Colourful fiction
If we had an M magazine version of the Booker Prize, these classics by Penguin would be winners for their innovative covers alone. The UK publishing house has teamed up with six of the world's leading tattoo artists to produce a limited edition set of six novels with vibrant new covers. As part of the Penguin Ink project, classics such as High Fidelity by Nick Hornby and Notes on a Scandal by Zoe Heller have been given a dynamic facelift with ink usually used to etch on human skin. We're intrigued.
Limited edition, Dh58 each, available online at www.penguin.co.uk
Cold comfort
Winter doesn't need to be dreary. Add some seasonal spice to your wardrobe with this utterly chic pumpkin wool and cashmere-blend coat. Slip it on over your favourite beige trousers and nude shoes for an on-trend outfit.
Dh2,200 available online at www.net-a-porter.com
Good as gold
If you're wondering what to wear for the party season, this chunky "Cairo" necklace made of metallic gold petal appliques is just the thing. Backed in brown suede with an adjustable gold satin ribbon tie closure, it will look great with a black dress or add a punch to your skinny jeans and a simple white T.
Dh1,377 available online at www.boticca.com
Charity bags
The Italian fashion label Marni has many muses, but now thanks to a special charity project, children's imaginations have inspired a limited edition collection to help underprivileged children in South America and East Asia. Children of all ages were invited to draw a story about an imaginary world. Their optimistic thoughts were translated into whimsical images and then printed on Marni fabrics. The result? These fabulous T-shirts and tote shopping bags. Proceeds from the collection go towards educational and developmental programs in schools and hospitals.
Dh920 for the tote bags and Dh522 for the T-shirts, Marni, Mall of The Emirates, 04 354 9417; Marni at Bloomingdales, The Dubai Mall, 04 350 5333; and elsewhere
Brilliant babushka
Why have a boring USB stick when you can liven up your desk with something different? Pretty, useful and suitable for all computers, this little Russian doll has 2 GB of memory. Ideal gifts and stocking fillers are made of this.
Dh150, available online at www.coxandcox.co.uk
Art at the cafe
One of our favourite Abu Dhabi eateries, Cafe Arabia, is going to host a monthly art exhibition. The exhibit will feature works by UAE-based professional and upcoming artists and allow the public to buy their pieces. Next week's event will feature handmade pearl accessories as well as art pieces and glass work. Not a bad way to spend a Saturday afternoon.
Cafe Arabia, 15th Street, opposite Mushrif Park, 02 643 9699
Buckle up
Nostalgic little trinkets are a must when it comes to accessorising. If you're a sucker for charm bracelets and the like, then the New York brand Strets is your saviour. Pair this neutral belt with a shift dress to give your shape more definition and add a vintage spin to your look.
Dh1,335, S*uce, Marina Mall, 02 681 8650; Village Mall, 04 344 7270; Dubai Mall, 04 339 9696
