Hey Readers,

This month “Loud Art Exhibition” is going to feature artists that portray their art at “Desert Design” Khobar, Saudi Arabia.

Half Saudi, Half Bahrain artist, Yousif Al Shafei is going to be featured there & The Sartori Ali is bound to be present to report the event. Stay tuned for the post & make sure you drop by..

Fashionably yours

Ali

Need more information? Contact Yousif on the following: 

Twitter : www.twitter.com/iShaf3i

Instagram: Shaf3i

Dior Homme Spring/Summer 2013 Campaign

Christian Dior Boutiques : www.dior.com

Fashionably yours

Ali

Scrolling down my instagram dashboard, I get a chat notification on Kik from fellow blogger Haya from “I Speak Prada” I open the chat & a picture of this fiercely dressed man appeared; YSL fur coat with sued appliques, Givenchy T-Shirt & those daring Leopard printed YSL Boots.
 
If love had a picture, Abdulla Al Abdulla’s Look of the week would be it; No joke.

Visiting his website & instagram account, I find out that he’s a creative director of the upcoming brand “The Gild” & is a law student. I had the fortunate opportunity of interviewing Abdulla, I must say his answers were quite inspiring at some point; Enjoy…   

General information:

Name: Abdulla Al-Abdulla

Age: 20

Occupation: Creative Director/ Owner of The Gild & Law Student

Nationality: Qatari

Horoscope Sign: Virgo

Questions

Q1. Tell us abit about your self ?

Well, to begin with, my father is an Ambassador, so I grew up in a very political and internationally set household. Growing up I lived traveling a lot having lived in places like Morocco.  Later on we finally settled down in Qatar, however my dad would still be living in other parts of the world. Growing up with 4 siblings was such a blessing, and not to forget about my beautiful mother who was also such an inspirational figure in my life. My mother is from Saudi Arabia so I’m a ‘halfy’ as they say. My mother was also always such an idol to me as she managed to raise 5 kids with the help of my dad of course, and still get a PHD and have such a sky rocketing career.

Q2. What is the Gild ? What does it aim for ?

The name The Gild is originally derived from my favorite quote from Shakespeare’s play King Lear.. “ We all laugh at gilded butterflies”. I find it to be a beautiful quote that might sound negative at first however has an in depth meaning that speaks louder. In short, a gilded butterfly is a person who places items of extravagance and luxury. The Gild aims to create beautiful and extravagant clothing that can transform you to be whoever you want to be.

The Gild aims to reach everyone, everyone who is youthful. Youth doesn’t come with age, but comes with a way of being.

Q3. Launching your resort 2013 collections soon, tell us abit about that?

My first collection is based on days and nights by the French Riviera. This is the climax of luxury. Inspired by the lifestyle of the South of France, the collection cross-breeds the carefree essence of beach apparel with the sophistication of evening and night wear.

To begin with I will officially be launching my first ever collection in the beginning of June in Dubai. After that I will be heading to Qatar for hopefully another more intimate event- you’ll be hearing all the details on everything soon.

Q4. As a male Qatari designer, how did the community & family members react to your Decision of pursuing fashion?

I only have one thing to say: I thank God everyday, for the amazing and supportive family he has blessed me with.

Q5. What arising male fashion trends do you like the most?

My ultimate favorite piece for men at the moment would be the black leather moto/ biker jackets. In my opinion they are a staple in every modern day mans wardrobe. However with the summer coming a lot I guess that changes things. I would say for the summer my favorite trend would be the classic cuts and the reoccurring white colors. I guess I don’t have a specific favorite trend.

Q6. What inspiration do you get from Qatar ?

Qatar in itself is probably the most inspiring place. It’s a melting pot of different identities, nationalities, and cultures. I get most of my inspiration from the sea and the intricate modern structures that surround it- such as the Doha skyline.

Q7. What University did you attend?

I am still currently attending the University of Hertfordshire getting a degree in Law.

Q8. Will The Gild be designing other collections such s RTW ( Ready to wear) ?

At The Gild we only design prêt-à-porter so ready to wear. However sometime in the future we would of course love to expand and get into fields like sportswear and couture.

Q9. How do you feel about the men’s fashion scene in the Gulf?

