Effortless And Elevated: Dresses For The Modern Wedding Guest
Lead Image: From left, Suzanne wears: Dress, POA, Chopova Lowena. Shoes, POA, Erdem. Grace wears: Top, Dhs2,070; Dress, Dhs2,490; Skirt, Dhs5,440, all Carven. Shoes, POA, Erdem. Gifty wears: Dress, Dhs12,290; Jumper, Dhs3,425; Shoes, POA, all Erdem. Bella wears: Dress; Shoes, POA, both Loewe. Pien wears: Dress, Dhs16,235; Shoes, POA, both Erdem
Photography and Creative Direction by Erdem Mor Alıoğlu. Styling by Crystalle Cox. Models: Grace Harumi, Bella Cho both at Premier Model Management; Pien Laurejissen at The Hive Management; Suzanne Nayana at Milk Model Management; Gifty Emmanuel at M+P Models. Hair: Anna Cofone using Authentic Beauty Concept. Make-Up: Natsumi Narita using NARS. Manicurist: Ami Streets using Chanel Beauty. Fashion Assistant: Sabrina Leina. On-set Production: RAW Production. Special Thanks to Copped Hall Trust
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The National
12 hours ago
- The National
Nashwa Nasreldin on why Arabic literature translators are needed now more than ever
The morning light falls gently on Nashwa Nasreldin's face as she settles down for our Zoom call, placing a mug on the side and adjusting her scarf. 'Did I tell you I got this when I was in India," she says, pointing to her Jaipuri silk scarf. Then, as if picking up from incomplete conversation, she says: "The opportunity now lies in uplifting the work and voices of translators based in the Middle East, who have less access to the support networks than we do living in the West." Nasreldin, who currently lives in London, sips her coffee and then continues: 'Recently, we held our inaugural workshop for emerging translators in Gaza, run by the ArabLit platform, with each session led by experienced professional literary translators - some of the best in the field of Arabic /English literary translation." Born in Kuwait to Egyptian parents, Nasreldin is a translator, editor and author with a mission. She says the work of translators in literature is now more urgent than ever. "We need more translations to drown out the voices of those who try to rewrite our stories," she tells The National. "There has been an outpouring of literature from and about Gaza and Palestinians more broadly since October 7, 2023. This shows a recognition in the important role literature plays in recording, reporting, archiving and legacy-making." Nasreldin's work first came to the limelight in 2018 when she translated After Coffee by Egyptian author and academic Abdelrashid Mahmoudi, who won the Sheikh Zayed Book Award in 2014. Being tasked to translate Mahmoudi's book was a big moment for her because because it meant she had finally arrived, she says. 'I really enjoyed Mahmoudi's book when I read it in Arabic. For me, literary quality is an important factor when I come to choose a project given that you have to inhabit the book's world so intensely in the process of translating it." Nasreldin's work has since take her around the world, including to the Jaipur Literature Festival in February where we first met – where she spoke about her struggles and the importance of translators. Her career as a translator began when she studied Moroccan writer Mohammed Bennis's work as a part of her master's course work at the Vermont College of Fine Arts in the US. 'I studied Bennis and produced an in-depth study of his writings on translation. At this time, I also met writer and translation-advocate Maureen Freely, who was a guest lecturer, and who introduced me to the British Centre for Literary Translation and their emerging translator mentorship. When I moved to the UK in 2013, I applied and was awarded the mentorship, which then propelled my career.' Nasreldin is currently translating two short books that she says she's very passionate about. A Brawl in Jahannam is a novella by award-winning Libyan author Mohammed Alnaas, whose debut novel, Bread on Uncle Milad's Table, won the 2022 International Prize for Arabic Fiction. It's a satiric retelling of events that the narrator claims took place in the 1990s in a small Libyan village named Jahannam, which literally translates to hell. The other book is Side Entrance to the House by Omani writer Amal Alsaeedi, in which the author's ancestral house serves as a vehicle to unearth memories and images of childhood and youth, triggering philosophical reflections on her troubled relationships with her husband, parents and siblings. "These books represent a new generation taking bold literary risks, reinterpreting classical Arabic styles," says Nasreldin. But making a living as a translator is not easy, and many in the field are forced to find several sources of income, she adds. "I split my time working as a writer, an editor and a translator," she says. 