Memos From The Middle East: Dior Lady Art Returns For It's 10th Anniversary, Gohan Launches Merch And Aura Skypool Launches Its Ice Bath Experience

Harpers Bazaar Arabia

12 hours ago

Every week Bazaar brings you the latest news in fashion and beauty, luxury and lifestyle, straight from our desks to yours — from across the region and beyond
Fashion
Gucci Lido Launches The Sunglasses To Be Seen In
Gucci has dropped a sunshine-soaked eyewear collection just in time for summer escapes. Starring Daisy Edgar-Jones, the campaign whisks us away to the Italian coast, where spontaneity and sunlight set the tone. Shot by Jim Goldberg and styled by Virginie Benarroch, the imagery captures that golden-hour magic – effortless, windswept, and wildly chic. This season's hero? The narrow cat-eye sunglasses, crafted from translucent acetate in juicy summer hues and embossed with the iconic GG monogram. Whether you're jetting off to the Amalfi or lounging poolside in Dubai, these are the statement shades you'll want in every photo. Now available in-store and online.
Giorgio Armani Turns 50 – And Milan's Art Scene Joins the Party
Giorgio Armani is marking a magnificent 50 years in fashion with a celebration worthy of its legacy. Launching the Armani/Archivio project – an immersive digital platform archiving decades of design – the house is bridging past and future like never before. The festivities kick off at the iconic Pinacoteca di Brera during Milan Fashion Week, where 150 archival Armani looks will be showcased in a never-before-seen dialogue with Italian masterpieces. And as a grand finale? A spectacular runway show in the historic Courtyard of Honour at Palazzo Brera, presenting the Spring/Summer 2026 women's collection and standout menswear pieces. Milan, Armani, and a golden milestone – it doesn't get more iconic than this.
Dior Lady Art Returns for It's 10th Anniversary
The Lady Dior, a timeless icon of elegance, takes on a bold new spirit in celebration of it's 10th anniversary under the Dior Lady Art project – and this year, Kuwait's very own Alymamah Rashed joins the visionary line-up. Known for her richly expressive works rooted in identity and symbolism, Alymamah transforms the sculptural handbag into a poetic masterpiece – adorned with vivid florals, textured embroidery, and an unmistakable sense of storytelling. Her design is one of the ten reinterpretations unveiled by Dior this season, joining a global cast of artists from Korea, Brazil, China, France, and beyond.
Ray-Ban Lands in Qatar with a Stylish Debut at Place Vendôme
Qatar's accessories scene just got a major upgrade: Ray-Ban has opened its first-ever standalone store in the luxe halls of Place Vendôme, Doha. Known for its timeless designs and now AI-powered innovations, the brand brings its coolest collections to a 108 sqm store alongside global favourites. Whether you're a classic Clubmaster fan or ready to explore the latest smart eyewear, this new flagship is your go-to for style and substance.
#GohanOrGoHome: The Tee That Says It All
Gohan is now serving looks with the launch of its first-ever branded merch drop, titled #GohanOrGoHome. Channelling the restaurant's signature neon-lit ambiance, this exclusive collection of graphic tees nods to Japanese pop culture, retro manga, and fan-favourite moments like Maki & Margi Mondays. But there's a catch: these pieces aren't available online. You'll need to head to GOHAN at Jumeirah Emirates Towers, whisper #GohanOrGoHome to the team, and unlock access to the drop.
Noora Al Shamsi Launches The Nooriana Collection
Emirati designer and creative strategist Noora Al Shamsi has unveiled Noor, the radiant first capsule from her newly-launched brand, Nooriana. Revealed at an immersive evening in Dubai Design District, the collection offers a poetic reimagining of the kaftan. Handcrafted in collaboration with famed Indian atelier Chanakya, known for crafting couture embroidery for Dior and Fendi, each piece is an artisanal work of art. Noor, who honed her craft consulting for global maisons, draws deeply from her Emirati roots. 'Each garment is a vessel of story, illuminated by its own light,' she shares. Discover the collection at noorianaedit.com.
Simone Bellotti Channels Hamburg's Soul for Jil Sander's Debut EP
Jil Sander's new creative chapter under Simone Bellotti has kicked off not with a runway – but a rhythm. 'Wanderlust', a music video and EP created with electronic maestro Bochum Welt, captures the emotional duality of the house through a moody blend of cityscapes, raw beauty, and cinematic sound. Shot in Hamburg, the birthplace of the brand, the visuals blend drama and calm, light and shadow – mirroring the brand's iconic purity-meets-edge aesthetic. The vinyl drops in August, and it's already a collector's dream.
Jewellery
Vivid, Daring, Divine: Bvlgari's Latest Jewelry is a Love Letter to Color
Bvlgari turns up the colour this season with two stunning new launches that celebrate the beauty of bolf gemstones in the boldest way. First up is the grand finale of its Color Journeys series – a special high jewellery collection starring tourmalines in every shade you can imagine, from ocean blues to pretty pinks and forest greens, all crafted into one-of-a-kind masterpieces. Alongside, Bvlgari Color brings a playful, modern energy to boutiques worldwide through six vibrant pieces that reflect the Maison's signature flair for unexpected harmony – think luminous cabochon rings, Tubogas necklaces accented with topaz and amethyst, and Allegra sets that sparkle with movement and joy.
By Pariah Lands in Dubai with Quietly Bold Jewels
