When discussing my job I often leave out the gritty bits: the analytics, the budget control, the managing, the never-ending editing, the pulling out of my hair over ridiculous situations – it’s just not the glamorous side that people want to hear. With much of last week containing many (erm, how shall I put it?) testing moments, I will do what I always do when talking about work, skip the trivialities and move to the fun parts…
While New York had Fashion Week, in Dubai we had the spectacular Harvey Nichols autumn winter 2014 show, and what an extravaganza. Seated front row I tried to pull my best Anna Wintour impression, but with too much appreciation for the dazzling pieces on show I couldn’t justify Ms Vogue’s trademark pursed lips. From jumper dresses to utilitarian boots, luxe feathers, vibrant hues and sequined ball gowns, I sat there working out how much of a loan I would need to take out to buy all of my favourite pieces – and there were many….
Harvey Nichols A/W14 show finale
From high-end to high street, the autumn winter 2014 collection at Koton, which is due to hit stores by the end of the month, is one of the brand’s best to date. How do I know? I got a sneak peek, and boy was I impressed. From long camel-coloured wrap coats (a timeless classic) to affordable jeans (start from Dhs59) and on-trend dresses and accessories, the collection had me wishing for cold weather and planning a trip to colder climes. Here are some of my top picks from the collection:
I want every coat from the Koton A/W14 collection
When Hakkasan Dubai got in touch about their new menu, I decided it would be incredibly rude no to taste it. As someone with endless intolerances, I feel I’m the perfect critic, I’m also just incredibly greedy.
Left to right: Dim Sum, beef and seared scallops at Hakkasan
Unable to eat eggs and dairy I nearly cried tears of joy when the chef said I could eat the Dim Sum, which not only looked like mini art works but were culinary masterpieces. While all the dishes from the crispy duck salad, to the stir-fry vegetable lettuce wraps were stand out, the winners on the new menu have to be the Osmanthus wagyu beef rib eye and the roasted mala chicken. The latter I nearly had to fight for from my equally as excited gastronomes – there may be a sharing concept at Hakkasan Dubai but with food this good we weren’t happy to share. Even my vegan dessert – sorbets, one of which one tasted like chocolate ice cream – caused fierce clashing of spoons.
Left to right: slippers and gown on before heading to the Arctic; the Cryo facial machine the organic beauty products and the infrared light; ice, ice baby during full body therapy
From frozen desserts to frozen beauty at Cryo Health in Emirates Towers. For those not familiar with it, you stand near naked (you wear just your underwear) in a cubicle that reaches minus 140 degrees – we are talking Arctic conditions. Crazy? That’s what we thought until I tried it out. The incredible gizmo stimulates blood circulation, enhances endorphins levels (giving you an natural high better than any espresso), strengthens the immune system and boosts recovery from injury. Check out my full review online soon. The Angel Facial, which uses Cryo and infra-red light is an noninvasive Botox alternative. After just one session I noticed the frown lines from the week’s endeavours ease away. After just one session I was told it could be addictive and I physically can see why.
Also in EW HQ last week:
Group Editor Sophia jet-setted to Paris with Cartier
The team realised that I always seem to get sent macaroons – no was complaining
We all gossiped about the return of X Factor UK. Hurray for the return of Simon Cowell and Cheryl!
I revealed Gary Barlow has always been my secret celebrity crush, there it’s out in the open now
We were shocked Oscar Pistorious
Our favourite quote of the week comes from Oscar Wilde
For more images and insights from the day in the life of me follow me here: Instagram @alexandriagouveia and Twitter @alexandriagouve
Main image: At the Harvey Nichols show wearing dress by Alice + Olivia, Jade Mellor ring and bag by Reiss.