The men’s fashion scene is progressing majorly in the Gulf and the Middle East at whole.With this in mind I feel like sadly, this isn’t progressive state isn’t all too good. People still don’t really understand that fashion is a form of art. Not only this, but people feel that excess is good. For example, living in London this is usually the case: Gucci shoes, Gucci belt, Gucci hat, Gucci this Gucci that- or it’s a studded jacket, studded shoes, studded pants, and so forth. People still don’t understand that a trend is simply a trend. Following a trend excessively like a zombie does not make you ‘stylish’. I mean I don’t mean to bash everyone and I’m not here to talk badly about everyone but everyone still has a very selected and limited mentality and that will only change with time.

Q10. Having a pretty edgy style yourself, who would you consider as a style icon ?

To be honest I don’t really have a style icon or someone I look up to in that sense in the fashion world. To me a true style icon is the person walking in the street next to you, or the person sitting at the table next to you at a restaurant. Each person with their own sense of style that tells a true story of who they are, what they have been through, or who they want to be.

Q11. Favorite clothing brands retail stores?

I have a lot of favorite clothing stores that range from high street to high fashion. I guess you could say that my favorite designer brands would be Balmain, and Givenchy- I tend to go for the more contemporary clothing. As for high street my ultimate favorite is Urban Apparel. Not to forget, Opening Ceremony is also one of my favorite places to shop, they carry brands such as Push Button and Kenzo that I also love.

Q12.In a collection & personal clothing wear point of view, do you have any favorite colors or clothing forms that you prefer personally ?

Shoes. Giuseppe Zanotti and Christian Louboutin to be exact. That would be my favorite form of clothing. As for favorite colors I lean towards black and white the most- I love the classics.

Q13. Favorite Musicians/bands etc. ?

I have so many favorite musicians that range from so many genres, among my ultimate favorites would be Frank Sinatra, Lana Del Rey, Fairuz, Skrillex, and Sweedish House Mafia.

Q14. Anything you’d like to say to future upcoming male designers?

I guess the only thing I would say is to always stay true to who you are as a person and as a designer. People will always be out there that will not support you or try and degrade what you are doing in one way or another. Always stay strong and believe in yourself.

Q15. What’s your favorite quote?

I’d hate to sound so arrogant, but I’m just going to have to quote myself- this is something I constantly like to remind my self of whenever I’m overwhelmed: God never gives you more than you can handle so just stay strong and pull through.

Hope you enjoyed the post, make sure you visit Abdulla’s Website & If you have any questions contact him..

Website: http://www.thegildonline.com/

Abdulla’s lookbook tumblr page: http://theeabdulla.tumblr.com/

Photo credits go to : Ben Bibriesca.

For several years now, The luxurious fashion house Chanel showcases it’s cruise collection in different countries around the world. Traveling from the west to the north, Karl Lagerfeld decided to take this seasons cruise collection to the east. Singapore; to be specific, A colonial romanticism fantasy was born with Chanel’s cruise 2014 collection. It was light, effortless & sophisticated at the same time.

 The collection picks up motifs from the colonial South-East Asian times through Karl Lagerfeld’s eyes. Stating that the collection didn’t need much color, Lagerfeld decided to work with the fashion houses signature creamy tones & black palette.

A high point theatrical start to the show,  was when models wearing sweaters that were shoulder wide, had deep V necks worn with a shirt & tie, accessorized with shin guards & cricket bats walked down the runway; maybe referring to the colonial times perhaps.

 Reinventing Chanel’s old wide collared jackets, Lagerfeld used a form of ethnic weaving technique on them & had them all gathered at the ankle. Band collared jackets, knee lengthened coats & jackets similar to Chanel’s LBJ( Little Black Jacket) , raided the runway. Navy blue & white checkered, damask patterns were used on a few of the clothing items such as the tweed shorts, pants, men’s blazers & cardigans.

The highlight of the finale, was that models came out in evening wear in a series of dresses in black & white, each embellished in white feathers that had been printed over with a slick of black in a pattern of varying stripes; The big show stopper moment was when model Cara Delavigne appeared walking in a mini’explosion of feathers & tar.

  The collection was similar to Chanel’s previous collections.. Although that, elements such as the pearls, fake diamonds & burned silver representing Coco Chanel’s “Fake Vs. Real” motive were quite revived.
 
For an overall collection, I’d have to say that I liked the men’s pieces the most. Not all of them but some.

 
Until the next show review,

Fashionably yours

Ali

When thinking of a punk themed red carpet event, one does not know what to expect. Not knowing what to expect with regards to the celebs dressing choice, the food being served, music being played & so on.
 
As I have mentioned, this year’s Met Gala theme is “Punk: Chaos to Couture” Having organized & created the event in celebration of the New York Metropolitan Museum, Editor in Chief of Vogue Anna Wintour chose the theme & viewed how risky everyone’s choices were.
 
