Monthly Archives: March 2019

Plaid Blazer with Rock ‘n’ Roll Vibe

A new outfit from Carelia Morán of My Small Wardrobe, whom we introduced to YLF in July 2013.

This is such a fun example of Angie’s Tee, Blazer & Trendy Bottoms ensemble. Carelia has tucked a concert tee with black background into dark wash, high-waisted flares. This effectively creates a colour of column and lenghtens the leg line. So do the black, high-heeled platform boots that fit the rock ‘n’ roll vibe of the outfit splendidly. Carelia’s longer length fluid-fit plaid blazer is structured on the shoulder which helps to streamline the look. The graphic tee and black bandana worn as a neckerchief add a good dose of edge. Carelia’s sleek bob, red lippie and small crossbody with oversized tassel provide contrasting polish.

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Glasgow's ten best pubs and bars

One of Glasgow’s claims to fame is its nightlife. Think of its drinking scene and you may picture wood-panelled pubs stocked to the ceiling with whisky. And you’d be right – the city still retains plenty of places with that old-school charm. Yet Glasgow’s appeal also lies in its diverse blend of traditional and modern. To help you have a night to remember, here’s where you can sample the best of Scotland’s biggest city.

The Horseshoe Bar

The Horseshoe Bar, a local’s local where everyone is welcome © Gary Armstrong / Lonely Planet

There aren’t many pubs in Glasgow where you can expect to find such an eclectic mix of people. From the old guys you feel have been there for centuries to students preparing for a big night out, locals and visitors alike are all here for the same thing – no fuss drinks and a welcoming Glaswegian atmosphere in the legendary home of ‘Europe’s longest’ bar. An American company once tried to buy the entire contents of the pub (including the original fixtures and fittings) and ship it all to New York, demonstrating the Horseshoe’s international appeal. The offer was, thankfully, turned down.

Tabac

Join Glasgow’s cool kids at Tabac © Gary Armstrong / Lonely Planet

Cool, but unpretentious, this dimly-lit Mitchell Lane hideout draws in a young, hip crowd for chilled-out chat over cocktails. If you fancy something a little more adventurous, on weekend nights you can usher yourself through a seemingly nondescript rear door to the exclusive Panther Milk Bar, a cavernous, candle-lit dive serving only old-school glass milk bottles full of the legendary and delicious Spanish concoction, Leche de Pantera (Panther’s Milk: gin, rum, cointreau, peppermint and cinnamon mixed with condensed milk).

The Flying Duck

Grab a board game and tuck into vegan food at the Flying Duck © Gary Armstrong / Lonely Planet

Once self-styled as ‘like your gran’s house, without the smell of cats’, the Flying Duck has carved something of a niche for being a little off-the-wall. The decor in the basement hangout often gives the impression of having been thrown together that morning (in the most endearing sense) and is as casual as it comes in terms of city centre bars. From a selection of classic board games, to trivia nights and 3am raves, everything is catered for, and it’s even established itself as one of the leading lights in the city’s burgeoning vegan scene.

Sloans

Follow the sign for Sloans’ Friday night ceilidh © Gary Armstrong / Lonely Planet

If a traditional Scottish night out is what you’re after, Sloans is the place to go. Tucked away in a quiet courtyard off Glasgow’s main shopping thoroughfare, Buchanan Street, this three-centuries-old bar comes to life on Fridays when it hosts its legendary ceilidhs. In Sloans’ magnificent Grand Ballroom, visitors can link arms with kilt-clad locals to the backdrop of raucous Gaelic folk music for an evening of country dancing. Make sure to book in advance – this is one of the hottest tickets in town.

Champagne Central

Champagne Central offers an elegant setting for enjoying some bubbles © Gary Armstrong / Lonely Planet

Promising guests a nostalgia trip to a bygone era of travel, Champagne Central offers elegance in the midst of one of Glasgow’s most manic, yet charming locations, Central Station. With high-end decor and an extensive drinks list which includes over 20 different champagnes, locally-produced gins and a fine selection of classic and contemporary cocktails, this bar is the perfect setting for an afternoon of indulgence. One to dress smartly for, this isn’t the place for jeans and a T-shirt.

