Memos From The Middle East: Dior Introduces the D-Motion Bag, Bvlgari Debuts Its First Manion, And Christies London Celebrates Syrian-German Artist Marwan Kassab-Bachi

Harpers Bazaar Arabia

6 days ago

Every week Bazaar brings you the latest news in fashion and beauty, luxury and lifestyle, straight from our desks to yours — from across the region and beyond
Fashion
Fendi Brings Back the Spy Bag
Spotted: the legendary Fendi Spy Bag is officially back, and she's never looked better. In celebration of Fendi's 100th year, the maison marks the occasion with its iconic return. Introduced in the early 2000s, the bag now makes a dramatic return in a bold digital campaign shot by Steven Meisel, starring Amelia Gray, Xiao Wen Ju, and Gabbriette. The new collection blends the bag's original boho-glam appeal with updated textures and finishes, staying true to its roots while echoing today's quiet luxury renaissance. Launching July 17 across the Middle East and online.
Beyonce Wears Jean Pierre Khoury For Cowboy Carter
Queen B has done it again. Kicking off Act II of her Cowboy Carter Tour, Beyoncé glittered in a custom creation by Lebanese designer Jean Pierre Khoury – mixing a little yeehaw with haute couture. Khoury's design captured the singer's boundary-pushing spirit perfectly, paired with scarlet glittering boots and a suite of diamond jewellery, because you can never have too much sparkle.
Introducing the D-Motion
In its latest exploration of elegance in motion, Dior presents the D-Motion – a new bag for A/W25 that's all about freedom, femininity, and fluid silhouettes. With macrocannage motif – an iconic Dior symbol – along with quilting, curved lines, and versatile styling, the D-Motion bag transitions effortlessly from workday to weekend, embodying a spirit of effortless cool with classic couture touches. Available in soft neutrals and muted tones, it launches this July at Dior boutiques worldwide.
Jewels by Nature: Maison Chaumet's New High Jewellery Launch
A delicate fusion of craftsmanship and wonder, Chaumet's newest high jewellery collection, Jewels by Nature, invites us into a dreamscape where blossoms shimmer and bees buzz. Inspired by the poetic forms of nature and sculpted with its signature French finesse, the new pieces blend the finest gold, diamonds, and coloured stones to evoke a garden in full bloom.
Beauty
Kosas Summer Staples Land at Sephora Middle East
Kosas is dialling up the summer radiance with a line-up of viral favourites now available at Sephora Middle East – from glow-boosting bases to juicy glosses. DreamBeam Smoothing Makeup Base SPF30+ protects and perfects with a luminous touch, while the Plump + Juicy Vegan Collagen Spray-On Serum is your skin's new power mist for hydration, bounce, and glow. Kosas just made summer beauty easier than ever. For more information visit sephora.ae.
Bloomingdales' New Beauty Drop: July's Must Haves
A beauty edit made for sultry summer days: Bloomingdale's latest arrivals mix cult classics, new launches, and niche obsessions into one covetable line-up. From Creed's Absolu Aventus – a sensual, musky reinvention of the original – to Diptyque's citronnelle-splashed summer collection, every item feels made for sun-drenched self-care. Discover skin-transforming formulas from Guerlain's Orchidée Impériale, scent statements from BornToStandOut, and crowd-favorite SPF from Coola. Explore the latest collection in stores or shop online by visiting www.bloomingdales.ae
Glow Goals: VITA C Cream by pHformula
Need a skincare sidekick this summer? From Barcelona-based dermaceutical brand phFormula comes the new Vita C Cream, designed to deliver intense hydration, antioxidant protection, and a radiant glow that lasts all day. Infused with stabilised Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate (a powerful Vitamin C derivative), hyaluronic acid, and essential botanicals, it works beneath the surface to even tone and boost collagen. Available now in leading UAE pharmacies and clinics – because your skin deserves science-backed brilliance.
Dining
Mr Chow Brings Hollywood Glamour to Dubai
Mr. Chow has officially opened its doors in DIFC, offering an exclusive dining experience steeped in art, fashion, and theatrics. The globally adored concept – famed for its 1960s London debut and celeb-filled New York nights – brings its signature hand-pulled noodles, Beijing Duck, and fine Chinese cuisine to Dubai's hottest culinary strip. From the creamy chicken satay to the crispy salt and pepper prawns, every dish delivers flavour with flair. Stick around for the iconic pulled-noodle performance after dark – it's a theatrical delight. For reservations, email [email protected] or call 04 834 2013.
Health & Wellness
Awaken Daycation at Atlantis the Palm is The Reset You Deserve
Step away from the city buzz and into a sanctuary of serenity with the Awaken Daycation at Atlantis The Palm. Whether you're craving a midweek recharge or a pampering weekend, this holistic escape blends beachside bliss with world-class wellness. Begin with a 60-minute massage at the award-winning Awaken Spa, followed by access to its state-of-the-art thermal facilities – think crystal steam rooms, vitality pools, and relaxation lounges. With beach and pool access included, you can stretch out under the sun or take a refreshing dip before winding down with mindful moments. Priced from AED 680, this is your cue to disconnect, detox, and dive into pure luxury. Book via WhatsApp on [phone] and check in for a day that feels like a retreat.
Leisure
Bvlgari Debuts Its First Mansion in Bodrum
Luxury real estate meets Riviera bliss. Bvlgari Hotels & Resorts has unveiled the very first completed mansion in its highly anticipated Bodrum development – a tranquil 6-bedroom estate surrounded by pine trees, offering Mediterranean design, Turkish artistry, and an infinity pool with sea views that stretch forever.
A Soul in Exile: Christies London Celebrates Syrian-German Artist Marwan
Art lovers, take note – this summer, Christie's London unveils Marwan: A Soul in Exile, a sweeping retrospective dedicated to the late Syrian-German artist Marwan Kassab-Bachi. Opening July 16 at the iconic King Street galleries, the exhibition is a moving journey through over 150 expressive, soul-stirring works – from Marwan's haunting, layered 'heads' to rarely seen pieces drawn from some of the most prestigious private collections across the Middle East and Europe. Curated by Dr. Ridha Moumni, the show is as intimate as it is powerful, capturing the artist's life in exile and his deep, emotional introspection. Free to attend and open to the public until August 22, this is one of the summer's must-see cultural moments in London.
Junior
Family Staycation Goals at Madinat Jumeirah
This summer, Madinat Jumeirah transforms into the ultimate family haven – blending beachside relaxation, imaginative adventures, and five-star indulgence across its four iconic resorts – Jumeirah Al Naseem, Jumeirah Mina Al Salam, Jumeirah Al Qasr and Jumeirah Dar Al Masyaf. Whether it's watching little ones dive into nature-inspired fun at the KiDS club, enjoying serene abra rides through the resort's waterways, or unwinding with wellness rituals at Talise Spa, every moment is crafted for connection. With over 50 restaurants and bars, culinary passports, and luxurious stays designed with families in mind, Madinat Jumeirah promises a summer escape filled with memories and magic. For bookings, call [phone]; email [email protected]; or visit www.jumeirah.com
Golden Goose Launches Its First Kids Concept Store in Dubai
A dreamlike universe for little stars, Golden Goose just opened its first-ever kids concept store in Dubai Mall, with a second in Milan. Picture oversized beds, sculptural toys, cosmic ceilings – and of course, mini versions of the brand's cult sneakers. Launching alongside the new kids collection and dreamy 'Stardust' gelato by Venchi, the space is every bit as playful, rebellious, and nostalgic as the brand's spirit.
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