Imaan Hammam celebrates ‘beauty that is Moroccan culture’

Imaan Hammam celebrates ‘beauty that is Moroccan culture’
Moroccan Egyptian Dutch model Imaan Hammam took part in a photoshoot helmed by Hamza Lafrouji and Marwane Jinane. Instagram/ @psycho.moustache and @directed_by_miru
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Updated 10 July 2024
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Imaan Hammam celebrates ‘beauty that is Moroccan culture’

Imaan Hammam celebrates ‘beauty that is Moroccan culture’

DUBAI: Moroccan Egyptian Dutch model Imaan Hammam took to social media to share her latest fashion shoot, in which she celebrates Moroccan culture.

“I will always be proud when I get to show off the beauty that is Moroccan culture and collaborate with so many amazing artists and creatives,” Hammam captioned a carousel of snaps on Instagram.

The model collaborated with auteur Marwane Jinane, photographer Hamza Lafrouji and a fellow model and creative who goes by the name Cheb Pablo on the shoot, which sees the pair posing in various locations in Casablanca.

“Hood fashion shoot. Fancy threads meet street grit. Models flexin’ in the ‘hood. Iman and Pablo killin’ it. High fashion clashing with rough backdrop. Raw, edgy vibes. Flipping the script on glam. Style popping in unlikely spots. It’s fire,” Lafrouji posted on Instagram.

Hammam is known for working with and promoting artists and creatives from the MENA region with her 1.7 million Instagram followers. The runway star — who is a fashion week staple and is currently the brand ambassador of cosmetics giant Estée Lauder — is known for dropping personally curated playlists of regional music for her social media fans and she has also promoted regional artists in the past.

The model has had a busy summer so far, most recently hitting the runway at the Vogue World event in Paris in June alongside Kendall Jenner, Gigi Hadidi, French Algerian icon Farida Khelfa and Venus and Serena Williams.

On International Olympic Day, Vogue World took over the last day of Paris Fashion Week’s menswear collections with a show-cum-spectacle themed around the Olympics.

The rare event blended athleticism, French fashion, and pure, unadulterated razzmatazz from the past century — marking 100 years since the last Games in Paris in 1924. The event also referred back to June 23, 1894, the day on which the founder of the modern Olympics, French nobleman Pierre de Coubertin, launched the International Olympic Committee.


Exclusive interview with Saudi music star Mishaal Tamer

Exclusive interview with Saudi music star Mishaal Tamer
Updated 33 min 4 sec ago
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Exclusive interview with Saudi music star Mishaal Tamer

Exclusive interview with Saudi music star Mishaal Tamer
  • Highlights from the Saudi singer’s appearance on our podcast ‘The Mayman Show’ 

RIYADH: The latest guest on “The Mayman Show” — Arab News’ “personable podcast” hosted by Hussam Al-Mayman — is Saudi singer-songwriter Mishaal Tamer, who’s been making a name for himself internationally with his soulful voice and personal lyrics.  

Tamer — who was born and raised in Jeddah to a Saudi father and Ecuadorian mother, and studied music in New York — had just returned from Los Angeles, where he was working on the teaser trailer for his upcoming debut album “Home is Changing,” which is due out in October.  

That album title is a theme to which Tamer returned multiple times during the podcast, as he enthused passionately about the Kingdom’s burgeoning cultural scene and his desire to promote it to the world.  

“A lot of what the kids are making in Saudi now — it’s a lot more real than a lot of the stuff that I see coming from outside of Saudi,” Tamer told Al-Mayman. “Because it’s a lot more raw. And it’s a lot more needed. We did not have this privilege to express ourselves 10 years ago. There was no platform. Now? The sky’s the limit. They’ve got our back. Do you know how proud this makes me?” 

Here, we select some highlights from Tamer’s conversation on the show. 

