Fashion Report: Emmys 2014 Red Carpet Best and Worst Dressed

August 27, 2014 - 2 Comments

Always one to make a dramatic statement on the red carpet January Jones donned this fiery strapless Prabal Gurung gown which on its own with those heels are smashing. And though I love her for always being experimental I’m stunned by how unflattering and greasy those messy and uneven bangs look on her. In fact from her neck upwards her head looks like it could be Photoshopped on.

Another red number for the night with fashion darling Claire Danes who never ceases to turn heads on the red carpet though I’m not exactly sure why she’s still relevant. This red laced sheer paneled Givenchy is gorgeous especially with the edgy neck embroidery though it falls frumpy on her waist. Love the back-swept hair and striking lipstick.

I just love tuxedos on the red carpet and it takes a real mature women to pull it off (think Tilda Swinton and Sharon Stone) and still get all the attention. House of Cards star Robin Wright (Claire) turns heads in this backless cream Ralph Lauren Collection tuxedo-jumpsuit and her signature slicked back hair.

Lena Dunham- I really don’t want to talk about it.

Screen siren Natalie Dormer stunned in this color-blocked J. Mendel Resort 2015 gown. It fit her like a glove and showed off her gorgeous figure though I don’t think orange is particularly her color. Still it was a refreshingly different look we haven’t seen much of.

One of the best dressed of the Emmys was Lizzy Kaplan (remember her from Mean Girls?) girl brought her A-game to the red carpet in this monochrome satin cut-out ballgown by Donna Karen Atelier. Her hair and makeup did not compete at all with the dress and all in all she looked so effortless.

Kate Mara sashayed her way down the red carpet in this ethereal and quite complicated white J. Mendel gown but she still managed to look effortless. I love the combination of the chiffon layers with the dramatically beaded top and strategic cut-outs. She matched it perfectly with those lovely monochrome Charlotte Olympia platforms. Lovely!

I’m grateful to Julia Roberts for finally trying and getting out of that vicious frumpy cycle, I also want to commend her on the new hot bod she’s been rocking. Having said that I don’t think this beaded Elie Saab Couture mini was the way to go. The dress in itself is stunning but would have been more suited for a younger actress, it just seemed a little out of place for this seasoned Hollywood veteran. And those Louboutin peep-toe pumps were way too chunky. Still a huge improvement from last year.

Another Elie Saab creation makes an appearance at the Emmys this time on Halle Berry in this powder purple halter chiffon dress. Though this is a new look for her I’m not sure she looked so effortless in it, as it just seemed like she wasn’t quite in her element since she almost always wears figure-hugging dresses and shows way more skin but I guess that’s what happens when you get of your style comfort zone.

Two words for this look; Mermaid and déjà vu. Sofia Vergara manages to wear yet again the same style with a different color, this time it’s a white Roberto Cavalli with silver embellishments. Yes we get it she has the most celebrated curves in the industry and good for her to know what works on her body type and run with it but she may as well just start recycling dresses because this is becoming way too redundant. I’d love to see her step out of her comfort zone for once on that red carpet.

Gwen Stephani is a rock-star and it shows in every fashion decision she makes. This silver metallic number by Atelier Versace with plunging square cut-outs may not be as formal as one would expect to an Emmys Red Carpet event but still I’m really feeling this look on her. Her slick straight hair complements it perfectly and I’m happy to see she ditched the crimson lipstick for a change.

Camila Alves killed it in an intricate white mosaic Zuhair Murad gown from his Ready-to-Wear Collection. The gown is a masterpiece with its sheer details and shapely form. Hands down this is one of my favorite looks from the Emmys.

Yes I know I’m constantly complaining that not enough fashion risks are happening on the red carpet but there is no risk here, just a doomed scenario. Sarah Paulson looks like she got caught in a fishing net loaded with crabs that or someone who hasn’t had a wax in years. The Armani Prive dress certainly got a lot of attention but definitely not for the right reasons. Sadly this will go down as one of the biggest red carpet fails of all times though Kim Kardashian’s couch dress still reigns.

