
Editor’s Note

As we arrive in winter, already halfway through 2026, one thing is certain, this year has truly been yearing. Anyone else feeling the same?
For me, 2026 has been a season of deep self-discovery, and honestly, not always an easy one. The past six months have carried lessons that have pushed me inward, into reflection, into stillness, into my own quiet cave where healing and integration can begin.
But enough about me… let’s delve into what this seasonal edition has in store for you.
In this winter issue, we explore the beauty of going inward, embracing our sensual selves, reconnecting with our womb wisdom through our menstrual cycles, and understanding the sacredness of our inner winter. We also step into the world of the dynamic Wissam Serdoun, founder of Maison Serdoun, as we uncover the story behind his fragrance journey and the art of Perfume Therapy.
So sit back, soften inward, grab your favourite cuppa, and enjoy the read.
Yesmien KT
Editor-in-Chief

Contributions
Disclaimer:
The views and opinions expressed in these articles are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Covered Magazine, its team, affiliates, or partners. All content is provided for informational purposes only and should not be taken as professional advice. Covered Magazine and all those associated with it are not liable for any actions taken based on the information presented.
Contents
Plein Legacy
Geometry Meets Glamour: The Rise of Plein Legacy


Bold yet refined, the Plein Legacy collection brings a fresh perspective to modern jewelry design. Centered around the Maison’s unmistakable Hexagon signature, the collection transforms geometric structure into a statement of feminine strength and contemporary elegance.
With sleek metal finishes, delicate pavé detailing, and sculptural silhouettes, each piece strikes a balance between edge and sophistication. From understated studs to polished bracelets and necklaces, Plein Legacy is designed for women who embrace confidence in every aspect of their style.
Lightweight yet impactful, the collection transitions effortlessly from daytime minimalism to evening glamour, proving that timeless jewelry can still feel daring, modern, and unmistakably iconic.



Winter
Beauty
2026
Makeup Look: cutesy but cozy
By Faathima Abdoor Hajat

Winter makeup is giving soft glam and pretty girl energy. Think rosy cheeks, glossy lips, fluffy brows, mocha tones, and soft brown liner for that effortless “I just naturally look this cute” vibe. Glowy skin is still the main character this season.
Skincare Mood
Cold weather means extra love for your skin. Hydrating serums, rich moisturizers, lip masks, and dewy skincare are the winter essentials. Soft, healthy skin will always make makeup look ten times prettier.


Perfume Picks
Winter scents are warm, cozy, and unforgettable. Vanilla, amber, musk, and soft oud perfumes are everywhere this season, the kind of scents that leave a little trail of luxury when you walk past.


The Overall Vibe
This winter beauty season is all about looking cute without trying too hard. Glossy lips, cozy tones, glowing skin, and soft feminine energy are taking over, simple, pretty, and effortlessly elegant.

The Silent Burnout
When Muslim Women Carry the Emotional Load
By Saadica B
She’s the one everyone calls when things fall apart. The dependable one. The calm in the chaos. Yet when the house is finally quiet, she feels… nothing. Just exhaustion in a silk scarf.
So many Muslim women live in a quiet state of burnout, not from lack of faith, but from overextension. We hold homes, hearts, and hopes together. We plan meals, manage moods, remember everyone’s birthdays and favourite teas. It’s not that we don’t love our families – it’s that we’re running on fumes.

This invisible exhaustion has a name: emotional labour. It’s the unpaid, unseen work that keeps relationships functioning. The emotional check-ins, the empathy, the constant giving. And when paired with cultural expectations of being the “selfless nurturer,” it can silently empty even the most vibrant hearts.
We often confuse sabr with silence. But sabr isn’t suppression, it’s strength with wisdom. True patience doesn’t mean carrying everyone’s burdens while neglecting your own well-being. Islam calls us to practice balance and fairness, even within ourselves.


Start small. Ask for help without apologising. Rest without guilt. Your exhaustion isn’t a weakness; it’s a signal. Do one thing a day that pours back into you: sit in stillness after fajr, journal, walk outside, breathe. And if therapy helps, go, even if our community whispers otherwise.

Remember: you are not a machine designed to serve until empty. You are a soul entrusted to care for others and yourself. The Prophet ﷺ said, “Your body has a right over you.” So rest. Eat well. Laugh often.
Vibrance isn’t about perfection, it’s about being alive.
You deserve softness, joy, and light, not just survival.
You are not selfish for needing rest. You are wise for recognising it.
- How to implement : 3 Mini Ways to Refill Your Cup
- Wake up ten minutes earlier for quiet dhikr before the day begins.
- Take one task off your list, it’s sunnah to rest.
- Say “no” without guilt, boundaries are barakah.
Inside Giuseppe Zanotti’s Fall/Winter 2026 Presentation
Set against the refined backdrop of Milan Fashion Week, Giuseppe Zanotti unveiled his Fall/Winter 2026 presentation through an immersive display that reflected the spirit of the collection itself, intimate, opulent, and unapologetically distinctive.
Rather than a traditional runway showcase, the presentation invited guests into Zanotti’s creative world, where craftsmanship and storytelling took center stage. The space embodied the collection’s concept of “ordered opulent chaos,” blending sculptural installations, rich textures, gleaming metallic accents, and carefully curated lighting to create an atmosphere that felt both luxurious and deeply personal.