The Wee Pub

The Wee Pub lives up to its name with a tiny, charming, cosy interior © Gary Armstrong / Lonely Planet

Describing itself as ‘Scotland’s smallest pub’, there’s certainly a case for the Wee Pub to be considered Glasgow’s most charming. Nestled away on the cobblestoned side street leading to Ashton Lane’s main drag (the West End’s ever-attractive go-to area for nightlife), this off-shoot of popular venue Ubiquitous Chip is the ultimate sanctuary to warm up with a dram of one of the hundreds of whiskies on offer. The intimate bar’s rustic interior will trick you into thinking you’re knocking back drinks in a Highland bothy (traditional cottage or hut), away from bustling Byres Road, just a stone’s throw away.

The Tiki Bar & Kitsch Inn

Expect thatching and strong cocktails at the Tiki Bar © Gary Armstrong / Lonely Planet

The similarities between Glasgow and Hawaii may be few and far between, but the Tiki Bar does a great job of transporting you from the west coast of Scotland to Waikiki Beach. Without being tacky, the slightly manic surf-inspired interior and notoriously strong cocktails (Zombies are limited to two per person) bring a tropical element to the far end of the Bath Street strip. Looking for something to eat? Head upstairs to the Kitsch Inn for some fresh Thai fare.

The Pot Still

Whisky is the drink of choice at the Pot Still © Gary Armstrong / Lonely Planet

A serial award-winner, including the title of Scotland’s Pub of the Year, the Pot Still is a must-visit for all whisky aficionados. With over 700 bottles of the stuff, brought in from all corners of the country, an hour spent in this central tavern is as much of an education as it is a great way to spend a quiet Sunday afternoon. Don’t know where to begin? Ask one of the highly knowledgeable bar staff and they’ll ease you in gently.

Radisson RED Skybar

Drinks with a view at Sky Bar © Gary Armstrong / Lonely Planet

For years Glasgow has been crying out for a rooftop bar overlooking the city. Enter Sky Bar. Sitting atop the chic and stylish Radisson Red hotel, this riverside spot has been attracting Glaswegians for after-work drinks since it opened in 2018. The panoramic views of the River Clyde, historic Finnieston Crane, Hydro events arena and the University of Glasgow may be its main selling point, but the attractive design-led bar, which wouldn’t look out of place on the front cover of a style magazine, is worth the trip too.

The Clutha

Name that famous Glaswegian at the Clutha © Gary Armstrong / Lonely Planet

The Clutha is finally in a good place after a devastating helicopter crash at the site which took the lives of 10 people in 2013. Since its reconstruction and reopening, there’s nothing but positive vibes at this riverside institution. Outside, murals depicting famous Glasgow characters adorn the walls all the way to the sizeable beer garden, while inside the welcoming atmosphere gives you the impression of being in your local, neighbourhood pub. One for music fans, different acts take to the stage seven nights a week.

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My Snazzy Summer Sleepwear Update

A few months ago, I recommended Natori sleepwear because the pieces are pretty, practical, covered, substantial, comfortable and alluring. Fabrics are soft and drapey, and seldom crease. Cuts are flattering, suiting a wide range of body types, and there’s a good assortment of fabrics, colours, sizes and patterns. So I ordered three Natori pieces because I wanted to up my sleepwear game and add a Modern Retro integrity to my Summer lounge and sleepwear look. I bought a nightgown, pyjama set and robe in the same fabric and pattern. Here are the exact items. 

Of course, you can have the best intentions when wanting to improve your sleep and loungewear look, but it’s risky. You have to commit to the items and road-test them. I don’t see a way around this. Thankfully the experiment was successful and I can add three more wild cards to my Spring and Summer list. 

I can scarcely believe how GREAT I feel wearing these items, and can kick myself for taking so long to try the silhouettes. They are extremely comfortable, breezy and easy to launder. They don’t crease, so they look polished. I was dead set against wearing a strappy nightie and robe because I thought they’d be uncomfortable, impractical and fussy. Well, I’m eating my words because as always, the devil is in the details. All I needed to do was find the right strappy nightie and robe.  

I’m enormously taken by how fabulous I feel sleeping in a woven midi chemise style night gown, and lounging in a silky pyjama set. So I’m looking for more of the same. Despite the heat, I have no trouble with the items being 100% polyester. Their silky texture, quality fabric and extremely drapey nature make them feel cool against my skin. Huge bonus that the polyester content prevents the items from creasing.

