6 Reasons Why He Didn’t Call You Back

May 27, 2014 - Leave a Comment

So you met this “amazing” guy and thought you hit it off. But you’ve been staring at your phone for 6 days now wondering why he has yet to call. You’ve gone through every moment of your encounter over and over again in your head wondering where it went wrong.

You can stop obsessing now, Here’s why you haven’t heard from him…

1) He has a girlfriend/wife. And she doesn’t usually let him out of her sight. So when he does manage to get away he’s on the prowl. He didn’t really go to the washroom every time he excused himself; he was in the bathroom texting her or putting his kids to bed. You’ve been played.

2) You put out right away. He’s now categorized you as a “fun-loving” kind of girl aka easy. And your keenness on reminding him that you “never do this” every five minutes only tells him how much you actually do this, even if you really don’t. Men like the chase. And sure, he pursued you all night, but now he has no reason to come back from more. Play your cards right and you’ve got yourself a second date.

3) You didn’t put out. I know, weird. Some men may only be on the hunt for a fast hookup. So when he knows you’re a lady, suddenly he’s lost interest because he’s not ready for potential girlfriend material in his life, didn’t want to work hard for it and just wanted something quick and easy. Consider his disappearance a blessing.

4) You scared him off. You didn’t have to tell him how all your girlfriends are married and you’re the only one left. You didn’t have to tell him how your ex broke your heart and most men are jerks. And you really didn’t have to tell him how happy your sister’s kids make you. What did you expect, really!

5) There’s hard to get and then there’s too hard to get. Your aloof and standoffish attitude gave him the impression that you’re not that into him, even if you gave him your number. Flirting with the bartender didn’t help either. Loosen up and put you’re guards down even if you’re worried about getting your heart broken.

6) You’re high maintenance. He was willing to overlook the full makeup look and sky-high stilettos if it weren’t for your minute-by-minute Instagram updates, excessive texting and the 7 selfies you took and posted in less than an hour. If that wasn’t superficial enough, looking the other way when the bill arrived only made matters worse.

Enjoyed this post? Also check out

8 Reasons Why He Won’t Marry You

5 Reason’s You’re Still Single- The Arab Men Edition

The 6 Annoying Dating Habits of Middle Eastern Men

The 6 Annoying Dating Habits of Middle Eastern Women

What Men Really Want- Especially Lebanese Men

The Lebanese Politicians’ Wedding Album

He’s Muslim, She’s Christian, All They Need is Love Right! Right??

Dating in Beirut, Ivy’s Dos and Don’ts

7 Things Not To Do At Weddings This Summer

May 16, 2014 - Leave a Comment

1) Everybody knows that wearing a white dress to another girl’s wedding is an act of hostility. Refrain. And you’re right, a simple white dress should not upstage a mammoth gown, but those are the rules. You will get stared down by bride’s besties and their mother’s mothers. If your white dress has a train you will probably be unfriended on Facebook the next day and labelled the attention thief.( to put it nicely)

2) The great thing about weddings is the open bar. The downside is the video cameras. We tend to forget that almost every moment is documented. So if you’re going to pull out all the stops on the dance floor make sure you understand that for the next 30 years the newlyweds and their families on both sides will watch your sad attempt at the Zorba with a glass of gin tonic in one hand. After all it’s their wedding video. Your swollen ankle may heal after a couple of days but your pride will hurt forever.

3) Weddings are no place for one night stands, or random hook-ups especially with the bride/groom’s close friends or relatives. The only making out people are interested in watching are the bride and the groom. And chances are you’ll run into that guy/girl again in every baptism, communion, and birthday to come. Spare yourself the awkwardness.

4) Photobomb. If you see the newlyweds entangled in a champagne embrace, don’t try to get in the middle. Again wedding album. Coffee table. Forever.

5) Kiss the bride right on her cheeks. Here’s the thing, bridal makeup is just as important ( and expensive) as say, center pieces and after getting kissed by all 500 guests (three times each) her makeup is gonna streak. So do her a favor, make it one of those air “mwah” air kisses. She will love you for it!