'Early on in the day, Arab publishers who assume that a so-called native English speaker would have a stronger grasp over English than a translator who was raised bilingual, as I was. "This isn't much of an issue now as demand for diversity has risen. But still, awards can be incredibly helpful in elevating the work of translators and cash prizes are welcome,' she adds with a smile. "In the field of Arabic literature in translation, we only have a handful of prizes including the renowned Saif Ghobash Banipal Prize for Arabic Literary Translation and the newer Bait AlGhasham DarArab Translation Prize. Also, the ArabLit Short Story Prize is particularly impactful as it supports writers who may not have had the opportunity to publish book-length work.' But the publishing industry as a whole is changing, albeit slowly. "The work of translators are increasingly recognised, thanks to social media campaigns like the #namethetranslator, which seeks to ensure that translators are named alongside their work," Nasreldin says. "There are dozens of excellent Arabic translators working in the field today. A group of us communicate regularly on mailing lists, where we discuss translation quandaries, share opportunities, celebrate successes and band together when there is a need to address a threat to our rights as creators – especially with the unregulated rise of mechanical translation and AI, having a supportive community matters. "I think, we will see a rise in translations of Arabic literature from the Middle East and North Africa region as more translators are trained and gain confidence in an industry that had been relatively opaque previously," she adds.
Khaleej Times
16 hours ago
- Khaleej Times
UAE: How to be the best dressed guest at a summer wedding
All eyes might have been on Kris Jenner's 'work' at the Sánchez-Bezos nuptials last month, as the Kardashian matriarch's facelift commandeered column inches, but wedding guests who want to get people dissecting their look for the right reasons are increasingly turning to stylists – rather than surgeons – to ensure their wardrobe hits all the right notes. Ideally, no notes. In the GCC, Dubai-based Bana Abujaber, the Jordanian founder of wedding specialist styling agency TROU/SO advises both brides and their guests on how to dress their best, whichever side of the aisle they might be on. As weddings increasingly become multi-day productions, with every moment captured on camera, clients turn to Abujaber and her team to translate dress codes and scour the globe for the perfect pieces. 'Some are highly fashionable but simply don't have the time to scroll endlessly online or visit stores. Others genuinely struggle to find pieces that suit their body shape, or don't enjoy the process of shopping,' Abujaber, who founded the agency in 2023, says of her client base. A graduate of New York's Parsons School of Design, Abujaber is well-versed in styling clients for weddings across the globe, with Bodrum, Athens, Tuscany, and the Amalfi Coast the most popular wedding destinations for brides from the GCC and Levant this summer. 'I'm not trying to reinvent the wheel for every guest, but I make sure their look feels like them, elevated, appropriate for the event, and with just enough personality to make it memorable,' Abujaber says. Here are her (I) dos and don'ts for making it onto the best-dressed guest lists this season: Dos Wear something old 'Vintage and pre-loved fashion is gaining momentum. More people are recognising the value of investing in pieces that carry history and character, which makes their outfits feel unique and personal. Choosing vintage allows for a more sustainable approach to dressing, reducing waste and promoting mindful consumption. I expect vintage and pre-loved to