Setting aside your style biases and trying something new can work to your advantage. Nothing ventured, nothing gained. Putting these items through their paces might have revealed that they weren’t for me at all. Luckily, this time the experiment worked out well.

Dressing Up Like a Real French Woman

It always baffles a lot of people how effortlessly stylish and incredible chic Parisian women (or French women, in general) have that sense of style. When it comes to fashion, France seriously has the pick of It girls.

If you want to try out the chic French fashion because you’re heading to France soon, or just wanting to sport a new style, here are a couple of outfit ideas and ways to achieve the real deal.

 

French women aren’t afraid of wearing eye-catching tops. The trick is to choose either a dark or neutral one and leave the rest of your outfit neutral or dark as well.

 

Less is certainly more sometimes. And when it comes to trends, they’re not really a slave for those short-lived fads.

 

They don’t wear anything that’s super flashy or too tight for them to be in or too high for them to walk in. French women love timeless pieces and classic looks.

 

When it comes to the fit of their clothes, they’re obsessed of with the cut. They usually dress for their body type and they make sure that the clothes they’re in hug their body in all the right areas.

 

They’re very much into the neutrals – nude, navy, black and white – it’s all about mixing and matching. Though it may look simple to some, but they add some fun jewelries, sunglasses and ballet flats to make their look appropriate anywhere they go.

 

Think of this – would you rather invest a coat that costs $1500 which you’ll wear for the next couple of years or a $99 jacket you’ll only wear twice for the year? French women invest on staples, something that’s simply timeless and they could wear for a few more years. It may be pricey, but it’s all about the quality.

 

Details also matter. When you want to look polished and stylish, don’t wear anything with chips, flaws or creases. French women observe others and see the flaws on the others’ outfits, although they focus more on the finer details which will make you appear effortlessly classy.

 

Coco Chanel once said, “Before leaving the house, a lady should look in the mirror and remove one accessory.” That means – you shouldn’t over accessorize – you don’t show too much legs and cleavage at the same time.

 

French women have a love affair with their scarves. It’s one of the accessories you should invest in if you want to feel the whole French fashion vibe.

 

Leave some undone – shirt half-untucked with a couple of buttons undone, folded boots and unlaced once, looking slightly unpolished but not to the point where you’d look like you can’t be bothered to dress up. This is what the street-style bloggers from France are sporting these days.

Museum-hopping in Sharjah: art, astrolabes & an ancient Dodge

In our fast-moving world, the most enriching moments often come when you’re just standing still. In a museum, for instance, when peering at a painting or admiring an artifact. The emirate of Sharjah fields the densest collection of museums and galleries (22 and counting) within the UAE. Unesco noticed and named it the Cultural Capital of the Arab Word in 1998. The title of Capital of Islamic Culture followed in 2014.

Inside the Sharjah Heritage Museum. Image courtesy of Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority.

Running down a list of Sharjah’s museums practically ticks every box you need to broaden your horizon or connect with our shared humanity. Fine arts? Check. Old planes? Got it. Ancient ceramics? Sure thing. Here’s a quick overview of the must-see contenders.

Building a bridge to the past

Preserving its cultural heritage has long been an integral part of Sharjah’s vision for the future. The emirate has been busy restoring its historic core – called Heart of Sharjah – and rebooted several of the traditional coral-and-gypsum buildings as exhibit spaces. A former merchant home is now the Sharjah Heritage Museum where curators have pulled out all the multimedia stops to help visitors gain a deeper understanding of traditional customs and lifestyles of the region. A wander around the six themed galleries yields intriguing nuggets of knowledge about desert navigation, ancient dances, wedding ceremonies, Islamic holidays, the role of women, natural medicine and various other aspects of daily life.

From here, it’s just a date toss to the striking Al Hisn Fort, originally built in 1823 for defensive purposes as well as a royal residence and seat of government. Demolished during the 1960s modernization craze, it has been painstakingly restored and now shelters a modern exhibit that takes visitors on an intriguing trip back in time. A spin includes stops in the jail tower and in the armory with its collection of daggers and firearms. Nearby, a video explains the process of date syrup extraction in the grooved room where the process historically took place. Upstairs, furnished rooms provide a glimpse into the lifestyle of the ruling family.