Editors, creatives, and notable guests moved through the presentation discovering intricate details up close,from jewel-inspired embellishments to artisanal finishes that highlighted the house’s dedication to timeless design. The display blurred the line between fashion presentation and art installation, allowing each piece to exist as part of a larger visual narrative rather than a fleeting seasonal statement.
Soft neutral tones, touches of black, and reflective crystal elements echoed throughout the venue, reinforcing the sophisticated mood of the Fall/Winter 2026 vision. The event ultimately became more than a showcase of footwear; it was a celebration of identity, craftsmanship, and the enduring allure of Italian luxury.



Embracing Your Sensual Self Through Inner Winter
By Yesmien KT
There comes a point in the year or life when the universe gently suggests: please stop trying to be a main character 24/7.
Welcome to your Inner Winter.
Not the tragic kind. Not the “cancel all plans and disappear emotionally” kind either. This is the intentional retreat, the soft, slightly sarcastic, deeply restorative season where you stop performing wellness and actually start living it.
It’s the season of slowing down, tuning in, and treating your body less like a project and more like something you actually reside in.
Yes. Live there. Rent-free. Be nice to it.

Sensuality, but make it quiet and unbothered
Let’s redefine “sensual” immediately, because we are not talking about performance, aesthetics for the feed, or anything that requires a ring light.
We’re talking about presence. Comfort. Texture. Warmth. The kind of care that doesn’t announce itself.
Let’s start here: Touch.
Warm a natural oil, jojoba is a favourite for its light, grounding feel or coconut if you prefer something more tropical and slightly dramatic. Apply it slowly, intentionally, without turning it into a rushed skincare audition. Long strokes. Gentle pressure. No agenda.
Not “fixing” your body. Not “improving” it. Just… remembering it.
Your skin is not a problem to solve. It’s a place you live.
Build yourself a sensory sanctuary (no Pinterest board required)
Your home does not need to look like a Scandinavian spa advertisement. It just needs to feel like a pause button. Light a candle. Diffuse something calming. Open a window if the air outside isn’t aggressively chaotic.
Wrap yourself in soft fabrics, the kind that make you question every uncomfortable outfit you’ve ever tolerated for the sake of “a look.” And then do the radical thing: stay in it.
No rushing. No “quick errands.” No convincing yourself you should be productive because the laundry is looking at you funny. Let the room hold you for once.




Move like you’re not being graded
Inner winter does not respond well to punishment workouts or “no pain, no gain” energy.
Instead, think: slow movement. Hip circles. Stretching. Gentle yoga or Pilates if your body is asking for structure. This is not about discipline.
It’s about listening.
Your body is not asking to be pushed. It’s asking to be understood. And no, it does not need to “earn” rest. That concept has been retired.

Talk to your body like it’s not an afterthought
Most of us only notice our bodies when something is wrong.
Inner winter invites a different conversation.
Try asking:
- What would feel good right now?
- What am I holding that I don’t need?
- Where do I need softness instead of control?
And then, the uncomfortable part, actually listen.
Not negotiate. Not override. Listen!
Make even your tea slightly sacred
Hydration, but poetic. Sip something warm, spiced tea, herbal blends, hot cocoa if you’re leaning into nostalgia. Slow down enough to notice it. The warmth. The taste. The fact that you are not, in fact, a machine running on urgency and deadlines (despite all evidence to the contrary).
Even consumption can become a small ritual of presence, if you let it.

The real point of Inner Winter
This is not about becoming softer for aesthetics. It’s about becoming honest enough to stop performing softness you don’t actually feel. Inner winter is where you pause the noise, strip back the expectations, and quietly ask:
Who am I when I am not trying to be anything at all?
And if the answer is “tired,” that’s valid too.
Spring will come when it comes.
For now, you’re allowed to be still, slightly unpolished, deeply human… and completely uninterested in performing for a season that is not yours yet.
Womb Knowing
Inner Winter
By Tasneem Ahmed Basha
It’s here; the week of your bleed. You can’t do the things you normally do or if you do, you can’t do them at the same rate. You’re physically tired, uncomfortable and this has really messed up your social plans. The Great Inconvenience has arrived. At work, extra energy is required to stay on task and pretend all is fine & dandy when truthfully, you’re praying that your pad or tampon makes it through another round of “I just have one more question before we conclude…”. All you want is to be cocooned in bed, surrounded by snacks and the sweet sound of zero expectation to produce anything.
It’s normal to push through, though. Right…? Everyone does it. Pop some pain-killers so you can make it through your gym session. Plaster a smile on your face and wear dark colours for that networking event. It’s not a sickness after all, and the show must go on.
Physiologically, though, the demand of menstruation is taxing, and this is NOT a flaw. You are meant to go inward now; your body is meant to be receiving & not producing. If luteal phase is about gently applying the brakes, then menstrual is switching the vehicle off to ensure safe re-fueling.
Unfortunately, we’ve been fed the belief that we are supposed to be navigating life (and our to-do list) exactly the same as every other day. This is a shame-based belief and ultimately results in women and girls not seeking help or support, even when there is dire medical need.

