Star dolls
The signs of the Zodiac are the inspiration for new fashion accessories from AGATHA Paris. Playful, joyful and charmingly pretty, the Astro Doll collection captures the essence and characteristics of each star sign. Quirky, highly decorative, but essential eye candy.
Dh180 each, available at all AGATHA Paris boutiques in the UAE including Khalidiyah Mall, 02 658 1302; Dubai Festival City, 04 232 9622; Galeries Lafayette, Dubai Mall, 04 339 9933, and elsewhere
Day dreamer
Lazy weekends can leave you dreaming of far-flung exotic places - sandy white beaches, balmy Mediterranean citrus groves, the tranquil greys and greens of the desert cactus. Now you can drift further into wanderlust with this adorable hornbill jug, with Africa as the key inspiration. The line is handmade by local craftspeople for Africa Café Ceramics, the crockery suppliers of a quirky ethnic café in Cape Town that sells the plates it serves food on. Sit down to breakfast with this vibrant bird and you'll feel the lively African energy in no time.
Dh1,350, available online at www.theconranshop.co.uk
Under pressure
According to Dictionary.com reflexology is "a system of massaging specific areas of the foot or sometimes the hand in order to promote healing, relieve stress, etc., in other parts of the body." If, like us, you are unsure of the pressure points, then don one of these fantastic socks or gloves that help you locate the exact area. Made of cotton and Lycra, they will also keep your hands and feet warm, which helps the absorption of skin-softening creams and gels. Who needs to spend hundreds of dirhams in a spa when you can treat yourself at home?
Dh42, Harvest Home, Jumeirah Centre, 04 342 0225
Website of the week
Finishing a novel is one of the most satisfying feelings in the world - until you need to start hunting for another book that will top the last one. Help is at hand with this online platform designed to lead you in the right direction. At first we were concerned it would be an automated system that recommends books according to genre/author, which never really cuts it. However, the website works by analysing your previous read, searching its users' favourites on the database and then proposing a new book all in one click. Don't know where to buy your choice? The site will guide you to an online shop that stocks it. Brilliant!
Orangina
Unless you've been hiding under a rock for the past few months, you'll know that colour (and lots of it) is this season's hottest trend. Colour blocking, monochrome brights or just a splash of it with a neutral outfit all work. This orange suede snakeskin clutch designed by the New York brand Kotur is the perfect way to take the trend through to your evening wear. Try mixing it with a bright pink blazer and skinny trousers for an overall tailored look, or with a white chiffon dress if you're looking for a more relaxed feel. But be quick, the clutch is reduced by Dh500 at the moment.
Dh1,169, www.boutique1.com
Hippy chic
If you want to cheer yourself up, take a trip to the nearest The One shop. Their new, limited-edition Seventies collection will lift your spirits in no time. We love this Volkswagen Bus Deco with its retro colours and flower-power motif. Great as a gift, even better on your desk.
Dh149, The One, Zayed The First Street, Abu Dhabi, 02 681 6500; Jumeirah Beach Road, Dubai, 04 345 6687, and elsewhere
Love your feet
Nothing says summer chic like a pair of beautiful sandals. No, we are not talking about those noisy, hideous flip-flops - we're after the jewel-encrusted gladiator type that make your feet look elegant. These classic "love" sandals by the British designer Georgina Goodman are the only way we're wearing the summer's most practical footwear. After doing a master's under the tutelage of none other than Manolo Blahnik, Goodman started out designing bespoke pieces from her Mayfair shop in 2002. Nine years later and the fashion world is still buzzing about her unconventional designs. The Swarovski-crystallised sandals may cost a small fortune, but we're sure they'll take you through many a hot day in style.
About Dh3,488, www.georginagoodman.com
