Three of the region’s most stylish night owls reveal their secrets to working the perfect off-duty daytime looks.
Name: Annalies Collins | Age: 25 | Nationality: Australian | Occupation: Director of Brand Marketing for VIP Room
MY LIFE…
Being in charge of the marketing for some of the most exclusive venues in town means I always have to be out and about. A normal day involves a lot of running around and more often than not going from the office to dinner or an event and then on to VIP Room or Movida. If we have an artist, celebrity or VIP guest in town the pressure is on to make sure they’re looked after to the highest degree and to keep them entertained.
MY STYLE…
My wardrobe is full of dresses that will take me from day to night. I love Australian labels – I swear I’m not being biased. The designers are so creative and make pieces that are a little more edgy. To stand out from the crowd I like to change up my outfits. I can go from something girly to classic in a day. I have to wear versatile pieces, as I don’t always have time to go home and change.
MY BEAUTY SECRETS…
Rosewater spray is my ultimate must-have. There is nothing better for setting your make-up, a few light sprays after applying a loose powder and you’re good to go. For me there is also nothing better than a bright lip, so you’ll never find me without a bold M.A.C lipstick. If I have to get up after a long night out, a skin primer with a hint of shimmer is a must for looking fresh and ready for the challenges ahead.
Name: Samantha Francis | Age: 25 | Nationality: Dutch | Occupation: Fashion Stylist and Blogger for styleisnecessity.com
MY LIFE…
My motto is: “Live life to the fullest, there is time to rest when you’re old.” Every day is different for me, so I need to be prepared for anything. During the day I work hard on photo shoots, picking outfits (without looking at price tags) and researching the latest trends. It’s then straight on to event hopping to keep up with the latest ins and outs of Dubai and the fashion world – it’s an essential part to updating my blog.
MY STYLE…
I’m a shoe addict. The right footwear can change everything. That’s why I usually wear heels even during the day, after all, the higher your heel the better you feel. Of course, when I’m shooting I love a slip-on sneaker especially in a cool print to be more productive. Comfortable clothing doesn’t mean unfashionable and you can always add a statement necklace to dress up any look whether its day or night.
MY BEAUTY SECRETS…
Women know the perils that come with battling the Dubai heat and humidity. A face primer is the only way to stay ahead of the game and Laura Mercier is my go-to brand. I’m always ready for any event that might come my way so I tend to keep my make-up in check throughout the day and add a lipstick in the night. When I have time I love to make organic face masks to keep my skin in check.
Name: Natalie Brogan | Age: 28 | Nationality: British | Occupation: DJ
MY LIFE…
I’m lucky enough to have a pretty glamorous lifestyle. Being a DJ has been a dream of mine from a young age and it hasn’t disappointed me. I work hard and play hard. I often complete my sets and then stay out to enjoy the party; it’s the main perk of the job. During the day when I’m not working, music production and research take precedence, but I always find time to hit the pool and catch up with friends for lunch.
MY STYLE…
When I first started DJing I wanted to be known for my music, not what I dressed like. I have always tried to be edgy over girly, which I save for my time off. I put a lot of energy into my sets, so finding the balance between comfort and glamour is becoming a skill of mine. Victoria Beckham is my go-to for chic ensembles and then a bandage dress from Torn by Ronny Kobo is the ultimate in glamorous daytime pieces.
MY BEAUTY SECRETS…
Whether it’s a private event or playing to 15,000 people, all eyes are on me so the pressure is on to look my best at all times. When it’s an outdoor venue and I’m battling the ever-changing conditions of the Middle East a mattifying moisturiser is a must – my favourite is Chanel. For that extra wow appeal Huda Beauty false lashes make your eyes pop and keep you feeling your best all day long.
Photography: Farooq Salik