6) Don’t bring your kids along. Especially if they’re not invited. Something happens to kids at weddings. They become obnoxious and easily excitable. We both know it I just said it.

7) Catching the bouquet is not a game of rugby. Anyhow pushing and tugging tend to scare suitors away. It’s just for fun I promise it doesn’t really work.

Also Check Out

8 Things To Avoid Doing At The Beach This Summer

The Lebanese Celebrities Wedding Album

The Lebanese Politicians’ Wedding Albu

6 Ways To Avoid Lebanese Wedding Drama

Four Seasons Beirut Spa, The Ultimate Sanctuary

May 13, 2014 - Leave a Comment

There’s something about the unfussy glamorous ambiance of the Four Seasons Beirut Spa that instinctively makes you want to throw off your shoes as soon as you walk into the door, splatter yourself on a flat surface somewhere and announce “take me away.”

Despite its luxurious five star status, the place exudes an ultra-chic effortless zen flair without coming off as too lavish for comfort, a place where you’re more than happy to turn your phone on airplane mode, put on a fluffy white Egyptian cotton robe and surrender. And that’s precisely what I did.

After detailing my preferences on a straight forward questionnaire the super friendly spa attendant led me to the marble clad locker rooms. It felt more like a changing room fit for a star. A dressing table sat in the center complete with an ample range of complimentary personal hygiene and essential products with every possible thing you would require post-treatment, from my favorite brand of hairspray to deodorant. Each detail had been carefully thought out. I slipped into my robe and a comfy pair of green slippers as I made my way to the steam room.

I was advised to give my skin a good five minute sit-in, namely to relax but also to get the steam to open my pores and sweat out toxins before my treatment began.

Five minutes was more than adequate to get me flustered and as soon as I exited the steam room, a cold bottle of water had discreetly appeared with my belongings. It doesn’t get more thoughtful than that.

My massage therapist was waiting right outside as she walked me to a large private massage room, one of seven the Spa boasts. As part of the relaxation treatment I was invited to soak my feet in a basin as she began an aromatic cedar-wood infused bath. Perfect.

I had opted for the Mediterranean Experience; it included a full body massage and an Arabian Exotic Purity facial treatment with Cedar wood essential oils and my personal favorite, extra virgin olive oil.

The full body massage was exceptional and delivered exactly what it had promised from foot to neck; balance and relaxation. The combination of that with the soothing music that played in the background put me on a natural high. To top it off, she concluded by massaging my feet with olive oil and wrapping them with more fluffy warm towels. I felt like a pampered baby.

Next came the facial, my skin was gently cleansed with a chamomile and lime, exfoliated and toned and hydrated with Rose Face Mist. Then came the eye lifting gel and a revitalizing face mask followed by a lovely massage and hot towel wrap and a velvety nourishing moisturizer. It was revitalizing to say the least. The entire treatment was performed exclusively with Sodashi products, a high-end chemical free Australian brand specialized in skin care and spa therapy, available at the Four Seasons Spa.

Getting up from that massage table was the hardest part after 120 minutes of pure bliss I didn’t think I was ready to face the world again. But I guess that’s why most respectable spas seat you in what I like to think of as the transitional room, a private lounge area where you can continue to experience the tranquility while nibbling and sipping on some tea and nuts and one of the best granola bars I have ever had, prepared at the hotel’s kitchen.

I couldn’t get myself to dab on makeup after that facial, my face was supple and firm, way too clean to be polluted, so I conjured up the courage to walk out makeup-free and happy.

The spa also offers an extensive list of massages from Traditional Thai to Swedish Massages in addition to a fabulous VIP couple’s suite with its very own private Jacuzzi , a perfect treat if you have something to celebrate.

I’m officially hooked, and I’ll be back for some more pampering soon.

