always simple and it's incredible how wrong people can get casear salads.

The service, the atmosphere and the food is great. I love a bit of NYC in DXB, now for a little DXB in NYC!

I'm on the cover of Grazia!  − Happiness

A few weeks ago I was invited by the Grazia team to participate in their feature called,"Blogstars". We did an amazing on location photoshoot and spoke about our blogs.

The feature is out in this week's Grazia and they put feature's pic on the cover!! How amaze is that?? I am beyond ecstatic to be sharing a cover with Nicole Richie and simply being in the mag. Grazia is a weekly must!

Go buy the mag and tell me what you think!

Oh and I love the word "blogstar", new favourite!

The Core Exhibition at Dubai Mall  − Design

Ajman University of Science & Technology has an exhibition down at the Dubai Mall called The Core.

A number of design chairs are on display. It's really interesting to see such different ideas of aesthetic and creativity.

I particularly liked Roza Parviz Moulaei's chair, titled, "Pray For Peace". There is an element of humility and restraint to it that appeals to me.

Go down to the the Dubai Mall and check it out or visit www.ajman.ac.ae/thecore for more info.

Dubai Fashion Week Awards  − Fashion

As presented by Sarah Belhasa of Studio 8

1. Best Male Pret-a-porter
Z for Z by Zaeem Jamal

2. Best Female Pret-a-porter
Julea Domani by Zeena Zaki

3. Best Haute Couture
HSY by Hasan Sheheryar Yasin

4. Best Traditional Wear Designer
DAS collection by Reem & Hind
Beljafla

5. Best Emerging Talent
Khalid by Studio Khalid

6. Best Catwalk Presentation
Furne One by Amato

7. Face of the Fashion Week
Jhana

8. People's Choice Award
Michael Cinco

Amato Haute Couture @Dubai Fashion Week  − Fashion

The finale of Amato Haute Couture's runway at Dubai Fashion Week looked like a rainbow of delicious bejewelled pastel cotton candy. I particularly like the over exaggerated hips and knee high socks - it definitely gives couture a girlish charm.

S*uce - Arabian Wonderland  − Fashion

Harper's Bazaar's (ME) April issue has the most amazing fashion spread of S*uce's vision of Alice in Wonderland, an Arabian Wonderland.

Everyone seems to be jumping on the Alice trend, I even suggested my six year old niece to have a madhatters themed birthday party but Jonas Brothers won on that. Anyways, I have to give S*uce and Harpers major brownie points here - the spread was innovative and creative. They took a trend and transformed it into a new one by adding an authentic Arabian twist. My favourite picture of the spread is the one that portrays Alice with the Caterpillar. The model (Alice) is dressed in flowing Arabesque clothes while looking on to the designer Shrekhanth as he smokes sheesha. The spread is a wonderful interpretation of Wonderland, it makes it current and relevant to the ME - and really, it just make me smile to see fashion have fun but then again, S*uce always has fun!

Sigh <3 <3

Shoreshide.ae  − Places

So I didn't make it to the Burj Khalifa today. Instead I spent the afternoon at Shoreside.ae. I was on my way to JBR when I saw a big sign for Shoreside (a beautiful picture of sunny beach). Good advertising! Shoreside is a private beach, including sun loungers (with towels), restaurant, various water sports (kayaks, boats, etc) and children's activities (volleyball, beanbags, buckets). All inclusive with admission.

The staff was super friendly and really made you comfortable.

I had such a good afternoon, the water was perfect and the sand was super soft. Even the food was tres delicious, which rare because I often find at beach clubs they aren't great. I will definitely be back on the weekend.

Shoreside also does events, I think a private beach birthday party sounds amazing.

Various admission are available, including couples (regardless of gender), children, week days, weekends and long term as well.

I didn't really want to post about this lovely gem as I don't want it to crowd but alas I chose to be a giver in this situation.

Happy sunning and don't forget the SPF!

Burj Khalifa - Now OPEN  − Places

So the Burj Khalifa is now open after being closed in Feb for maitanance. Anyways I'm quite curious to see the view so I'm going to try and check it out tomorrow. I have no idea what to expect but I'll be a spoiler and put up a pic tomorrow! Tickets are 100AED, apparently you can no longer book online.

x x

Quick Pic: I'm in Grazia!  − Happiness

Oui oui, that is me in Grazia! Go and buy this week's issue or wait till I scan it in properly - but really, go buy it!

