What We Are Buying Today: ‘Make Space for Happiness’
Updated 24 December 2023
Jasmine Bager
With 2024 around the corner, “Make Space for Happiness” by Tracy McCubbin asks a question many of us are trying to answer: “How do you stop attracting clutter and start magnetizing the life you want?”
Every New Year, people seem to scramble to start it on a clean slate; they sign up for expensive gym memberships, buy new clothes and stock their kitchens with healthy foods. While that might be a good way to help support a better lifestyle, most of us are avoiding the real dusty elephant in the room.
Most of us don’t want to deal with decluttering the stuff we already have in our homes. It is often easier to add new shiny things to our rooms rather than mindfully remove old boring things.
We all have just too much stuff. Most homes — no matter how big or small — have drawers stuffed to the limit and closets bursting with mostly unworn garments and miscellaneous items.
How did it get that way? Why is it so hard to let go of things we don’t even want?
The book goes into what the author McCubbin refers to as “your seven emotional clutter magnets.” They are described as the “empty parts of us that desperately want to attract one of seven important feelings — purpose, love, connection, wisdom, confidence, self-respect and ease.”
“Clutter is not a superficial problem. It’s an emotional issue that requires an astute solution to help people attain life goals,” she writes.
The book goes into the history of clutter to offer insights into why, as a society, we went into consumerism and how effective marketing tricks cheated us into believing a new purchase would equal a new life.
The book looks at the vulnerable traps we all fall into. And it guides readers to try to understand the emotional reasons why we likely hoard or collect. “Make Space for Happiness” also tries to highlight the importance of overcoming shame or guilt over having too much clutter. Why do we continue to shop, even though we already have an abundance? How can we stop?
McCubbin, who is a professional organizer and CEO of dClutterfly, an LA-based home organizing company, uses examples from her own life and from her clients. The author describes herself as the “daughter of a hoarder,” and tells the reader how she knows firsthand how overwhelming it can be to be weighed down by physical items.
She also offers relatable antidotes from people facing similar things that many of us have gone through to illustrate how her clients were able to overcome some of this burden.
The book cautions us to avoid what she calls “the donation myth.” If you buy something and decide you no longer like it after all, we all tell ourselves “we will just donate it.” The thing is, most charity places don’t want your low-quality discarded items. They likely will end up in the landfill, and that is already a major issue and problem.
McCubbin’s book does not offer quick fixes or false hope. We still need to do the work and to better understand ourselves and our stuff. It is there to remind us that the simple act of reading this book proves you want to change. There is still a chance that we may find a way to declutter anyway so that we, as the title implies, can “Make Space for Happiness.”
Bella Hadid guest stars on ‘Holland’s Next Top Model’ alongside her mother
Updated 23 November 2024
Arab News
DUBAI: US Dutch Palestinian model Bella Hadid shared a series of images from her experience as a guest judge on “Holland’s Next Top Model,” the reality series where her mother, Yolanda Hadid, serves as one of the judges.
The post features a carousel of photos and videos, including moments with her mother, the show’s judges and contestants, as well as behind-the-scenes shots from various photoshoots.
In the caption, the runway star expressed her excitement about her fragrance brand, Orebella, being featured on the episode, describing it as “a dream.”
She said: “Thank you @hollandsnexttopmodelnl for having me on as a guest judge! To have @orebella be shot, on a show so dear to my heart, in my most beautiful Holland, was a dream.”
Hadid also reflected on her admiration for her mother. “To watch my mama work and be a second mama to a new generation of young creative human beings is such a blessing to me! Things that my mom can teach, she wasn’t taught. It’s part of who she is,” she said. “Her talent, nurturing ability, maternal instincts, confidence in hard work and success, faith in people and love for fashion is what makes her so special, especially on a show like this. I am so proud of you, mama.”
The model described the transformative journey of the contestants on the show. “This was just an incredible experience to watch these young women and men push themselves but also grow to know themselves better than when they arrived,” she added. “I saw so much of myself in every one of them, and I am proud of each one for getting through a competition that I know for sure is mentally and physically exhausting.”