Exterior of the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization. Image courtesy of Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority.

Before exiting Al Hisn via the heavy teak door, you’re invited to stop for tea and dates in the former arrest cell. Thus fortified, head over to the exquisite Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization, the crown jewel among the emirate’s cultural institutions. In a converted souk modelled after London’s Natural History Museum and topped by a gilded dome, it’s a paean to centuries of contributions made by Muslim artists, scientists, architects and clerics. The ground-floor galleries intriguingly juxtapose religion and technology. While one row zeroes in on aspects of Islamic faith, including the traditional Haj pilgrimage to Mecca, exhibits in the opposite rooms showcase a panoply of scientific innovations going back to medieval times. Upstairs, the focus is squarely on arts and crafts with glass cases virtually spilling over with manuscripts, carved objects, textiles and ceramics originating as early as the 7th century. Don’t miss the architectural highlight: a cobalt-blue mosaic inlaid with gilded zodiac signs inside the central dome.

Canvassing contemporary Arab art

But Sharjah’s main artistic ammo lies in linking its local heritage with a globally-minded visual culture. A lively contemporary art scene has flourished here in recent years, championed to a large extent by the Sharjah Art Foundation (SAF). Created in 2009 by Sheikha Hoor Al Qasimi, the youngest daughter of the emirate’s ruler, SAF not only hosts the internationally renowned Sharjah Biennial art expo but also puts on a year-round potpourri of exhibitions, performances and artist talks. The most cutting-edge works are presented in a cluster of white-cube galleries orbiting Al Mureijah Square in the southern historic center. At the nearby Calligraphy Museum works on canvas, paper, ceramics and wood illustrate the evolution of this timeless art form that elevates the handwritten word to ornate script. Bonus: the setting in a lovely building centered on an arcaded atrium.

But top billing among Sharjah’s art institutions goes to the Sharjah Art Museum, an imposing building on the northern edge of the Heart of Sharjah. Already an art-scene fixture for its high-caliber permanent collection and temporary exhibitions, the museum made a major splash in May 2018 with a new wing spotlighting Modernist works from across the Arab world – Morocco to Iraq. On long-term loan by the prestigious Barjeel Art Foundation, the exhibit includes often politically charged pieces by such seminal artists as Kadhim Hayder, Ibrahim El Salahi and Inji Efflatoun as well as the UAE’s own Hassan Sharif and Abdul Qader Al Rais.

An antique car parked outside of the Sharjah Classic Cars Museum. Image courtesy of Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority.

Tracking down the roots of transportation

When Al Mahatta Airport opened in 1932, it marked not only a milestone for Sharjah but for the entire Gulf region. The modest landing strip was the first airport in these parts, built in just two months by the British who needed a refueling stop for flights between Britain and India. A model of the first plane to land, a British-made Hanno H42 four-propeller biplane operated by Imperial Airways, is among the star exhibits of what is now the Al Mahatta Museum in the airport’s old terminal building. The small presentation also includes vintage footage about the early days at the airport which remained in operation until 1977 when the Sharjah International Airport opened 10km away. In 2017, a carmine red Mercedes 1985 that served as the first ever ambulance at the modern airport joined the collection of exhibits at the museum.

Those who prefer wheels to wings should make a beeline to the Sharjah Classic Cars Museum which showcases around a hundred vintage gems. The oldest model is a 1915 Dodge touring car, a wooden-wheeled vehicle with a three-speed manual transmission that could propel it to an impressive 80kph. Also part of the collection are a Model T Ford, a Rolls Royce 25/30 and other vehicles built before WWII. Another striking specimen is a 1969 Mercedes-Benz 600 Pullman donated by a Sharjah’s current ruler, Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi.

Lonely Planet has produced this article for Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority. All editorial views are those of Lonely Planet alone and reflect our policy of editorial independence and impartiality.

Link Love: Lingerie in 2019

Last October, The Flex, a strapless bra from Harper Wilde, had racked up a 6,000 person wait list.

The Guardian reports that “the new lingerie is all about comfort and body confidence.”

