I recently had a little staycation at the new wing of the Ritz Carton JBR – I knew to expect Ritz standards, but didn’t know what other details the new wing would add to the hotel. As opposed to the Ritz in downtown, this is by the Beach front, which is perfect for a retreat vacation. The hotel is consistently recognized in the Condé Nast Traveller Gold List as number one for service, and I expected nothing less. They just launched their new wing, and I made sure to check it out. For more details on the hotel, click here.

Here’s a break down on my thoughts…

Toiletries: The Ritz Carlton signed on with Asprey earlier this year in February to use Asprey Purple Water’s amenities in the room. I love a hotel with great toiletries – everything within was from the purple water range, and they even had bath salts to wind down in their spacious tub.

Location: You would have never thought how convenient being based in JBR would be. Everything is around, and I mean everything… restaurants, cafes, Boutique1, Boots, and even Starbucks. Easy to walk out, and have a lively evening but when you’re at the hotel, it does feel secluded which I loved.

Service: Service in hotels make it or break it. I would expect nothing less from the Ritz. Great, attentive service – the valet parking men were greeting me personally in less than 24 hours after checking in.

Breakfast: Breakfast was fairly sized but had everything from beans & sausages, arabic breakfast, to a crepe and honey bar. They had indoor and outdoor seating – Outdoor was wonderful if the weather wasn’t too hot as you were sitting facing the beach. This resulted in one bad thing… Always ate more because everything was so good!

The View:  I had such a gorgeous view of the gardens, poolside and palm trees, which was just beautiful. I even made sure to sit out on the balcony and base my office from there. If only it was like that every day…

Spa:  I made sure to stop by the spa while I was there, and I was impressed. I was welcomed with date milk, and was made my way into the beautiful spa for a relaxing balinese massage. Service, facilities, and the treatment was just spectacular. You must check out the spa even if you’re not staying at the hotel.

Design:  The hotel definitely has an Arabesque feel to the luxury RItz style hotel, and in some areas – like the outdoor area, it does feel like you’re on an island.

Room: My room was a deluxe one, the bathroom was huge, and the room was fairly sized. I was very happy with the bed though… Super comfy.

Cons Nothing really… I just didn’t get bath, dental, or vanity replacements on day 2, but that was forgiven with the delicious dates and chocolates that were left in my room after the night service.

Bag & flats by Tod’s. Alexander Wang blazer. Topshop shorts.

Location: Dubai, UAE

The Spa: Spa Cordon, Dubai

I have never heard of Spa Cordon before, and recently headed out there for a massage treatment. Located in the luxurious Sky Gardens building in front of La Petite Maison, this was one hidden gem. Super private, and empty – it was a great change to the busy non hotel spas. As soon as I entered the spa, I was greeted by the lovely staff, and was welcomed with a chilled apple drink and towel, and was shown around for a tour. Everything within the spa was from the Philippines – everything from the uniforms, furniture and interiors – power to the Philippines!  Known for their bespoke oil bar where you pick a base essential oil like Grapeseed, almond or sesame oil followed by an oil or a combination to add on – I went with the almond oil and neroli. I loved the addition, and loved how you suddenly feel like you’ve created your bespoke massage. I didn’t get the chance to use their great facilities as I had to rush to a press luck, but made sure to check them out -The whirlpool, steam and sauna were compact but modern, clean and cosy. I was then taken by my lovely therapist, Suni to my massage room which looked like a cabin in a resort (note why this is in the staycation feature!). The Vitality massage was 60 minutes long, and was a mix in between deep tissue and sport. Post massage, I was led to the relaxation room with a menu choice of fruits, vegetables or popsicles with herbal tea. Off I left this retreat like spa, and on to the real world. For more details, click here

The massage: Pillow talk at Sensasia spa, Dubai.

Sensasia spas are definitely one of my favorites in Dubai, and I recently stopped by for their new treatment, the Pillow talk massage. Great if you have Insomnia, or just need a super relaxing massage to encourage better sleep. Upon arriving, I was greeted by my therapist – Kathy and was taken straight to the changing rooms, and off to my treatment room. Love how Sensasia is super quick – in and out – and the relaxing lounge & that Ginger tea always feels like a treat. The treatment was 60 mins, and started off with a Lavender foot soak, followed by the massage on a heated bed, a thick blanket and a fluffed up pillow (felt like a bed at home.) Kathy used slow chinese techniques, with sweet almond and lavender oil – starting with a focus on the back side moving over to the front. Post Pillow talk, I was then allowed to rest on the comfortable bed, and then asked to make my way to the relaxing lounge. Unfortunately, I didn’t know the other drink option was a cacao hot chocolate and marshmallows, and went with the classic Ginger tea (which is really good too.) I highly recommend Pillow talk, and will definitely be back when I need to escape from a sleep depriving schedule.
For more details, click here 

