Made The Cut!

English

We all know money does not grow on trees and neither does hair, but luckily the latter does grow (sometimes even in abundance) on our heads and while it is noble and so important to continuously support research and those who work day and night to eradicate cancer, it does warm the heart to be able to give some sort of immediate comfort to the fighters: cancer patients. 

So a few months ago I took a pledge and promised to support One Wig Stand's latest initiative by donating hair to Make The Cut: Hair Donation Campaign.

Hair might seem ridiculous. It might seem absolutely useless. After all, it is not like hair will cure cancer or save a life. And yet, it might save a heart. 

It may sound weird and completely unscientific but positive thoughts and behavior are now known to be factors in the healing process and while chemotherapy will surely take a toll on the body, its side effects may also crush the most courageous of spirits. 

So yes, hair may seem ridiculous, to those who have it and do not have to bear the weight of loosing it. But to a a cancer patient, it is a constant reminder that the disease is ever-present, trying to steal their whole being. And to a woman in particular, it may be perceived as a stab in what makes her who and what she is. I say "may" because possibly, not all women feel and view their femininity as such. But simply put, to those who do, loosing their hair feels just like an amputation. So if reconstructing the limb that was lost might help reconstruct the spirit and the will to go on, then by all means, Make The Cut, people!

What is "Make The Cut"?

❝One in three women will be diagnosed with cancer in her lifetime and nearly 60% of them regard hair loss as the single worst side effect of cancer treatment. Hair loss as a result of cancer treatments can be devastating to a woman’s self-esteem as well as emotionally distressing as they feel others will realize they are sick. Many patients report feeling insecure about their appearance during this time and isolate themselves from others as a result of this. [...] Unfortunately, natural (human-hair) wigs which are the most comfortable, durable and physically-appealing for patients are also quite costly - especially in considering the high medical expenses and bills one incurs during treatment. As part of our mission to enrich the lives of cancer patients and boost their sense of well-being during treatment, One Wig Stand is launching the Make the Cut: Hair Donation Campaign to collect as many ponytails as possible from across Lebanon to be able to create and provide wigs for all those who can’t afford one. The campaign will be running across Lebanon until June 2013 with creative collaborations planned along the way to boost involvement and hair donations from the community. Wigs will be made and distributed locally.❞

Source

So how did I do it?

Well shortly after taking my pledge I notice a surprising message on Facebook from Franck Provost Dubai: I had won a free haircut! 

Is that a sign or what?

HAIR YEAH!

Clearly, the entire universe was conspiring for me to Make The Cut!

So I call and make a booking and most importantly let them know that I will need to take photos because this haircut is part of a pledge that I will be blogging about to raise awareness for Make The Cut and their cause.

My request was welcomed with the warmest support and a genuine interest in knowing more about hair donation programs in the region. 

So dear reader, if you live in the UAE and would like to help, get in touch with Hair For Hope now and join Franck Provost Dubai in their  pledge to support hair donations locally.

They totally rock and I had the best VIP treatment at their salon in Mall of the Emirates! Armen Baddour, probably the nicest stylist in town, came on his day off just for me, wearing a shiny smile on his face (and shiny scissors in his hand) and... insisted on giving his very own donation too! That was really the sweetest surprise of the evening! That, and my new head of course!

How about we take a walk (or rather a scroll) down memory lane and see what the whole fuss is about, shall we?

Step one, divide and tie the hair in small ponytails:

Oh yes, we are not afraid of cutting! When I said I'd donate, I meant it and quite frankly, since I do nothing with that hair of mine, might as well give it to someone who can use it, right?

Step two, do a little Edward Scissorhands magic on that boring head:

Step three requires a dash of styling, Armen-style:

And here you go: perfect!

Gotta love this guy!

I am definitely visiting Franck Provost Dubai at Mall of the Emirates again. They totally deserve the effort and they will send you back home happy. No matter how long or short your hair (donation?) is.

In conclusion

I am so grateful to One Wig Stand for all the work they do and allowing regular people to be able to give a little bit more every day. After Bras For A Cause, I knew this was one NGO I needed to keep my eye on and indeed, they never disappoint. Make The Cut: Hair Donation Campaign does rock!

If you are wondering how you too can be part of this amazing initiative, take a look at One Wig Stand's guidelines, visit the campaign's Facebook page or contact the organizers by email or phone +9611203112.

