Tag: Dubai

DRESS UP YOUR EARS – Ear Jackets, Ear Cuffs, Ear Wires & More…

With so many styles of ear adornments now in fashion, it can get a little confusing as to what’s called what. From the most recent ear jackets, as seen on many celebrities including Rihanna, Rita Ora and Reese Witherspoon, to ear wires and ear cuffs, as seen on Marilyn Monroe and Carmen Miranda, we are here to help define and clarify.

Ear Jackets

Also known as lobe earrings, this type of earring usually consists of a small stud in front with all the party going on in the back. With adjustable backs these fit ears of all shapes and sizes and can be worn with any other stud earrings that have a post back!

Ear Cuffs

These have to be one of our favourite types of ear accessories as they come in so many variations. From pretty punk to glam, post backs to clips, you name it and someone has designed it! Ear Cuffs sit on either the lobe (bottom soft part) of the ear, or up on the helix (upper hard part) and travel up or down the outer edge of the ear, this means the same pair of cuffs could be worn in many different ways.

Ear Wires

Similar to the ear cuff this travels up the ear but the person wearing them has to have a pierced earlobe. The reason for this is the wire goes through the whole and secures behind the antihelical fold to hold the cuff in place. These are usually smaller in size compared to the ear cuff and have a more dainty feminine feel.

Wrap Around Ear Cuffs

These were the first type of ear cuffs ever seen back in 2000 BC but back then these were called KAFFAS (click here to find out more about the history of the ear cuff). They sit simply around the top of your ear and hang like an ornament.

Click this way to see all the different ear adornments available at SOPHIESCLOSET.COM

March 25, 2015
GRAZIA Style Awards 2015: Sophie’s Closet Wins BEST REGIONAL ACCESSORY BRAND

The glitterati’s were dressed to impress last night in their most glamorous dresses and jewels galore! We arrived at the Dubai JW Marriott Marquis in time for a quick snap for the paparazzi, it was the night we’ve been waiting for all year… The tenth annual Grazia Style Awards 2015!

We started the night off with cocktails and lots of chatting to all the nominated designers, bloggers, brands and fashion influencers in the region. Sooner than we knew it was time for us to sit for dinner and let the award show commence…

And the winner is… SOPHIE’S CLOSET!!! We couldn’t believe it, again? This year we were awarded ‘BEST REGIONAL ACCESSORY BRAND 2015.’ (You can read our blog post about last year’s event here)

In sheer shock we walked up onto the stage to collect our award for a second year in a row. With Sophie still in shock, the Grazia team attempted to ask her a few questions. We wouldn’t be taken aback if we see in next weeks Grazia Magazine; a speech bubble next to Sophie with “errrrrr errrrm hmmm ahhh, I’m just in shock!’

For now what we can say is a huge THANK YOU to all those who voted for us to win. In return we would like to gift you with a little something. Simply enter the code: GRAZIA15 at checkout and receive 15% off your order!*

Click to start shopping this way >

March 24, 2015
THE STYLE EDIT: One Necklace, Five Looks by Sally Matthews

Harper’s Bazaar Arabia’s Fashion and Beauty Editor, Sally Matthews, defines East meets West glamour! We love her Vintage Austrian Crystal Necklace (ppssst it’s from Sophie’s Closet!) So we took a sneak peek into her captivating Instagram account and had to share some of our favorite looks!

One-of-a-Kind Vintage Necklace

The Textured Jacket & Denim Ensemble

Styled over a simple white tee and under a Reema Ameer textured cream jacket, lays the vintage crystal necklace. Paired perfectly with ACNE jeans and what looks like nude Celine pumps, this look is ideal for an evening girly get together. Oh and not forgetting the grey Prada Saffiano Luxe tote!

The Bright Sweatshirt & Shades

How to add glamour to a bright Kenzo sweatshirt? Adorn it with a statement neckalce of course! Ideal for a busy day of errands…

The Fabulous Blazer/Cape Creation

The statement piece, loved by Victoria Beckham and Rachel Bilson to name a few is the versatile Cape. We heart Sally’s rendition in the style of a blazer; perfection!