On going viral recently: 

We were shooting the album teaser and we were playing this song called “Baba Fein” (a viral hit in the early 2000s). And I just made a little TikTok video from this thing, just showing what I’d done with the sample, basically. And it just blew up. This has never happened to me before. Never had a moment like that. And look, it’s cringe, and everybody’s like, “Oh my god, TikTok ruined the song” or whatever. But for an artist, if you have a song go viral on TikTok it is the greatest marketing tool that you could dream of. So, needless to say, I’m excited.  

On insecurity: 

I’ve been making music since I was nine. And I’ve been showing my music to people since I was 17 — starting with the little clip of “Can’t Love Myself.” But I’ve battled with a lot of insecurity. I’m an introvert, so I think I was just scared. If you’d asked me two years ago, I’d have been, like, “Don’t show anyone any of this! I don’t want my music to leave this laptop.” I was frightened. But I’m not afraid anymore. Because I feel like it’s selfish if I do that. Like, the music helped me a lot. I made it for myself. I was going through a really tough time and it got me through it. Today, I understand that I’m in a position where I have an opportunity to really make a difference and really help push the envelope. Do what I can to be just a little part of this wave that’s happening already. With or without me, it’s gonna happen.  

On how home is changing: 

I can tell you something I haven’t said in any (interview) before. I was born and raised here. I grew up in Jeddah. But when I was a kid, I didn’t want to live here when I was a grown up. And that broke my heart because I love this country. Now? There is no other place I’d rather be. What I’m trying to say is, for anybody who felt like how I felt when you were a kid, please understand that home is changing. Or if you used to live in Saudi and now you’re living outside, please understand that home is changing. I tell this to people who used to live here when they were kids — a lot of them are not even Saudi, a lot of them are Lebanese — and I show them, like, “Look what it’s like now!” Home is changing. People need to be more excited about this. It’s a beautiful thing. It’s an historical thing.  

On Saudi Arabia’s arts and culture scene: 

When I came back home after being in the US for five years, I got the opportunity to work with (Saudi artist) Ahmed Mater, to do the (artwork) for the song “Wallahi.” And looking into that world of Saudi art, it was, like, “This is a goldmine!” And the best part is, it’s not just for the Arab world; it’s universal. Number one, this shows the importance of art. And number two, it’s coming out of one of the most unlikely places. The force that it is right now reminds me of when you’re in the shower and you hold a bar of soap, you know? The harder you try to squeeze it, that moment it gets its freedom, the further it will fly. This is exactly what’s happening in Saudi Arabia today. We’re ready. We want to go. And we’re not going to stop until the job is done. And the job will be done, it’s only a matter of time. For 40 years, this country had artists in the closet. And the beauty that we find! My God! We have a lot to offer. It’s alien to the outside world. And right now, in an age where so much saturation exists, the world needs something new, and I honestly believe that the modern Khaleeji youth is it. And it’s only a matter of time until people know — until it’s shown to the masses. All it really (takes) is exposure. Because, my God, do we have the art. 

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Best and Worst: Saudi beauty founder Abeer Sinder discusses style moments and fashion trends

Best and Worst: Saudi beauty founder Abeer Sinder discusses style moments and fashion trends
Updated 32 min 33 sec ago
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Best and Worst: Saudi beauty founder Abeer Sinder discusses style moments and fashion trends

Best and Worst: Saudi beauty founder Abeer Sinder discusses style moments and fashion trends

DUBAI: The Saudi entrepreneur, founder of both haircare line SNDR and SNDR.Co — a brand specializing in wigs, extensions, and lashes — discusses style moments, fashion trends, and good and bad advice. 

Best TV show/film you’ve ever seen? 

My favorite movie is “A Walk to Remember.” I am a hopeless romantic and the love story between Landon and Jamie is incredibly touching and beautifully portrayed. The way their relationship transforms them both and the heartwarming yet bittersweet ending make it a truly unforgettable film. It is perfect for anyone who believes in the power of love and the impact it can have on our lives. 

 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Kali O'Neill (@abeer.sinder)

 

Worst TV show/film you’ve ever seen?  