The show was live streamed & received over 55,000 viewers online ! As chauffeur driven limousines came aligned to the red carpet museum entrance, Elite fashion personalities exited & down the red carpet they walked.
 
The swan like creature Florence Welch from the indie band “Florence & The Machine” arrived in a Givenchy Couture ensemble from the Fall 2012 Couture Collection. I personally believe that it’s not Florence’s best dress choice, I think it’s too dark but referring  to the theme it was suitable.
 
 Out of all the celebs, I found Anne Hathaway as one of the best dressed celebrities! Even her Platinum hair style suited the events sophistication & theme; Escorted by Valentino, the actress dressed her self with a vintage Valentino ensemble. Hathaway gracefully swam through the red carpet giving the paparazzi her assuring smiles.
 
In an all blue Tommy Hilfiger gown, Rapper & Barbz queen Nicki Minaj played it safe. Compared to her bold & controversial costumes during her performances, Minaj toned it down.  Latina beauty, Jennifer Lopez came dressed in an animal print like gown showing off her curves in a slinky, sequined Michael Kors gown. She up lifted the punk influence with a sculptural fauxhawk updo.
 
Comparing other young singers to Taylor Swift would be considered as somewhat of an insult. Arriving in a Black embroidered J. Mendel gown, dramatic Smokey makeup & a slicked-back hairdo, Taylor transformed herself from a country cutie to a true punk.
 
Other than the women, Men made a clear presence at the punk themed Gala. Chris Brown made a bold move by wearing a Red Givenchy blazer & pairing the look with a black shirt & black pants; Pharrell Williams on the other hand, wore a navy gingham-patterned tuxedo by Parisian luxury brand Lanvin. In an overall claim, Men didn’t play it safe! Some excelled in making that bold imprint while others failed badly.
 
Some celebs made it to the Met with designer escorts. Bound to be escorted by them, they were wearing the designers privé creations made specifically for them. Singer Katy Perry wore a Dolce & Gabbana ensemble from their Spring Summer 2013 collection & like I said, both Domenico Dolce & Stefano Gabbana attended with her. Other than the D&G pair, Classy designer Tom Ford made his presence with top model Joan Smalls wearing a daring sheer dress. Other designers that made an appearance were Valentino, Micheal Kors, Ricardo Tisci, Stella Mccartney & Kanye West.
 
Model Cara Delvigne came with date Sienna Miller, a cute couple that represented everything from Studs to spikes in monochrome dresses. The most talked about celeb was SJP (Sarah Jessica Parker) coming in a bold head piece & dress hand painted by designer Giles Deacon & head piece by Philip Treacy.
 
My doubtful opinions regarding Beyonce’s choice leave me lost. I love her Givenchy dress, without a doubt but… If she hadn’t paired the ensemble with matching boots & gloves it would’ve been much better. Not being on the mean side of things, I honestly think Kim Kardashian looks like a vintage 1980’s floral sofa, I understand that she’s pregnant but it just looks wrong…
 
Another year, a new theme & new best & worst dresses lists come. This is the event that’s bound to be on everybody’s tongues for a while..
 
Fashionably yours
 
Ali

Hey Readers,

It’s been a while since I’ve posted; we’ve entered May & already many events are coming up locally & internationally. With school almost ending, my summer plans are yet to be decided; Senior year is getting closer by the minute, I can feel it.

For the month of May on our “ شَبابْ Here & There” segment, we’re glad to have interview Abdulla Al Khalifa; An outspoken, fashionable man that comes from the royal “Al Khalifa” family. Here are the questions The Sartori Ali asked Abdulla.

Name:  Abdulla Al Khalifa

Age:  20

Nationality:  Bahraini

Horoscope Sign: Pisces

Occupation: Student

Q1. How do you view the fashion scene for men in the middle east, Could it be improved? If yes, how so? 

 I honestly feel that the mens fashion scene in the Middle East is definitely improving and becoming much more widely accepted and practiced than previous. In my opinion the fashion of pop culture and celebrities really opened up the eyes of middle eastern men to the fashion world. Ideas such as expressing oneself through fashion is manifesting in the male’s fashion scene here in the Middle East. Clothing is not simply something you put on your back anymore but a statement, an expression. Personally I believe any fashion scene can’t really be ‘improved’, fashion is everywhere around us and always existing. A simple t-shirt, blue jeans, and a pair of boots is fashion; it’s a certain look. It all comes down to personal taste and preference. A diversity in the scene is always beneficial, it keeps things interesting! Finally, self-expression is key. 