The CHANEL Jacket

How else to style a ‘Little Black Jacket’ and high definition leather trousers? Simply add some sparkle! Sally has the magical ability to transform outfits into some of the chicest ones we know.

The Simple White Shirt

Wear it under the collar of your favorite shirt…Oh whilst styling Olivia Wilde for a Harper’s Bazaar cover!

Follow Sally Matthews at www.sandandsmoke.com. All images are from Sally Matthews’ Instagram account @sallybazaar.

June 26, 2014
Afternoon Tea at Sophie’s Closet

It was an afternoon full of glitz and glamour at Sophie’s Closet HQ on May 24th 2014, when we hosted our first ever LeiVankash trunk show with the extremely talented Leila Kashanipour, the designer behind the stunning LeiVanKash jewelry line. The exclusive event “Afternoon Tea with the Fashion Pack” showcased a special preview of LeiVanKash’s AW14′ collection.

The event was co-hosted by Soraya Bakhtiar, one of our favorite International fashion bloggers followed for her unique street style, that has grabbed the attention of many publications such as Vogue, Elle, and Cosmopolitan; and the fabulous, Latifa Al Shamsi, a proud Emirati and glamorous local blogger with an obsession for all things beautiful.

From Top left to bottom right: Leila Kashanipour, Sophie Katirai, Soraya Bakhtiar, and Latifa Al Shamsi.

The event welcomed some of Dubai’s well-known fashionistas, designers and bloggers including Nadya Hassan, Zahra Layla, Front Row Mode, and Lilian Afshar.

From Top left to bottom right: Soraya Bakhtiar, Leila with Zahra Layla, Lilian Afshar and guests, the fashion pack slurping on their tea.

Our guests were delighted to indulge in all of the pretty pink scrumptious treats sponsored by Halwa Sweets, Little Frostings, and Sugar Talks.

Glamorous shoppers, having fun at the meet & greet..

Our team at Sophie’s Closet HQ would like to thank all of our sponsors: Lush Cosmetics, Micaroon Makeup, K-Lynn Lingerie, Glam Box, NCLA, Addicted to Soap, and Pink Pave for helping us make this event successful and providing us with lots of amazing goodies to give away!

Make sure to pre-order these beautiful LeiVanKash AW14′ jewels now by contacting us at orders@sophiescloset.com.

June 20, 2014
Inside the Jewelry Closet of LATIFA AL SHAMSI

Based in Dubai, the fabulous Latifa Al Shamsi is a proud Emirati and glamorous blogger with an obsession for beautiful jewelry and accessories. She is not only effortlessly stylish, she is also well loved and admired for her elegant interpretation of trends and has one of the most exquisite wardrobes we’ve ever seen. We love that Latifa has an Hermès Birkin and Kelly in almost every color. Sophie’s Closet was lucky enough to catch up with the humble, sweet and talented lady herself. We chatted to the double bachelor degree graduate about her blog and delved inside her jewelry closet. Here’s her inspiring interview:

We know that you have an extensive collection of rare and pretty jewelry, can you name your all time favorite piece?
It has to be my vintage Chopard watch, it is so unique, feminine and classy which is what I look for in a style.

Is there a piece you wear everyday?
I like to mix it up and change from time to time really. I don’t like to stick to one piece of jewelry but I wear my Van Cleef & Arpels Al Hambra bracelet the most.

What is the most precious piece in your collection?
The butterfly between the finger by Van Cleef & Arpels.

What do you look for when buying jewelry?
It has to be feminine and I always tend to get Rose Gold as a color.

Do you have a favorite brand and Why?
I think it is obvious by now that I am a huge fan of Van Cleef & Arpels, and the reason behind it is that not only are their creations very unique but they also have a story behind every piece.

Do you remember your first piece of jewelry?
Not really!

Best piece of jewelry you’ve ever received as a gift?
I think that is yet to happen *wink*.

