YOURS DAILY
BEAUTY AND HEALTH
You’ll rarely see exciting collaborations within the same industry other than the fashion world when it comes to the Middle East, but that’s about to change with an outstanding Campaign featuring three of the region’s top makeup artists. The huge awakening campaign is being organized against the spread of plastic surgery among Arab women. Plastic surgery has widely spread in the Middle East, changing the latter’s culture and creating a clash identity. Most Arab women have similar facial and physical features nowadays. Recent studies show that Lebanon registers the highest number of plastic surgeries, which seem to be on the rise. This was the trigger point that pushed the Middle East’s top 3 celebrity makeup artists Bassam Fattouh, Hala Ajam and Fady Kataya to step in and fuel the social awareness campaign, in an attempt to save what’s left of natural beauty in a country that’s so full of it! The 3 beauty experts will be taking on this initiative to sensitize people on the hazards and the downside of plastic surgery. Bassam, Hala and Fady are aiming to clarify the difference between corrective surgeries done to beautify the look and boost self-confidence and obsessive surgeries, which distort and hide the facial features and expressions.
Seeing how the three of them are very creative, they’ll be applying different makeup techniques individually on one model’s face to show that women don’t need to go under the knife to reach their real beauty, but can simply achieve it in a much more natural way. Bassam Fattouh, Hala Ajam and Fady Kataya have worked with regional and international celebrities such as Haifa Wehbe, Nancy Ajram, Elissa, Claudia Schiffer, Ester Canadas and Queen Rania of Jordan. We personally love the idea of the Campaign and can see how influential it’ll be in the region.
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After an explosion of very bright colors and graphic prints, soft color blocks also came in as a strong trend for Spring and Summer of 2012. From peach to sky blue and light yellow, these colors will come to add a lot of allure and delicacy to our looks in the coming seasons. I really like this trend and I can’t wait to embrace it when I start shopping next month. You can’t miss out on these soft candy shades either!
Written by Lana El Sahely
Founder of Larmoiredelana.com
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fishfayce, the digital photo booth service that’s taken the United Arab Emirates by storm, is now available in Qatar and Kuwait. Expanding to the two regions by popular demand, the UAE-based company offers unique event photography solutions, including photo booths and event photography. fishfayce’s easy-to-use technology allows party guests to simply step in front of a small stand-alone photobooth, strike a pose and click a remote to photograph themselves and instantly print the pictures.
“We’ve been dipping our toes into these two markets and the feedback has been so positive, we’ve decided to dive in full throttle,” said fishfayce founder Zeina Abdalla. “fishfayce offers solutions to make all kinds of events—from weddings to corporate events to birthday parties to product launches—interactive, fun and memorable for guests.”
The portable, remote-operated fishfayce photo booths, managed by one of one of the company’s specially-trained on-site staff members, instantly take, print and project photos of party guests during any event. Photos can be added to slide shows and almost instantaneously be projected on any surface within a venue. Guests can both print their photos (in color or black and white) on-site or download them from a password-protected online gallery afterwards. fishfayce photos are also an excellent viral marketing tool, making event photos, which can be overlaid with brand logos, instantly available on social networking sites such as Facebook and Twitter.
Read our interview with Zeina Abdalla, founder of fishfayce >>
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Ashraf Hamdi, one of Egypt's young and outstanding talents in the film industry, and who recently joined Fustany as a Guest Writer. We love his shows and presence on TV, and couldn't wait to share his interview with all of our Readers.
How did you decide to become an actor?
Ashraf Hamdi: Well I always did theatre in summer vacations, so after finishing Dentistry I realized that my life will remain tasteless if I had everything but still didn't do or achieve the one thing I’m passionate the most about, because films were always my passion since I was a kid. So I decided to take the risk and leave all what I studied behind and just start pursuing this dream although, even though I knew how difficult it was and especially because I was aiming to be an international actor.
I then started studying acting in London, did auditions here and there, and what helped the most is that I followed the “Matt Damon theory”. Basically this theory is to become an actor through wiring, so I started studying screen writing as well, and step by step I now consider myself blessed, so far after trying hard for 6 years I am one of the Arab actors who were lucky to have some international credits as well as decent projects made.
What's your favorite thing about writing?
Ashraf Hamdi: It would be escaping to the world that you create. You see, most of the time I only write the movies that I create or play in, and it’s very rare that I would go for a specific writer. I did it only once with Ali F. Mostafa by writing the first draft of his upcoming film, but only because I liked the story he created and liked working with him.
It's just enjoyable to explore a character's world by yourself, and you know I usually don't write solutions or advice for people; I just lay down a study to a problem. Let's say a relationship case for example, and add a lot of personal experience in it and talk about it through story telling, since I couldn't do in real life due to circumstances etc. Then I create a world around it that I would think will entertain me if I was at the movies watching it and how this will reflect on viewers, because when you do something a bit personal you need to make sure it will be received positively by people or at least by the majority.