Hadid launched her brand in May with three fragrances: Salted Muse, Blooming Fire and Window2Soul.
In August, she expanded her collection with the launch of a new scent called Nightcap, described as a “warm and spicy” fragrance featuring notes of ginger, cardamom and vanilla.
For the launch, she hosted a party in West Hollywood, where she wore a dusty-pink gown with delicate embroidery and bow detail from Lebanese couturier Zuhair Murad.
Part-Saudi model Amira Al-Zuhair fronts Balmain’s Resort 2025 campaign
Updated 23 November 2024
Arab News
DUBAI: French Saudi model Amira Al-Zuhair this week shared pictures from her latest campaign with Balmain, showcasing the brand’s Resort 2025 collection.
In one of the images, Al-Zuhair donned a strapless denim mini dress paired with two matching denim handbags and calf-high black boots.
In the second image, she wore a black sequined two-piece outfit, featuring a crop top and a high-waisted skirt. The design incorporates gold and silver embellishments, with the top featuring the word “L’aime,” meaning “loves” in French. The setting, with the Eiffel Tower in the background, tied the look to the brand’s Parisian roots.
This is not Al-Zuhair’s first collaboration with Balmain. She previously walked for the brand during Paris Fashion Week in September.
She showcased a structured gray blazer over a classic black T-shirt, complemented by vibrant red suede over-the-knee boots that added a bold pop of color. Her ensemble was completed with a neutral-toned shoulder bag and a striking gold pendant necklace.
The model has been spending the week in Dubai and shared a moment on Instagram featuring an advertisement she spotted for Maison Alaia in Dubai Mall. “Casually shopping in Dubai Mall … and look who I found,” she said in the caption.
Al-Zuhair also shared a photo of herself having lunch with a friend at Al Mandaloun, a Lebanese restaurant in Dubai.
DUBAI: Clean beauty brand Kosas has officially entered the Saudi market, offering a range of skincare-focused makeup products.
Founded by Sheena Zadeh, Kosas, now available at Sephora Middle East, prioritizes skin-nourishing ingredients, a mission the founder feels deeply resonates with the Saudi market.
“Saudi Arabia is such a vibrant, emerging market with a rich beauty culture,” Zadeh told Arab News, adding that over the years, she has seen a growing demand from the Middle East for clean, high-performance beauty products. “Saudi Arabia is at the forefront of this trend,” she said.
“For us, it’s about more than just expansion; it’s about connecting with a culture that values authenticity, quality and a holistic approach to beauty,” Zadeh said.
In preparation for its Saudi debut, Kosas chose a range of products aligned with local beauty needs. “We curated our lineup with universal favorites and regional needs in mind,” Zadeh said.
This lineup includes bestsellers such as the Revealer Concealer, the Cloud Set Baked setting powder, and the BB Burst Tinted gel cream moisturizer.
This lineup includes bestsellers such as the Revealer Concealer. (Supplied)
“(The setting powder) helps achieve that lasting, natural matte finish ideal for the warm climate,” Zadeh said, adding that the tinted moisturizer is “perfect for those looking for lightweight hydration with coverage.”
Kosas also plans to connect with the Saudi community by staging workshops and events focused on clean beauty and skin health.
In preparation for its Saudi debut, Kosas chose a range of products aligned with local beauty needs. (Supplied)
“We’re very committed to education and empowerment in the beauty space … we believe that beauty should feel effortless and enjoyable, so our educational initiatives will focus on simple, effective ways to incorporate Kosas into daily routines. We’re really excited about this,” Zadeh said.
Zadeh said her own roots influenced Kosas’s mission: “I’m Middle Eastern myself and I’ve always felt deeply connected to the region’s beauty philosophy.
“At its core, Kosas has a holistic and layered approach that aligns with the depth and tradition of Middle Eastern beauty philosophies,” she added. “Kosas was born from a deep passion for clean beauty that’s effective, fun, and makes people feel good in their own skin. Our journey started with a desire to create makeup that doesn’t just sit on the skin but works with it.”