I would like to add that while the organization has partnered with several top-notch salons in Lebanon, donations can be made from all over the globe. I am personally mailing mine from Dubai and I can confirm the process is easy and hassle-free!

TAKE THOSE SCISSORS OUT PEOPLE ;)

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Hair we go!

English

Back in September, I heard the most wonderful news on Facebook: One Wig Stand announced the launch of their hair donation program. I pledged then that I would not have a cut before I could be back in Lebanon and do it with them.

But let's face it, my head is in desperate need of styling and I cannot tell you how frustrated I felt not to be able to be in Lebanon before Spring. Or even, argh... Summer! But a pledge's a pledge. So I manned up and waited.

Well guess what! I saw a recent post on  Facebook with a donation from Jordan. Turns out I can do it from anywhere in the world! We all can ;) 

That was amazing news, obviously. My hair nodded with appreciation.

So here's the deal, with the holidays approaching, I will be waiting a few more weeks just to get it a little longer and I will have my hair cut, all documented and photographed some time between Christmas and New Year.

What better time right? It would be a nice thing to do this time of year, I would get a brand new head for 2013 (to go along with my never-happening-resolution-list) and I would keep up with my pledge. Hey, I might even get inspired to get that resolution list on track, who knows?

So how will I do it?

All the instructions are well detailed on One Wig Stand, so really, there is no hassle. 

I will keep you posted on how it goes of course, and expect photos and a testimonial as soon as we snip  everything away ;)

So are you game? 

Take the pledge and get a new head for 2013!

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Super-Sister, or: A call to all my Frenchies & all my big-hearted readers!

English ✮ Français

I don't think I have told you before, but we have a superhero in the family. I am actually related by blood to Wonder Woman. Or something/one that looks like Wonder Woman. 

Super N gives it all to fight Cancer!

And she is committing to run 6 kilometers at the Course des Héros taking place in Paris on June 17 to help raise funds for cancer research. It would be awesome if you would support her efforts and her team from the Association pour la Recherche sur le Cancer - ARC any way you can, whether with donations (tax deductible in France only) or by sharing the donation page.

Useful links and info:

• Course des Héros official site
• Super N donation page
• Course des Héros on Facebook
• Association pour la Recherche sur le Cancer - ARC on Facebook

Oh, and an inside story just for you: it is really my sister in a cardboard hand-made (or should I say hand-cut) Wonder Woman costume! Or at least, the crown, belt and most importantly super-fancy red boots are! I am pleased to report the latter will be on their way to my feet this summer. Thank you.

...

Je disais donc, en anglais, que ma petite sœur est en fait une Super-Heroine. Si, si, je vous assure, elle a même le costume pour le prouver. 

Super N et le Cancer: un combat de titans!

Son ennemi? Le cancer. Elle va l'affronter lors de la Course des Héros et s'engage à courir 6 kilomètres ce 17 juin. Le but? Soutenir l'Association pour la Recherche sur le Cancer - ARC. Par quels moyens? En rassemblant le plus de volontaires possible. Toi aussi, fidèle lecteur, tu peux faire partie de cette équipe au gros coeur en donnant quelques sous sur ce site (réduction fiscale déduite des impôts, en France uniquement) ou tout simplement en faisant passer le message.

Liens et informations utiles:

• Course des Héros site officiel
• Site de dons Super N
• Course des Héros sur Facebook
• Association pour la Recherche sur le Cancer - ARC sur Facebook

Pour la petite histoire, il s'agit bien de ma sœurette sur la photo, en costume en carton fait-main! Ou du moins la couronne, la ceinture et les super bottes rouges! C'est dans ces dernières que mes pieds frimeront cet été. Merci bien.

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One Wig Stand glams up Christmas!

English

Charity and Glam. 

What better combination to gear up for the Holidays season?

One Wig Stand is giving all the ladies in Lebanon an opportunity to grab one of the few remaining creations that were designed for Bras for a Cause.  

Hold on.

If you've been meditating in some far away mountain or held captive in a cave by a hungry bear; which are the only two reasonable reasons not to have heard of Bras for a Cause, you are hereby pardoned. After all, 'tis the season to be forgiving. 