Who is your ultimate style icon and why?
It has to be my mom, she is very classy and wears what she likes regardless of the trend.

What three words best describe your jewelry collection?
Classy, unique and feminine.

Your advice for an ultimate investment buy?
Most people would say a watch but I am not big on watches in fact I have never ever bought myself a watch yet. So I would say a bracelet, either a Cartier Love bracelet or Van Cleef & Arpels Al Hambra 5 clover bracelet.

Lastly, do you have a style tip every girl should embrace?
Be yourself!

Silver or Gold? Rose Gold
Ruby or Emerald? Emerald
Diamonds or Pearls? Diamonds with pearls *giggle*
Statement Earrings or Necklace? Necklace
Clip on or pierced earrings? Pierced
New or vintage? Both
Less is more or more is more? Less is more

Here are a few of Latifa’s favorite jewels available at SOPHIESCLOSET.COM

Ciner Latifa Crystal Flower Earrings

Elizabeth Cole Mohawk Earrings

Shourouk Neon Yellow Bracelet

Photos by Latifa @latifalshamsi. Follow Latifa Al Shamsi on Instagram!

March 31, 2014
GRAZIA Style Awards 2014: Sophie’s Closet Wins BEST REGIONAL ONLINE RETAILER

Fashionistas and socialites were dressed to impress and adorned in beautiful jewels at the latest Grazia Style Awards 2014 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Held at the Music Hall of the Jumeirah Zabeel Saray Hotel on Palm Jumeirah, the location for the event couldn’t have been more perfect. With the red carpet under our heels, we were ready to start celebrating with all the “BEST” nominees from the Middle East.

Quick group selfie on the red carpet à la Ellen DeGeneres!

A Broadway style GRAZIA sign greeted us at the entrance, followed by live entertainment and pretty entrées that made the night turn into a fashionable blur.

British Designer Giles Deacon and ‘Made In Chelsea’ star Amber Atherton hosted the awards

And the winner of “BEST REGIONAL ONLINE RETAILER” is…. SOPHIE’S CLOSET!

Emily Johnston founder of Fashion Foie Gras, one of the most popular blogs in the UK, presented the award for “Best Regional Online Retailer”

Words cannot describe what this means to us! As Sophie said on the night in complete shock, “I can’t believe it! This just means everything!”

So we partied the rest of the night away, in style, with the new shiny addition to our table ♥

March 28, 2014
Inside the Jewelry Closet of ALANOUD BADR (Lady FOZAZA)

Designer, socialite, entrepreneur, blogger and stylist, Alanoud Badr is one fashionista stealing the spotlight who exudes style, elegance and individuality. Being at the forefront of the fashion scene and one of the best-dressed ladies in the Gulf region, her unique vision and entrepreneurial spirit has caught the attention of many including over 200,000 fans on Instagram alone. Read on to discover her unrivaled collection of rare and pretty jewels and accessories with this ‘Inside Alanoud’s Jewelry Closet’ exclusive interview.

What is your favorite piece of jewelry in your collection and why?
“I love unique pieces, especially ones with meaning and value, my favorite piece is a vintage animal inspired brooch from my mom.”

Is there a piece you wear everyday?
“I have a thing for wings and elephants, one piece I wear all the time is a wing necklace with a heart in the center.”

What are some of your favorite designer jewelry brands?
“LeiVanKash, Mawi, Elizabeth Cole, Kenneth Jay Lane, and Shourouk.”

Can you remember your first ever jewelry purchase?
“It’s something I made at a jewelry shop. A Ruby heart with an eye and wings.”

Who is your ultimate style icon and why?
“I don’t have one, but I’m a huge fan of both Kate Moss and Victoria Beckham and their amazing journeys.”

Do you have a style tip every girl should embrace?
“Be true to yourself. Trends are meant to look good on you, so if they don’t, create your own trend and make the rest of the world follow… Confidence and a great smile are the ultimate accessory, wear them with pride and the rest won’t need to struggle so much to show.”