Lavish and Johara Global collaborate to celebrate Saudi Culture
Lavish founders Nada Altobaishi and Hala Alsharekh said in a statement: “Lavish Concept Store is more than just a destination for luxury and style; it is a platform where innovation, culture, and creativity thrive
Updated 23 November 2024
Arab News
LONDON: Lavish Concept Store and Johara Global on Thursday joined forces to host an event at the Lavish pop-up in The Music Room, Mayfair, London, celebrating the timeless beauty and rich traditions of Saudi culture.
Lavish Concept Store aims to foster creativity and innovation, while Johara Global is a platform to support female leaders and enable them to fulfil their potential.
In line with Saudi Vision 2030, the event offered an immersive cultural experience, spotlighting the heritage and artistry of Saudi Arabia through a blend of fashion, art and cuisine.
A fashion show featuring traditional Saudi costumes showed off the intricate craftsmanship and rich heritage of the region.
Lavish founders Nada Altobaishi and Hala Alsharekh said in a statement: “Lavish Concept Store is more than just a destination for luxury and style; it is a platform where innovation, culture, and creativity thrive.
“We are committed to curating exclusive, high-quality products while showcasing the work of emerging artists and artisans.
“Our vision is to redefine the retail experience by blending timeless elegance with cutting-edge trends, all while championing artistic expression and cultural diversity. At Lavish, we strive to inspire confidence and elevate everyday living through the fusion of luxury, culture, and innovation.”
Katie Partridge, founder and chairwoman of Johara Global, and Intisar Alyamani, CEO of Johara Global said in a statement: “Johara Global was set up with a mission to bridge the east-west gap and foster the leadership of women through our four main pillars. Collaborations like these create a lasting and powerful impact on the community. We are delighted to join forces to achieve this.”
Celebrity-loved jeweler Azza Fahmy has ‘a strong connection’ with Saudi Arabia
The CEO and head of design at the Egyptian jewelry house their mother founded discuss their new flagship store in Riyadh
‘Every time she goes, she has a strong connection there,’ the head of design said of Azza Fahmy’s trips to Saudi Arabia
Updated 22 November 2024
Hams Saleh
DUBAI: Egyptian entrepreneur and jewelry designer Azza Fahmy is celebrated for crafting pieces that weave cultural stories into wearable art, resonating with those who appreciate depth and meaning in every design.
Fahmy’s signature gold-and-silver pieces have long been embraced by Egypt’s top entertainers, including the late actress and singer Soad Hosny and celebrated actress Yousra.
Her jewelry has also garnered an impressive international following, including A-list stars like actors Julia Roberts, Shailene Woodley, Naomi Watts, and Vanessa Hudgens, and singers Joss Stone and Rihanna.
Inside Azza Fahmy's recently opened flagship store in Riyadh. (Supplied)
The brand has also forged a particularly strong connection with Saudi customers, who value the blend of tradition and modernity it offers. It recently expanded its reach with the opening of a flagship store in Riyadh, catering to a growing Saudi clientele.
Fahmy’s daughters — CEO Fatma Ghaly and head of design Amina Ghaly — say the new outlet is the result of years spent cultivating relationships with Saudi clients.
“The opening of our flagship store in Riyadh marks a significant milestone for Azza Fahmy,” Fatma tells Arab News. “Throughout the years, we’ve had the privilege of cultivating meaningful relationships with our Saudi clientele, connecting through online platforms, exhibitions, and pop-ups, all while experiencing a growing demand for our jewelry.”
Inside Azza Fahmy's recently opened flagship store in Riyadh. (Supplied)
For Amina, the store is a continuation of her mother’s decades-long connection to Saudi Arabia, where she has often been inspired by the culture, architecture and landscapes.
“Every time she goes, she has a strong connection there,” Amina says. “There is the architectural aspect that we have drawn inspiration from, (but also the culture): for our collection ‘Ahla Ma Ghanaho Al-Arab,’ we were inspired by (Saudi singer and composer) Abdul Majeed Abdullah, so it’s really varied over the years.