A big shout out to Naomi, thanks for a really lovely afternoon and the nice words you wrote about me :) x

Maybelline's "Born to Be" Competition  − Design

Maybelline has just launched their site for their 2010 design competition. If you're between the ages of 18-35, reside in one of the GCC countries and are interested in fashion design then continue reading.

Maybelline wants you to get inspired by their latest make up to create an evening wear Abaya collection. Not only will you have to design 3-4 looks but you will have to construct the garment (depending on how far you advance). The rules state very clearly that you cannot hire nor have help. Strict and hard if you don't have construction skills but the prize is pretty impressive.

The winner will receive:

- $10,000USD to launch their fashion career.

- An internship at Das collection

- Maybelline products for a year

- And loads of press obvi!

Check out www.maybellineborntobe.com for more deets on the comp.

For inspiration, I leave you with, "Maybe she's born with it, maybe it's Maybelline"

Sylvia Toledano  − Design

I received this gorge Sylvia Toledano bag as a birthday present. The bag is named, "A La Vie" and is decorated in Austrian crystals. It also came with a matching tiny crystal pen inside. Super kawaii! The French label makes the most amazing evening bags with super contemporary designs.

I'm not a particularly frilly girl but this sparkly evening bag does call to me and it's not just the skull because I want all of Sylvia Toledano's bags. I love Toledano's idea of elegance and frankly, her bags just make me smile.


Hope you guys like my Gaga-esque inspired pic.

Sylvia Toledano's bags can be bought @S*uce.

Check out www.sylviatoledano.com

Dolphin Bay @ the Atlantis  − Happiness

Last week I turned 25 (!!) and as birthday present my boyfriend took me to swim with dolphins at the Atlantis.

I swam with dolphins when I was about 10 or so in Hawaii but Dolphin Bay was something super special. We had a private deep-water session, with one dolphin and trainer.

I had spent a whole day (ok well 2 hours at the mall) contemplating what swimsuit look to fashion at Dolphin Bay but there was no need because as soon as you arrive they make you wear Atlantis wetsuits. The swimsuits are made of super thick material that will basically keep you afloat in deep water; it was like wearing a Spanx onesie.

Cathy, our dolphin was sooo cute and super smooth to touch. She loved lying on her back while we rubbed her belly, she even closed her eyes like a little dog and at one point the trainer had to tickle her to wake up because she was so relaxed!

She gave us kisses on our cheeks, dolphin rides (think like how one would hold a kickboard), showed us her best moonwalk and sang happy birthday to me!

It was such a special day and I highly urge everyone to go to dolphin bay.

Tea Party @ ValleyDez  − Fashion

When I was a little girl I used to play with my grandmother's tiny little porcelain cups, I would have very exclusive tea parties consisting of favourite teddy bears and me.

Today I attended Miss Deziree's Valley Tea Party Parade @ValleyDez in the Wafi Centre. The party was in the fitting Alice in Wonderland theme, with beautiful little cupcakes, a garden fir for the Queen of Hearts and gift bags with amazing pressies that I am actually going to use!

The party showcased ValleyDez's new spring/summer collection including a live catwalk show. My favourite look had to be number 21, a Mimi jump dress. In the words of Rachel Zoe, "I die". Could there be anything more fabulous than a 70's vintage inspired knit jumpsuit? I didn't think so.

Thank you ValleyDez for a lovely afternoon and hello to my equally lovely new friend Jane.

Lamis Khamis Camo Jacket  − Fashion

I just picked up the most fabooosh jacket from Lamis Khamis down at Tigerlily in the Wafi centre. I am absolutely in lurrrrve and have been wearing it everywhere. I love tomboy sexy and channeling my inner (or actually outter) Gwen Stefani, clearly a Lamis Khamis army jacket with some girly bling on the back does just that.

New House of Harlow in at Marami today!  − Fashion

Dubai Mall's Marami has new House of Harlow in today.

House of Harlow is one of Nicole Richie's creative projects and for a celeb-turned-designer she does it quite well.

Obvi, check it out asap.