To learn more about their spa packages you can visit Four Seasons Beirut here

Follow Four Seasons on Twitter and Instagram

Also check out my review of Four Seasons

The Roof, Four Season’s Über-Fabulous Lounge

The Grill Room

MET Gala 2014, The Best and Worst Dressed List

May 6, 2014 - Leave a Comment

Emma Stone and her boyfriend Andrew Garfield were one of my favorite best dressed couples last night. I absolutely loved her 2-piece Thakoon dress, her swide swept messy pony tail and that fabulous bronze makeup. Her man complimented her so well in grey, a color we seldom see on men walking the red carpet. One of my favorite looks.

The Beckhams were one of the only couples to actually follow the white theme last night and also played matchy matchy with David in Ralph Lauren and Victoria Beckham in a white column dress of her own design which I LOVED.

One of my favorite and unique dresses of all time is Naomi Watts in this jaw-dropping Givenchy Couture smokey white, gray and black scaled dress. I didn’t however like her hair or makeup and would have loved to see this look on someone more vibrant like Anne Hathaway.

Fashion darling and event co-chair Sarah Jessica Parker made quite the statement in this head turning black and white Oscar de la Renta gown with peplum waist and white elbow-length gloves topped with an extravagant chignon. My favorite part was the back of the dress and the designer’s signature at the bottom.

Now there’s someone who is truly enjoying fashion. Fashion current IT girl Lupita Nyong’o pulled off a look not many others can in her custom Prada complete with everything from beads, crystals and feathers and accessorized it with that stunning headpiece and those must-have Prada shoes.

Mr.and Mrs.Carter dazzled on the red carpet last night. Jay-Z was dressed like Beckham but in Givenchy while Beyonce donned this very low cut number also by Givenchy Couture with a lovely veiled headpiece. I thought she did way better than the Givenchy disaster she wore last year or the one before that.

I loved how Charlize Theron took a risk with this otherwise classic strapless Dior gown by throwing a Tuxedo Jacket over her shoulders. She looked every inch the red carpet veteran she is and managed to pull of this statement effortlessly. I’m obsessed with her earrings!

Rihanna looked like a modern day princess in this custom Stella McCartney two-piecer. Only she can pull of backless cropped top with shoulder pads AND a beaded choker. Her floor length skirt wrap showed off her toned midriff and the train gave this look the drama it deserved. Her hair sat like a crown and her makeup was just right.

Katie Holmes looked disastrous in this mustard yellow Marchesa gown. Even a supermodel couldn’t make this ugly gown look good so I’m not sure why she even chose it at fashion’s most watched events. And don’t even get me started on that tragic hair and makeup. Fashion FAIL!

Now this is the kind of sight the MET Gala is all about. Dita von Teese and designer Zac Posen made fashion magic together on the red carpet. She wore this gorgeous figure-hugging pale pink mermaid gown with a statement red hem. I love how Zac Posen wore this cape that made him look like fashion’s wizard or Harry Potter. One of my favorite designer- muse collaborations of the night.

Kristen Wigg walked the red carpet with designer Alexander Wang wearing Balenciaga. I loved this dress-pant combo, especially the combination of the halter neck with multi-level skirt and sparkling interior. This is the perfect example of a how a simple look can still make a big fashion statement.

Model Joan Smalls walked the carpet with designer Vera Wang without making the smallest of impacts in this nude strapless tulle gown and sheer skirt that was nice overall, but definitely not the kind of gown you would expect at the MET Ball especially when a designer walks the carpet with her muse. The only striking things about this entire look was Joan’s purple lipstick which I did not like at all.

Nicole Richie took the “Costume” title of the Met Costume Institute Gala quite literally when she decided to look like a ice smurf in this velvet and sheer silver Donna Karan gown and purple hair. And although I appreciate her eagerness to deliver that fashion shock factor I didn’t think she pulled it off as she did last year with her grey hair and amazing Topshop gown.

Fashion Crime Scene: a fashion fabric explosion happened here. From embroidery to tulle to lace bracelets and rings, I am no designer but this is basic, what Donna Karan Atelier did to poor Rita Ora was evil.

Unexpected from Karolina Kurkova, but she made some serious fashion waves in this Marchesa floral masterpiece that looks like it should sit in a museum. I’m sure it weighed tons but the supermodel pulled it off so effortlessly. Now this is the kind of couture people expect to see at the MET Gala!