One of the worst TV shows I’ve ever seen is “The Bachelor.” While some people find it entertaining, I think it can be overly dramatic and often feels staged. The premise of finding love in such a competitive and artificial environment. It seems unrealistic to me. It lacks genuine connections and meaningful interactions, which is what makes other romance shows or movies enjoyable. 

Best personal style moment so far?   

One of my best personal style moments so far was attending the Hai Vogue Fashion Experience in Jeddah. I wore a stunning, Saudi designer masterpiece that perfectly blended traditional Saudi elegance with modern fashion trends. The intricate detailing and flattering silhouette made me feel both confident and glamorous. It was a memorable moment because it allowed me to showcase my unique style and celebrate Saudi culture on an international platform. 

 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Kali O'Neill (@abeer.sinder)

 

Worst personal style moment?    

I honestly do not think I have a worst personal style moment. I believe that every fashion choice I have made has been a learning experience and a part of my journey in developing my unique style. Even if some looks weren’t perfect, they’ve all contributed to my growth and understanding of fashion. 

Best accessory for a little black dress?   

The best accessory for a little black dress is a statement necklace. It adds a touch of elegance and sophistication, instantly elevating the simplicity of the dress. A bold, eye-catching necklace can make the outfit stand out and draw attention to your face, creating a perfect balance between classic and chic. 

 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Kali O'Neill (@abeer.sinder)

 

Worst accessory for a little black dress?    

The beauty of a little black dress lies in its versatility. You can pair it with literally any accessory—from bold statement pieces to subtle, elegant touches, and it will always look fabulous. That is the magic of the little black dress: it effortlessly adapts to your style! 

Best fashion trend of 2024? 

One of the best fashion trends of 2024 is the comeback of timeless classic pieces and 90’s style. I love how these trends bring a sense of nostalgia while remaining effortlessly chic and versatile. Timeless classics like tailored blazers and simple silhouettes provide a foundation for any wardrobe, while the 90’s inspired looks, such as slip dresses and high-waisted jeans, add a fun and retro vibe. It is a perfect blend of elegance and playful nostalgia that allows for endless styling possibilities. 

 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Kali O'Neill (@abeer.sinder)

 

Worst fashion trend of 2024? 

I am not a fan of the resurgence of ultra-low-rise jeans. While they had their moment in the early 2000s, they can be quite uncomfortable and challenging to style in a way that feels flattering and modern. They often do not suit many body types and can limit the versatility of outfits. High-waisted jeans offer a much more flattering and practical alternative, which is why I prefer them over the low-rise trend. 

Best advice you’ve ever been given?   

The best advice I’ve ever been given is to always stay true to myself and my values. In the world of fashion and social media, it is easy to get caught up in trends and what others expect of you. However, remaining authentic and grounded in who I am has been crucial to my success and happiness. This advice has helped me navigate my career with confidence and integrity, making choices that align with my true self. 

Worst advice you’ve ever been given? 

I honestly do not remember the worst advice I’ve ever been given. I tend to focus on the positive and the lessons learned, so any bad advice has just been a stepping stone to better decisions and growth. 

Best book you’ve ever read?     

The best book I’ve ever read is “The Power of Now” by Eckhart Tolle. It’s an incredibly insightful book about living in the present moment and understanding the power of our subconscious mind. The way it explains the concept of mindfulness and how our thoughts shape our reality is truly transformative. It is a powerful read that has deeply influenced my perspective on life and the power of attraction. 

 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Kali O'Neill (@abeer.sinder)

 

Worst book you’ve ever read?     

I do not think I have come across a book that I would consider the worst. Every book I have read has offered some value, whether it’s through new ideas, different perspectives, or simply the pleasure of reading. Even if a book is not my favorite, I believe there is always something to learn from it. 

Best thing to do when you’re feeling low? 