Silver or Gold? Gold
Ruby or Emerald? Emerald
Crystals or Pearls? Crystals
Statement Earrings or Necklace? Necklace
Clip on or post-back earrings? Post-back
Less is more or more is more? Less is more

Here are a few of Alanoud Badr’s favorite jewels available at SOPHIESCLOSET.COM

Shourouk Neon Phenix Necklace

LeiVanKash Dagger Gold Ear Cuff

Kenneth Jay Lane Emerald Tiger Brooch

Photos: @fozaza. Follow Alanoud Badr on Instagram!

February 7, 2014
CELEBRITY STYLE WATCH: Long Necklaces

The latest lust-have look sweeping the world of celebrities is long, luscious necklaces. Not only do they enhance your outfit in an effortless-chic understated way, they help to slim down the appearance of your silhouette.

Rihanna

Iconic style-setter Rihanna is a major fan of the statement-making drop necklace, adorning her white ensemble with a beautiful-meets-bling inspired chunky gold chain and pendant. Plus a selection of our favourite fashionista’s from Reese Whitherspoon to Heidi Klum also know how to rock a long outfit-transforming necklace.

Heidi Klum

Reese Witherspoon

Here at Sophie’s Closet we’ve tapped into the trend and have an abundance of luxe long necklaces just waiting to entice you.

Take your pick from the Rachel Zoe Crystal Tassel End Rope Necklace, as seen on super-stylist Rachel Zoe herself. This covetable creation also doubles up as a belt, plus nails the nautical trend too!

Rachel Zoe

Rachel Zoe, Crystal Tassel End Rope Necklace AED 2,595 (US) $706

For a wear anytime, anywhere option, this Lulu Frost Gold Tone Long Drift Pendant offers a natural romantic edge and fabulous feather motif set on a long brass plated chain. Wear yours with a vest and animal print a la the stunning Olivia Palermo or team it with your ultimate LBD for after-dark lustre.

Olivia Palermo

Lulu Frost, Gold Tone Long Drift Pendant AED 990 (US) $269 *matching earrings available

For a splash of perfect pearl, the Kenneth Jay Lane Long Pearl Tassel Necklace or Miriam Haskell Pearl and Crystal Tassel Necklace are intricately infused with striking Swarovski crystals. They host glitz and glam for instant evening allure.

Kenneth Jay Lane, Long Pearl Tassel Necklace AED 650 (US) $177

Miriam Haskell, Pearl and Crystal Tassel Necklace AED 4,550 (US) $1,238

For an ultra-glamorous addition and to bring a bolt of colour, our Elizabeth Cole Turquoise Neon Yellow Art Deco Drop Long Necklace is gold plated, gorgeous and features Swarovski crystals blended with vintage stones.

We hope you love them!

Elizabeth Cole, Art Deco Drop Long Necklace AED 1,570 (US) $427

August 19, 2013
Introducing CINER, a Collector’s Dream

Sophie’s Closet just got heaps more glamorous. We are now the exclusive home to beautiful CINER jewels, considered by most collectors to be the golden era of costume jewelry.

Vogue (November 1947)

/* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:”Table Normal”; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:””; mso-padding-alt:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0cm; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:”Times New Roman”; mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:”Times New Roman”; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast; mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;}

/* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:”Table Normal”; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:””; mso-padding-alt:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0cm; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:”Times New Roman”; mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:”Times New Roman”; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast; mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;}

This legendary jewelry house was founded in 1892 in New York by Emanuel Ciner, a fine jewelry maker. CINER made the switch to costume jewelry in the 1930s in order to accommodate the Post-Depression era American customer.

Vogue (date unknown)

Pearl Drop Earrings (AED 975/ US $265)

Pearl Flower Earrings (AED 850 / US $231)

/* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:”Table Normal”; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:””; mso-padding-alt:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0cm; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:”Times New Roman”; mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:”Times New Roman”; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast; mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;}

Staying true to their fine craftsmanship, CINER became one of the most established costume jewelry lines during that era, establishing many technical innovations that are still widely used today. Because their work can so easily be mistaken for fine jewels, CINER is sometimes referred to as being the Tiffany of costume jewelry.