I really don’t understand this Prada gown on Kerry Washington with a thigh high split and shimmery navy skirt. I don’t care about the details everyone is swooning over, the fact is it’s not a flattering cut or color and there’s just way too much going on there and her choice of pumps only worsened the disaster. Fashion felony for sure.

Omg it’s Queen Cersei Lannister! Lena Heady looks every inch the edgy bad-ass in this asymmetrical Rubin Singer dress and cute pixie cut. She actually looks less intimidating then her Game of Thrones character though she’s decked in black.

What do you think?

MET Gala 2014

2013 Golden Globes Red Carpet

Oscars 2013 Red Carpet

2012 Emmys Red Carpet

MTV Video Music Awards 2013

Murex D’Or 2013

The MET Gala 2012

2012 Oscars Best And Worst Dressed

My Top 12 Favorite Things This Summer

July 17, 2014 - Leave a Comment

1. Lazy B If you like to go to the beach to actually tan and chill rather than see and be seen, then you need to be in Lazy B in Jîyé this summer. It’s quiet, it’s hippy it’s earthy and super colorful. Every little inch is an Instagram photo opp and it also has one of the cleanest freshest coldest natural salt water lagoons you will see in Lebanon. But be warned service is also lazy.

2. Deek Duke Chicken Press Burger

You have to allow yourself Deek Duke’s orgasmic Chicken Press Burger at least once ( though I doubt it will end there) A beautiful golden breaded three-cheese mix patty sits atop a juicy chunky grilled chicken breast and together they make little bites of love. And if that makes you feel guilty just do what I did, order it with a diet coke and a baked potato.(it’s all in the head) Deek Duke is now also open at City Mall Dora.

3. Adidas Originals X Farm

The 2014 FIFA World Cup may be over, but these babies are here to stay. For the second time around, Adidas has collaborated with the iconic Brazilian label The FARM Company to bring us this colorful carnival of vibrant and exotic colors. Adidas sent them over just in time for the finale and although Brazil lost miserably these sneakers definitely won!

4. Helado Ice Cream

Literally a hidden gem in the crooked and curvy streets of Sahel Alma. Anthony from No Garlic No Onions was the first to discover this homemade ice cream parlor that’s been around for more than 15 years. It’s always swarmed with people and the average wait can last up to 30 minutes but it’s totally worth it. Helado is the only spot in Lebanon to serve real flavors like Lotus Biscuit, Lebanese Wine, Knefe, and my personal favorite Framboise. This is not your average stretchy gooey Lebanese Ice Cream, this local spot gives Ben and Jerry’s a run for their money. Totally worth the ride.

5. Maybelline New York Brazen Beige 732 Lipstick

Although most of us may shy away from heavy lipsticks and opt for light lip glosses when the temperatures are rising, you’ll be surprised how barely-there this Maybelline NY lipstick feels. It’s my go-to shade with my tan and has a versatile shade that works both day and night.

6. Iftars

Having been born and raised in the UAE, Iftars were never just for adamant fasters, they were a part of the diverse culture, and became a wonderful social tradition that brought family friends together every day during Ramadan. So to keep the tradition alive I make sure they begin with my favorite two things, a hearty bowl of Lentil Soup and an amazing chilled glass of Ayran ( Laban Yogurt Drink) and then I go on to massacre the buffet.( Thank you Le Ciel at Habtoor for the amazing Iftar yesterday)

7. Bonbon by Viktor & Rolf

Sweet, delicious, decadent and feminine are just a few words to describe this newly launched fragrance by Viktor and Rolf. This light caramel-based scent is one of those perfumes that smells even better after an hour or two making it ideal for summer. If you like candy then I have no doubt you would enjoy Bonbon.

8. Louboutin Iriza Pumps

The So Kates and Pigalles are wonderful classics but in my quest for the perfect classic Louboutin black pumps this summer I loved the sultry and open-sided design of the Iriza because they allow your foot to breath in this super hot weather. If you’re having trouble finding your size ( both Beirut and Paris are usually sold out) then you will be surprised to find a surplus of sizes at Dubai Mall.

9. Crop Tops

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again. The beauty of crop tops is that you don’t have to have a Bündchen belly to be able to wear one. You can minimize/control mid-riff exposure by simply wearing a high waist skirt or shorts and it will keep you cool and refreshed in the scorching heat.