Just make sure you get up to speed with the Middle East's biggest Fashion Meets Goodwill event of the year, at least before 2011 ends. And why not, be part of it! 

So redeem yourself properly and pay One Wig Stand a visit tomorrow December 21 or the day after, that is December 22; just being thorough so there's no misunderstanding when you're marking your calendar.

Not only will you meet fantastic people, but you'll also have lots of fun. That's a guarantee. Here's a taste of what awaits you at this year's Christmas Bra-Zaar:

• Shop for bras in a cozy girlie-girl gathering with nice music, munchies, drinks and other little festive surprises. Chocolate truffles, mini-cupcakes and cookies for all!

• Enjoy the "Look Good, Feel Good" Collection by Bras for a Cause. And why not gift your friend, mother or sister too? 

• BRA PRICES AND SIZES: prices are very affordable and range between $18-30. Various sizes available for B to D cups. 

• Full proceeds of all bra sales will be donated to regional breast cancer organizations as part of the large-scale Bras for a Cause campaign. 

• MASTECTOMY BRAS: We'll also be selling mastectomy bras if you know someone who needs one. Trust us, they'll love the sexy designs with comfortable and discreet prosthesis pockets. 

• BRA FITTINGS: K-Lynn Lingerie Specialist Tiffany Karam Youssef will be available at the event to help with bra fittings for anyone interested to get the right size and suggestions for the optimal bra for your body. Every person who gets fitted will additionally get a 20% discount card for their next K-Lynn Lingerie purchase! 

• OPENING HOURS: Wednesday Dec. 21: 3-9 pm and Thursday Dec. 22: 3-9 pm. Pass by any time - it'll be open house! We'll have a fitting room area for anyone who wants to try the bras before purchasing. 

• WHERE'S IT HAPPENING? One Wig Stand office in Achrafieh, Lebanon, right next to ABC Ashrafieh if you're driving up from Spinneys. Feel free to call 01-203112 for additional directions.

• VOLUNTEERS OR COLLABORATIONS: Want to help out? Have some creative ideas to make this an even more fun, memorable night? Email OneWigStand@gmail.com.     

And here are your Bookmarks for more Holidays Shopping, with a heart:

• Christmas shopping list?
• Special gift with ❤
• One Wig Stand glams up Christmas!

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Christmas shopping list?

English

Let's face it: shopping for the holidays is always a bitch! Actually, shopping for any occasion, any time of the year is definitely not the most entertaining activity. 

And here we go again, for a winter filled with events! I never know what to get and the fact that I start looking just a few days before Christmas certainly does not help my quest. 

So this year, let's try and plan ahead, shall we?

I was inspired by Lorena's Epiphany's different Christmas which encourages everyone to support local artists and artisans this holiday, instead of buying from big corporations. I usually buy some gifts from charities too and I'll keep you posted on that as well in another article. In the meantime...

Earlier, on this very space, we have had the fantastic opportunity to meet new talents, so why not take advantage of their unique creations which promise to dazzle the toughest of gift critics!

I cannot help but think of Bras for a Cause first since it is the event that introduced us to fantastic designers and hopeful creators this year. So get some fabulous and glamorous FOR HER, all the while helping a great cause. If you are still wondering where to find the Look Good Feel Good Collection, search no further, we have got all the addresses for you over here.

As a daughter, sister and more recently wife, I attest that shopping FOR HIM is a nightmare! He usually has a zillion ties, wallets, pens and watches and to make things worse, he buys his own gadgets all year long which means that we end up with no wish list by the time the festivities have arrived.

But how about personalizing a favorite piece of his or even better, creating and entirely new one? And what could be better than a piece of wood? Wood is tough, rough and raw. Just like HIM. Well you are in luck because I have got the thing just for you. Wood artist and painter Dyala Khodary has a magical touch for turning dull into excellence. Indeed, Mia's Easter boxes turned out amazing, but you can request just about anything at Double U As Wood. Right off the top of my head I would say a keyring which would never leave his side, a set of coasters to impress his mates at their next margarita night (I have mine and they rock), a wine rack to earn your parents' admiration the next time they come to dinner or even a bookshelf to make those annoying intellectual neighbors of his so jealous they might not survive until new year's.

