From lost legends to full moons, rising fashion stars and award-winners, last week at EW HQ was one full of reflection and eclectic schedules.
The week started amazingly with a meeting with the fabulous Selina Neri from Dadu Luxe (and the lovely Dabo&Co ladies Kathleen and Joanna), a luxury retail site set to launch early next month. Not only will there be exclusive collaborations, but they will also be offering VIP services which include pre-ordering Manolo Blahniks! Yep, I was super-excited at this too.
As well as hosting a plethora of top designers, Dadu Luxe is also set to introduce some spectacular brands. I for one cannot wait to get access to Natasha Zinko.
From fashion stars to astronomical events. At 10.10pm last Sunday the UAE sky was lit up by 100 stars and a giant full moon, so bright that I couldn’t capture it without it reflecting.
Anyone who visited the offices last weekend would’ve thought we had a mass exodus with most of the EW team out on our secret shoot, capturing all of the 20 ladies who have been shortlisted as the nominees for the Emirates Woman Woman Of The Year Awards 2014 #EmiratesWomanAwards.
There were sequins, there were Louboutins and there was a whole lot of fabulousness. We can’t wait to introduce you to the inspiring women in our September issue. You will be able to vote for your Woman Of The Year online.
The week was marred by the tragic loss of two Hollywood legends: Robin Williams and Lauren Bacall. Two people who helped changed the face of show business – he proved comedy and serious acting could go hand in hand, she proved women could be the lead.
From screen legends to modern icons. Watching the sunset set behind the Burj Al Arab was a stunning end to the Dune A/W14 showcase at the Uptown Bar at Jumeriah Beach Hotel where myself and Deputy Editor Lyndsey Steven were treated to a sneak preview of the collection as well as sweet treats.
I’ve recently gone from never receiving flowers to being spoilt with an array of flora over the past two weeks. I love it! Last week I was treated to red roses and my favourite baby’s breathe to celebrate the Paris Rouge eau de parfum. If I’m smelling delicious next time you see me, you know what it is.
The perfect way to end the week came in the form of my fitness tried and tested. Despite being a fad for years, for the first time ever I finally experienced Bikram yoga with an hour class at Club Stretch at Dubai Marina. I’ve never seen so many toned and slim women – the participants were the best free advertising the venue could get.
Sweaty but feeling rejuvenated Bikram is something I will revisit. In fact I’m thinking of making it part of my weekly routine to break up the HIIT training. Why has it taken me so long to even start!?! With package deals starting from Dhs75 for a single class to Dhs600 for 10, it would be foolish not to. After all, if it’s good enough for the Victoria’s Secret models….
Also Last Week In EW HQ:
Deputy Editor Lyndsey Steven got fitted for a couture gown at Rami Al Ali ahead of her trip to Italy for Venice Film Festival
The fashion team proved why they are so amazing pulling off an incredible four-day shoot for Emirates Woman Woman Of The Year Awards without a whimper or a tear – I’m sure they were close to it
Beauty Editor Samantha Hamilton-Rushforth proved that beauty and sport can go hand in hand. Not convinced? Wait until you see her shoot
Features Writer Sarah Garden petrified the rest of the team with her adventurous tales from her trip to Durban, South Africa. The ardent adrenalin junkie went diving with great whites!
Group Editor Sophia Serin raided the chocolate on my desk, and even filmed it!
For more images and insights from the day in the life of me follow me here: Instagram @alexandriagouveia and Twitter @alexandriagouve