The Face: Kaya Organic face therapy at Kaya Skin Clinic, Dubai

As much as I love great facials for the skin, I also make sure I can pop in for one relaxing one during the month. I’ve been hearing about the signature Organic Kaya facial for some time, and finally popped in for an appointment (it is quite difficult getting an appointment here, so book in advance!) The ladies here are super sweet, and was asked to wait in the waiting room for two minutes before being directed to my room by therapist, Pearl (who I had the Aqua Facial with the last time I was there.) The treatment is 90 minutes, using only 100% organic and natural products. The treatment begins with Cleansing, toning, and a radiant serum application. This goes on to a blissful 20 minute facial massage (I love those…!), and ends with a mask which is then left on the skin to get absorbed. You do come out with quite an oily face, but it’s one of those facials that you can wash your face within 2 hours, apply make up and off you go out. I was definitely glowing, and felt completely relaxed but ended up with a little break out (which isn’t very fun.) I’d definitely recommend this as a great relaxing facial. For more details, click here.

Age: Sodashi Samadara Age-defying facial

I recently tried Australian luxury beauty brand, Sodashi’s signature treatment – The Samadara Facial at Talise Mina Salam. This had to join my list of Escapes without leaving Dubai, as the Talise spa is just breathtaking. Once I entered the spa, and moved to the treatment room, I felt like I was on an island away from home. The treatment is a hydrating and nourishing treatment to increase firmness and restores the skin’s glow. The treatment was two hours ago (longest facial I’ve done!) and is designed to reawaken the skin’s natural healing energies. It includes a rose crystal massage, followed by a clay mask, in order for the skin to absorb the Samadara Age Defying creme. Whilst the heating clay mask was on my face, the session included a relaxing getaway, which included a hand and foot massage. For more on Sodashi, click here

Mary Katrantzou skirt from stylebop.com. YSL heels. Chanel boy bag

Location: Fashion Forward – Dubai, UAE

I’m hosting a fun event with Pinko this coming Sunday – Join in for some fun, yummy treats, and a first look into next season’s collection (won’t be in stores for another few months). RSVP to talasamman@myfashdiary.com and I look forward to seeing you there!

As you can tell, I’m a huge fan of Ciate Manicures – I love finding out what manicure they’re going to come up with next… This time, it’s the Chalkboard manicure! I’m giving away a set to one lucky winner.

How to enter?

-Like Ciate on Facebook here

-Like Myfashdiary on Facebook here

-Confirm the above in the comment box below.

I also got the chance to interview Alice during my trip so make sure to look out for my interview coming soon!

W Hotel:

I’ve stayed at the W before, and was so glad to come back as I had such a great stay last time. Make sure to check the link above. The service is just great – I was welcomed with a typewriter, macarons, and note from the W insider (very thoughtful, and well researched!) I had dinner that night at The Market – which is more of W’s general restaurant – general in terms of cuisine as they have everything – I had the buratta and california sushi rolls. But I must say the restaurant is always buzzing with a variety of people – from locals to expats. I had time to settle down, and enjoy the room (aka work…) – I love how W Hotels have bliss products, why can’t every hotel have face cleansers? It would make toiletry packing so much easier. The next day, I had lunch at the Spice Market – which is W’s Asian fusion restaurant – delicious sushi – reminds me of Zuma… fresh vibe during the day, and buzzing atmosphere at night.

On my 2nd day, I had a chance to check out the store before the opening – huge, and looks exactly like the Temperley store in Dubai – great for my Qatari women! I had the chance to also speak to Alice about the Middle East, her career advice, and her Summer plans. After picking out a piece to wear to event, a quick pit stop to the hotel, and off to the opening we went. The event had an ‘English tea party’ theme which Alice personally hosted- grass outside the store, little country style bird cages with real birds in it, a Violin group playing sweet music, and delicious fresh juices served – very cute.

Thank you for inviting me Salam stores and thank you to the W Hotel for hosting me. Look out for my interview with Alice!

Peter Pilotto top from stylebop.com. Topshop skinny jeans. Bionda Castana ‘Tala’ heels

Location: Friend’s birthday at Roberto’s – Dubai, UAE

Hi Ladies, I’m hosting an event for myfashdiary readers next week at Pinko, and we’ve agreed to style 5 readers, who will also be getting a gift from Pinko before the event. Find out how to enter above.

Loving what Pinko have in store for us this season! Good luck.

To celebrate the opening of Chanel’s Little Black Jacket exhibition in Dubai, Chanel flew the legendary Supermodel, Caroline de Maigret down to Dubai. Being one of my beauty icons, I had the chance to sit down with Caroline, and talk about her beauty routine.

Have you been to Dubai before?