“We draw inspiration not from one thing or the other. It is a question of how the inspiration serves the collection, and I feel like, with Saudi Arabia, the more we keep going there, the more we will continue to be inspired,” she adds.
Crescent Filigree Earrings. (Supplied)
Fatma explains that this made opening a permanent store in Saudi Arabia feel like the right move, especially as the Kingdom’s luxury market shows a growing interest in heritage-inspired brands.
“Our new store is a testament to our commitment to the Saudi market, offering a space that showcases our craftsmanship and invites visitors to explore the beauty and stories behind our pieces,” she says.
According to Fatma, Saudi Arabia’s luxury market has transformed in recent years. Clients increasingly seek brands that emphasize authenticity, cultural stories and craftsmanship.
“The Saudi consumer has long been sophisticated and well-traveled, but in recent years Saudi Arabia’s luxury market has experienced remarkable growth and evolution, especially for heritage-driven brands like Azza Fahmy. There has been a significant shift towards valuing craftsmanship, cultural narratives, and authenticity in luxury goods,” she explains.
(Supplied)
For many Saudi clients, jewelry that reflects their identity and holds personal meaning is highly sought after, making Azza Fahmy’s storytelling-focused designs especially appealing.
Fatma and Amina are both enthusiastic about connecting with Saudi’s younger generation, who are attracted to brands that combine tradition with innovation.
“Our designs resonate with this dynamic audience by blending contemporary aesthetics with traditional motifs,” Fatma says. “We embrace innovation in our processes and materials, ensuring that our jewelry appeals to a modern sensibility while remaining rooted in cultural heritage.
Inside Azza Fahmy's workshop. (Getty)
“This approach not only attracts younger consumers but also fosters a deeper connection to their identity, allowing them to wear pieces that are both stylish and meaningful,” she continues.
Amina says that today’s luxury market is increasingly global, shaped more by shared interests than regional preferences. “As brands, we should not segment by region but rather by character,” she says. “The internet and social media has made the world a very small place. So, you find women in Saudi who, for instance, are very interested in travel and seek brands they can connect with on a personal level. Someone in London, someone in Japan, someone in Brazil could have the same interest. These are character traits, more than regional traits.”
However, Amina notes that there is a unique regional connection when it comes to Arabic calligraphy and poetry.
Amina Ghali is the head designer. (Supplied)
“I feel that women from the Arab region are very drawn towards the Arabic language, because rather than me translating it for them and trying to give them the gist of what it means, they can read and recognize it and connect with it themselves,” she says.
Beyond the Middle East, Azza Fahmy’s collections with Arabic calligraphy have found success in places including the UK, where clients often appreciate the aesthetic and personal significance of the script.
“When we were approaching the British market, we were under the false impression — from whatever market survey that we did at the time — of ‘They do not understand it, and they will not understand it, so they will not be able to connect.’ We were very happily surprised to learn that our number one-performing collection, in our Burlington Arcade boutique in London, is the calligraphy collection,” Amina says. “It’s because they are carrying it as their own little secret. The client comes and picks up something like, for instance, the eternity ring inspired by Umm Kalthoum, and she takes it as ‘I’m the only one that understands what it says.’”
The Riyadh store stocks many of the brand’s high jewelry pieces. Among Amina’s personal favorites, she says, is the “Scripts of Love” bangle, adorned with emeralds and calligraphy.
“The combination of stones, poetry, and calligraphy creates a piece that captures attention without overshadowing any element,” she says.
She also highlighted the delicate “Crescent Filigree” earrings with tanzanite — a design that showcases the brand’s expertise in filigree craftsmanship.
Azza Fahmy’s commitment to the empowerment of women is also in line with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which encourages increased female participation in the workforce and leadership roles.
Fatma explains that the brand’s jewelry aims to reflect individuality and heritage — resonating with modern Saudi women who appreciate both cultural pride and self-expression.
“As a company led by women — with women in key roles across all levels of management — empowering women is simply part of our DNA,” she says. “It is not something we ‘strive for.’ It comes naturally to us.”