Image by Double U As Wood

Something that works FOR HER and HIM is SmallPrint's silver jewelry. I had initially discovered them when looking for the perfect gift for my mom. Which we did: a fantastic pendant with Mia's footprint. Since then, I also made the cutest keychain for hubby's Father's Day. SmallPrint can turn just about any print (foot, hand, even lips and drawings) into pendants, bracelets, keychains or cufflinks. Fancy, right? And a treasure which will last forever.

Image by Grossesse En Blog

On the other hand, some things are made to please instantly. I am not saying you will not remember them forever, far from it. However, there is something special in turning a regular everyday moment into magic. And I think everyone can agree chocolate will do that for you. Usually men gift chocolate to ladies but let's face it, when we are dealing with delicacies like Hala Khodary's Chocolat Fée, then trust me both HER and HIM will be delighted by this sweetness in a box which incidentally can also be handmade and customized by Dyala Khodary.

Image by Chocolat Fée

Last but not least, are two talented designers who also participated in Bras for a Cause: Sana'a Habib and Janeth Manneh Hachem.

Sana'a has recently launched her jewelry line, El Sa's J which you can find on Facebook. Sneak a peak, but beware, you might get addicted.

Janeth, a designer, painter and an art broker is bringing to the region artwork from Latin America where she grew up and currently lives; check her online gallery at Artistika Matizes, you won't regret the detour.

Image by Artistika Matizes

I promise to tell you more about these two, and I have got some very interesting things coming up on this space on and by them so stay tuned. But in the meantime, feel free to browse their cyber spaces and look for some dashing and unique holiday gifts FOR HER and HIM!

HAPPY HOLIDAYS ;)

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Wrap-Up ... in a Pink Ribbon

English

It's a wrap! 

Bras for a Cause Middle East held two major events in Beirut and Dubai and showcased the fabulous creations that were submitted for this one of a kind competition in the Arab world.

It was amazing to see the sketches coming to life on the runway....

Of course in my case, I wish I could have attended at least one of the events live. Instead, I've had to settle for whatever I could find on the net. 

I was looking forward to the Beirut show and was so excited to be in town at the time. Unfortunately, I couldn't get out of the house due to some difficulties with my pregnancy. Everything is OK, but at the time, I couldn't stand straight... Let's leave it to that (now is not the time to rant).

So I started counting the days to Dubai's Edition of BFAC. Again, pregnancy strikes and wins. I could not travel. I still am stuck in Beirut, weeping at my laptop screen!  

If like me, you're still craving for some pink glitter by the fabulous and sexy squad, fear not.

The winning designs are now available for sale at all the supporting outlets! Yes!

Basically, I'll have to settle for my own private fashion show:

• Date: Post-delivery 
  I'm not ready to look at myself in a sexy bra right now... Pregnancy hormones (and extra kilos) can be scarier than your 75 year old neighbor dressed up as a pumpkin and knocking at your door asking for candy this Halloween
• Location: My bedroom
  Improvise, always improvise. I have a very large bed which will make for a perfect runway

We can all find our favorite designs at:

• Galeries Lafayette (Dubai)
• K-Lynn Lingerie (Lebanon, Kuwait and Dubai)
• Pink Dust (Amman, Jordan)
• Amuse Concept Store (Cairo, Egypt)
• Cream (Beirut and Jeddah, KSA)
• AuraB.com (Online Boutique)
• Maison Bo-m (Riyadh, KSA)
  
  
  Source: One Wig Stand

The Look Good Feel Good CollectionT-shirts display at Galeries Lafayette Dubai
Image Courtesy of  Galeries Lafayette Dubai

Of course, I can't help but make a special mention of Yasmin Khlaifat's Cupcake Fantasy as I was the blogger who represented her design and supported her during the competition. After we found out she was one of the winners and her piece got picked up for production, I couldn't wait to see how that fabulous sketch would turn out in fabric! Curious?

Here's the actual Cupcake Fantasy you can purchase at the partner-boutiques:

Image courtesy of Galeries Lafayette Dubai

Not forgetting one of my favorite pieces from the Designers category; the Return of the Queen by Joe Challita:

"The exquisitely hand-made Joe Challita bra for Bras for a Cause Middle East"
Image Courtesy of Joe Challita

Image courtesy of Galeries Lafayette Dubai

And Rana Mouawad's sexy t-shirts:

Image Courtesy of The Fierce Diaries

Image Courtesy of Pinkdust

Image Courtesy of Maison Rana

Interesting web references and coverage of both fashion shows include:

• One Wig Stand
• Fustany
• Galeries Lafayette Dubai : Bras Collection
• Galeries Lafayette Dubai : T-shirts Collection
• Pinkdust : T-shirts Collection
• L'Armoire de Lana
• Nouchaline

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BRAvo!