“It may not seem like it, but there has never been a better time– not in the whole, entire history of bras — to find a bra in your size, in your style and to fit your budget,” says Fashionista.

New lingerie brand CUUP is revolutionizing bra sizing.

Lingerie brand Lively is combining lingerie and leisure, and has penned the term ‘leisurée’.

Popsugar recommends the Pepper the All You Small Cup Bra for small busts.

The Pool has tips on where to find underwear that feels good on your body and makes you feel good in turn.

They also have recommendations for bralettes and non-traditional bras which offer decent support and comfort.

Fab Links from Our Members

Suntiger thought specs wearers would find this blog post on eyeglass frames for your natural colouring interesting.

As we’re looking at style directions for 2019, she also wanted to share this post.

“The hottest branding trend of the year is also the worst.” Shevia thought this was very telling.

Runcarla enjoyed this interesting interview with designer Tanya Taylor. “Great points about inclusivity, optimism, and having fun with fashion.”

Vildy wanted to share this article about the luxury marketing strategy: “These exclusive brands market for generational endurance and use counter-intuitive strategies to position themselves even away from other luxury brands. They don’t want to know what the consumer thinks about them! They tell you what to think. And whether you may buy. And when and how. And this works.

She also thought this article about Fashion Nova, an online fashion store offering affordable clothing, and how influencers tend to look the same and wear the same things, was food for thought.

Pants for Petite Women

Being petite isn’t exactly a good thing. When you’re looking for the perfect pair of pants, it’s not just the style you’re after. You need to consider the length, where the knee hits and just fussing over the measurements. If you haven’t found your perfect pair of pants yet, then maybe you’re not looking the right way. Below are some ideas of which ones to buy that are perfect for a petite woman like you.

 

Purchase it here
Cargo is a trend again but this time, it’s not the loose and baggy trend we know and cringed at. This certain trouser can be cuffed both for either looks or convenience.

 

Purchase it here
Culottes have different variations from knee-skimming to calf-grazing. That means you have so many to choose from.

 

Purchase it here
Shopping for denim is difficult task. But you know what; cropped jeans are totally in trend today. So if yours are longer than usual, all you need to do is either fold them or have them cut.

 

Purchase it here
Don’t limit yourself to plain trousers. There are so many petite pants that are flirty and fun.

 

Purchase it here
Wide-leg cropped wrap pants aren’t something you see very often. But these silk pants are actually made with him to hit closer to where your ankle-length trousers would. Look taller by pairing this with high heels or platforms.

 

Purchase it here
Stripes will also make you look taller. If you’re looking for trousers that’s just about your size or with prints that will make you taller, this one’s something you need.

 

Purchase it here
Petite wide leg pants that will give your outfit that one-of-a-kind looks that you can call your own.

 

Purchase it here
J. Brand has amped up their denim game, offering petite sizing to their customers. This one particularly has shorter inseams. You can never have too many denim jeans. They’re just versatile, classic and a good-quality pair can last you years.

 

Purchase it here
Petite sizes are difficult to tailor, especially when it has elaborate prints and a more detailed hemline. This slim fit chino has a 26-inch inseam that you can easily roll up to whichever length you prefer.

Work in progress: essential galleries of Riyadh’s blossoming art scene

In Saudi Arabia’s capital city, the art scene is buzzing with a swell of local artists anxious to showcase their talents to a growing admiring public clamouring for more. With a limited number of galleries, taking in the best of Riyadh’s art and culture requires minimal time but yields a substantial reward.

The work on show offers a deeper understanding of Saudi Arabia’s rich heritage and Islamic traditions and helps to underscore universal human connections.

Riyadh has a limited number of art galleries, but the work on display gives an understanding of Saudi Arabia’s heritage © Tim E White / Getty Images

Change has taken hold in the Kingdom. Recent government initiatives are encouraging Saudis to honour their history and faith through creative expression, and artisans have answered the call. On the global stage, Saudis are being celebrated, most notably with this year’s exhibits at the Kennedy Center in Washington DC and the Venice Architecture Biennale. Within country, the Saudi artistic wellspring coincides with the announcement of a new 14-day tourist visa that will be issued in conjunction with future entertainment and sporting events. This synergy of art and tourism is an opportunity for national artists to define and reframe this once cloistered and mysterious kingdom.