We know that you were also a TV presenter, talk to us about that experience.
Ashraf Hamdi: It wasn't planned to be honest, I always wanted to be an actor and writer, presenting came by chance and it helped a lot actually. I remember after doing my first international experimental feature film "Wingrave", a magazine wrote about me, then I got offered to audition for presenting a live show on Otv before it started. I didn't feel it's what I wanted but I got convinced that this channel would be different in terms of not sticking to the normal, which actually was the case. So I got the job and started presenting in the morning show "Sabahak Sokkar Zyada" which was a massive hit and was loved by the whole Middle East as a one of a kind show, and it actually got me famous and introduced me well in the industry that I got my first roles in Tv series afterwards.
Then I represented one of the big shows on MBC “The people’s Quiz” with George Kardahy, Mona Zaki and Sara el Dandarawy as judges, and this one was a huge step for me as a presenter. Presenting live and recorded actually helped me a lot as an actor, because it enables you to improve your phonetics as well as strengthen your memory in regards to studying scripts and dialogues.
Where do you see the Middle Eastern cinema in 10 years?
Ashraf Hamdi: Hmmm, well I really can't answer this, but when it comes to the people I know and those close to me as well as myself, I can tell you that it's improving because people like us from our generation are doing their best to shine and change it to the better. A lot of trials already took place and worked well, all we need is for the production and financiers to start believing in our vision. But I’m optimistic, because a few years ago there was nothing, then they started taking baby steps, and now the movement is increasing, so hopefully we can compete internationally soon.
What's a character you would love to play?
Ashraf Hamdi: Actors usually don't look for a specific character, they always look for what's challenging for them. Playing something that needs studying and preparing is always satisfying for an actor, and not something that's easy for you which you'll find in your comfort zone, that wouldn’t be acting, it would be playing yourself, and aren’t we doing that everyday?
Also a character that would express certain emotions that you failed or got shy to express in your normal life is an excellent challenge, because you'll need to get out of your skin and strip your emotions naked in front of the whole world.
If you were an actor in the Black and White era of the Egyptian cinema, who would it be?
Ashraf Hamdi: Roshdy Abaza or Omar Sharif
What's the most valuable advice someone has ever given to you?
Ashraf Hamdi: "Money comes anyways, just do what you love and be honest towards it. Always be prepared and stop wasting time thinking, analyzing and criticizing".
Describe yourself in 3 words.
Ashraf Hamdi: Blunt, persistent, loyal (to whatever : work, friends and family)
Who do you consider a role model?
Ashraf Hamdi: Peter Griffin from Family guy! Kidding :)
I actually don't have a role model unfortunately, but I look up to certain people regarding their choices or their inspiring stories and achievements. So I would say Ryan Gosling and Ethan Hawk, I respect their choices a lot for juggling between indie and commercial films in a smart way, as well as Leonado Di Caprio of course.
Your favorite movies would be?
Ashraf Hamdi: My list would be: Before Sunset & Before Sunrise, Atonement, Blue Valentine, Babel, Like Crazy, Inception, Last Night, Un Prophet, Romanzo Criminale ...and the list keeps going.
What are the biggest challenges you had to face in your career?
Ashraf Hamdi: Everyday is a challenge in this field because it's all about sticking to your standards or sell yourself to the devil, as this is this only way to speed or slow down your way. The thing about this career that you would love and hate at the same time that the decision you'll take will either make you or break you, what I love about it is that it's your own decision at the end so it will be rewarding if you make it, otherwise you'll just have to live with what you sacrificed for it. Also watching and listening to destructive criticism is quite a challenge (and the internet helped in that big time), because depending on how you are and how you deal with it, it might destroy you or just make you tougher.
What advice would you give to a young up and coming actor or writer?
Ashraf Hamdi: Well my personal advice is never let anyone break your dream or urge to succeed, patience and persistence is the key to achieving your dreams in such a field, just keep working and update your talent and keep your vision in front of your eyes because no hard work or talent goes unnoticed even if takes a long time. As for the biggest advice, be flexible and committed!
Three things you can't live without?
Ashraf Hamdi: My phone, laptop and music
Favorite quote?
Ashraf Hamdi: Two quotes hit my mind right away: "Only those who risk going too far , find out how far they can go. " from FRINGE, and the other one is " without love , there's nothing" from the PERFECT SENSE. I have other favorite quotes that I wrote on my upcoming scripts, but I’d prefer you see them on screen.
What's next?
Ashraf Hamdi: At the moment I’m done shooting a program for Fox Movies called "Behind the Oscars", because they are airing the Oscars exclusively and approached me for the show. The show will start next Friday, and you can watch it every Friday and Saturday 8pm KSA time. Additionally I’m finishing up my new script “A week in 7 days”, which is a romantic drama. I’m also in negotiation these days for a movie and a series, but I can’t say anything about it now, since it’s not yet confirmed.