English

I haven't Photoshoped the Day in a while...

Here's today's note :)

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A touch of Pink, Sexy and Fab for a Great Cause

English

The time has come to fabulize Dubai in bright pink!

Yes, Bras for a Cause is finally bringing the fashion show of the year to town! After Beirut, it is Dubai's turn to get fashionably sexy for a great cause.

And you're all invited to attend!

Could you get any luckier?

So what are you waiting for? Get your tickets now by calling Bras for a Cause's Hotlines directly:

• +971 50 514 5302

• +971 55 832 5996

Bras for a Cause Dubai Edition on the 24th at the Monarch, starting from 7pm will include live entertainment, fun activities, an unforgettable fashion show, auction, mouthwatering canapés, drinks, Bras for a Cause Boutique and so much more. 

Tickets are for 200 Dhs - includes soft drinks, bites and plenty of goodies.

Looking forward to seeing you all there!

Event page on Facebook

Useful Tips:
Also, try out these current beauty coupons and go with glamour.

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BRAS FOR A CAUSE ANNOUNCES WINNERS!

English

Last night, Bras for a Cause's winners were finally revealed! 

I honestly believed all entries were deserving of this worthy competition, and most of them were even outstanding. It was hard to believe some of the contestants were first time designers!

So naturally, congratulations were in order :)

rouba abouzeid : all around the blogosphere‎ Bras for a Cause Middle East WINNERS ARE REVEALED! Congrats to all the participants! It was a beautiful gallery and all designs deserved our votes ;) A big shout out to all the winners! Well done! Can't wait to see those pieces on the catwalk ;)
Source

But last night, Bras for a Cause also shared a fantastic surprise:

Bras for a Cause Middle East We've announced all the winners! (...) Note the Designer Piece entries will ALL be auctioned off at the fashion shows In Beirut and Dubai. Stay tuned and congratulations to all the winners!!
Source

Now that's two fashion shows you do not want to miss! I know I won't ;)


Here are your winners again, in case you missed them on Facebook:

Everybody Wants Me Category Winners:
1st Place: Nada Adel #11
2nd Place: Nour Tohme #4
3rd Place: Nadia El Medany
Source

Her Bra Mastectomy Bra Category:
1st Place: Mai Abbassi #8
2nd Place: Rana Muallem #12
3rd Place: Engy El Shorbagy #10
Source

Training Bra Category:
1st Place: Zeina Tawfik #12
2nd Place: Yasmin Khlaifat #7
3rd Place: Hasleen Anand #1
Source

Such a Tee-s T-Shirt Category:
1st Place: Dina Yassine #2
2nd Place: Dana Qabbani #33
3rd Place: Hanane Fathallah #35
Source

Two of our favorites in the Training Bra category made the cut: Yasmin Khlaifat and Hasleen Anand. We couldn't be happier for them and wish them all the best! Well done ladies ;)

Bras for a Cause Middle East 2011 - Winners

And with more Fab'n'Glam to come, I can hardly wait for the closing ceremonies which promise to be even more exceptional. After all, we've had a peak at the designs, so we know our expectations are high, with good reason ;)

Basically, we all have to try and be a little bit more patient. Now that's one requirement I know will be even harder than using Illustrator for the first time! ;)


A final word goes to the organizers and the jury for their amazing efforts and bringing us a remarkable event; certainly one for the books.

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That's BRAll Folks!

English

As the Looneys would say...

Today is the last day to vote for your favorite Bras for a Cause design(s):

The clock is ticking!

You have until tonight 12:59am (Beirut time) / 1:59am (Dubai time) to gather as many votes as possible and lend your final hours of support to your favorite designers!

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LAST HOURS : VOTE NOW!