Fallen Princesses  − Art

Photographer Dina Goldstein has created a series of photographs that portray Disney princesses in a rather unglamorous lifestyle, one we never associate our beloved princesses with!

This is what happens when, "happily ever after" doesn't exist.

Check out www.fallenprincesses.com for all the pics but since I think we all see a bit of Jasmine in ourselves, here you go!

Kim Kardashian for Bebe now in shops  − Fashion

Kim Kardashian has just launched her line for Bebe and they are in shops today (in Dubai).

Her clothes are going to fly off the shelf. You have to admit, everyone wants to look a bit like Kim!

Nail Art @ The Nail Spa  − Art

My very fashionable friend in London, Emma, recently posted a picture on facebook of some pretty faboosh nail art. In fact, I liked it so much that I decided to try some myself.

After a bit of research I decided to go with The Nail Spa (Dubai Mall branch). The Nail Spa is tucked away in the Mall (you won't find it unless you ask) but once in there is a salon full of ladies.

The Nail Spa was extremely hygienic (they sprayed down everything!), super comfortable and you get to watch Fashion TV while getting your mani/pedi.

My manicurist was named Tran, as you can see she did a great job. There are many designs to choose from and they can customize the colors. Tran tried a few colors before I decided.

End result?

1)Extremely pleased with The Nail Spa
2)Nail art is a fun way to mix up your manis/pedis.

See the following info below and ask for Tran!

Call : +971 4 339 9078
Visit Us : www.thenailspa.com

Stardoll  − Trends

One of my favourite sites has to be www.Stardoll.com where are all your dreams come true (at least mine do)!

Stardoll is an online community of fashionistas, solicistas, designers, and creatives.

When you join, you get to create a virtual doll of yourself (think paper dolls when from way back when). Then you get a super cute apartment...but the best part is the shopping.

The StarPlaza is filled with some of the chicest stores, DKNY, Philosophy, Vivienne Tam! You can actually get runway clothes for your Stardoll!

Go and check it out,you'll love it. Add me (amiriam).

And - the site translates into Arabic :)

DU balloons flyerover Dubai  − Design

Anyone see the DU balloons fly over (around) the Marina? It happened about an hour ago.

The balloons, in the shape of the DU logo flew through the Marina and onto Sheikh Zayed Road (some even landing on the highway).

I checked out the website and the only thing I could possibly link the balloons to is the fact that you can get the movie "UP" on demand - but this was after a few click thrus around the site.

So if this is just a marketing exercise to get people to notice DU, well I have to say it's more BOO than DU.

Launching hundreds of ginormous balloons can't be great for the environment BUT if you are going to do it anyways, why not do it during the day when people can actually see the balloons??

MARAMI (I'M OBSESSED) Part II  − Happiness

I also got this headband which I think is perfect to wear instead of a hat to the races OR as Nadia pointed out, that at a night out at Zuma, the headband would look quite nice with a simple outfit.

Agreeeeed!

MARAMI (I'M OBSESSED)  − Happiness

What makes me happy? Clearly these awesome new-pink-crystal-encrusted-nerd glasses.

The glasses are from an American brand called Amortr and you can get them at Marami in the Dubai Mall.

Marami is like Willy Wonka's chocolate factory for adults, a high end accessories store where you want everything.

I really did want everything, I think I tried on over a dozen glasses but thankfully Nadia, the store's very helpful sales lady guided me to the right one.

Blogger, graphic designer, pink, nerdy - it's me, no?

Anna Miriam on www.lamiskhamis.com x x x  − Fashion

My FAVOURITE designer Lamis Khamis has posted a lovely blog about annamiriam.com. A big thank you to Ms. Lamis Khamis for the support.

Lamis Khamis clothes are effortlessly cool, and in the past 5 years that I've been wearing the designer's clothes I have been constantly complimented. Oh and did I mention Paris Hilton and Katie Price are big fans too?

Go to her site www.lamiskhamis.com now! Her clothes can be bought at Tigerlily in the Wafi Centre or at spoiledbrat.co.uk.

Look out for more posts on LK, can't wait to get my hands on new LK.