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We are proud to announce Rami Al Ali’s debut at Paris Fashion Week. The Syrian-born designer enchanted the audience with a graceful oriental inspired collection. This gown in specific was a personal favorite because of the level of attention and details, which are put into it. The layering and volume give richness and power to this piece of art. The choice of pastel colors, light fabrics and rich henna-like embroideries allowed Al Ali to bring forward the fashionable Middle Eastern culture not only through this gown but also through his entire collection.
Written by Nour Abdoun
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If you’re the kind of fashionista who loves accessorizing her outfit with a scarf, then this is definitely for you. How do you feel about a Scarf Necklace? Yes you’ve heard it right! House of Shakti Jewelry came up with a brilliant concept mixing fashion with healing and positive affirmation.
To give you an idea of the process House of Shakti go through, first off they start by choosing the right crystals to match the healing properties and resonance with each other. Once the right combination is chosen, each piece is handcrafted using the highest quality of gemstones, gold, and silver, keeping the intention in the designer's heart and mind. We just love how the brand speaks a thousand words about the designer herself, where Lubna wanted to share her passion for fashion and crafts and it seemed natural to her to combine her love of spirituality and activism with her creativity.
Now back to the Scarf Necklace, the length enables you to wear it in so many different ways. We certainly have it on top of our shopping list! For more information log onto www.houseofshakti.com
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On our last trip to Beirut, we had the chance of visiting L’Atelier Blanc Bridal Boutique, and we have to say it is by far one of the most amazing boutiques we have ever seen. The moment you step into L’Atelier Blanc you’ll instantly notice the amazing decoration, their attention to the smallest details and the beautiful wedding gowns and bridal accessories. So today’s item of the day goes out to one of the most fabulous Marchesa gowns we set sight on. The fairytale inspired gown flatters many body shapes and we especially love the crossing on the upper part of the dress. Imagine adding a diamond necklace to your bridal look and no one can argue about that, you’ll be an absolute stunner!
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Every woman's fashion style is mirrored through her outfits and there are definitely major inspirations that affect her fashion sense and lifestyle. Nourhanne Waleed's personal style is the perfect example of that, where she loves to mix and match rock and vintage. Old torn jeans, loose colorful shirts, combat boots, and messy hoodies are mainly the highlight of her style. Wearing headbands as well is a very big part of her daily fashion guise.
A woman’s hairstyle reveals a lot about her style and personality. Nourhanne's pixie hair cut tells us that she’s not afraid of being bold, and it brings more attention to her face and eyes. It definitely takes a totally confident and playful woman to wear this hairstyle, or in other words youthful, rebellious and up-to-the-minute!
As fashion changes, Nourhanne believes that she should never follow the steps of others but makes sure to combine her looks with her own inspiration and mood. Although she’s very much fashion–conscious, that doesn’t stop her from thinking that following a certain fashion style and sticking to it would just be too boring!
Written by Dalia Hosny
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One of the things a woman can’t live without is her mascara! But Lash Control is not like any other mascara, it actually solves the problem of having a lot of excess on the brush making it hard and at times messy to use. So here’s the trick, there’s a part you should squeeze (the fuchsia one) while taking your brush out, to get rid of all the extra mascara we don’t know how to deal with. Lash Control is what we can call genius in the world of cosmetics!
Written by Nour Abdoun
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We are submerged by information all day long. Political ones, economical, technology, sociological...you name it. Everything is happening so fast that we hardly have time to adjust to the flow of information and reflect on its impact on our lives. Like fugitive, their trajectory cross ours and leave us with a double sensation of fullness and void. Democratic countries may become religious, rich ones deeply indebted, vertiginous technologies take us to the moon and serve us the world in our palms, media and internet gave us the taste of instantaneous. Some thinkers encouraged us to learn how to live a "slow life". Everything around us is compressed. Everything is jostling against everything, speeding, clashing. We don't have time to linger on something, anything. Information is engulfed in a bottomless pit. The word "Reality" was never used in history as much as it is nowadays: reality shows, reality stars, real people...and in fact we're loosing it for all these pixellised empires with no clear shores. With this cyber world around us, I think we should reconsider another way of living, the real one and why not reinvent it. Meanwhile I decided to wear black. Black like my dog Blacky. Black, a color that absorbs all colors. Black leather leggings from H&M, black long slashed t-shirt by Zadig&Voltaire, black vest by Zadig&Voltaire, black collarless jacket by Theory, black tote, Emile, by Alexander Wang and I decided to cut the black monotony and wore python boots by Zadig&Voltaire, just for that touch that says "one non-black item in a total black look gives it an oumph factor"! And the rest is up to you. May I invite you for a laid back attitude and some zen feelings in the midst of the never ending swirl of our modern times? You are kindly invited to confirm your attendance...
Written by Mimi Raad
http://mimisfashiondiary.blogspot.com
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