And here we arrive at one of the most debilitating aspects of menstruation; shame. We speak of our bleed in hushed tones or we simply don’t mention it. We hide the purchase of menstrual products. We even have code-names & phrases for our period. The Great Inconvenience has become The Great Pretense – pretend nothing is happening at all, and sadly that’s how we treat ourselves as well, to such an extent that we become frustrated at how our productivity has “declined”.

This shame serves a patriarchal system; one that requires consistent output, one that adheres to a 24-hour cycle and not a 28-day cycle, a system that prides itself on rigidity (pun intended). You, however, are feminine – nuance, flux, flow. You are all the seasons and all its temperaments masquerading as a bullet-point list.
Winter reaches her cold fingers forward, don’t recoil. She means only to make you really take heed of your need for warmth, and to make you see in stark relief what can withstand her icy grip.

In this season, in menstruation, just as estrogen & progesterone withdraw, a woman also naturally feels the need to withdraw. And this is not without purpose; across cultures and time, the phase of bleeding has been recognized as a time of heightened intuition. Interestingly, that drop in hormones leads to less activity in the left-hemisphere/logic center of the brain; this doesn’t mean you’re irrational, rather it means that your neurology rewires to lend more focus to your inner world which includes emotions and even vivid dreams.

What are some of the prompts being offered to us from both winter & menstruation, and what might we leave with if we stopped pushing and pretending?
The need to do nothing – I know you, of course you won’t do absolutely nothing. But what if you did nothing/had no expectations of yourself for even a day, half a day, at least a couple of hours? Outwardly it looks like there’s nothing happening but inside, that energy is being used to nourish and tend everything that will begin bright-green growth in the next season. This is an invitation to clearly hear your calling, to begin knitting the bones of the life-force you have every reason to be.
The need to rest – following through would mean an ego-death. You sink into rest, you quit clenching (both literally and figuratively) and you allow release. Perhaps some harsh truths about what isn’t sustainable anymore blow gale-force around you. It’s ok, you only have to witness them. You have agreed to see, to intuit, what you’d like to foster in the coming Spring. You are being asked to make space.
The intense emotions – don’t brush them off. Not the feelings, not the cravings. Follow them to their lair! You are being prompted to remember (re-member) dreams and aspirations that have fallen apart; how do you envision that truest version of you?
As Rumi famously asserted “Don’t think the garden loses its ecstasy in winter. The roots down there are riotous”.
Dive deeper into this topic along with a circle of women in the upcoming Seasons Of Her; Winter workshop happening on the 4th July at Salehs Bakery in Roosevelt Park. Contact 064 865 1925 for bookings.
*This article is not intended as medical advice. Please consult your healthcare provider.

Veganologie
Blends Heritage and Sustainability in New Capsule Collection


Veganologie introduces a refined capsule collection that beautifully merges cultural heritage with conscious luxury. Inspired by Arabian artistry and architectural geometry, the collection centres around the Arabesque Tote, a sculptural design that transforms traditional motifs into a modern statement of elegance and sustainability.
Crafted from 100% bamboo fibre and finished with recycled zinc alloy hardware, the tote balances structure with practicality through its lightweight design, spacious interior, and woven comfort strap. Intricate engraved detailing inspired by sacred geometry creates a sense of rhythm and harmony, reflecting the richness of regional craftsmanship while embracing a contemporary aesthetic. Available in soft Dunes and Dusty Rose tones, the piece transitions seamlessly from daytime gatherings to elevated evening occasions.





Perfume
Therapy:
The Fragrance
House Turning
Emotion Into
Art
In the world of luxury fragrance, few brands speak to emotion as intimately as Maison Serdoun. Founded by Wissam Serdoun on the belief that scent has the power to heal, transform, and reconnect us to ourselves, the house has carved a distinct identity within modern perfumery; one rooted not merely in composition, but in emotional experience.
For Wissam Serdoun, fragrance is far more than an accessory. It is memory, therapy, identity, and storytelling woven into every note. What began as a deeply personal refuge during one of life’s most difficult seasons has evolved into a globally resonant perfume house that invites people to feel deeply and live authentically.
In this exclusive cover story with Covered Magazine, we step into the mind behind the brand to explore the philosophy of “Perfume Therapy,” the emotional architecture behind scent creation, and the vision shaping one of contemporary luxury’s most introspective fragrance houses.