10. Abd El Wahab

I used to order their Plat Du Jour almost every day for 4 years when I was working full-time. Having earned it’s rank as one of the best Lebanese restaurants in Lebanon, Abd El Wahab never fails with its classic oriental decor and heavenly mezza. I was very proud to celebrate their 15 anniversary with them last month on their gorgeous terrace and will be back for an Iftar or two this summer.

11. Bonita Bay

Bonita Bay is one of Batroun’s landmarks and one of those places that never fails to attract sunshine even when Jounieh is looking bleak and grey. I’ve been adamant about getting a tan this summer and there was something about the way the sun hit Bonita Bay that made it ideal for tanning. The only downside is that it’s not a sandy beach but rather a pebbled one, so be prepared to see a lot of people trip and fall as well as some embarrassing moments of your own.

12. Passion Fruit Body Butter by The Body Shop

My friends and I used to drench our skin in this rich good stuff after hours of soaking up the harsh UAE sun. It’s actually one of the all-time favorites from The Body Shop because no matter what those after-sun products say, nothing can help sooth a sun burn like this intensive shea butter tub. It will last for months on end and will leave your skin looking moisturized for hours and hours after use. I’ve tried it in coconut, mango, olive, papaya and strawberry but my favorite hands down is the purple Passion Fruit one.

20 Problems Every Girl Will Face This Summer

8 Things To Avoid Doing At The Beach This Summer

The 8 Must-Have Items in Your Closet This Summer

7 Things Not To Do At Weddings This Summer

How To Find Your Soul Mate

July 10, 2014 - Leave a Comment

Although my Facebook timeline has been flooded with puffy white wedding gowns and cute chubby newborns lately, a portion of my dearest friends (both ladies and gents) are a long way from settling down anytime soon. I say this with confidence because they’re either single and really fed up with mingling or they’re dating someone casually who they would never dream of introducing to the parents.

So you see they’ve settled too, in their own way, either by convincing themselves that they should not bother searching for their Soul Mate anymore, that cuddling is totally overrated and they’re saving their energy for their careers or by pursuing a relationship with a guy/girl who blurts cryptic things like “Marriage is just something society created to organize people”

I’m not going to give you a speech on why you shouldn’t give up ( although you shouldn’t) or reassure you that there is that right person for you out there (I’m a hopeless romantic) I’m just going to share with you a brief list of how you could be enabling yourself from failing to find the right person for you.

1) You’re not going to find your soul mate by being a bitter pissed off person all the time, going on unwarranted rants online and being generally unkind and rude to others just because you want to come off as strong and invincible. It’s just not attractive.

2) You’re not going to find your soul mate by carrying excessive baggage from your past breakups and being paranoid and suspicious because you never want to get hurt again so you go on labeling the opposite sex as “cheaters” or “opportunists” and make wild declarations like “I don’t believe in love” to every guy/girl you meet.

3) You’re not going to find your soul mate by staying in your comfort zone through randomly hooking up with every single guy/girl who’s emotionally unavailable too or by agreeing to an open relationship because you’re scared he/she might leave you otherwise.

4) You’re not going to find your soul mate by creating all these preposterous credentials you require in a partner before you would even consider dating them like, religion, social status, bank account, height.

5) You’re not going to find your soul mate by seeking your parent’s approval because no one is truly good enough for you. Or by purposely pursuing someone who lives abroad because you know they’re going to leave eventually.

6) Speaking of no one is truly good enough for you, I hope you don’t really believe those prep talks. Sure you’re great- in some ways- but you probably have a long list of vices that your better half will have to put up with as well. So take it easy with the whole “no one deserves me” attitude.

6) You’re not going to find your soul mate because you can’t afford to throw a wedding extravaganza and don’t think anyone will settle for anything less.

7) And you most definitely will not find your soul mate if you keep posting silly quotes like “I’m single and free and it’s just me ”

All this is not to say that being single isn’t one of the most amazing crucial independent phases in a person’s life, a time where you can create some of the strongest bonds and make the most amazing memories with friends. But just like staying in college for too long, the fun eventually fades. And I am fully aware that not all of us want the same things out of life; like a beautiful house and bouncy babies. I’m just trying to say that maybe you haven’t found your soul mate because maybe just maybe you’ve inadvertently done everything not to be found.