 Q2. Style Icons or people in your daily life that influence you fashionably?

 I don’t really like my style to be heavily influenced by icons just because I believe in individuality and being yourself completely! However Kanye West, James Dean, Chuck Bass, and Will.i.am are a few of the many people that I keep a close eye on just because I find that their fashion sense always amazes me and is very influential. 

 Q3. Would you rather live with wearing Louboutin or Mugler shoes ? Why?

 Definitely Christian Louboutin! The styles of Louboutin, in my opinion, are really edgy and classy at the same time. You could put on something that looks very casual and relaxed, but the minute you put on a pair of Louboutin your entire look just transforms! I loves me some red bottoms!

 Q4. Tell us about a fashion accident that happened to you ?

 I’m really a perfectionist with everything for as long as I can remember! Although in my early teen years, for some weird reason, I thought that if you matched everything together you’ll look good. Oh was I wrong! I was beginning to look like I was playing dress-up as a senior citizen! It was hilarious! I look back at old pictures sometimes and question if that was me or not! It’s always nice to wear something outside the box to make a statement or just change it up a little bit. Believe me, now I know! 

 Q5. Favorite clothing item?

 This might sound a little cliché, but I’m picking shoes! I say this because shoes are that type of item that you don’t usually look at first, but if worn properly it could completely change your appearance. If you’re ever running late for an event and you don’t really have time to change, just put on a good pair of shoes and you’re good to go! 

Hope you enjoyed this months “ شَبابْ Here & There” post, stay tuned for next months post.

Fashionably yours

Ali

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow once said “In character, in manner, in style, in all the things, the supreme excellence is simplicity”
 
With her royal highness Sheikha Mozah Bint Nasser Al Missned, simplicity is taken into a new sophisticated & elegant level. After Being named one of the best dressed international women in the world by Vanity Fair there isn’t much that a fashion critic can say.

Seen in gowns & dresses by designers like Stephane Rolland, Valentino, Jean Paul Gaultier, Chanel , Dior & many more HRH Sheikha Moza surrounded or clothed herself with items that not only evoke sophistication, but superb royalty & feminism. Besides her daring choice of wearing Chanels glass sculptured boots & her exquisite taste, Sheikha Mozah is also a politician that  focuses on causes that help enrich the worlds youth as well as Qatars youth. 
 
HRH (Her Royal Highness) is very much involved in Qatar’s government, un like many other monarchical wives in the middle east she’s been a driving force behind many of Qatars youthful projects such as Qatars Education City & Al Jazeera Children’s channel. Being a Chairperson of the Qatar Foundation for Education, Science & Community Development since 1995, Sheikha Mozah believes that if you give a child the opportunity to get educated, that he or she is bound to bloom just like a flower during spring time.
 
Many look up to her as the mother of all youth, educator to all those who want education & style icon to all those who are in need of fashion inspiration; HRH is clearly one of a kind, Forbes Magazine has put her among 100 of the most powerful Women at #74.
 
For an overall view on HRH, She’s is one of a kind. At 54 she’s killing it with her classy choice in clothes, influencing many in the political scene & as a mother to seven children, educating them & many around the globe.
 
Fashionably yours
 
Ali 

 

Dear Readers,

The Sartori Ali has been interviewed & featured on “Sketch Book Magazine”

Check the interview out !

Fashionably yours

Ali

ohmywixson:

The New Icons: Daphne Groeneveld, Joan Smalls, Lindsey Wixson and Liu Wen for H&M

The new H&M model icons.

(via hommesinparis)

Going to an event by Carolina Herrera meant only one thing, Ultimate sophistication & classiness !
 
Entering the boutique, a muscular man wearing a white polo CH T-shirt, Red basket weaved belt & an off white slim chino trouser greets you with the happiest manner.  Next to him was a stand that included CH chocolates & delicious treats, all in red, white & black . a few other colors that included similar tones from CH’s new men’s wear collection were present as well.

 

Walking into the men’s section, I immediately made my way to the shelves that had coral hued  shirts, polo T shirts, shorts, belts & striped handkerchiefs. A few items caught my eyes & made it into my wish list.. A guy can wish can’t he ?
 
Besides my flair for coral colored items, the collection had new styles of shirts, one’s with faux collars & cuff arm cuts. Croc scaled skin belts were also in the new collection, coming in brown & black; other belts were made in a basket weaved pattern & elastic like structure.
 
The new collection wasn’t like the usual, the addition of coral & sky blue tones added a twist, make sure to check the collection out; it’s worth the visit.
 