Whether you’re a collector, an art enthusiast or neophyte watercolorist looking for inspiration, now is the time to devote a few hours or even a weekend exploring Riyadh’s essential art galleries, which offer something for every taste.

Naila Art Gallery is one of the most popular galleries in the city and features pieces from Saudi artists © Elizabeth Branca / Lonely Planet

Naila Art Gallery

Located on one of Riyadh’s chicest streets, Naila Art Gallery is one of the biggest and most well-known contemporary art venues in the city. It regularly features work from acclaimed Saudi Arabian artists, including Abdullah Al Marzook, Ahlam Al Shedoukhy and Shrouq Bnt Fahad, but also exhibits regional masters such as Syria’s Sabhan Adam. Beyond the bold red door, Naila’s two gallery spaces are laid out in aesthetic perfection. High ceilings and a fresh modern interior have a welcoming vibe, and visitors are encouraged to drop in. Artist bios and information are displayed in both Arabic and English so you can easily peruse the gallery independently, but staff are on-hand to answer any questions. Exhibits change every few months, so it’s a perfect spot for seasonal visits. As a leader in Riyadh’s arts community, Naila Art Gallery aims to support young artists and cultivate art enthusiasts through a variety of programs, art talks and workshops.

Mono Gallery is Riyadh’s newest art space © Elizabeth Branca / Lonely Planet

Mono Gallery

Opened in February 2018, Mono Gallery is Riyadh’s newest contemporary fine art gallery and showcases talent from Saudi Arabia and from across the Middle East. An homage to modern architectural allure, the three galleries host a melange of artistic mediums. Exhibits change seasonally and have included Saudi Arabian painter Abdulaziz Al Najam, Emirati watercolorist Abdul Qader Al Rais, and Iraqi master sculptor and painter Sabah Arbilli.

Once a month, the gallery hosts a film night that showcases close-ups on famous artists like Monet and Da Vinci. The one-of-a-kind social event is an initiative dreamed up by gallery founder Momen Al Moslimani in hopes of cultivating more interest in art and art education in the Kingdom. A passion for art prompted Moslimani to open the gallery, but he aims for more than just selling paintings; he hopes to promote more opportunities for creative expression as well as more public interest in contemporary art. In addition to its exhibits, Mono Gallery hosts seminars, symposiums and art talks.

Don’t miss the Hewar Art Gallery’s private collection room with its incredible wall mural and extraordinary views © Elizabeth Branca / Lonely Planet

Hewar Art Gallery

Located at the poshest address in the city, Hewar Art Gallery feels akin to taking a bespoke luxury holiday: blissful. The gallery is open to the public, but because of the Kingdom Tower’s security measures, all visitors must call the gallery before arrival. The gallery reps will meet you in the lobby and then usher you up to the 52nd floor. Originally a stunning private residence, this extravagant pad was turned into a public gallery by avid art collector Shatha Al Tassan, who is intent on sharing her art knowledge and appreciation with others. Upon entering the gallery, visitors can’t help but be impressed by the expansive city views via a wall of windows that drench the gallery’s two rooms in a soft glow; in fact, this is one of the most spectacular public spaces in the city.

Hosting solo exhibits from Saudi and regional artists, past shows have included Iraqi artist Akeel Abbas Al Awssi, Tunisia’s Nja Mahdaoui and Saudi Arabian artist Hanan Bahamdan. Hewar’s staff are on hand to provide guests with refreshments and offer tours of the gallery’s exhibits. Ask to take a peek into the private collection room that flanks the gallery, and prepare to be awestruck. A massive Gustav Klimt-inspired mural adorns the back wall and a menagerie of paintings and sculptures keenly populate the space.

