Confashions From Kuwait

From top, green apples print on a fuchsia background by Devi Kroell (at Al Othman boutique) and  a print of little girls in stripped one-piece swim suit and cute goggles by Zara . Makes me want to buy the piece just because of it's print.

And another runway inspired item was spotted in the Avenues recently. The victim? Jason Wu's S/S 2010 collection. The Accused? Oasis’s flirty feather skirt. Well, I'm not loving THIS version of the feather skirt, but yeah I’d give this trend a try why not.  If the thought of using feathers to garnish your outfit is causing an internal struggle, you might want to keep the overall look subtle.  Try pairing the flirty feather skirt with a basic tank top, silk short sleeved top, or a fitted tuxedo jacket.  And top it off with a bright red lipstick. Steer clear of adding any other accessories because the skirt itself is all you need to make a statement. Photo Credit style.com

The energetic, multi-talented, and fabulous Bahraini editor Wafa Al Obaidat who’s the brainchild behind Sketchbook magazine , a quarterly magazine that showcases established and emerging creative talents in fashion, design and culture with a focus on features, photography and illustration, has just released the second edition of Sketchbook magazine titled LONDON FASHION DESIGNERS ISSUE . This issue is filled with the most talked about designers, illustrators and photographers around today, including Matthew Williamson, Paul Smith, David David, Luella, Burberry and Genger & Mayer amongst many more.  If you appreciate art, it would be very hard for you to miss the exquisiteness of Sketchbook online cover layout.  There's something distinctly different about it. The enjoyable perplexity begins with the beautiful illustrations of cover star, Henry Holland, who talks us through how he went from making T-shirts for fun to designing his new collection for House Of Holland. ...

We all know that Zara thrives on runway inspired pieces, but sometimes the “inspiration” can be a little bit less subtle than it should be.  For example, I spotted this Parada-esque  linen dress with photographic prints showing scenic views like palm trees, and now take a look at one of Prada’s SS10 modeled look shown below? I won’t hate Zara for this, after all, not all of us can afford to sport a head to toe Prada runway look. And in this fast fashion world we live in, everyone's thinking twice before splurging on designer duds. 

OK this is not good, I'm starting to get addicted to  Lauren Moshi's artistic printed tops.  I bought a couple already.  They're comfortable, perfect for our weather, soft to the touch, budget friendly as prices range between KD 29-KD 44, and most of all, they did not loose their shape after washing.  These tops are absolute must-have item for casual cool outings.  Lauren Moshi tops are available at Goji Boutique . 

fivesenses   salon is a newly launched personalized salon that utilizes your five senses to help loosen your mind, and enhance your external glow.  They specialize in hair treatments, facials, and body massages in addition to regular salon services such as hair cut, blow dry, and hair dye, using premium products that promote healthy hair, glowing skin, and a stress free body. They have just launched INOA- the first ammonia free hair dye that uses ODS (oil system) to enhance the hair rather than damage it like other hair dyes do.  And just in time for Summer and with all that dust going around, you might want to book your facial appointments now, they're having a special offer from June 1st-June 7th where you get to enjoy any facial for KD 20 only!   fivesenses   salon is located in Tala Center, Salmiya. To book an appointment, please call (+965) 2575-5607.

As is the case with almost the entire female population, I was in love with Stella McCartney’s lace jumpsuit. You simply cannot deny how glamorous it looked, the quality of lace used, the intricate beading, and those beautifully structured shoulders, It was a classy piece yet very fashion forward. Anyhow, I spotted this high-street version worn by Miss Selfridge’s mannequin. From a distance the jumpsuit looked appealing, but up close, something was off… probably it was the beading (which made it look cheap)? Or maybe the color of the lcae…hmm… not sure… Anyhow, if you're interested, it’s available at Miss Selfridge stores in the Avenues and Marina Mall.

Net-A-Porter.com is excited to announce the launch of a capsule bridal collection from Matthew Williamson as the latest addition to its Wedding Boutique. The collection uses silhouettes and prints from some of Matthew Williamson’s most beautiful designs of recent seasons, recreated in a bridal palette and decorated with exquisite embroidery and beading. Highlights include a wedding gown embellished with a delicate feather motif, and a soft beaded rabbit fur shrug. These designs will exclusively be available online at Net-A-Porter.com as of June 2010 and is also stocked in the Matthew Williamson boutiques in New York and on London’s Regent Street.

Kiehl’s   hosted a striking photographic exhibition last Wednesday called ‘This is me,’ featuring 10 of the region’s most interesting and dynamic fresh faces who have been selected to represent the socially aware brand as ambassadors. The exhibition captured each of the subjects Kiehl’s characteristics in their very own “ Kiehl’ s moment ”, and the proceeds from the show will be donated to the very worthy Make a Wish Foundation UAE charity.  The gallery has been converted into a New York street scene, with pretzel and burger vendors, jazz and hip hop, and graffiti art adorning the walls.  I have chosen to share with you some of Kiehl’s new ambassadors such as are photographer Maisa Al Qasimi, students Haya and Sama Abu Khadra (whom get featured alot in international street style blogs), and our very own Kuwaiti artist Amira Behbahani who is shown here on the 2nd, and 3rd photos (Woohoo! WTG!). These fresh faces were selected for their diversity, creativity, and f...

You are invited to Kan Zaman exhibition of home accessories which will be held at Beit Lothan (Cedra Hall) on Sunday 30th May until Tuesday 1st June. Opening hours are from 9am to 1pm and from 5pm to 9pm. 