English

That's it. In a few hours, the voting gates will close on what has been a wonderful and very interesting Bras for a Cause competition. Let's sum up with a review of all the designs featured on this space:

• Joe Challita
• Mia Jafari
• Tasché's Angelique Sabounjian
• Maison Rana's Rana Al-Basri Mouawad
• Alison and Marie's Roxanne Alison Peters and Sharon-Ann Marie Alder
• Nadine Zeni
• Sartori Sartori
• Sandra J
• Hasleen Anand
• Yasmin Khlaifat
• Sana'a Habib
• Janeth Manneh Hachem
• And of course, my very own 1, 2, 3 designs ;) lol

You can always review Bras for a Cause for previous and upcoming posts related to the event.

Now, all that's left to do is wait for the judges' verdicts.
We'll know everything on July 14.

But that's not the whole story, of course.

Keep an eye for the upcoming events in Beirut and Dubai, featuring fashion shows of those fabulous designs you've rooted for, as well as the Breast Cancer organizations that will be receiving the proceeds collected from this outstanding and unique campaign.

All beautiful and glamorous for a great cause! ;)

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DOUBLE BILL Special in Today's TwO Do

English

Today's TwO DO is quite simple: rally as many people as possible to vote! 

With only TWO DAYS left to support your  favorite Bras for a Cause designers, the time has come to DOUBLE the efforts and make sure every single soul you know, in person or virtually, has casted their votes. In other words...

Now is the time to cash in on all those complete strangers who added you on Facebook. 

Even if that means messaging that creep that keeps on stalking you from one social network to the next and who somehow got your top secret Goggle+ profile and added you to his "Sexy Circle". 

Even if that means introducing your grand-mother to Facebook and becoming her own private tech support. 

And even if that means, Oh-Horror, finally accepting your mom and dad's friend requests. Yes, they will be able to tag you, they will see all your photos and they will comment on your statuses. But they will also vote for your favorite Bras for a Cause design and that is worth all the sacrifices in the world!

So today, in the spirit of everything that is 2, I offer you a

DOUBLE BILL: TWO INTERVIEWS 

One bra. One t-shirt. 

Two gifted young ladies.

Two aspiring talents. Indeed, they are not participating in the Designer Piece Category, but a quick glance at their designs could fool you. They are as exceptional as any trained stylist and they were gracious enough to answer our questions. Enjoy!

------------- Part 1 -------------

THE DESIGNER

Name, age, nationality and current country of residence.

Sana’a Habib, 26, Lebanese, Lebanon.

What’s your design background?

Graphic Designer and Owner of El Sa’s J, Silver Jewelry. Feel free to visit our Facebook Page or call +96170730672.

Describe yourself in three words.

Ambitious, artistic, and a dreamer.

Who’s your favorite designer?

Elie Saab.

What kind of music inspires you?

Irish, oriental jazz.

What’s your favorite movie?

Face/Off.

Why did you choose to participate in this competition?

Because it’s good to hope and fight.

If you hadn't been a designer, what profession would you have chosen?

Psychiatrist.

THE DESIGN

Describe your design style in three words.

Blossoming, alive and artistic.

Tell us a little bit about your creative process: how long did it take for you to create the design, what inspires you, how do you choose colors, fabrics, themes?

To be frank, ideas do not need time to come up to our minds, when I read about the competition, the Bra blossoming flower came up to my mind quickly and then I sketched it, colors it and scanned it with a little bit of processing on Adobe Photoshop.

What did you design, a bra or a t-shirt?

A t-shirt.

"When Life Blossoms"

What inspired your design?

Spring.

THE EVENT

Why did you decide to participate?

Because hoping and fighting are the best ways to conquer the world.

What role do you think fashion can play in the fight against cancer and empowering cancer survivors?

Fashion is always hopeful for women in all cases and at any time.

What are your expectations and hopes for this event?

High hopes.

------------- Part 2 -------------

THE DESIGNER

Name, age, nationality and current country of residence.

Sarah Anou, British, London, England.

What’s your design background?

No design background, but I have always been interested in fashion as a form of art and expression.

Describe yourself in three words.

It’s better to ask those around me (laughs).

Who’s your favorite designer?

There are too many to choose from. I love old classic styles as seen on Jackie Kennedy, Grace Kelly and Audrey Hepburn. I appreciate more modern creations by YSL, Dior, and Vera Wang. I love Middle Eastern designers such as Elie Saab and Zuhair Murad. But it always comes back to the classics like Chanel. You cannot go wrong with Chanel. It’s a wardrobe staple for every woman.