Your brand exists in a world where scent becomes identity. How did your journey into perfumery begin, and what continues to shape your vision today?
My journey into perfumery didn’t begin as a business decision; it began as a need. During one of the most difficult periods of my life, when my mother was battling cancer, fragrance became my refuge. It was the only thing that could shift my emotional state instantly, without words. That’s when I understood that scent is not just something we wear; it’s something we become.

Today, everything I create is shaped by that truth. Maison Serdoun was born from this idea: that fragrance can heal, elevate, and reconnect us to ourselves.

Fragrance is deeply personal yet universally felt. What emotions or memories do you hope your creations awaken?
I don’t create perfumes to smell “good.” I create them to make people feel something they didn’t expect to feel; a memory they thought they had forgotten, or a version of themselves they had lost.
If someone wears one of my fragrances and feels more confident, more grounded, or even more vulnerable in a beautiful way, then the fragrance has done its job.
There is a quiet artistry behind every bottle. How do you translate an abstract idea into something as tangible and intimate as scent?
It always starts with an emotion, never with an ingredient. I ask myself: what does courage smell like? What does peace feel like on the skin?
Then comes the dialogue with the perfumer, where we translate that invisible feeling into a composition. It’s almost like writing music; each note has a role, a rhythm, a silence. The final fragrance is not just a formula; it’s an emotional architecture.
Luxury today is evolving beyond aesthetics. How do you define modern luxury through your brand?
Modern luxury is no longer about excess; it’s about meaning. It’s about offering something that resonates on a deeper level.
For me, true luxury is when a product has a purpose beyond itself. At Maison Serdoun, luxury is the ability to transform a moment, to elevate your state of being. It’s subtle, intimate, and deeply personal.
In a saturated fragrance landscape, what distinguishes your house, not just in composition, but in experience?
We are not selling perfumes; we are offering an experience of self-reconnection.
“The Perfume Therapy” is not just a concept; it’s a philosophy. Every fragrance is designed to evoke a specific emotional shift. When people discover Maison Serdoun, they don’t just choose a scent; they choose how they want to feel.

Many of your scents feel like stories unfolding. Is there one creation that holds a particularly personal chapter of your life?
Yes: Millésime 2003.
It’s more than a fragrance; it’s a memory preserved in time. It carries a part of my story, my evolution, and everything I went through to become who I am today. It’s deeply emotional, almost like a silent conversation with my past.
As your brand expands globally, how do you preserve its soul while speaking to different cultures and markets?
Emotion is universal. That’s what allows us to cross borders without losing our essence.
We adapt the language and the storytelling, but never the intention. The soul of Maison Serdoun remains untouched because it is rooted in something deeper than trends; it’s rooted in human experience.
There is a growing shift toward conscious consumption. How does your brand approach responsibility, from sourcing to storytelling?
Responsibility, for me, goes beyond ingredients; it’s also about honesty.
We don’t overpromise. We don’t follow noise. We create with intention, and we communicate with sincerity. In a world that moves fast, choosing depth is already a form of responsibility.
Building a luxury brand requires both resilience and refinement. What has been your most transformative moment as a founder?
Understanding that setbacks are not failures; they are part of the process.
There were moments when everything felt uncertain, where I had to keep going without any guarantee. Those moments shaped me the most. They taught me resilience, but also humility.
If your legacy were to be captured in a single fragrance, what would it smell like?
It would smell like contrast.
Strength and softness. Light and shadow. A fragrance that doesn’t try to please, but instead reveals something real.
Because if there’s one thing I want to leave behind, it’s this: the permission for people to feel deeply, and to embrace who they truly are.

To conclude, Maison Serdoun is not simply building a fragrance house; it is cultivating an emotional language through scent. In an era where luxury often competes for attention through excess, the brand stands apart through sincerity, depth, and human connection.
This conversation reveals a founder who understands fragrance not as a product, but as an intimate extension of identity; something capable of carrying memory, healing emotion, and transforming presence. Through every carefully composed note, Maison Serdoun invites people to reconnect with themselves in a world that rarely pauses long enough to feel.
As the house continues its global expansion, its philosophy remains unchanged: fragrance is not merely worn, it is lived.
Peserico’s Fall/Winter 2026 Collection Embraces Light, Movement, and
Modern Femininity




During Milan Fashion Week, Peserico unveiled its Fall/Winter 2026 womenswear collection, a refined exploration of movement, light, and the ever-changing beauty of the sky. Inspired by the simple yet poetic act of looking upward, the collection translated celestial moods into fluid silhouettes and softly structured tailoring.
Rich tonal layering became central to the presentation, with shades of sunset-inspired red, warm Astrale beige, deep Cosmico blue, and luminous Cometa white creating depth and quiet sophistication throughout the collection. Sculptural wool outerwear grounded the daytime looks, while eveningwear introduced fluid satin textures, shimmering surfaces, and delicate embellishments that reflected light with every movement.
Signature details such as mesh-like sequins and Punto Luce embroidery added dimension without overwhelming the collection’s understated elegance. The result was a wardrobe that felt effortless yet elevated, balancing softness, structure, and contemporary femininity with the quiet confidence that defines the world of Peserico Official Instagram.







