Christian Lacroix's fairy-tale comeback
After the close of Christian Lacroix Couture we were certain that the French designer wasn't going to disappear for long, and we were right. In just two years he has designed costumes for the Paris Opera, delved into interior design and curated photo exhibitions. However, nothing pleases us more than his newest venture - books. He collaborated with the British author Camilla Morton to illustrate the classic fairy tale Sleeping Beauty, in which some of his own fashion history became part of the story. Aside from the glorious happy ending (Sleeping Beauty herself appears in a Christian Lacroix haute couture fashion show), we love the clever illustrations filled with the designer's beautiful clothing.
Approximately Dh80, www.amazon.co.uk
Travel must-have
This jaunty passport holder puts us in the holiday mood before we've even left the country. Decorated with roses, hearts and French motifs including an embroidered flag and a stitched outline of the Eiffel Tower, the little beauty means we won't be embarrassed about pulling out our battered passport at immigration. It even has a transparent plastic pocket for fumble-free access to your vital details. Vive les vacances, indeed!
Passport holder, Dh21 reduced from Dh88, Accessorize shops across the UAE
Dial in style
So bright but so glam, this BlackBerry cover screams attention. Created by the fabulous Jake and Gigi, this original and quirky design will make a statement every time you answer your phone. Adorned with Swarovski crystals, vintage beads, motifs and images of the legendary Brigitte Bardot, it's a retro revival in the palm of your hand. Walk on the wild side and add some fun, sass and flair to your everyday accessory.
Jake and Gigi BlackBerry cover, Dh2,500, available at Maison Sucre, Al Manara Jewellery Building, Zayed the First Street, Abu Dhabi, 02 639 6622
Timeless fashion
"A style does not go out of style as long as it adapts itself to its period," said Coco Chanel. The sentiment fits these fabulous long gloves by Nina Ricci, which also come in fuschia and aged yellow. Far from being reminiscent of something our grandmothers wore, they could become the hot new fashion accessory. Think of the stylish era of Audrey Hepburn; the image of her in that little black dress, large sunglasses and long gloves in front of Tiffany's is one of the most iconic in film and fashion history.
Dh2,250, Saks Fifth Avenue, BurJuman Centre, 04 351 5551
Flower child
Nothing says spring more than fresh dainty accessories - especially florals. One of our much sought-after designer jewellery brands, Alexis Bittar, combines her consistently edgy style with a touch of girlishness in this cuff. The gold wristband accents the pale primrose design to work perfectly with any colour you choose to wear. We have a feeling this cuff will take us through several seasons without becoming dated.
Dh1,460, Boom & Mellow, Mall of the Emirates, 04 341 3993; Mirdif City Centre, 04 284 0609
Shades of pink
While we were shopping in New York a saleslady told us that the latest sunglasses with pink lenses were made initially for golfers as they give the grass a perfect hue. We don't golf much but we do enjoy looking at perfectly green grass. These Louis Vuitton sunglasses do just the trick and add some colour to your face with small clusters of pink crystals and a striking square gold rim.
Dh2,780, Louis Vuitton, Marina Mall, 02 681 2166; Dubai Mall, 04 330 8060, and elsewhere
Shoes to strut in
We can fight the spending urge no longer, as here is another intricate, beautiful shoe seducing us into parting with our hard-earned cash. Arguably the most decadent evening shoe of the Jimmy Choo Spring/Summer line, this nude suede cage sandal bootie is adorned with sparkling, faceted jewels in hot hues of amber, coal and blush. We're thinking tropical climates, glamorous beaches and wild carnival nights. What's not to love?
Dh8,050 Jimmy Choo, Spring/Summer 2011 Collection, Dubai Mall, 04 339 8925