Hidden gem: L'atelier Des Arts
When it comes to art supplies Abu Dhabi is seriously lacking in variety, so when we came across L'atelier Des Arts tucked away in Fotouh Al Khair we couldn't have been happier. With the city's biggest range of easels, paints, mosaics and even books for all kinds of handicrafts, L'atelier is a hub of creativity. Shirine Saleh, the owner, wants to encourage the region's artistic talent to leaf through the books and be inspired by other artists in her shop. L'atelier is also hosting a range of classes for all ages in its massive upstairs section for blossoming talent.
Fotouh Al Khair shopping centre, Airport Road, 1st floor, behind Mirabel Café, 02 639 7104
Straight laced
You always notice when a man's got a pair of new shoes on (think Paolo Nutini's single) - there's a swagger to his walk and a bit more effort in the fashion department as a whole. If the men in our lives had it their way they'd be in trainers or loafers all day long, but real style requires sleeker shoes. That's where these Louis Vuitton brogues come in: fresh off the folk-inspired A/W 2011-2012 catwalk, these shoes are an investment for seasons to come. Wear with rolled up jeans and a tee in the morning and with a smart blazer in the evening.
Dh3,750, Louis Vuitton, Marina Mall, 02 681 2166; Dubai Mall, 04 330 8060 and elsewhere
Burning up
Candles are one of our many weaknesses, mainly because there's something about walking into a beautifully scented home that we love. This particular Japanese Quince candle from Seda Home is our newest scent must-have - it's Oprah Winfrey's favourite which makes it good enough for us. Combining sweet rhubarb and peach with hints of jasmine,the candle is great for adding cosiness to your home. And for a brand endorsed by Oprah the price tag isn't too bad either.
Dh155, Symphony, Dubai Mall, 04 330 8050, www.symphony.ae
Put a ring on it
Metallics are big news this autumn, so slip on this statement cocktail ring to add edge to a simple tank dress. Designed by American jewellery designer Sonya Renée, each stone and setting is handmade and unique. Plus, as there are many different styles and stones to choose from, the collection could make for the ideal Christmas gift or just a nice little payday treat.
Dh448, available online at www.redrubyrouge.com
Front row seats
Everyone is after a slice of hot-off-the-catwalk fashion, whether it's the clothes, the hairstyles or even the gossip on the FROW attendees (that's 'front row' in fashion speak). For this Dubai Fashion Week M magazine is giving away an invitation to a full day of shows to one of our readers and a friend. Just email us with what makes you the Middle East's most deserving fashionista with"DFW Competition" in the subject line plus your mobile number and address. Email us at contest@thenational.ae to try your luck.
A London Portrait
It takes a lot to impress us here at M, but bestselling Italian illustrator Matteo Pericoli's new book, London Unfurled, is perfect with its evocative and beautiful drawings. From an intensive 20-mile journey along the Thames, Pericoli has produced two 37-foot-long pen-and-ink drawings depicting the city's north and south banks, revealing London in all of its diversity: a dozen boroughs, 19 bridges and hundreds of buildings, including the Houses of Parliament, Tate Modern, Battersea Power Station and the London Eye millennium wheel. Whether you've spent your life in London or simply cherish it as a place to visit or dream of, this book is sure to show you a new side of the city and make a stylish addition to any coffee table.
Dh140 available online at www.amazon.co.uk