Thoughts?

Also See

8 Reasons Why Arab Men Won’t Marry You

6 Reasons Why He Didn’t Call You Back

What Men Really Want- Especially Lebanese Men

5 Reasons You’re Still Single; The Arab Men Edition-Part I

The 6 Annoying Dating Habits Of Middle Eastern Men

The 6 Annoying Dating Habits of Middle Eastern Women

Ivy Reviews: La Petite Maison Beirut

June 30, 2014 - Leave a Comment

It’s true, over the past couple of years Beirut has been flooded with French Bistros, but the same doesn’t apply to authentic French restaurants serving gourmet French cuisine. In fact it may come as a surprise to know that there are a very few restaurants in Lebanon that specialize in serving French chic food, not the usual suspects that we see on almost every menu today and that’s what the renowned La Petite Maison Beirut brings to the table.

I reviewed La Petite Maison Dubai back in March 2013 and mentioned rumors of it’s opening in Beirut, and not long after that it did at Le Vendôme Beirut, one of my favorite hotels in Lebanon. For those not familiar, this top-notch spot started off at Old Nice in France and has a very popular branch in London. The place embodies the gastronomic spirit of the Côte d’Azur and neighboring Liguria.

Most of us associate French cuisine with dense/creamy/ buttery food, a meal that sits heavy on the belly, but you’ll be more than happy to know that conception is a far cry from the culinary concept La Petite Maison (LPM) is all about. LPM’s entire menu contains very little if not any cream and instead a vast selection of healthy Provençal flavorsome ingredients inspired by fresh and seasonal local produces.

After a busy work week my man and I made our way down for an extended intimate dinner to de-stress at LPM. The décor is the envy of many newcomers looking to emulate its effortlessly sophisticated setting with its open-plan kitchen, banquettes and round tables. And of course their signature olive oil, tomato and lemon trio that sit on each table.

As you’ve probably noticed by now, we’re big fans of trying out new signature cocktails, especially when introduced to new flavors tastefully mixed to perfection by tier-one Mixologists. And so the feast kicked off with LPM’s own quirky take on the classic Bloody Mary and crowd-pleaser, the famous Tomatini, made with cherry tomatoes; a perfect balance of vodka and spices. My man had the Le Mans a superb champagne based cocktail with lemon juice. We also tried the Spring Tea, Twinkle and Manhattan Plum ( my personal favorite) all of which I highly recommend you experience.

The tables at LPM are designed for sharing, so if you really want to take the full tour I suggest you share as many appetizers as you can before you get to the mains. The starter list is immense and it was very hard make a decision so we may have slightly over-indulged although we had no regrets whatsoever.

Let me start by gushing over the splendid Grilled Aubergine with Mozzarella, Prawns and Pesto. I’ve never before had this magical combination of gentle flavors with prawns but I can attest that it was absolutely heavenly. A must-try.

Next up were the warm prawns with olive oil and though I always order this dish I can’t begin to describe how succulent the pink large juicy tiger prawns were, split right in the middle with just the right crispness on the outside and seamlessly soft texture inside with a burst of flavors in every bite.

We also had the uber fresh Yellowtail Tuna Carpaccio , made exclusively for LPM Beirut, garnished with pickled pepper and aubergine.

And the Fried Calamari, a bowl of hot curls of crisped squid with one of the best batters I’ve tried in a very long time and a vigorous taste of spice. At first I was a little disappointed when I noticed it didn’t come with a dip but as I took in each piece I understood it would be a scandal to cover up those salacious flavors.

I also thoroughly enjoyed the light and refreshing thinly stripped Marinated Salmon with Pink Peppercorn.

Sharing also applies to the mains. We had the Canard a L’Orange, slow cooked Duck Legs with a tangy orange glaze. I tend to like my duck confit style but this one was wonderfully seared and the sweetness combined with the tender meat that immediately fell from the bone made me fall for this classic festive dish.

But the Grilled Rib Eye Steak made quite the impression, a glorious chunk of simply seasoned tender marble beef sliced into strips to expose its rosy interiors and paired with a strong mustard sauce and a relish dip.