L’Art Pur Gallery opens for exhibitions, such as this installation from Saudi artist Nasser Al Turki © L’Art Pur Gallery

L’Art Pur Gallery

One of the largest art showcase spaces in the Middle East, L’Art Pur Gallery is part of the L’Art Pur Foundation and associated with Arts and Skills Institute, which both support and promote Saudi artists and creative talent. The three gallery halls regularly host contemporary exhibitions from local and international artists encompassing art, fashion and design, in addition to hosting annual competitions, workshops and seminars. Highlights of past shows include the work of Spanish master Joan Miró but also featured national artists such as Abdullah Hammas, Tarfa Fahad and Zaman Jassim. The gallery’s state-of-the-art lighting and sound system offers an impressively immersive experience. Within the gallery, there is a boutique that features high-quality handmade goods and decor for sale, a great spot to shop for special gifts. L’Art Pur Gallery does not house a permanent art collection, and the gallery is open only when hosting an exhibit. Current and upcoming exhibit information is updated and announced via their social media and mailing list.

Noqtah Studio is run by artist Talal Al Tukhaes, a sculptor and art collector © Elizabeth Branca / Lonely Planet

Noqtah Studio

Artist Talal Al Tukhaes is a well-known Saudi sculptor as well as a respected collector in the Riyadh art scene. His work has been commissioned and displayed in Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and Oman, but when he isn’t working on a new piece, he is curating art shows for various embassies and diplomats or travelling throughout the region to collect and promote work from other artists. Known for his keen eye for upcoming talent in the fine art world, Tukhaes is the go-to guy when in the market for buying Arab art. By appointment only, Tukhaes welcomes collectors and art enthusiasts into his home studio gallery. Inside the studio, his work is prominently featured, but it also includes a robust display by Saudi and regional artists. Tukhaes’ sculptures are crafted from mostly local materials: marble, obsidian, quartz and other stones. Because of the size of the space, the collection on show is limited, but there is a catalogue of work on hand, as well as an extensive contact list for artists in Tukhaes’ creative circle of friends for inquires about additional pieces.

SAMA has a selection of art supplies and books in both Arabic and English, a rare find in Riyadh © Elizabeth Branca / Lonely Planet

SAMA Creatives Hub

Truly a creative epicentre in Riyadh, SAMA Creatives Hub is a large gallery space that offers so much more. Beyond the modern glass facade and colourful urban mural, the sprawling two-storey space displays an array of paintings for sale throughout. For art patrons on a budget, this is the perfect place to purchase the work of up-and-coming locals and newly established regional artists. Making art accessible to everyone is part of SAMA’s mission, which aims to promote creative expression in the Kingdom and peaceful coexistence across the globe. In addition to what’s displayed on site, SAMA houses an extensive collection of paintings and other mediums in an offsite space that can be visited upon request.

Together with exhibited works, the ground floor includes a small bookstore offering a selection of adult and children’s art books in English and Arabic – a rare find in the Kingdom. For hobbyists and artists alike, there is an essential stock of art supplies including paints, quality canvas and paper. Weekly workshops allow SAMA to support Riyadh’s burgeoning art community and their educational classes and seminars are a great way for artists to connect. Not only a place for artists to advance their skill set, SAMA especially encourages families with children to visit and participate in the workshop’s creative activities and classes.

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Button-Fly Jeans: Nay or Yay

Button-fly jeans are a fringe trend. I think they are a throwback to the late ‘80s and early ‘90s original and unisex Levi’s 501 jeans. I can’t remember button flies before that, but will stand corrected if I’m mistaken. Those 501’s were the first time I wore button-fly jeans.

My clients, friends and family vary in their tolerance for button-fly jeans. Some prefer it, some have no preference, and some prefer a zipper fly. Some occasionally tolerate a button fly if it’s a visible feature of the jeans. Some like to have a mix of button fly and zipper fly. And some — like my Dad and brother — refuse to wear button-fly jeans.

There is no getting away from the fact that a zipper fly is fast, practical, smooth, and easy. A button fly takes more time to fasten and unfasten, and some find the buttons bulky and bulging on the tummy area. But a button fly can be fun, different, nostalgic, and a design feature of the jeans. Although an acquired taste, it’s an interesting vibe.

Personally, I have no preference. I wear a button fly as happily as a zipper fly, and don’t find them inconvenient, bulky or bothersome. I also find button flies a bit nostalgic. I have four pairs of button fly-jeans at the moment, and am not opposed to getting more. Two pairs have visible button flies, and two have concealed button flies. It’s fun to have the variety. Coincidently, my three pairs of new jeans have button flies, and I love them all.

I vote yay for button-fly jeans. What’s your verdict?