Smiling
Through
The Storm
By Raeesa Padia
As I drive this morning, I find myself looking at my surroundings a little more closely.
People are already traveling to work. Others stand patiently in the cold, rainy weather, waiting for public transport. Cleaners are already busy outside shops and business premises, sweeping and washing before the day even begins. Security guards are finishing long night shifts, having spent the entire night away from their families, sometimes without proper shelter to keep them warm.
Yet, as I look at their faces, I do not see dullness or defeat. I see smiles. I hear warm greetings exchanged between strangers.

There is so much strength within them. No visible complaints. No outward display of the hardships they may be carrying.
And it makes me pause, because behind those smiles could be worries we know nothing about. Hidden fears. Silent struggles. Perhaps even poverty. Yet they still show up for the day with dignity, patience, and resilience.

In that moment, I reflect on myself.
I remind myself that my problems are not as overwhelming as they sometimes feel. Compared to what so many people quietly endure every single day, my difficulties are small. If they can still smile through hardship, then surely I can too.
Sometimes our problems feel like an ocean when we focus only on ourselves. But when we look around with a sincere heart, we realize they may only be a drop within it.
There are people in this world who struggle far more than we do, yet they remain content with what they have. Their hearts are filled with faith in Allah, trusting that He sees their effort, their patience, and their silent sacrifices.
Casadei
Steps Into Fall/Winter 2026/2027 With Sculptural Elegance

During Milan Fashion Week, Cesare Casadei offered a striking preview into Casadei’s evolving Fall/Winter 2026/2027 vision, a collection where strength, sensuality, and craftsmanship converge through sculptural design.


At the centre of the presentation stood the House’s unmistakable Blade heel, the sleek metallic signature that continues to define Casadei’s identity. Reimagined across towering boots, platform silhouettes, and statement sandals, the Blade became both a structural element and a symbol of modern femininity.




Inspired by the textures and tones of nature, the collection embraced earthy palettes, rich suede finishes, faux-fur accents, and refined leather craftsmanship. Tube boots revealing flashes of the iconic heel added a bold, contemporary edge, while hand-finished bags reinforced the label’s dedication to artisanal detail and timeless luxury.
Balancing urban glamour with organic inspiration, Casadei’s Fall/Winter 2026/2027 collection presented a confident expression of contemporary elegance, one where protection, power, and allure exist effortlessly side by side.




International law
law in the context of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
By Mariam E Teladia
International law is an indispensable, evolving project aimed at governing an inherently anarchic global system. Its application is wide-ranging, touching nearly every aspect of state interaction, and compliance is often achieved through diplomatic pressure and mutual self-interest. However, its inherent weakness lies in its structural dependence on state consent and the absence of a universally accepted enforcement authority capable of compelling even the strongest nations to comply.
The reality remains that while international law sets the rules of the game, those rules are often bent or broken when the political costs of adherence become too high for powerful players. Its continued relevance depends on bridging this persistent gap between legal prescription and political performance.
The application of international law in the context of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict presents a disheartening reality that highlights systemic inequities and failures. Despite numerous United Nations resolutions emphasizing the rights of Palestinians, the enforcement of these laws remains inconsistent and largely ineffective. This lack of accountability not only perpetuates a cycle of violence but also undermines the potential for peace and stability in the region.

One critical aspect contributing to this sad reality is the selective enforcement of international law. Various UN resolutions have affirmed Palestinian self-determination and condemned actions such as settlement expansion in occupied territories, however, these resolutions often go unheeded by powerful states that wield significant influence over international decision-making processes. The United States, for instance, has historically used its veto power to shield Israel from accountability for violations under international humanitarian law.
The ongoing conflict in Palestine presents a stark illustration of the challenges inherent in the application of international law. Despite numerous resolutions and legal frameworks established by international bodies, the plight of Palestinians remains dire. This situation not only underscores the limitations of international law but also highlights the urgent need for a comprehensive approach to uplift Palestinian society and ensure their rights are respected and protected.

International law, as articulated through various United Nations resolutions, emphasizes self-determination, human rights, and territorial integrity. However, these principles have often been undermined in practice. The Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories has persisted for decades, with frequent violations reported against civilians. For instance, according to reports from organizations such as Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International, there is ample evidence of unlawful killings, displacement of populations, and restrictions on movement imposed on Palestinians. The apparent impunity enjoyed by Israel reflects a failure within international legal mechanisms to hold states accountable for violations committed against occupied populations.

