New opening: Scotch & Soda
The Amsterdam-based label Scotch & Soda has become the latest fashionable addition to Mirdif City Centre. The brand started off designing menswear in the 1980s and was revamped in 2001 when children's and women's lines were added to the collection. Their pieces are a combination of classic button-up shirts with a young, quirky touch - be it a bow tie, wrinkled fabric or stripes - and more urban items such as worn-down T's and structured waistcoats.
Scotch & Soda, Mirdif City Centre, 04 239 3036, www.scotch-soda.com
Universal charm
We're always on the lookout for interesting gifts, but finding something special can sometimes be a daunting task. However, when trawling the malls we stumbled across this fabulous Dodo Rainbow charm bracelet and its eye-catching colours. With the fresh summer season on its way, we love this collection of rose gold charms with vibrant precious stones: orange and blue sapphires, black diamonds, amethysts, rhodolites, tsavorites and rubies. It's a luxury gift for the girl who has it all.
Charms range from Dh650 to Dh3,460, Bloomingdale's, Dubai Mall, 04 350 5333
Skyscraper stilettos
Even the most seasoned among the M team were staggered - almost literally - by the arrival of these Rupert Sanderson mega heels. Named the Picardy Python Stilettos, these towers of the shoe world dwarf even the highest of other heels. Reaching a dizzying altitude of 14cm paired with an abstract double platform, these are shoes to be seen in. Vertigo comes as standard.
Dh5,160, available at Rupert Sanderson, Symphony, Dubai Mall, 04 330 8050
Chiselled good looks
"Elegance, sophistication and grace have always transcended cultural boundaries; the objective has been to transfer this into distinct, decorative furnishings," said the innovative designer Christopher Guy. Winner of many international design awards, Guy has a passion for classicism with a modern twist that can be seen in this majestic headboard. Lovingly and lavishly hand-carved from solid wood, it also boasts a rich Italian silver finish. With many designs of all shapes and styles to choose from, each one is sure to tell a different (bedtime) story.
From Dh40,920, www.christopherguy.com
New works, ancient past
Visit the recently opened Etemad Gallery in Dubai from Monday to see its second exhibition, Recent Works by the Iranian artist Shahriar Ahmadi. Inspired by events in his home country, Ahmadi's paintings feature brightly coloured, harsh brush strokes applied quickly with his favourite tools: his hands. If that isn't interesting enough, each piece is reflective of Iran's ancient literature, religion and history. What are you waiting for?
Recent Works by Shahriar Ahmadi will run from May 9 to June 11 at Etemad Dubai, Al Quoz 1, www.galleryetemad.com
Capital fashion
Nestled in the heart of Abu Dhabi's Marina Park, Maison Sez is a new contemporary fashion boutique that is a secret too good not to share. The spacious, airy, marble-floored villa with its crystal chandeliers and bevelled mirrors has a boudoir feel, thanks to its chic Paris and London theme. It opened last month and stocks eclectic and contemporary designers. We have to confess that weekly visits there have become part of our routine, and we may throw a fit if our size in a Guisham dress or a pair of Chrissie Morris shoes is unavailable. Maison Sez boasts exclusivity and stocks only two pieces of every style, so chances are you won't be doubling up with anyone else. Best grab this gorgeous Aviu wrap dress quick.
Dh2,040, Maison Sez, 02 639 6900