Wamu Designs  by Wadha Al Jeri and Muneera Al Qattan will be hosting and exhibition of their Ramadan collection at The Exhibition on May 29th from 10am to 1pm and  5pm to 10pm, and on May 30th to 31st from 4pm to 10pm. The Exhibition located next to Slider Station on 'The Strip' Across from AlSeef Palace, Jibla. Tel.: (+965) 9406-6226. 

If you're just a little tired of your Bvlgari  or Cartier (or let’s rephrase that with a little short on cash for a Bvlgari  or Cartier), here's a something way affordable and just as glamorous, the latest new arrivals from the fabulous costume jewelry line Kenneth Jay Lane has arrived at  Panacheous . Here’s a glimpse of what’s available in-store. Panacheous   is located in Villa Darat Al-Zuhor. For any inquiries, please call (+965) 9774-5583. 

Because I walked out of TopShop empty handed, I decided to browse through TopMan just for fun, little did I know that I’ll be leaving the store with 2 t-shirts and a pair of sunglasses. After all, menswear-inspired pieces have been designers’ muse for quite some time now. I fell in love with this tan colored blazer with one navy stripe detail; unfortunately, the smallest size was sold out, or it would have been the perfect addition to create that 'borrowed from the boys' look. I also loved the prints on these t-shirts, they’re absolutely funny and irresistible, and especially the Mona Lisa with her French manicured hands and Carrie-like gold necklace. They were a bit long, so I’m going to take them for alteration. Hopefully I won’t be in a situation where I’ll be standing next to a guy wearing the same shirt.

Get a  15% discount on any of your purchases when you shop at  boutique39.com .  All you have to do to take advantage of this special offer is to enter promotion code: confashion when checking out. This offer is valid today only.  So start browsing now .

Twenty-Ten by AKF , is a new brand by crafty Kuwaiti designer Ascia Al-Faraj (previous owner of  Paisley ). The concept of the name is a combination of numbers that closely relate to the designer. Twenty refers to the designer's age when she first founded her brand and 10 refers to the 10 people in her life who she love the most,  "I would never create anything that I wouldn't wear myself. All the accessories and apparel I sell stem from the drive to stand out in the crowd, and to wear something you don't see everyday. My products have enhanced my personal style, and I hope they can enhance others. There's beauty in both construction and de-construction", expressed the brainchild behind  Twenty-Ten by AKF . Twenty-Ten by AKF will be revealing her new collection of shredded tees in a variety of colors and styles, studded statement necklaces, intricate rope necklaces, and a new and fresh take on old products in an exhibition today.  Twenty-Ten...

Move over Alexa, and say hellooo to the Neely.  The Neely family, named after the lead character in ‘Valley of the Dolls’, delivers the pared back sensibilities of the season. Quintessentially Mulberry , Neely is all about perfect detailing and gorgeous leathers. The Neely, Neely Tote, and the Neely Shoulder Bag are classically unfussy with shrunken briefcase detailing, and are poised to become treasured  Mulberry   styles in Tomato Red, Nude and Steel Grey Spongy Patent, and classic Camel Leopard Hair Calf.

I KNOW!!! A breathtaking piece and extreemly hard to get as only 100 Shadow Birkins were made. So how can you get your hands on the Shadow Birkin bag and its likes of limited edition designer bags? Kuwait based   Chic Inc  sells designer handbags like Hermès, Chanel, and Balenciaga directly from the designer boutique and handpicked by their fashion experts. Alternatively, you can send in the photo of the bag you want and they will hunt it down for you.  According to the e-mail which I have received, they guarantee that all of the handbags they sell are 100% authentic and brand new; they do not buy or sell fakes or knock offs. Chic Inc   is not sponsored or affiliated with Chanel or Hermes.  Find out more by clicking here . 

Join Virtue Boutique in Yallah Shabab at the International Fair Grounds ( Hall 8 ) - Mishref. Check out the latest collection of summer dresses, shoes and clutches, and new handmade home accesories like quilts, pillows, slippers and toiletries bag sets. (one of a kind and limited quantity). The event will be held tomorrow Thursday, May 27, 2010 at 4:00pm to 10:00pm and Friday, May 28, 2010 at 12:00pm to 10:00pm.

I have just received photos of British brand  Mulberry's   event held last night in Milk Studios in NYC.   Mulberry , was so taken with photographer Venetia Dearden's work that they have sponsored the publication of her new book- 'Glastonbury- Another Stage'. Attendees included Agyness Deyn, Leigh Lezark, Olivia Palmero, Chanel Iman, Irina Lazareanu, Michelle Trachtenberg, and Alex Wek. So I have chosen some photos of the best dressed and the most interesting looking people at the event to share them with you. Sigh... Olivia ALWAYS looks fabulous! 

Designer Entourage and Marielle Byworth invite you for a Special Evening to Launch The DJ collection remixed by Dj MadJam from Beirut /Ahmad MadJam Ajam. The DJ collection is a playful line for the contemporary artist within.  It is made of sterling silver rhodium plated with either black diamonds or Onyx for the rings.  The concept is further emphasized with the use of Classic Vinyl records as the core material. Either set in a bracelet, cufflinks, dog tag and key rings the Dj collection serie 1 is set with Vintage original OM KOLTHOUM Vinyl album. The concept challenges conventional thought about the artistic processes and art marketing. This limited edition is Unisex with different sizes for bracelets and rings. The event will be held at Designer's Entourage in Beirut, Gouraud St. Saifi Village on 28th May 2010 from 6pm to 10pm.