The plight of Palestinians thus demands urgent attention, not only from international legal bodies but also from global civil society, to ensure their fundamental rights are upheld and their dignity restored. Thus we continue to praise the Almighty, and seek an abundance of forgiveness, and continue to pray sincerely that the Palestinians rights be upheld, and that the UN along with the International Criminal Justice System be proactive in the implementation and application of International Law to uplift and maintain the rights of the Palestinians and that the land of Al Aqsa be protected by the Almighty. Aameen
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A Season for Slowness
Strength and Gentle Care
by Amiena Ally
There is a quiet shift that comes with winter. The mornings feel slower, the air sharper, and the body begins to ask for something different. Where summer pulls us outward, winter draws us in. It becomes less about doing more, and more about doing what matters, with care.
At Wellness Loft, this is often the season where we see people begin to feel the weight of the year. Energy dips, immunity weakens, and there is a subtle sense of fatigue that is not always physical. Winter, in many ways, asks us to reset. Not through drastic change, but through small, consistent choices that support both body and mind.

Nourishment That Strengthens from Within
One of the first places to begin is with food. During winter, the body responds well to warmth and simplicity. Meals that are slow-cooked, nourishing, and easy to digest tend to support the immune system more effectively than quick, processed options.
We often encourage clients to return to basics. Homemade soups, broths, and stews filled with vegetables, herbs, and spices can do more than just fill you up. Ingredients such as garlic, ginger, turmeric, and leafy greens quietly support the body’s natural defences. Citrus fruits add a fresh layer of vitamin support, even in colder months. It is not about overcomplicating your diet. It is about choosing foods that feel grounding and restorative, day after day.

Warmth and Hydration, Even When You Do Not Feel Thirsty
Hydration tends to be overlooked in winter. Because we are not sweating as much, we often drink less, without realising the impact this has on energy, skin, and digestion. In our sessions, we often notice that simple shifts make a difference. Replacing cold drinks with warm herbal teas, sipping on hot water with lemon, or including more soups in your meals can help maintain hydration without effort. There is something deeply comforting about holding a warm cup in your hands. It slows you down, even for a moment.
Supporting the Heart with Healthy Fats
Winter is also a time when the body benefits from steady, nourishing energy. Healthy fats play an important role here, not only for physical health but for overall balance. Foods such as avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil provide essential fatty acids that support heart health, brain function, and sustained energy. They also help you feel satisfied, which can reduce the tendency to reach for quick, less nourishing snacks. We often remind clients that balance is key. A small handful of nuts, seeds added to a meal, or cooking with good quality oils can be enough.
Vitamin D and the Importance of Light
With shorter days and less direct sunlight, many people experience lower vitamin D levels in winter. This can affect mood, immunity, and overall wellbeing. Even on colder days, stepping outside for a short walk can help. Natural light has a subtle but powerful effect on how we feel. Where needed, foods such as eggs and certain fish can support vitamin intake, and supplementation can be considered with the right guidance. Sometimes, it is simply about making the effort to step into the daylight, even briefly.

Gentle Movement That Feels Sustainable
Movement does not need to be intense to be effective, especially during winter. In fact, this is often the time to soften routines and choose forms of activity that feel supportive rather than demanding.
We often see that when people shift towards gentler movement such as stretching, yoga, or short walks, they are more consistent. Circulation improves, the mind feels clearer, and there is less resistance to staying active. There is no pressure to perform. The aim is to keep the body moving in a way that feels natural.
Good Hygiene as Everyday Care
Seasonal illness becomes more common in winter, which makes simple hygiene practices even more important. Regular hand washing, keeping shared spaces clean, and being mindful of daily habits can reduce the spread of illness significantly. It is often the simplest habits that make the biggest difference. At the same time, we always encourage people to listen to their bodies. Rest is not a setback. It is part of recovery.
A Time to Reset, Not to Push
Beyond the physical, winter has a way of highlighting emotional fatigue. The busyness of the year, combined with shorter days, can leave many feeling drained without fully understanding why. This is something we see often at Wellness Loft. Clients come in not just with physical concerns, but with a sense of needing to slow down, to breathe, and to feel more balanced again. Winter offers that opportunity, if you allow it.
It is not a season to push harder. It is a season to soften, to reflect, and to care for yourself with intention. Through nourishing food, gentle movement, mindful habits, and the right support, it becomes less about getting through winter, and more about using it as a time to restore.

And sometimes, that is exactly what the body has been asking for all along…
Almora
Botanica Elevates Everyday Self-Care With Curated Wellness Gift Sets