For sides we had the Baked Gratinated Potatoes, which were an absolute delight and of course fries, thick, spiced identical fresh cut fries that provided the much needed carb compliment to go with the meats.

The desserts were a masterclass. I discovered my now all-time favorite dessert , not that my list was lacking or anything. The fresh berry Panna Cotta. No this is not your average Panna Cota, trust me. This one’s adapted to Lebanon by using our traditional Laban (yogurt) instead and let’s just say this is the only part of the meal where you will not want to share. Each spoonful will be followed by some gushing sounds you didn’t know you could make, so you can imagine how we weren’t all that discreet.

We also tried refreshing the Passion Fruit and Mango Posset, a superb fragrant grouping of chilled zesty posset with warm fruits that work so well together with just the balance of savory and sweet.

La Petite Maison Beirut does not kid when it dubs itself “Tous célèbres ici !”

It translates into “Everyone is Famous here” and that’s just a prelude to the VIP treatment you will receive. Friendly, knowledgeable and attentive, are just three of a list of many adjectives I can use to rate the service we experienced.

I know I’ll be back to La Petite Maison Beirut for casual business lunches, dinner and drinks with friends or even a reason to celebrate. A three-course dinner and drinks for two will average up to $90-$120 per person.

Verdict: Hands down, the chicest French Food and Restaurant in town with the best Panna Cotta in the region.

Rumour Has It: It may be opening its doors in Istanbul soon and I look forward to reviewing it there as well!

More Reviews

La Petite Maison Dubai

La Serre Bistro Dubai

Sydney’s at Le Vendôme Beirut

Prune French Bistro

Métropole Brasserie

SUD

BarTartine

Couqley

Intellectual Property Ethics and Online Content Creation For Your Brand: Ivy Says for Entrepreneur

June 16, 2014 - Leave a Comment

In June’s issue of Entrepreneur Middle East I discuss the ethical quagmire of online content creation and your brand. Does drawing constant inspiration through recycling ideas and recreating visuals make your idea original or does it constitute intellectual property theft?

The lines can be blurry, but more often than not I would choose the latter. In my opinion, a well-rounded content creator is constantly aware of popular posts from competitors while also ensuring that their client’s work isn’t being echoed verbatim across the board. While you can’t always prevent people from copying your work, you can help your brand stay ahead of the curve by continuing to innovate rather than imitate. Having said that, I present you with four points to watch out for when creating content for your brand and the same can be applied for your blog.

You can read the full article HERE

Also check out

7 Ways To Own Your Online Reputation- Ivy Says for Entrepreneur Middle East

Ivy Reviews Dubai’s Latest Hot Spot; La Serre Bistro

June 11, 2014 - Leave a Comment

Whenever La Serre is mentioned in Dubai, most people quickly associate and compare it to LPM (La Petite Maison) one of Dubai’s most coveted restaurants located at DIFC which I reviewed last year here.

That’s because the resemblance between the two is strikingly similar and it’s not really a coincidence. The common denominator in this case happens to be Chef Izi Ani who left LPM to open up Dubai’s latest hot spot; La Serre Bistro and Boulangerie.

Located in the trendy new Vida Downtown boutique hotel, La Serre boasts two floors in what looks like a glass box from outside, a traditional Parisian boulangerie on the ground floor which opens up early morning to serve freshly-baked breads, viennoiserie and a light breakfast menu and a fancier bistro and bar on the first floor serving Nicoise/Mediterranean cuisine.

On a recent trip to Dubai, I had dinner at Le Serre on a Wednesday evening and the place was packed. The interior is gorgeous, an open marble-clad kitchen looks out at a sea of fancy diners in a white crisp setting with a serene feel to it, and a very chatty ambiance. And just like LPM, a tomato, a citrus and a bottle of olive olive oil await you on your table as well as a very busy and difficult-to-catch waiter who barely has time to greet you before he’s ushered away.

We had a couple of vodkas and a few fabulous lychee martinis at the bar so we decided to share an array of our favorite appetizers as we continued to sip on our drinks. The Burrata and Tomatoes was the first to make its debut, a generous serving of creamy cheese topped with ripe cherry tomatoes and a serving of basil.