Gorillaz in Dubai, at UAE Royal Drive 2010  − Happiness

Fast cars and the Gorillaz? Amaaaazing!! I'm beyond excited to post that this March (18-20th) the UAE Royal Drive will take place. The three-day event is a race against some pretty sick cars, including Ferrari 458 Italia, Lamborghini LP670 Superveloce and a Porshe Carrera GT Mirage. The event starts in Abu Dhabi and ends in Dubai where the Gorillaz will be playing at Dubai Arena on the 19th between 3pm - 3am.

Tickets can be bought at www.timeouttickets.com for Dhs400-650.

Oh and Sean Kingston will be playing too, but does anyone really care?

Sharjah Wedding Show, March 3-6  − Fashion

Check out www.sharjahweddingshow.com for more info, you can pre-register now too!

Emirates Palace - $1 MILLION 1 WK VACATION  − Places

Emirates Palace in Abu Dhabi is offering a 1 week vacation for the affordable price of $1 million.

All my millionaire readers out there, please take note.

The vacation includes:

- 1 week's stay in a 680 square-metre
Palace Suite at Emirates Palace

- Chauffeur and Maybach (for the week)

- Private jet trips to Iran, Jordan and
Bahrain. While in Iran, enjoy weaving
your own Persian carpet or deep sea
pearl diving in Bahrain.

I think this sounds like a great holiday but for $1 million I'd want a magic Persian carpet, forget making my own.

Paris Hilton's Dubai BFF show hit by lawsuits  − People

So Paris' Best Friend show that she filmed in Dubai last year has been hit by multiple lawsuits from the US and the UAE. Apparently, the UAE production company owes the US production company quite a bit of $$$.

More importantly, we are missing out on all the outfits she wore throughout the show. I really really reaaaallly want to see what life is like for Paris when she comes out to Dubai, even if it is scripted-reality.

Sigh.

Lady in the Attic, Amato Campaign  − Fashion

Furne One's haute couture label, Amato just posted stunning new pics from their latest campaign, "Lady in the Attic".

The beautifully haunting 11 picture campaign features bird-like models (think bird nest hair and elongated poses) dressed in layers of organza, lush fabrics, beads and roses.

The gowns are feminine but the weight of the fabrics and the intricate detailing gives the dresses a lovely sense of strength.


Lurrrrrvely, Amato x

Forty Carrots, Bloomingdales  − Food

Forty Carrots (no, not a mega rock, although not unlikely in Dubai) is Bloomingdale's very own boutique frozen yogurt.

Situated in the Dubai Mall on the 3rd floor, the cafe is very New York City cool. Think "Breakfast at Tiffanys" or in this case Bloomindales.

Their frozen yogurt is super yummy and their are loads of toppings to choose from. In addition Forty Carrots offers juices, teas, coffees and shakes.

I say, go with your girlfriends and indulge. I know I can't wait to bring my bestie to Forty Carrots.

I <3 FOILACAR  − Trends

A BIG THANK YOU to all the guys at FOILACAR for not only making Rexy look faboosh but for the awesome artwork as well.

Rex and I are touched!

www.foilacar.com
www.foilacar.com
www.foilacar.com

Tell them Anna Miriam sent you!!

Matte Cars  − Trends

I'm a TAKER not a GIVER and this Valentine's Day (today!) I gave myself the gift of getting my car done in matte.

There are two ways of matte-ifying your car. The first is by painting it which, I highly do not recommend and the second way is to have it placed on like a sticker. The latter protects your car's original paint job and can be taken off whenever.

I went to FOILACAR (www.foilacar.ae) down in Al Quoz and they did the most amazing job on my car (her name is Rexy, full name TREX). Their warehouse is filled with Bentley's, Porsche's and my dream car, a Mercedes G500, all getting matted. Obviously my Dodge Nitro felt right at home.

As you can see it's a complete makeover and I have to say, I'm absolutely loving the Russian gangster look.

If you see me about town, give me a honk.

Thank you FOILACAR!

Happy V-day REX!!!

Barbie rocks UAE (in S*UCY outfits)  − People

S*UCE, one of my favourite stores in Dubai invited Barbie to the UAE to celebrate her 50th birthday. S*UCE then got their favorite designers to create redonkulously mini and uber cute outfits for Queen B.

Go check out the exhibition down at the Village Mall in Jumeirah.

Viva la S*UCE and see you both for the centennial!

AM