In a world where wellness and beauty continue to intertwine, Almora Botanica introduces a refined collection of curated gift sets designed to transform daily rituals into moments of intentional self-care. Rooted in Ayurvedic wellness and backed by clinically driven formulations, the collection reflects a growing shift toward mindful beauty that nourishes both skin and senses.
Thoughtfully assembled for modern lifestyles, the On The Go Essentials Gift Set combines practicality with indulgence. Featuring the brand’s Purifying Gel Cleanser and Restorative Hand Cream, the set is designed for effortless skincare while travelling or navigating busy routines. Complemented by a plush velvet headband and signature vanity pouch, the collection brings a polished sense of convenience to everyday wellness.
For those seeking deeper nourishment, the Restore & Repair Gift Set focuses on rejuvenation and skin recovery through a luxurious trio of targeted essentials. Including the Serum for Fine Lines, Restorative Day Face Oil, and Restorative Hand Cream, the set delivers hydration and restoration through formulas inspired by holistic beauty traditions and modern skincare science.
Minimal yet elevated in presentation, the sets embody the essence of contemporary wellness — where functionality meets quiet luxury. From carefully selected ingredients to elegant packaging, each detail reinforces Almora Botanica’s commitment to intentional beauty rituals designed for everyday living.
Blending Ayurvedic heritage with modern innovation, the collection offers more than skincare alone; it presents a lifestyle rooted in balance, restoration, and refined simplicity.



FINO Soothe WOMAN Range
Hair removal is easy, it’s how your skin feels and reacts afterwards that matters
Hair removal. It’s something you do regularly, often quickly, and usually with a focus on the end result – smooth hair free skin. But what happens afterwards? That’s where things often change.
Sometimes after hair removal your skin feels sensitive, slightly dry and itchy, especially with new hair growth. Over time, you might get ingrown hairs and bumps
What’s actually happening to your skin? Whether you’re shaving, waxing, lasering or using a depilatory, you’re not just removing hair, you’re also affecting the surface of your skin.
This can reduce moisture levels, leave the skin more exposed and make it more sensitive for a period of time afterwards
When the hair begins to grow back, it needs to push through the hair follicle. If the skin is dry and irritated, or the follicle clogged, that process becomes more difficult. That’s when problems like itching irritation and ingrown hairs can begin to develop
This is why the focus shouldn’t just be on removal
If your skin isn’t supported it can become dry, more reactive and more prone to irritation

But if it is properly supported, it tends to stay calm, feel more comfortable and remain smoother for longer


FINO Soothe WOMAN Range was created with this full process in mind.
Through science we harness the power of nature to bring you products that are carefully create by a Cosmetic Scientist and a professional make-up artist. FINO does not just remove hair but also supports your skin before, during, and after the hair removal process
Focusing on two key stages …
FINO Soothe WOMAN Hair Removal Cream for Intimate and Sensitive areas
Dermatologically Tested – Gentle, effective and efficient rapid hair removal
FINO Soothe WOMAN Ingrown Hair Balm
Post Hair Removal Care – controls bumps and ingrown hair, reduces irritation and itchiness while hydrating skin and improving elasticity. Can be used anywhere on the body by all skin types and tones


Across the FINO WOMAN range, ingredients are selected to support both removal and recovery. Free from Alcohol and animal by-products
This isn’t about perfection overnight, but with the right approach, your skin usually becomes calmer, smoother and more predictable
Hair removal becomes less of a disruption and more of a routine that works with your skin.

Soft Life
Strong Roots :
The Quiet Work of Winter
by Soraya Schroeder
There’s something about winter that quietly strips life down to its essentials. The trees let go, the air sharpens, and everything slows to a pace we often resist but deeply need. It’s a season of silence, yes; but not emptiness. It’s a sacred kind of quiet. The kind that asks questions we’ve been too busy to answer.
Who am I becoming? What am I holding onto that I’ve outgrown? What actually matters?
We tend to treat winter like an inconvenience to “get through.” Something to survive until softness returns. But what if winter is not a pause in life but the preparation for it?
We joke about “summer bodies being made in winter, “but the truth runs deeper than gym routines and meal plans. Emotional resilience, healing, clarity; all of these are cultivated in the unseen colder seasons of our lives. No one applauds the quiet work and no one sees the inner rewiring. But come summer, it shows.
And yet, many of us spend winter doing the exact opposite of what it invites. Instead of retreating inward, we spiral outward; falling into familiar patterns of stress, worry and overthinking. We grip tighter. We plan harder. We try to control outcomes that were never ours to control.
Because relying on ourselves feels safer… until it doesn’t.

The exhaustion so many women carry is not always from doing too much but from believing we have to. That everything rests on our shoulders, our decisions, our timelines, our understanding. But there is a profound shift, what we call a posture change, when we move from self-reliance to reliance on Allah.
Not being passive. Not detaching. But trusting. Trusting that I will show up but I am not The One in Control.
Think of Hajira (AS). Alone. Uncertain. A mother in the desert with a crying child and no visible solution. She didn’t sit still waiting for relief. She moved. She ran between Safa and Marwah, heart racing, mind searching. There was fear. There was urgency. There was even panic. But there was no doubt in Allah.
That’s the distinction.