The best thing to do when I am feeling low is to spend quality time with my family. Their love and support always lift my spirits and remind me of what's truly important. Whether it is playing with my kids, having a heartfelt conversation, or simply enjoying a meal together, being around my loved ones helps me feel grounded and recharged. 

 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Kali O'Neill (@abeer.sinder)

 

Worst thing to do when you’re feeling good?   

The worst thing to do when you are feeling good is to overcommit or take on too much at once. It is easy to get carried away with enthusiasm and agree to numerous tasks or projects, but this can lead to burnout and stress. It is important to enjoy the positive feelings without overwhelming yourself, maintaining a balance to sustain your well-being and happiness. 

Best holiday destination?   

The best holiday destination really depends on the season. Europe in the summer is perfect because the countrysides are beautiful, the weather is amazing and the kids enjoy it. Plus, I love the rich culture and stunning scenery and do not mind the endless possibilities for content creation!  

In the winter, Bali or the Maldives are ideal choices for me because I don’t like to be cold! It has beautiful warm weather, gorgeous beaches and a perfect escape from the winter chill. 

Worst holiday destination?   

For me, a destination that’s overly crowded or lacks natural beauty might not be as enjoyable. It’s important to choose a holiday spot that matches your interests and provides the relaxation or adventure you’re looking for. 

Best subject at school? 

My favorite subject in school was literature. I loved poetry and diving into different stories, exploring various writing styles, and discussing the themes and characters. It sparked my imagination and helped me develop a deeper appreciation for storytelling, which has been invaluable in my career as a content creator and influencer. 

Worst subject at school?   

The worst subject for me in school was probably math. While I understand its importance, I found it challenging and less engaging compared to other subjects. The abstract concepts and complex problem-solving did not come as naturally to me, and I often struggled to stay interested. However, I still appreciate the skills it taught me in logical thinking and discipline. 

 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Kali O'Neill (@abeer.sinder)

 

Best thing to do to ensure you have a productive day?    

The best thing to do to ensure you have a productive day is to start with a clear plan and set specific goals. Creating a to-do list and prioritizing tasks helps you stay focused and organized. Waking up early is also crucial, as it gives you a head start and more time to accomplish your goals. Also, starting the day with a healthy routine, such as a good breakfast and some exercise, can boost your energy and mindset, setting a positive tone for the rest of the day. This approach helps me maximize efficiency and ensures that I accomplish important tasks.  

Worst thing to do when you’re trying to have a productive day? 

The worst thing to do when you’re trying to have a productive day is to start by checking social media or other distractions. It’s easy to lose track of time and get caught up in browsing, which can derail your focus and reduce your efficiency.

 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Kali O'Neill (@abeer.sinder)

 

Best concert you’ve ever been to?  

I’ve only ever been to MDLBeast –  believe it or not – but the energy was electric. The performances were top-notch and the atmosphere was unforgettable. It truly set a high standard for any future concerts I might attend. 

Worst concert you’ve ever been to?   

I haven’t been to any others.  

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Recipes for Success: Chef Mohammed Salman Albasha offers advice and a recipe for beetroot salad and roasted goat cheese 

Recipes for Success: Chef Mohammed Salman Albasha offers advice and a recipe for beetroot salad and roasted goat cheese 
Updated 32 min 2 sec ago
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Recipes for Success: Chef Mohammed Salman Albasha offers advice and a recipe for beetroot salad and roasted goat cheese 

Recipes for Success: Chef Mohammed Salman Albasha offers advice and a recipe for beetroot salad and roasted goat cheese 

DUBAI: Saudi chef Mohammed Salman Albasha took a role as a junior sous chef at The Ritz-Carlton Riyadh about six years ago. He is now the executive sous chef there, managing a team of more than 100 chefs. 

“It has been one of the most unique experiences of my career, having lived in the US and Dubai, before moving to Riyadh,” he tells Arab News. “Working in one of the most luxurious hotels in the world, I’ve grown in my career as well as a professional in the kitchen.” 