How to Style Your Slip Dress for Spring and Summer

A lot of the fashion trends from the nineties are making a comeback this year. Among them is the slip dress, also known as the nightgown dress by some. Popular with supermodels like Kate Moss and Naomi Campbell back in the day, slip dresses are a must-have for every fashion conscious woman. Aside from the fact that they look incredibly stylish and are in trend, there’s also the fact that these dresses are highly versatile. So there are plenty of ways to style them and create completely different looks with just one dress. Here are a few styling tips and ideas to help you out:

Tie a shirt around your waist – Remember how almost every boy band and popular artist sported the trend of tying a flannel shirt or a denim jacket around their waist in the nineties? You might have followed the fad back then and you probably cringe when you look at old photos now. But the good news is that the trend is back, so it’s the perfect way to style your slip dress and add some edge to it.

Source: Bedazzles after Dark

You can wear a knee-length or calf-length slip dress with booties or white kicks. Tie a flannel shirt or a lightweight denim shirt around your waist. You’ll instantly look street-ready by finishing off the look with a cross-body bag.

Wear the shirt – Instead of tying it around your waist, you can also wear the shirt over the slip dress. To make this look work, the shirt must be an oversized man’s shirt. This will roughen up the delicate look of the slip dress and create some balance to the entire outfit. If the slip dress is of a solid color, go for stripes and patterns in your shirt so as to add some flair to your whole look.

While you can wear the same shoes (boots or sneakers), flat mule shoes might look great with this outfit. It’s going to create a fun mix of casual and formal, making the look versatile for everyday wear.

Wear a blazer – You can wear the slip dress to work by throwing a fitted blazer over it. As for the shoes, you can wear something like patented leather oxfords that will give the entire outfit a more professional look. For day wear, switch the fitted blazer with an oversized one to create a laid-back, edgy outfit. The idea is to tone down the feminine details of the dress with something that’s a bit more tomboyish.

Source: The Zoe Report

There are plenty of footwear options for this from high heels to comfy sneakers. However, the look would work best with minimal boyish sandals for a laid back look. If you’re going for something a little dressier, opt for mule shoes in bold colors that will add some pop to the outfit.

Add a sheer layer – Layering is a fashionista’s best friend. However, the warmer summer months might prevent you from adding clothing layers like sweaters or jackets. So when you feel like your slip dress looks to bland, just throw on a translucent shirtdress or a sheer blouse over it. The lightweight and see-through material will ensure that you stay cool during the warmest of days while still embracing layering.

If your shirtdress and slip dress are of the same color, adding some bright-colored mule shoes might balance out the monochrome. Carry a complementing clutch purse and you’re ready for a fun brunch with the girls.

Wear a biker jacket – A grungy biker jacket over a slip dress is one of the hottest looks this year. It’s the perfect balance between rough and delicate so the look could work for any type of woman. Whether your style is a bit more tomboyish or you like to dress feminine, the biker jacket over slip dress ensemble could be perfect for you.

Source: Left Bank Girl

You can wear casual white kicks with the outfit for day wear. However, the look is perfect for evening wear if you pair it with strappy stilettos. This is an ideal date night outfit for the hot summer months, but you can easily switch to boots as the weather gets colder.

What to avoid – When wearing a slip dress, the outfit itself may look minimal but that doesn’t mean you have to add on some chunky statement jewelry. Minimal accessories look best with a slip dress, so opt for thin strands of necklaces or minimal dangle earrings. A lightweight, summery slip dress doesn’t need more than shoes and a handbag to look gorgeous.

As for layers, it can be easy to go overboard so try to avoid wearing pants underneath the dress unless you’re feeling a bit daring. The layering can go wrong to the extent that you look like you’re wearing a Halloween costume.

You now have a good idea of how to style your slip dress for the spring and summer months. Remember that you can simply wear your slip dress as is, with a pair of sandals or high heels as you wish. These are only ideas to help you create new looks out of one clothing item. Make sure you go for a look that allows you to express yourself.

Author Bio:

Brandon Leibowitz is a seasoned writer for global thrift retailers, Savers and Value Village. He is a frequent contributor to blogs such as Social Media Examiner, Businesss 2 Community and several others. Brandon is recognized as a strong social media influencer due to his knowledge of and dedication to the industry.

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