become an even bigger part of how people approach wedding guest dressing and fashion in general.' Feet first 'I love Studio Amelia's short-heeled sandals, mules from Aquazzura, and strappy sandals by Gianvito Rossi. I find them to be the most comfortable, as well as incredibly versatile, they pair effortlessly with a wide range of dresses throughout wedding season.' Cultural nuance, not rigidity 'Regionally there's a stronger emphasis on making a statement; think glamorous silhouettes, intricate detailing, and a real sense of occasion. Guests are more comfortable going all-out, and there's a cultural appreciation for fashion that feels celebratory and bold. By contrast, in Europe individuals lean towards a more understated and effortless aesthetic. That said, you'll find minimalists in this region and maximalists in the West.' Budget wise 'Re-wearing dresses you've previously worn is not only practical but also a refreshing way to showcase personal style while embracing sustainability. Rather than feel the pressure to buy something new for every occasion, confidently give your favourite pieces a second or even third moment to shine. Small, simple alterations can completely transform a dress. Shortening a flowing maxi dress to a midi length can give it a more modern and versatile silhouette. Adding straps to a strapless dress updates the look and can also provide extra comfort and support. Thoughtful tweaks make your wardrobe more adaptable, stylish, and respectful of both your budget and the environment.' Accessorise wisely 'I love choosing one standout piece that defines the entire look. It could be a pair of cool sunglasses or an oversized bow to add a real wow factor. I aim to create looks for my clients that spark conversation and leave a lasting impression. I'm also passionate about incorporating vintage pieces into wedding guest outfits, as it's a beautiful way to add character and timeless charm. Whether it's delicate vintage earrings passed down from your grandmother or a classic handbag you've cherished for over 20 years, these elements bring a unique story to an outfit that new pieces can't replicate.' Don'ts White out 'It might seem obvious, but it's worth repeating: avoid wearing white, ivory, or anything in the cream family at all costs. These shades are traditionally reserved for the bride, and it's important to respect that boundary, no matter how fashion-forward the outfit may be. Butter yellow is a trending colour and a beautiful choice for summer weddings – it feels fresh, soft, and elegant. But keep in mind how it photographs and shifts under different lighting as butter yellow can sometimes read as cream or off-white, which strays into the bride's territory. If you love the shade, consider styling it with strong accessories or a contrasting shoe to give it more definition.' Dancing shoes 'I advise against switching into a pair of sneakers later in the night. While comfort is important, a beautiful pair of flat sandals or chic ballet flats does the job just as well, without taking away from the overall look. They're comfortable, polished, and still feel in keeping with the tone of a wedding. My favourite ballet flats are from Staud or Le Monde Beryl.' Sew long 'One of the most common style mishaps I see is when a dress isn't properly hemmed; the wrong length can throw off the whole look. A gown dragging on the floor not only looks sloppy, but it can also be uncomfortable to walk in and ends up ruining the fabric. On the flip side, a dress that's been hemmed too short can look awkward, especially if it was meant to have a more elegant, elongated silhouette. It's a simple fix, but getting the hem right makes everything look more polished and intentional. Whether it's a full-length gown or a midi, tailoring matters.' Go analogue 'Leave digital rings or watches at home. Nothing ruins a polished look faster than spotting an Apple Watch on someone dressed to the nines. It instantly takes away from the effort you've put into your outfit. If you're going formal, commit fully.' What not to wear If I could wave a magic wand, I'd ban short bodycon dresses. They feel too clubby or casual for a wedding and don't suit the celebratory tone of the event. Weddings deserve outfits with more elegance and thoughtfulness.'