Rosie Huntington-Whiteley embraced her inner gladiator in this leopard and leather long sleeved short dress and heels by Balmain. I know women who would wear this outfit to dinner on a Thursday so I’m not sure it was appropriate to the MET Gala, especially when you compare it to Sarah Jessica Parker or Karolina Kurkova’s looks but nevertheless she looked phenomenal.

Sure Suki Waterhouse looked gorgeous last night but it feel like we’ve seen the same color and style of this Burberry tiered frilly dress so many times on the red carpet and it also feels very much like Valentino’s signature style. I liked how she gave it an edge with that bold red lipstick but the entire look didn’t move me.

Allison Williams looked regal in this coral old-hollywood style Oscar de la Renta gown that was just perfect for Spring. The dress fit her like a glove and I loved her simple up do and perfect makeup. This is the kind of look that belongs at the Oscars.

Another two-piece crop gown this time Anne Hathaway in a striking red bustier and skirt from a by Calvin Klein and Gianvito Rossi patent pumps. She’s been taking some fashion risks lately and I love her for it like that Gucci dress she wore at the Oscars earlier this year.

Let’s get one thing straight, this Louis Vuitton dress is stunning, there is no denying that. That said, Michelle Williams was way too under-dressed almost as though she couldn’t be bothered which I’m sure Lady Wintour will not appreciate.

And finally the Stella Crew, featuring designer Stella McCartney alongside Cara Delevinge, Kate Bosworth and Reese Witherspoon. I loved Cara ensemble the most and I thought Reese looked lovely.

Who was your best and worst dressed at the 2014 MET Gala?

Also See

MET Gala 2013 Best and Worst Dressed

The MET Gala 2012: IVY’s Best And Worst Dressed

Ivy’s RED Carpet Watch

8 Things To Avoid Doing At The Beach This Summer

May 5, 2014 - Leave a Comment

1) Makeup. I know it’s part of our culture to put it on everywhere but this is the kind of behavior that gives us a bad rap. I get it, some imperfections are better off concealed, and a little waterproof mascara never hurt anyone, but foundation, fake lashes and bold lipstick at the beach? Now this is where we have to draw the line ladies.

2) Men need pedicures too. I don’t care if getting one will make them feel emasculated , and we were planning on overlooking the fur coats on their backs but moldy broken uneven toe nails should be illegal. (apologies for the visual) FYI this falls under the good personal hygiene category. I don’t see what can be more pressing.

3) High heels + Bikini = TRASHY. Unless the stripper look is your thing.

4) Speedos. Why is it that the majority wearing these are definitely not the ones with swimmer bodies? Picture this: a gold chain, a hairy chest and you guessed it…an itsy bitsy speedo. The elder men go for this look, I think it’s probably “stuck-in-the-70s” thing but someone needs to tell them it’s over and at times slightly offensive.

5) Over-accessorized, over-embellished ostentatious bikinis. I’m all for that frivolous cut-out one piece but a combination of embellishments, beading and excessive fringes should be left for evening gowns or the carnival in Rio. Yes people will stare but not for the right reasons, trust me.

6) We all look better tanned. But that shouldn’t mean we should walk around looking like a glow stick. Skin cancer is not a joke. Do yourself a favor, ease up on the grease and dab on some SPF.

7) Hairy arm pits. You have no excuse. If they are sticking out and clearly visible on top of your arms then you need to trim. I thought this would go without saying, but sadly they’re everywhere. Remember boys, cavemen belong in the cave.

8) Diapers. There’s nothing sweeter than a toddler on the beach but a saggy diaper is one the most unsanitary and inconsiderate thing a parent can do. I don’t care what it says on the box, those things can leak into the ocean and the pool. If your poor little child is running around with a saggy diaper you should not let him near the water. Oh and changing diapers should not happen in public either!