Vogue (date unknown)

Butterfly Brooch (AED 1,400 / US $381)

Emerald Drop Earrings (AED 1,155 / US $314)

Nadya Emerald Necklace (AED 4,500 / US $1,225)

Vogue (October 1948)

Black and Ivory Brooch (AED 1,350 / US $367)

Bow Brooch (AED 995 / US $272)

Insect Brooch (AED940 / US $256)

Pink Cabochon Pearl Brooch (AED 1,300 / US $354)

/* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:”Table Normal”; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:””; mso-padding-alt:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0cm; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:”Times New Roman”; mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:”Times New Roman”; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast; mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;}

Their baubles made regular appearances in Vogue and on many Hollywood stars, including the queen of jewelry herself, Elizabeth Taylor. Sources say she once bought over $30,000 worth of CINER jewelry in one hour — that’s an astonishing number! In fact, one of her many CINER sets sold for $15,600 at the now infamous Christie’s auction of her famous jewels.

Elizabeth Taylor wearing her Ciner jewels (1991)

Double Panther Head Necklace (AED 2,640 / US $719)

Double Panther Head Necklace (AED 1,620 / US $441)

/* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:”Table Normal”; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:””; mso-padding-alt:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0cm; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:”Times New Roman”; mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:”Times New Roman”; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast; mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;}

Not only is CINER special for their impeccable craftsmanship and sensational design, but it is also still a tightly-knit family business. Today, after over a century in business, CINER is run by Pat Hill, the granddaughter of Emanuel Ciner. Sophie met with Pat herself in New York, and hand-selected all the gorgeous jewels for our store. Enchanting, elegant, and with a legacy that spans over a century, CINER is the ultimate investment for the serious jewelry lover.

June 4, 2013
Rita Ora loves Sophie’s Closet

Ultimate fashionista, Rita Ora is currently in Sophie’s Closet’s hometown of Dubai for the launch of Chanel’s ‘The Little Black Jacket Exhibition’. The British singer-songwriter has also been spending her visit posing for an ever-so-glamorous photohsoot for Harper’s Bazaar Arabia.

We were pleased to see that Miss Ora wasted no time in getting her fashion fix from us, as you’ll see from her instagram photo there’s one of our gorgeous Sophie’s Closet shopping bags placed on the bed right behind her. This lady sure has good taste!

To get some glistening jewels just like the ones Rita Ora showcases in her stunning picture, try these Sophie’s Closet treasures:

Beautiful Bangle

Lisa Freede, Gold Triple Crystal Wrap

AED 370 (US) $101

This Lisa Freede Gold Triple Crystal Wrap features a 14K gold plated bracelet wrap design, hand set with shimmering Swarovski crystals. It’s adjustable to fit all wrists, and has also been seen adorning the wrist of style-setters Katy Perry and Kim Kardashian.

Delicate & Delightful

House of Harlow 1960, White Leather Sunburst Pave Necklace

AED 350 (US) $95

This simply chic necklace is delectable just like the one Rita wears in her sassy shoot. Our House of Harlow 1960 White Sting Ray Leather Sunburst Pave Necklace comprises two black leather inlay sunburst charms pavéd with crystals, set on a 14K gold plated chain.

Miriam Haskell, Three Flower Necklace

AED 1,580 (US) $430

Alternatively this Miriam Haskell Three Flower Necklace will help you steal her style. Inspired by vintage Miriam Haskell designs, with Russian gold plated floral filigrees and hand-wired with glass pearls – this necklace is perfect for day-to-day and special occasions too.

It’s a Ring Thing

LeiVanKash, Gold Dagger Midi/Pinky Ring

AED 540 (US) $147

Rita opts for a simple gold band for her hands, so get the look with our LeiVanKash Gold Dagger Midi/Pinky Ring. This dagger ring is handcrafted in London and effortlessly oozes coolness and cuteness!

If that’s put you in the mood for some shopping, simply click this way >

April 25, 2013