Memos From The Middle East: Introducing Shades Of Gianvito, Anthropologie Partners With Bassam Fattouh, And Augustinus Bader Launches Its Best Serum Yet
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
Shades of Gianvito: The Gianvito Pump
Gianvito Rossi presents Shades of Gianvito, launching this September, celebrating the Maison’s iconic Gianvito pump. First introduced in 2008, the pump is a timeless symbol of elegance and refined design. The classic silhouette is reimagined in a vibrant range of suede shades, each crafted to highlight depth and richness. Signature stilettos are available in both suede and leather, from buttery-soft nappa to metallic finishes, showcasing Rossi’s dedication to proportion, craftsmanship, and sophistication.
Available in-store across the region and online at gianvitorossi.com.
Selma Benomar Unveils Threads of Paradise with JOALI Maldives
Dubai-based designer Selma Benomar has teamed up with JOALI Maldives to launch Threads of Paradise, an exclusive capsule collection that merges her signature elegance with the serene spirit of island living. The collection features eleven distinctive looks, from flowing caftans to chic two-piece ensembles, each inspired by the Maldives’ natural beauty and vibrant culture. Standout pieces include Aqua Essence, channelling oceanic tones and delicate coral-inspired embroidery, Lavender Breeze, reflecting pastel dusk skies with hand-sewn orchid embellishments, and Tropical Paradise, celebrating the lush colours of Maldivian flora. The collection is available at Maison De JOALI in the Maldives and Maison Selma Benomar in Dubai.
Beauty
The Exixir: Introducing Augustinus Bader’s Revolutionary Skincare Serum
The Elixir is Augustinus Bader’s most concentrated serum yet, powered by next-generation Advanced TFC8® technology and an exclusive Phyto-Peptidic Concentrate. Its fast-absorbing, water-free formula maximizes the potency of these advanced actives, lifting, firming, and softening visible signs of aging while supporting overall skin cell health. 100% vegan and free from parabens, silicones, and synthetic fragrance, the Elixir seamlessly integrates into any skincare routine, delivering both immediate radiance and long-term vitality.
Anthropologie Partners With Celebrity Makeup Artist Bassam Fattouh
Anthropologie unveils its brand-new beauty category this month at its Qatar store, marking the brand’s first foray into the region’s cosmetics sphere. In collaboration with celebrity makeup artist Bassam Fattouh, renowned for his timeless aesthetic and iconic work with leading regional stars, the launch brings a curated selection of his coveted makeup range to Anthropologie Qatar. The perfect place to refresh your make-up bag for pre-fall.
Saudi Brand Asteri Beauty Unveils A Cult New Eyeshadow
Inspired by the luminous beauty of Arabian pearls, Asteri’s new Everlight Liquid Eyeshadow glides effortlessly across lids, transforming instantly into a velvety powder that hydrates and smooths. Richly pigmented shades provide intense colour payoff, flawless blending, and all-day wear without smudging or transfer. Infused with skin-loving ingredients like cellulose for a soft powdery feel and glycerin to retain moisture – this is one to pop in your handbag for a post-work pick-me-up for when the busy evening events season rolls around again.
Dining
A Celebration of Peru at Atlantis The Royal
La Mar by Gastón Acurio has launched Noche Criolla, a monthly feast of Peruvian Creole cuisine at Atlantis The Royal. Every second Thursday, guests can indulge in a ten-dish sharing menu, signature cocktails and mocktails, unlimited traditional beverages, and lively entertainment including salsa dancers and live singers. Curated by Chef Andreé Nuñez, the menu brings childhood family recipes to life, from the delicate tiradito Peru to the hearty cebiche carretillero and iconic classic anticucho, finishing with sweet delights like torta de chocolate and alfajores. Chef Andreé’s global experience spans Astrid & Gastón in Lima to El Celler de Can Roca in Spain, making him a true guardian of Peruvian gastronomy in the Middle East. Noche Criolla runs from 6:00 pm to 11:00 pm, with packages starting at AED 425 for food or AED 595 including three hours of free-flow drinks.
Al Tayer Insignia Launches Acqua di Parma Caffettino Pop-Up
Al Tayer Insignia presents the GCC’s first Acqua di Parma Caffettino pop-up café, celebrating Italian café culture with a touch of the brand’s signature Arte di Vivere at Bloomingdale’s – Dubai Mall. Curated by Dorothée Meilichzon, the space blends texture, color, and architectural references to bring a taste of la dolce vita to Dubai. Guests can enjoy espresso-based drinks, Italian pastries like affogato and cannoli, and select Acqua di Parma products, including the new summer collection. Inspired by Italian summer traditions, the menu also features chilled coffee, gelato, and refreshing mocktails such as the “Capri Spritz” and “Amalfi Dream.”
Culture
Miramax Partners with Doha Film Institute to Champion Arabic-Language Storytelling
In a significant move for regional cinema, Miramax has announced a landmark partnership with the Doha Film Institute (DFI) to launch the DFI x Miramax Writer’s Program — an initiative designed to support and elevate Arabic-language storytelling across the Middle East and North Africa. The collaboration will offer mentorship, training, and development resources for both emerging and established Arab screenwriters. Up to five projects will be selected annually, with participants gaining access to Miramax’s extensive global production and distribution network. The program will also integrate with DFI’s existing Series Program, aiming to strengthen the region’s creative ecosystem and amplify homegrown voices on an international scale.
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