8 Reasons Why Arab Men Won’t Marry You

April 25, 2014 - 5 Comments

1) His buddies are still single. That’s right; Birds of a feather flock together. Don’t expect your man to simply warm up to the idea of marriage just because you pitched it. It’s always easier and less petrifying for them to take the plunge together, this way they won’t feel like they’re missing out on late night parties at ONE because they were up early with you deciding between petunias or orchids.

2) You’re too controlling. Why leave a carefree home only to share one with a woman who needs to sign a leave request for his every move? Men have caught on, and they pretty much know it’s only going to get worse once he’s under your tutelage, so either loosen up your grip or enjoy the title of possessive girlfriend. Forever.

3) Your dream wedding may land him in small claims court, that or a jail cell. Yes, sure the wedding isn’t just about just you, it’s about your parents and your aunt, her father, your grandma’s sister and your third cousins twice removed. But give the guy a break and ditch the foolish fireworks and greasy one-man show, trust me, they will not make or break your marriage.

4) His mama loves him. So very much. It’s very hard for you to snatch a mother goose’s golden egg out of the nest, especially when momma is still feeding, and yes for Arab boys the feeding lasts forever if needed be. So don’t think she’s gonna just give him up that easy. Chances are you won’t be able to take half as good care of him as she can and the problem is HE knows it too. So unless you know how to make him Mloukhiyeh while him and his buddy play on the Xbox , he’s not going home with you.

5) Why buy the cow when you can get the milk for free. No I didn’t just compare my own gender to cows? Ok yes maybe a little. But you know what I mean. I am very much pro-cohabitation, however let’s say things as they are, most men don’t see the need to marry you when they are already getting all the benefits of living with you minus the legal commitment, the rock and many headaches to come.

6) You’ve hinted too hard. Yes, especially since you’ve resorted to begging. There is nothing more unattractive for a man than a desperate/pushy woman. It’s harsh but it’s the truth.

7) Let’s just say his family don’t think too highly of you. You could be the sweetest and prettiest girl on the block and still not make the cut for their perfect little prince with a face only a mother can love. It’s very hard for an Arab man to tie the knot without parental approval, when you marry Arab, you sort of marry the family too. So unless he’s super independent both financially and emotionally don’t count on it.

8) You’re not marriage material. Sure you’ve been dating for over a year, but you should have noticed by now how he’s only taking you along to the fun nights. And although you’ve done unorthodox things together he still plans on marrying virgin Salma from the village when it’s time. It’s not you, it’s his primate instincts.

If you don’t relate to any of these then it’s cause he’s an idiot, who fails to see the diamond in the rough you are, so if he’s not appreciating what he’s got this early on chances are he never will. And who wants to marry a man with lack of vision anyway? Move on and never look back, plenty of fish in the sea ladies. His loss, just doesn’t know it yet.

Have I missed any?

Enjoyed this post? Also check out

5 Reason’s You’re Still Single- The Arab Men Edition

The 6 Annoying Dating Habits of Middle Eastern Men

The 6 Annoying Dating Habits of Middle Eastern Women

What Men Really Want- Especially Lebanese Men

The Lebanese Politicians’ Wedding Album

He’s Muslim, She’s Christian, All They Need is Love Right! Right??

GAP styld.by + IvySays = Edgy Denim

April 22, 2014 - Leave a Comment

I’m happy to be featured today on GAP Styld.by For this look I chose this GAP Chambray Floral Denim shirt and layered it with a Dolce & Gabbana roman print tank and patent black Calzedonia Biker Leggings and my favorite leather boots by Luiza Barcelos and Marc by Marc Jacobs Too Hot to Handle Tote I bought online from ShopBop. To complete the look I wore a classic pair of Ray Ban aviators.

I wanted to create a look that was edgy but appropriate for day meetings or running errands around town, one that also worked for Happy Hour drinks at the neighborhood bar.

The shoot by Mokhtar Beirut took place in the main bar street of Jounieh.

Check out my feature on GAP Styld.by here

More looks from my GAP Collaboration

Beirut Street Pop Art

Under The Bridge

Spring Statements

Weekend Walks