What kind of music inspires you?

I think you can find inspiration in every kind of music. It depends on the mood you’re in. Music has this amazing ability to enhance moods and open up your mind.

What’s your favorite movie?

I can’t choose! Breakfast at Tiffany’s, Casablanca, Rebel Without a Cause, A Street Car Named Desire, Chocolat, ET, The Godfather, have I said Casablanca already? (laughs). The list goes on. I’m currently having a love affair with foreign films. I can’t get enough.

What is your profession and why did you choose to participate in this competition?

I actually have a degree in journalism and I’m currently working on a project which is aimed at fashion in the Middle East and North Africa. It’s such a big industry and these places are slowly beginning to take their place and make their presence felt on the international scale. It’s an exciting time to be in the design world.

I wanted to participate in this competition because I have always been fascinated by the design aspect of fashion. And this is such a good cause. You have to really think about these women who have and are going through breast cancer and how much difference a garment like a bra can impact on their health and with their confidence. It’s such an important cause, one that I think everyone should get involved with because I have learnt things about breast cancer I never knew before.

❝ I’ve spoken to some women who said they felt less womanly after their battle, especially those involving surgery to remove the parts with cancer. I wanted to restore that confidence back. They might never be the same again, but they can make themselves better, greater and stronger. ❞

THE DESIGN

Describe your design style in three words.

Vintage, classic, comfortable.

What did you design, a bra or a t-shirt?

I designed a bra.

What inspired your design?

Old school vintage style from the Hollywood and European golden era.

Tell us a little bit about your creative process: how long did it take for you to create the design, what inspires you, how do you choose colors, fabrics, themes?

I've been working on it for a couple of weeks now. I spent a long time looking through old magazines, films; costumes etc to get a feel of something truly feminine and classic. Then it was a matter of looking at how to merge those ideas with something that would also be comfortable, secure and be able to give its wear a feeling of confidence and femininity. I think the concept of making these women still feel feminine was key for me. I’ve spoken to some women who said they felt less womanly after their battle, especially those involving surgery to remove the parts with cancer. I wanted to restore that confidence back. They might never be the same again, but they can make themselves better, greater and stronger. That’s important to cancer survivors.

Choosing colours was so difficult! But I think I picked the right one in the end….hopefully (fingers crossed) (laughs). On the other hand choosing fabrics was amazing!!! I wanted everything from silks, satin’s organza detailing; some chiffon…the list goes on. I went to a top fabric store here in London and went insane wanting everything (laughs). But at the end of the day, I had to focus on how the material would feel against the skin, especially those who’ve had surgery. Your body, especially the skin, would be sensitive. It was important to recreate a sensation against the skin that is soothing, comfortable, luxurious, and fresh. This part was such an important area for me because in researching what survivors have said themselves, I learnt things I didn’t know before. And all of that knowledge helps you in the actual design process. It makes you consider if you really should have this here or there, and how would that feel as well as look if we tried to create this shape or that etc. I was seriously humbled by what these women had gone through. It motivates you to make something special.

❝ It was important to recreate a sensation against the skin that is soothing, comfortable, luxurious, and fresh. This part was such an important area for me because in researching what survivors have said themselves, I learnt things I didn’t know before. ❞

THE EVENT

Why did you decide to participate?

It’s such an important cause. People need to become more aware of its signs and how to get better and all the stages in between.

What role do you think fashion can play in the fight against cancer and empowering cancer survivors?

It can empower cancer victims and survivors alike to express themselves artistically. Sometimes its difficult to say what you mean, and fashion is one of the greatest forms of art expression. It also has a global reach.

What are your expectations and hopes for this event?

That people learn things they didn’t know. That money can be raised for an important cause and those affected in any way, shape or form by cancer learn that they are not alone; there are people out there who are willing to help them.

So there you have it. Two very different young women, just like all the other designers who participated in making this event a great success, all with one thing in common:


The commitment to raise awareness for the fight against breast cancer. 

A disease that could affect anyone. A disease that can be defeated through widespread awareness as early detection is key in saving lives. 

And that is why it is so important for all of us to get involved and actively support campaigns such as Bras for a Cause. 

Don't forget to check the other designs, with previews and more interviews here, here and here. You won't be disappointed!

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