Jewellery lovers, rejoice! British fine jewellery brand By Pariah has officially touched down in Dubai, setting up its very first physical presence at That Concept Store – 1456 and it's as effortlessly elegant as you'd expect. Known for its sculptural designs and love of raw, natural stones, the brand has become a go-to for tastemakers like Hailey Bieber, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Florence Pugh, and even the Princess of Wales (yes, she wore the Sabine Hoops to Wimbledon). Each piece is a quiet showstopper, made from recycled gold and perfectly polished stones – proof that conscious luxury can be both cool and collectible.
L'Atelier Nawbar's Sun-Drenched Pop-Up is a Must-Visit This Summer
L'Atelier Newbar is making waves this season with a radiant summer pop-up at Saifi Beirut, capturing the heart of Lebanese artistry through bold collaborations. Whether you're drawn to the playful embroidery of its summer hats or the handwoven charm of beach bags by Beirut Bloomers, the boutique is a sun-soaked celebration of local creativity. From skincare essentials with Baseline to statement cover-ups with FxxK and a Bead Bar sensory experience with Dali Cosmetics, every piece is crafted to elevate your summer story in style.
Beauty
A Scented Tribute to the Red Sea – Amouage Opens in Jeddah
Amouage, the Omani house of high perfumery, has made its debut in KSA with the opening of its first standalone boutique in Jeddah's Red Sea Mall. Drawing inspiration from the city's coastal essence and the grandeur of the Red Sea, sculptural interiors echo ancient coral formations, wrapped in a palette of sand, shell, and stone – delivering a calm yet captivating space to explore its signature scents. With cult icons like Interlude Man and Honour Woman on display, alongside newbies like Guidance and Outlands, the boutique captures Amouage's timeless devotion to storytelling through fragrance and unparalleled luxury.
Dining
Fiesta in the Sky: Celebrate Peruvian National Day at Sushisamba Dubai
From July 28 to August 3, Sushisamba Dubai turns into a high-altitude haven of Peruvian flavor. In honor of Peru's National Day, the Sambakase menu brings a riot of colour, culture, and spice to your plate – think punchy ceviche, soulful sauces, and cocktails kissed with pisco. Set 51 floors above The Palm, it's a sensory journey you won't forget. Reserve now and samba your way through dinner. For bookings contact [email protected].
Dubai's Ultimate Peruvian Brunch Collab is Here
On July 26, the culinary stars align as La Mar by Gastón Acurio teams up with Fusion Ceviche for a one-off brunch explosion at Atlantis The Royal. Expect 12 dishes showcasing authentic Peruvian flair, plus live music and skyline views to match. With three price tiers and a soundtrack that will get you swaying between bites, this is one summer Saturday you'll want to savour.
Health & Wellness
AURA X Bioniq: This Ice Bath Series Is Worth Waking Up For
Every Saturday morning, Aura Skypool offers more than just a view – thanks to its latest wellness collaboration with Bioniq. Dive into an energising workshop of breathwork, ice baths, and gentle movement, followed by a nourishing breakfast infused with Bioniq's premium supplements. Guests even receive a free 30-day pouch of Bioniq Creatine to continue the glow-up at home. If wellness is your vibe, this is your new ritual in the sky.
Transformational Healing Awaits This Fall at Kintsugi Space
Kintsugi Space in Abu Dhabi introduces the golden feeling wellness gatherings – an intimate series of autumnal retreats that honour the feminine spirit through breathwork, fascia therapy, Japanese beauty rituals, and more. With renowned guests like Anastasia Achilleos and sessions tailored around resilience and restoration, this is a journey inwards worth taking. Registration opens August 7 – book soon as there are limited spots available.
Leisure
Art Jameel Brings Contemporary Voices to London's V&A
This summer, Art Jameel invites you to experience the V&A's Jameel Gallery in a whole new light. As part of the London Design Festival, Palestinian artist Jumana Emil Abboud leads poetic storytelling workshops exploring water's presence in architecture and memory, culminating in two evocative performances on September 19. Meanwhile, a moving tribute marks five years since the Beirut port explosion, featuring works by Ramzi Mallat and design collective 200grs. The gallery also expands its narrative with Tatreez: Palestinian Embroidery – a special display runninguntil May 2026 that weaves together historic V&A dresses and bold new commissions by artists Aya Haidar and Zeid Hijazi.
Apple's Next Big Move in the Middle East: Launching Online in KSA
Apple is bringing its inimitable retail experience to Saudi Arabia with the launch of the Apple Store online and app – fully supported in Arabic. Shoppers can now enjoy localised personalisation, buy-now-pay-later via Tamara, and custom engravings in Arabic and English. From AirPods to the new iPhone 16, tech lovers in KSA now have a direct line to Apple innovation, service, and support – with a flagship store set to arrive in Diriyah by 2026.
Junior
Labubu Takes Over Loco Bear
Loco Bear is about to turn your weekend into a whimsical quest – on July 26, the indoor adventure park is teaming up with beloved collectible Labubu characters for an interactive challenge across five high-energy zones – from ninja courses to laser tag and climbing walls. The first ten winners bag official Labubu dolls, while others score vouchers and prizes. For more information visit locobear.ae.
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