 

 

Albasha, who was raised in the US, earned a degree in finance before making a shift to the world of culinary arts. He has worked under celebrity chefs including Jose Andres and also spent time learning Japanese cuisine at Zuma. 

Here, Albasha discusses cooking with love, customer peeves, and his favorite cuisines. 

Chef Mohammed Salman Albasha is the executive sous chef at The Ritz-Carlton Riyadh. (Supplied)

What’s your top tip for amateur chefs? 

Always cook as if it’s for the people you love the most. That’s not really a tip, but when you cook with love all the flavors and the aromas and the ingredients come together in a harmonic way. There are no rules to cooking. Just do it with love. 

What one ingredient can instantly improve any dish? 

Maldon salt. I learned that from my mentors when I started cooking Spanish cuisine. They put Maldon salt on everything. And it definitely enhances the flavors. 

 

 

When you go out to eat, do you find yourself critiquing the food?  

I wouldn't say I critique, because, as I just mentioned, there are no rules in cooking. Everybody has their own way of making a dish. So I might not like it, but a lot of people might. However, when I go out to eat I always like to think about how I would do a particular dish or how I would present it. 

What’s your favorite cuisine?  

I love Japanese food and Spanish food because I learned those cuisines when I was growing in my career. So, every now and then, I would go out and try new places, just to enhance my knowledge. 

 

 

What’s your go-to dish if you have to cook something quickly at home? 

You won’t believe it, but you can make a delicious chicken kabsa in a pressure cooker in 20 minutes. You just put your rice, chicken, tomato paste, and everything else into the pressure cooker and cook for 20 minutes. Back when I was in school in the US I used to make it all the time. 

What customer behavior most annoys you? 

When you go to restaurants, you should either eat the dish as it is or just don't go. A lot of people — including some of my friends — have demands like, ‘Oh, don't put garlic, don't put this or that.’ And then you end up taking 90 percent of the ingredients out of the dish. You can’t present a dish like this. So, in my opinion, if you're that picky, just don't go to the restaurant. 

What’s your favorite dish to cook?   

I’m from the Eastern side of Saudi Arabia. So, I would make a nice fish and grill it and take my time and try new techniques and use different herbs and spices. 

As a manager, what are you like? Are you a disciplinarian? Or are you more laidback? 

I'm not the kind of chef who likes yelling. However, I learned under a lot of chefs who used this style. But, leading a team of almost 110 chefs, I definitely say, ‘Be the leader that you want to see.’ You have to lead by example. You have to guide people through what you want, and you don't have to yell. Yelling and all that is disrespectful in any environment. Show them. 

 

RECIPE: Chef Mohammed’s beetroot salad and goat cheese recipe 

For the labneh 

INGREDIENTS: 2 cups labneh; 1 cup wood chips (Applewood or hickory); Saudi olive oil (for drizzling); salt to taste 

INSTRUCTIONS: 

1. Place the labneh in a bowl and season with a pinch of salt. Mix well. 

2. (If using a smoker): Place the wood chips in a smoker and heat until they start to produce smoke. Place the labneh in a heatproof dish and put it in the smoker for about 30 minutes. (If using the stove): Place the wood chips in a deep pot and cover with aluminum foil. Poke holes in the foil. Place a wire rack over the foil and place the labneh in a pot on the rack. Cover the pot and heat on medium until smoke appears. Smoke the labneh for about 30 minutes. 

3. Once smoked, transfer the labneh to a bowl, drizzle with Saudi olive oil and set aside. 

For the roasted beetroot 

INGREDIENTS: 4 medium beetroots, peeled and cut into wedges; 1 tbsp dried lavender flowers; 2 tbsp Saudi olive oil; salt and pepper to taste 

INSTRUCTIONS:  

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). 

