This month, our news roundup highlights creative collaborations spanning fashion, art and culture, showcasing the magic born from collective innovation
Luxurious Beginnings
Marassi Galleria, under the esteemed patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, has officially opened its doors in Bahrain. Managed by Eagle Hills Diyar, this luxurious destination introduces esteemed brands such as Bulgari, CHANEL, Dior, Etro, Loro Piana, Valentino and many more. Expressing his excitement, Eagle Hills Chairman Mohamed Alabbar highlighted the significance of Marassi Galleria in shaping Bahrain’s retail landscape. He emphasised the destination’s unique blend of luxury retail, exquisite dining and captivating entertainment, all set against the backdrop of Bahrain’s beautiful coastline. The opening day festivities were nothing short of spectacular, with performances from the Ardha band and The Bahrain National Police Band. Guests gathered for an official inauguration, followed by a symbolic ribbon-cutting ceremony that unveiled Marassi Galleria to the world. Guests can continue to immerse themselves in live entertainment and various attractions until March 9, extending the celebratory spirit of Marassi Galleria’s grand opening.
Celebrating Cultural Heritage
Ramadan, a time for reflection and enlightenment, is reimagined this year through Van Cleef & Arpels’ collaboration with Emirati calligraphy artist Fatima Alketbi. Holding a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design from Zayed University, Dubai, Fatima blends tradition and innovation. Inspired by her Emirati heritage and the UAE’s landscapes, she revitalises Arabic calligraphy, using unconventional materials like palm fronds and kohl. Her work with the brand is a mesmerising journey where each stroke tells a story of heritage and poetry. With deep respect for tradition and a modern touch, she effortlessly merges the past with the present, creating designs of authenticity and charm. Together with Van Cleef & Arpels, a series of exquisite calligraphy artworks capturing Ramadan’s essence are unveiled.
Posh O’Clock
Breitling joins forces with Victoria Beckham to unveil the limited-edition Chronomat 36 Victoria Beckham collection. This exclusive collection combines Victoria’s renowned style with Breitling’s craftsmanship to create a modern expression of the classic timepiece. The collection features signature Chronomat elements updated with the designer’s Spring and Summer 2024 palette, including refined colourways like peppermint and midnight blue and options for stainless steel or yellow gold cases. Each piece is meticulously crafted and COSC-certified for precision. The Chronomat Automatic 36 Victoria Beckham is powered by the Breitling Caliber 10, ensuring reliability with a 42-hour power reserve and self-winding movement. The limited edition comes in a co-branded box, with gold variations accompanied by a special travel pouch.
Jet-Set Chic
Naomi Campbell, a fashion icon, collaborates with BOSS to unveil Naomi x BOSS, a capsule tailored for sophisticated, contemporary travellers. Building on their successful partnership since her debut in the Autumn and Winter 2022 campaign, this collection personifies the brand’s growth strategy in womenswear. Inspired by Naomi’s dynamic lifestyle, the range features versatile essentials reflecting her own style ethos. From sophisticated outerwear to statement footwear, each piece blends modern silhouettes with BOSS’ signature tailoring. Luxe fabrics like cashmere and cupro are infused with innovative technological elements, ensuring practicality without sacrificing style. The model’s personal involvement in the project underscores her commitment to delivering pieces seamlessly merging functionality and fashion.
Duchess-inspired Delight
Erdem and Barbour (a British clothing brand founded in 1894 and well-known for their waxed jackets and coats) have come together to create a unique showpiece for Erdem’s Spring and Summer 2024 creations. The coat is inspired by the collection’s muse: Deborah, the late dowager Duchess of Devonshire. Erdem has given the traditional Barbour waxed jacket a couture-like twist with an open neckline in sand waxed cotton. The coat has an exploded trapeze silhouette and is worn with a quilted liner pieced with chintz curtain remnant material. Erdem Moralioglu, the Creative Director, expressed his excitement about the collaboration with Barbour, a British heritage brand that he has always admired and worn. He said that his work has always been about creating pieces with a human touch and that he felt a real connection in their approach to craftsmanship.