Fashionably yours
 
Ali

Hey guys,
 
I apologize for posting this report a month late, my laptop was going through loads of technical difficulties which prevented me from accessing it so, I apologize to you & to Chloé.
 
Walking into Saks on a Thursday morning, I notice a Chloé banner at the end of the 2nd floor of Saks Fifth Avenue, I ask if this is the ChloéSS 2013 private preview & the clerk told me that it is. I was in a state of shock ! Never have I seen such beautiful hand embroidery done on skirts; it wasn’t like Chloé. The bold colors, the flashy coral tones & the use of chiffon, silk & organza couldn’t have been used any better.
 
The collection was inspired by previous Chloé archives, you could see how much vintage sense the collection has; yet although that, it’s very chic & modern in a way.
 
As for the accessories, intricate detailing, luxurious multi colored leather, gold casing & exotic skins were used. That’s all I can honestly say..
 
Mini pastries were being served & they tasted quite fine. A mixture of Lemon & mint juice, orange juice, strawberry sprite blend & tonic water was served too.
 
For an overall comment, This collection features the best of Chloé ! A collection that truly defines femininity in a bold, relaxed & very chic way.
 
Fashionably yours
 
Ali

 

Bohemian? Not so much…

1- Grey knitted cardigan by H&M

2- Canary brown beaded bracelet by Zara

3- Dark Camel colored  shorts by Givenchy

4- Shamoua Shoes Limited Edition by Aldo

Fashionably yours

Ali

Thursdays 80’s Marc by Marc Jacobs Throwback.

Checking my mail on a wed. afternoon, I get a notification that says that I have a new email received. I go to my inbox, and there it was ! An invitation from Nada Tawfeeq from “Pretty Little Posts” blog to attend Marc By Marc Jacobs 80’s night event, in celebrate of the brand recent 80’s collection.
 
Having almost an entire week to plan my outfit, I chose to research a bit. Being un aware of everything 80’s & retro, I decided that the best way was to check the Marc by Marc Jacobs archive history. To be honest, researching helped me a lot ! Everything I saw screamed out DENIM DENIM DENIM & Neon colors.
 
I decided to go with a denim shirt that I later on studded & turned into a vest, a floral printed T shirt, black slim jeans, studded boots, black leather studded gloves & a vintage long stud necklace & finally a hot yellow neon laptop pouch that I turned into a murse; quite rock N roll’ right ? Having a plus one, Muneera Bubshait from “Arabbella” blog was on mind. Mentioning it to her, we talked throughout the entire week just contemplating on what to expect & on our looks.
 
April 25th, 6:25 PM.
I arrived at City centre & started walking to Caribou Coffee to meet my friend, blogger Haya Al Fadhel from “I Speak Prada” it’s been quite a while since we’ve seen each other, so thanks to Marc Jacobs we were reunited ! #Bloggerlove
 
Entering the Marc By Marc Jacobs store, I was blown away by how the store was set up! Flashy lights, peach, pink & white colored balloons & at the front showcase desk, Model Laura Bale was wearing a very 80’s like outfit with roller blades, very 80’s indeed.
 
Mingling here & there, photographers from several magazines wanted to take shots, so what was I supposed to do? Strike a pose of course..
 
Among the guests were the girls from the PR & Design agency “Obai & Hill” Blogger Duaa Zainal from “I Speak Fashion” blogger Amal Al Mulla from “A Day in The Sandbox” Singer Mohammed Kooheji, Bahrain’s top stylist Reem Buqais, Bahraini Bloggers Maraa & Ali Fareed were there & finally the lovely Dalia Mattar senior marketing executive at Chalhoub Group retail.
 
Throughout the evening, mini marshmallows covered in mnm’s , roller skate vanilla cookies & beef burgers with hot dogs were being served, Like I said everything was so 80’s ! The 80’s inspired collection was oh so desirable, I have a few items in mind to purchase. A huge board was set up & graffiti was done by an artist painting down guests names, bloggers blog addresses & etc. Badges were also made according to the guests request, could the event get any better?
 
For an overall event, Nada couldn’t have done anything better than she already has! She mentioned that she didn’t want to go all cheesy, but trust me when I say this nothing was cheesy. Well, maybe those beef burgers & hot dogs were, but not the event. My favorite song that the DJ played was Daft Punks new song “Get Lucky” featuring Pharrell, Saint Laurent’s collaboration.
 
Make sure you checkout the new collection at Marc By Marc Jacobs !
 
Fashionably yours
 
Ali