She took action. Not because she believed she would solve it, but because she trusted that Allah would. And then, from a place she could not have imagined, relief came. Zamzam didn’t appear where she was running; it appeared where she was rooted.
Sometimes the opening doesn’t come from where we’re striving… but from where we surrender. Because the bulk of our stress comes from relying on our capabilities and not on what is possible for Allah.
Winter teaches us this if we let it. It teaches us to sit in the in-between. To release the illusion of control. To ask deeper questions instead of chasing quicker answers. To rest. Not as laziness or avoidance, but as restoration.
And most importantly, it reminds us of something we so easily forget: You are already sufficed. You are already honoured.
Not because you’ve figured everything out. Not because you’ve healed every wound or perfected every role. But because your worth was never tied to your productivity or your outcomes. It was given by Allah; unchanging, unwavering.
So the pressure softens.
You don’t have to become everything overnight. You don’t have to carry every burden alone. You don’t have to have a five-year plan during a season that is clearly asking you to slow down and just… be.

Winter is not asking you to bloom.
It’s asking you to root. To clarify not just your intentions but your goals, your values and who you want to be along the way.
And yes, you can still drink your coffee, wear three layers, and dramatically complain about how cold it is while doing this inner work. Growth doesn’t require you to become a completely different person but rather a more aligned one.
So this season, instead of resisting the stillness, lean into it. Reflect and realign. Take the steps you can, like Hajira (AS) did but let your heart rest in the certainty that the outcome is not yours to carry.
Because when the seasons shift, as they will, you won’t just emerge lighter. You’ll emerge anchored.
Golden Goose
Blends Heritage and Sustainability in New Capsule Collection

Golden Goose officially launches its latest sneaker silhouette, Marathon Speed, bringing the style to a global audience following its exclusive debut in China and Korea in 2025. Inspired by the idea that life itself is a marathon, the sneaker embodies movement, individuality, and purposeful self-expression.

Drawing influence from the athletic culture of the 1970s, Marathon Speed reinterprets Golden Goose’s original Marathon silhouette through a refined low-sole design. The collection channels the nostalgic energy of vintage American track and field while maintaining the brand’s signature handcrafted aesthetic.

Designed as a genderless silhouette, the sneaker arrives in three distinct colorways featuring a mix of bold textures and premium materials, including leopard-print ponyhair, tobacco suede, and distressed black nappa leather. Finished with an amber outsole and the label’s recognizable worn-in detailing, each pair balances sport-inspired functionality with effortless street-style appeal.
At the heart of the launch is Golden Goose’s Co-Creation philosophy, allowing wearers to personalize their sneakers through custom details that reflect their own identity and style journey. The result is a collection that feels both personal and timeless, designed for individuals who move through life with creativity, confidence, and intention.
Marathon Speed is now available at select Golden Goose boutiques worldwide, including locations at Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates, as well as online through the brand’s official website.
African Fashion Week:
African Fashion Week
By Maryam Mkwanda
Editor’s Note
We had initially planned to attend and cover the African Fashion Week Gala Dinner Showcase. Unfortunately, due to unforeseen circumstances, the event was cancelled at the last minute. In the spirit of continuing to celebrate African creativity and fashion excellence, writer Maryam generously stepped in and shared her experience of the African Fashion Week showcase held at Sandton Square. Her contribution ensured that this remarkable event could still be featured and enjoyed by our readers.
African Fashion Week Celebrates Creativity, Culture and Style



Fashion enthusiasts gathered at Wakanda in Sandton Square, Johannesburg, on 8 May for an unforgettable showcase of creativity and culture at African Fashion Week. The event brought together designers from diverse backgrounds and design philosophies, proving once again that African fashion continues to evolve while remaining deeply rooted in identity and storytelling.
The evening featured collections from Sorella, Kingdom of Daughters, Anglia Apparel, Lindani Styling, MC Alpine and Silk n Cotton, each bringing something unique to the runway. From contemporary silhouettes to traditional influences, the collections catered to a wide variety of tastes and markets, ensuring that every guest could see themselves reflected in the designs.
One of the standout features of the show was the impressive use of fabrics and textures. Designers experimented boldly with patterns, cuts and layering techniques, creating garments that were both wearable and visually striking. The diversity in design highlighted the versatility of African fashion and its ability to appeal across generations and style preferences.
For me, Anglia Apparel stole the show. Their collection of African-inspired gowns combined elegance with modesty, creating pieces that felt timeless while remaining fashion-forward. The garments celebrated femininity in a way that was both graceful and empowering, making them some of the most memorable looks of the evening.




The gentlemen were not forgotten either. Lindani Styling delivered sharp, stylish looks tailored specifically for men, offering modern silhouettes and sophisticated designs that ensured fashion was inclusive across genders.
Meanwhile, Kingdom of Daughters, a collective made up of five women, showcased beautiful skirts designed for women of all shapes and sizes. Their focus on inclusivity and body positivity stood out, reinforcing the idea that fashion should celebrate every body type.


African Fashion Week was more than just a runway show; it was a celebration of culture, creativity and entrepreneurship. Events such as these continue to provide a platform for African designers to tell stories through fashion while connecting with audiences who appreciate artistry and authenticity.
If this showcase proved anything, it is that African fashion is not only thriving, but also helping to shape the future of global style.

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