I’ve been here once before – 15 years ago when I first started as a Chanel model. It was so different, I am so excited to come back and see how it changed. It’s also a great cross culture between Asia, Europe and Africa.

What are your favorite products?

Alors… *laughs* I’m addicted to quite a bit – I’m not branding right here. Bioderma make up remover – it doesn’t hurt the eyes and removes heavy mascara (which I love…) For a cleanser, I love Chanel’s Mousse douceur. After you put it on, you feel like you’ve come out of the spa, your skin feels so clean… it’s ridiculous. For the moisture, I swear by Chanel’s Sublimage – soft as silk. For people like me, who have dry skin and starting to age – it’s nourishing… it’s the first time I fall in love with a product. I am quite classic with make up, but like to have fun with nails – I change my nail color every week, very fun!

My Make up routine:

Mascara, lipbalm, and some blush on the cheeks. I’ve been using YSL’s Touche eclat for those bags. I’m so androgynous that when I put too much make up, it looks wrong. I like a natural look more on me.

Vitamins & Supplements:

Magnesium, which is very French.

Health Plus:

The best thing I’ve done is stop smoking.

Facialist:

Joëlle CIOCCO, who I see every now and then.

Beauty tip:

Moisturize, and massage your skin.

Perfect detox juice mix:

I start my day with Carrot, Ginger, Beetroot and orange.

Fitness regimen:

I’m very lazy. I have a kid, which is great fitness.

Hair Miracle:

I tend to use hair drug store products – they’re great! Pantene, L’oreal…  I never use conditioner, but use a Bamboo mask every now and then by Leonor Greyl.

Key to feeling beautiful:

Be Confident & be happy… that’s the key and it’s not something you can buy.

Poca and Poca skirt. Bambi jacket by Zayan. Bracher Emden clutch

Location: S*uce Ballgowns gone Punk event – Dubai, UAE

Photo Credit: S*uce

So excited to share my ‘Tala and the tastemakers’ piece with Vika Gazinskaya this month. We talk detox, Russian pancakes, and how fashion shouldn’t be an addiction.
Read the full feature here 

Supermodel, Amber Le Bon (you might also know her as Yasmin Le Bon’s beautiful daughter) was recently in town to host the Grazia Style Awards 2013. I had the chance to pop up to Amber’s room at the JW Marriot Marquis before the awards to talk about her trip, working with her mom, and fashion of course.

How does it feel to be in Dubai?

Really exciting. This is the first time I’ve been here. As soon as I arrived, all I saw was new shiny buildings. My mom has come here many times before, I must visit here more. My friends have been telling me I brought the rain with me as it never rains here…

I think you did… It really never rains here.

It’s not my fault! *laughs*

Are you hoping to do anything specific during your trip?

Well, we went to Dubai Mall… wondered around – took in the environment. I don’t really have time because I’m working for most of this short trip!

How is it working with your mom?

I love it. We are such a close family, and get on very well. Mama, is just the best mother. We always have such a good laugh on the job… we try to secretly tickle each other. It’s nice having someone there to talk to on the job. We try to talk with our mouths closed.

You have such beautiful skin. What beauty products do you swear by?

I swear by Chantecaille’s foundation. I tend to go shiny, so I like a matte finish. I don’t need illuminating products! I get dry lips, so definitely a lip balm. In terms of skincare, I love Rodial products, and love Simple make up wipes. I’m not high maintenance at all…

How do you keep fit?

I do yoga, I go to the gym when I can drag myself there… I should go more. I like to walk places, which London is great for. I don’t think you can do that here… too hot! I have a bad knee and hip so I really have to take care of what exercises I do. Yoga is great as it’s low impact and muscle lengthening.

How would you describe your personal style?

It changes a lot depending on the weather! How I feel each day… I like mixing things up really. I love pairing a chiffon dress, with a leather jacket and spiky punchy shoes.

Who are your favorite designers?

ah… so many! I love Helmut Lang, Peter Pilotto… so excited that they are in town too!

What will you be wearing this Summer?

Lots of Chiffon, pastel-y colors… In the Winter, I’m definitely a dark person. I love long and floaty things.

What is the best advice you’ve ever been given?

In general, just be nice to everyone! My mom always said it’s so easy to be nice… it takes more effort being nasty and rude. I enjoy it!

Peter Pilotto from Stylebop.com. Denim shirt from Topshop. Bionda Castana ‘Tala’ heels

Location: Fashion forward CFDA lunch – Dubai, UAE

We love competitions here at Myfashdiary! This week, I’ve teamed up with luxury lingerie brand, Agent Provocateur to give away £100 to spend on goodies.Ladies, time to spoil yourselves and men, time to get your lady a treat…

How to enter?

-Like Agent Provocateur on Facebook here

-Like Myfashdiary on Facebook here

-Comment in the comment box below confirming the above.

