A Cool Brand Owner’s Inside Guide To Kuwait
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@AubadeJewelry | Kuwait City | @Qirdala | @MelissaKayeJewelry
If I could only shop in one store in Kuwait it would be 4ConceptStore or Harvey Nichols. The former has a really cool selection of brands that are edgy and fun – I’ve bought many things there, but my favourite has to be a Rick Owens leather jacket. Harvey Nichols also really supports local brands; it stocks some really chic accessories and my favourite purchase from there has to be a pair of Amina Muaddi party heels.
We have so many cool jewellery brands in Kuwait – much of which is handmade in Kuwait’s gold souk. Some of my favourite designers include @DanahJDesigns, @DeuxPrecieux and @MayAlqassarJewelry. Aubade Jewellery and Qirdala are the go-to places – you can find some great deals at the gold market and random stores in the souk. I recently got an amazing perfume bottle and heart shaped necklace there.
The malls and markets are all home to independent and homegrown designers. Some of my most recent discoveries have included brands like The Garment – which is a monochrome heaven – as well as a sustainable label called Conner Ives and Paolina Russo. Otherwise, I’m generally raiding my mum’s and sister’s closets for vintage pieces.
The desert and the beach are where I find my escape and inspiration. I like the contrast between the tranquillity of the desert and the fast pace of the city. Every time there’s an art event at one of the cultural centres, it reignites my creativity and I get to catch up with like-minded individuals. It’s also a chance for me to see my friends from when I used to run an art gallery.
If you can cope with the heat, then you must go to the Friday market. You will find all sorts of things there, from clothing and jewellery to furniture. I got a killer leather jacket there around 15 years ago. I went with my grandma, and she was so against me buying it – I wore it when I was studying at Central St Martin’s in London and every time I wore it, I got stopped by someone. That said, one of my most cherished vintage items was actually a wedding gift from my best friend – it’s a vintage turntable with mine and my husband initials engraved on it.
My perfect day in Kuwait would start with an early workout. Then, I’d meet my best friend for a catch up over breakfast. I’d do my calls and meetings as I finish my steps in the mall, go home and spend time with my kids and join them in their after-school activities before putting them to bed. I’d end the night by spending time with close friends at my house, hopefully beating them in a game of Kout.
Any spot in The Avenues Mall is great for people watching. Everyone is so well dressed. On Sundays it’s like a fashion catwalk – be there early to get a table at Em Sharif Café.
The best place for coffee is Arabica. The sandwiches are also delicious. Seeing as Kuwait is known for its gastronomy, some of the best restaurants are Em Sharif – it does an amazing Shish Barak. I also visit Cantina at least once a week and always order the steak and cacio e pepe, and Madison & Heig, where I love the wakame salad and the tofu scrambled eggs.
The coolest spot in Kuwait is Young Po – a pan Asian restaurant. Its unique, has great food and the vibes are great. And let’s not forget Oh G ice cream – it’s our weekly treat for the kids; it has amazing ice cream flavours and also gluten free and vegan options.
The best hotel in city is The Four Seasons. It’s in the heart of the city, close to everything and has great views. The Waldorf Astoria is also connected to The Avenues, so you get to shop until you drop!.
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@EmSherifKuwait | @Cantina.KW | @Arabica.Kuwait
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