2. Toss the beetroot wedges with olive oil, lavender flowers and salt and pepper. 

3. Spread the beetroot wedges over a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized. 

For the fried breaded goat cheese: 

INGREDIENTS: 200g goat cheese, cut into 1-inch rounds; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 eggs, beaten; 1 cup bread crumbs; vegetable oil for frying 

INSTRUCTIONS: 

1. Place the flour, beaten eggs and bread crumbs in three separate shallow bowls. 

2. Coat each piece of goat cheese in flour, dip in the beaten eggs, then coat with the bread crumbs. 

3. Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the cheese rounds until golden brown and crispy (about 2-3 minutes each side). Drain on paper towels and set aside. 

For the final dish 

INGREDIENTS: Smoked labneh; roasted beetroot with lavender; fried breaded goat cheese; ready-to-eat figs, halved; microgreens for garnish; beetroot powder for garnish; Saudi honey for drizzling 

INSTRUCTIONS: 

1. On a serving plate, place a dollop of smoked labneh. 

2. Arrange the beetroot wedges around the labneh. Place the fried goat cheese rounds next to the wedges. 

3. Place halved figs on the plate and sprinkle with microgreens. 

4. Lightly dust the dish with beetroot powder and drizzle with honey.  

5. Serve immediately. 

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Ten years after the genocide, their torment continues
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Backstreet Boys returning to Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi in October

Backstreet Boys returning to Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi in October
Updated 08 August 2024
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Backstreet Boys returning to Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi in October

Backstreet Boys returning to Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi in October
  • After a presale on Thursday, tickets go on sale to the general public on Friday at noon; prices start at 295 dirhams
  • The concert comes less than 18 months after their previous concert at the venue, which was part of their DNA World Tour

BEIRUT: Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi will welcome back American group the Backstreet Boys on Oct. 23, less than 18 months after their previous concert there in May last year.
Tickets for the 2023 gig, which was part of their DNA World Tour, sold out within six hours, making it one of the fastest-selling arena shows in the UAE.
Emirati newspaper The National reported on Wednesday that Nick Carter, Howie Dorough, AJ McLean and Brian Littrell will perform but fellow member Kevin Richardson will be absent because of scheduling issues.
Presale tickets will be available on the Live Nation website on Thursday before general sales begin at noon on Friday. Prices start at 295 dirhams ($80).
In our review of last year’s DNA World Tour concert, Arab News described it as a polished show with high production values that was flawless from start to finish. We said the vocals were pitch perfect, the harmonies deep, strong and vibrant, and the dance moves smoother than butter. Band members also took plenty of time between songs to talk to the audience and among themselves, and the chemistry between them was clearly still strong.
At one point, Carter, who stole the show with his incredible solo showcases, especially on “Shape of My Heart,” stopped the show and said: “I have to say something. Honest to God, coming from me, Abu Dhabi is probably the most beautiful place I’ve been to in the entire world. We love it here. I think I’m going to buy a house here.”
In January the group, which formed in 1993 in Florida and found fame with debut album “Backstreet Boys” in 1996, were on fire when they performed in Riyadh, headlining the Diriyah E-Prix after-race concerts. They enthralled the crowd with their infectious energy, signature harmonies, and a set list packed with timeless tracks.

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Princess Rajwa of Jordan leaves hospital with newborn Princess Iman

Princess Rajwa of Jordan leaves hospital with newborn Princess Iman
Updated 08 August 2024
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Princess Rajwa of Jordan leaves hospital with newborn Princess Iman

Princess Rajwa of Jordan leaves hospital with newborn Princess Iman

DUBAI: Princess Rajwa of Jordan was discharged on Wednesday after giving birth to Princess Iman on Aug. 3.

Rajwa, who has Saudi origins, left the hospital accompanied by her husband, Crown Prince Hussein bin Abdullah, and their newborn daughter.

The family was greeted by the hospital staff and members of the public as they departed.

The princess wore a long, flowy dress featuring a blue and white floral pattern. The dress had a shirt-style design with a collared neckline and long sleeves, giving it a casual yet elegant appearance.

The waist is slightly cinched, which added structure to the otherwise relaxed fit of the dress. Rajwa paired the dress with white sneakers.

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