Next the splendid goat cheese with cherry tomatoes, hazelnut and subtle chilli, a specialty and preferred amongst La Serre regulars.

We also opted for a French classic, the Lentil salad with pickled vegetables which I thought gave this otherwise typical dish a lovely kick.

The Quinoa salad with confit duck legs and clementine was a real treat, a bright and colorful salad in a light citrusy dressing.

But the grilled prawns deserved the chapeau bas, marinated in abundant garlic and rosemary with crunchy toasted sour bread. Perfect.

We over-indulged on the appetizers so decided to share the mains, The Cepes Risotto was one of the best I’ve had to date, intense cepes in a creamy rose sauce and pungent Parmesan garnished and cooked to absolute perfection. The portion however was quite stingy.

And the Lamb Cutlets Provencal lived up to their hype and demanded respect as they made their way to our table, two glistening thick, juicy, succulent and ridiculously tender chops.

I’m afraid there was no room for dessert, especially since we moved on to the bar for some more post-dinner drinks. Unlike our waiter, the bartenders were patient, something that often lacks at much-coveted gastronomic powerhouses like this one.

Verdict: La Serre definitely gives La Petite Maison a run for its money, though Dubai without a doubt has the clientele and demand to withstand more than one premium culinary bistro. Perfect for a romantic date, business dinner or a birthday treat with friends. It’s worth the visit to Vida Downtown and if you’re not up for dinner then you can also brunch in the guest garden.

More Restaurant Reviews

La Petite Maison Dubai

Sydney’s at Le Vendôme Beirut

Prune French Bistro

Métropole Brasserie

SUD

BarTartine

Couqley

The 8 Must-Have Items in Your Closet This Summer

May 28, 2014 - Leave a Comment

1) The Crop Top

This piece was an absolute Spring favorite and it’s not going anywhere this summer either. The good news is you don’t have to be a supermodel to wear one, as it shows off your midriff not your abs, just style it with a high-waist pair of pants or midi or maxi skirt and you’re go to go. If you’re top heavy then I recommend you keep it loose and boxy.

2) The Midi Skirt

Just below the knee and inches above the ankle sits the midi-skirt ( or mid-length skirt). It’s a super feminine piece inspired by the ladylike style of the 50’s that can be dressed up or down fairly simply. But keep one rule in mind, if it’s tight at the bottom pair it was something loose atop but if it’s puffy then by all means style it with that teeny tiny crop top. I also love this item styled with a classic pair of pointy pumps and a statement clutch.

3) The One-Piece Swimsuit or Monokini

I personally couldn’t wait for the one-piece to make a splash again on the fashion scene. I have two of these babies in my closet that are just begging to be worn. The designs are endless, some are very simple and others are major fashion statements. The best part is you don’t have to wear it with a top to the beach just slip on a pair or shorts or a skirt and you’re good to go!

4) The PVC Pump

Put some summer in your step with this pretty translucent heels that can go perfectly with almost any outfit especially boyfriend jeans. I haven’t included any high street alternatives because honestly the finishing on some are just plain terrible. So if you’re going to make an investment this summer, I suggest you make it on these.

5) The Fringe Bag

No longer just for the boho types, the Fringe is now making it’s appearance on even the most luxurious of designer labels. From cross-body bags to clutches everywhere we look we see tassels. But hold off on that luxury splurge this design is way too trendy to ever become a classic.

6) The Statement Ring

First came the statement necklace and now comes the big bulky ring. Personally no outfit of mine is complete without at least one or two, especially knuckle rings. They can accessorize even the simplest of outfits so make sure you’re all stocked up with these pretty things this summer.

7) The Pastel Polish

What better way to compliment a statement ring then with the perfect pastel polish. Unlike bright neon shades you don’t really have to be all that tanned to pull these colors off. Nothing puts me in a better mood than happy nails.

8) The Light Lip Gloss

Sure, bold bright colors are hot right now, but when the temperature is rising you’re going to wish you were wearing a lip color that’s sheer, light, nourishing and sexy. I hate goopy sticky glosses so here are my three recommendations to keep your lips full and luscious this summer.

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