This week I have to keep it short and sweet, so I’m focusing on the fabulous events, exciting new launches and retail therapy – it was a stressful week, I needed some special purchases.
Despite having already had an exclusive glimpse of the new H&M Studio A/W14 collection, I’d yet been able to touch the pieces until last week, and I have to admit I was impressed. In spite of the affordable prices, many of the items were so well made they wouldn’t have looked out of place on a high-end runaway. From classics including leather ankle boots and floor-sweeping wrap-around coats to more show-stopping pieces including knee-high Pretty Woman-style boots and big faux fur coats, the collection was every bit as versatile as the brand’s target audience. The collection is in stores from September 4.
Channelling the moll look at the H&M Studio A/W14 preview
From high street must-haves to bespoke jewels, a preview of the new Pandora A/W14 collection left me spellbound. Chauffeur driven to a stunning villa in Al Barari, I was transported to a magical wonderland with glistening pieces drawing me in like a magpie. While I particularly fell in love with the autumnal pieces, I was truly inspired by the ambassadors for the Essence collection. A short film in the cinema room – yep, that’s right, there was actually a cinema in the vast villa – telling the stories of the ambassadors, revealing the tales of their personal battles and philanthropic endeavours was so inspiring.
The whimsical autumn collection by Pandora
Despite what many think about those who work in women’s magazines and websites, we do eat – well I most certainly do. So when asked to preview The Scene, a new restaurant, yet to open, at Pier 7, I was more than ready. The kitsch restaurant – I adored it’s mix-and-match furniture, some of which was sourced from eBay and old people’s home (anyone you remembers 1980s Britain will recognise a lot of the pieces) – is the brain child of Simon Rimmer, a celebrity chef from the UK. The vibe is retro and laid-back while the cuisine is home comforts with a modern edge. If you only eat one thing there, which would be foolish as the menu offers many delicacies, make it the Proper Chips. Believe me they are proper, so much so they almost made me feel homesick.
The mocktails are super-refreshing at The Scene
Also new to Dubai is Speedflex, a revolutionary new fitness concept that burns more calories than your regular cardio workout and is pain-free! I put it to the test (see my review, along with all the facts and details, online at 3pm) and I burned 513 calories in just 45 minutes, and felt no burn or pain afterwards. I think I’m a new convert. Speedflex at JA Ocean View Hotel is offering free classes until September 1.
Be sure to read my Speedflex review today at 3pm
Topping and tailing the working week perfectly, Thursday saw the launch of Roland Mouret’s capsule collection at Banana Republic. From figure-flattering cocktail dresses, to curve-skimming pencil skirts and leopard-print jerseys, I think this could be my favourite Banana Republic collection to date. Who doesn’t love designer designs on a budget?!
With Deputy Editor Lyndsey admiring the figure-flattering collection
After a busy week of events, launches and press deadlines I started the weekend the only way a stressed woman should – shopping. For the first time ever I finally hot footed to West LA and I have to admit I’m gutted it’s taken me so long to visit. From quirky sunglasses to avant-garde dresses and cool accessories – they even stock my favourite retro Casio watches – there’s nothing no to adore about this store. What did I purchase? A man’s ‘Partier’ vest which I will share with you at my next EW’s Wearing, watch this space…
Also Last Week In EW HQ:
Approximately 50 coffees were drunk as deadline loomed
We discussed how long the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge will continue – we think it could go on until the end of the year?
I decided I was going to try to follow Miranda Kerr’s diet for a flat stomach – will keep you posted along the way
When creative minds come together great shoes are worn…
Fancy shoes on display during a brainstorming meeting
For more images and insights from the day in the life of me follow me here: Instagram @alexandriagouveia and Twitter @alexandriagouve