Emirates Woman
21 hours ago
- Emirates Woman
8 fabulous activities to experience in Dubai this weekend
The London-based athleisure brand, VAARA by Tatiana Korsakova, opens its first international boutique at The Dubai EDITION. Designed with Studio XAG, the 20-square-metre space blends sculptural interiors with VAARA's signature pillars—Studio, Lounge, Beach, and Mountain. The boutique features the Essentials range in breathable fabrics like SEACELL, and the Eco Seamless collection known for its precision fit and clean lines. Open daily from 9 AM to 9 PM with two-hour delivery via Careem, the space offers a refined retail experience rooted in style, function, and elevated wellbeing. For more information visit Indulge in this new delivery-only concept This new delivery-only concept by Sunset Hospitality Group, inspired by the energy and flavours of China's vibrant street food culture. Designed specifically for Dubai's fast-paced lifestyle, it brings elevated Chinese classics straight to your door, rooted in heritage, crafted with precision, and served with soul. From dumplings to authentic noodles, each dish is worth trying. For more information visit Book your night swim View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ириша ♀️ (@borulkoira) Eva Beach Club introduces The Club Night Swim, a twilight escape running every Friday to Sunday from 6 PM. With extended pool access until 11 PM, guests can unwind with moonlit swims, golden-hour cocktails, and Mediterranean bites in a glowing beachfront lounge. A minimum spend of Dhs150 per person applies, fully redeemable on Eva's signature food and drinks perfect for those who crave calm seas and good company after dark. It takes place at The Club, Palm Jumeirah Dubai. For more information visit Try a sip and paint session with your friends Set within SOHUM Wellness Sanctury's serene atmosphere, guests are invited to unleash their inner creativity with a guided painting session, while enjoying a refreshing mocktail or smoothie of choice. For just Dhs150 (with a minimum F&B spend of Dhs100), the experience includes all painting materials and a personal canvas to take home, making it a perfect evening of artistry flow, vibrant colours and a soulful connection. For more information visit Visit this eclectic bistro This homegrown bistro redefines what dining out feels like. A Normal Day is a homegrown bistro in Dar Wasl Mall, Jumeirah, offers a laid-back charm with sophisticated cuisine. Conceived by locally raised creatives, the space feels like a housewarming filled with personal objects, collected art, and quiet detail offering elevated yet approachable dishes rooted in seasonality and quality. From standout all-day breakfasts like Avo & Mango Toast and and Shakshuka to dinner favourites such as Striploin Steak MB6 and Honey Cake, every plate reflects care and creativity. By night, the bistro transforms into an intimate dining spot, while its in-house Test Kitchen led by Head Chef Illia pushes boundaries with exclusive weekend concepts, interactive menus, and behind-the-scenes experiences, positioning A Normal Day as a standout in Dubai's vibrant food scene. For more information visit @ Give your tresses some love Tucked within the serene setting of Park Hyatt Dubai, the Rossano Ferretti Hair Spa offers a luxurious escape rooted in Italian elegance and expert hair artistry. Founded by the renowned 'Hair Maestro' Rossano Ferretti, the spa showcases the award-winning Ferretti Method—a personalised cutting technique designed to enhance each client's natural beauty through the hair's natural fall and appointment is tailored, using Ferretti's cruelty-free, Italian-made haircare line to restore vitality and embrace effortless elegance. As one of Dubai's most exclusive hair destinations, it delivers transformative care in a calm, refined setting. For more information visit Try this delectable supper club collab This summer, acclaimed Dubai supper club Haus of Vo presents a special four-hands dinner with German chef Robin Höfer on Saturday 12 and Sunday 13 July. Known for his playful take on fine dining, Höfer—trained in MICHELIN-starred kitchens across Europe and Dubai will showcase a 13-course private dining experience inspired by his Southern German roots and love for Asian flavours, featuring inventive dishes like the Black Forest Praline and Mulled Wine Granita. Founded by Lisa Vo, aka Madame Vo, Haus of Vo is rooted in her Vietnamese-German heritage and a mission to foster connection through food. This exclusive collaboration merges both chefs' cultural influences and shared love for hospitality, with only ten seats available each night. To book visit @hausofvo or @chefrobinhoefer Instagram to book Stock up on your jewellery Known for their sun-kissed summer jewellery, AMIE Dubai has launched gold-plated enamel fashion jewellery at Poison Drop in Dubai Hills Mall. It includes a carefully curated line of bracelets, earrings, rings, and necklaces that celebrates the warmth, freedom, and effortless style of the season. Available now exclusively in Poison Drop (Dubai Hills Mall), the collection invites wearers to build a personal jewellery wardrobe that reflects their style, story, and summer state of mind. It offers fashion-forward pieces that focus on delicate chain necklaces to breezy linen looks. For more information visit – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram Images: Instagram & Feature Image: Instagram @aliceoliviac