Good luck!

Tibi dress from stylebop.com. Clarks heels. Gucci bag

Location: Hermes Brunch – Dubai, UAE

]]> http://myfashdiary.com/2013/05/look-of-the-day-590/feed/ 3 http://myfashdiary.com/2013/05/talking-fashion-beauty-on-dubai-eye/ http://myfashdiary.com/2013/05/talking-fashion-beauty-on-dubai-eye/#comments Sat, 11 May 2013 20:48:51 +0000 Tala Samman http://myfashdiary.com/?p=16023

I recently spoke with Sarah Cocker on Dubai Eye for their Commercial show on Thursday. Sarah likes to add in Fashion & beauty every now and then, and was invited to join lunchtime hour to speak about  Summer beauty essentials, fashion trends and style tips for the Summer season.

If you didn’t catch it, please see the recordings here.

Dima Ayad dress. Bracher Emden handbag. YSL heels

Location: Fashion Forward – Dubai, UAE

Photo Credit: Ahlan! Magazine

Double Serum Facial at Clarins Spa

One of my favorite places for facials would have to be Clarins Spa at The Dubai Mall. First of all, I love the brand Clarins – love their products, definitely under rated here in the Middle East, and I never really knew how great their facials were. When I need a pick me up and a skin wake up, I head to Clarins spa. I am so excited how the brand relaunched their hero product, The Double serum and also launched a Double serum facial. The facial consists of a treatment for your skin – I went with the radiance (as I needed it) where they include an additional 15 minutes anti aging treatment, as well as using the Double serum product. My facialist, Julianne mentioned that the product is so good, they use it within most of their treatments. Not only are the Clarins facials relaxing, they cleanse the skin, hydrate it, exfoliate it and they topped it off with a cooling radiance facial. Great for firming and Anti aging too! Highly recommended.
Clarins Spa, The Dubai Mall.
For more details, click here 

Spectra laser with Rebecca Treston at Euromed Clinic

I was booked in for an appointment with one of the best Skin Specialists in Dubai, Rebecca Treston for a Glycolic peel (my first one) . Among arriving to Euromed clinic (which is right by Kitsch bakery on Beach Road). Rebecca had a look at my skin, which she instantly suggested I go for the Spectra rather than the Glycolic Peel. I’ve never heard of the laser before, but soon realized it is the same one they use for tattoo removal. Rebecca assured me that it isn’t painful (which is true, where as Laser hair removal is a different story.) The treatment brightens the face, smoothens the skin, works on wrinkles, reduces pigmentation, clears up acne,and reduces pore size – it sounded like the perfect treatment, even though I’m always put back when laser or needles are involved. Rebecca’s assistant gently cleansed my face, before taking me to the laser room – where two different laser lights were used on my skin. In just 10 minutes I was done, and had mebo applied to my face with a mask over to soothe down the skin. I was told my skin might be irritated the next day, and what I should get from the pharmacy if hives turn up, which thankfully didn’t. Half an hour later, I was at a dinner, loving how clear and fresh my skin got. In terms of any side-effects, all I got was a slight breakout.
For more details, click here

Eminence Paprika facial at Pastels Salon, Dubai

I’ve been hearing about Eminence for a few weeks before I was booked in for this facial – all of Hollywood are obsessed with this organic skincare brand from Hungary, and celebrities like Jessica Biel swear by their treatments. I’ve been to Pastels salon once for a hair appointment, and fell in love with the salon in a whole, so I was looking forward to this. When I asked my facialist what I was going to get out of the facial, she mentioned it would boost collagen, help wrinkles, clear clogged pores – ‘it just does everything at once, and it’s a natural treatment.’ I must say I don’t really have another facial I can compare this to – you constantly feel cold or hot because of the paprika, the cooling masks, the hot and cold towels – which was coincidently a great experience. Unlike other treatments, this works for all skins. The treatment starts off with a cleansing, followed by a mist before the fruit pulp and paprika treatment was put on the face – my skin felt tingly, cold, then hot due to the active ingredients. The paprika was left on my face for a few minutes before getting it wiped off (I was then shown my skin, which looked like it was on fire – super red!) A mist was sprayed on to neutralize the skin before a cooling stone mask was then applied to cool down the skin followed by a fruit mask with antioxidants. This led on to a massage on the arms and face (where I passed out for 10 minutes – deep sleep from how relaxed I was.) and ended with creams, sunscreen and an eye gel. I was glowing, had a slight tint of red and felt super fresh. My skin was also super soft and clear, the gentle peel removed any clogs from the pores, and I was ready to book in for my next facial. PS from how fresh all the ingredients were, you definitely smell the fresh herbs.
For more details, click here 

Zayan Dress. Nathalie Trad clutch. Zara heels

Location: Fashion Forward – Dubai, UAE