< PreviousOn The Covercome back up for air. Sometimes I linger around for too long.” As for the rest of Nikkie’s astrological signs, she has a Scorpio moon and a Cancer rising. With so much water in her chart, it’s no surprise that she’s a queen of transformation. A glittering welcome We probably didn’t need to ask the difference between glam in The Netherlands versus the Middle East, but we did anyway. “Back home, it’s so low-key. A little bit of lip balm, mascara, and some highlighter. When you come to Dubai, it’s eyeliner, glitter, smoky eyes. The rst time I came to Dubai, I felt so at peace wearing my full beat. I was sporting this rhinestone makeup look one day and people were like ‘Yes girl, love this look for lunch.’ And I was like, ‘lunch?!’ Here everyone loves their glam. If there’s any country that celebrates glam, it’s the UAE.” She carries Dubai with her, quite literally, everyday. Nikkie laughs and explains that her veneers were done here. She has the Dubai vibe on her lobes too, as one could easily argue that Nikkie’s ears are as sparkly as the UAE nightscape. With a total of 15 piercings, it’s easy to get blinded by all the bling. She’s a dedicated girl when it comes to her shimmer. “I love piercings and I’ve literally changed my life for them. I sleep on a travel pillow at night so my ear doesn’t touch any surfaces. I’m willing to go far for them.” Will she get any more? “There’s not much real estate left on these ears but maybe one more wouldn’t hurt.” Jokes aside, it’s evident in chatting with Nikkie, the love she feels for the UAE. “One thing I just love about Dubai is how safe and supported I feel when I’m here. It makes me so proud that my products are for sale in the UAE and to know that my picture is up in Watsons stores. Trips to Dubai are always high on my wish-list.” The One It’s easy to attribute Nikkie’s inner and outer glow to her skincare routine, makeup artistry, and her effervescent personality, but she also has the unmissable radiance of newlywed bliss. On 6 September of this year, Nikkie married Dylan Drossaers, her boyfriend of four years. In true Nikkie fashion, the story of their romance comes with more than a few laughs. “I always knew who Dylan was, but we never had that magical click. We met at a fair, and I don’t know what happened, but I was so intrigued by him. This guy was doing something to me, and I didn’t know what it was, but I had to explore it.” That wasn’t happily ever after though because Dylan seemed to be stalling. “We hung out, texted for hours, but he never made a move. I was wondering if I smelled, wore too much makeup, or maybe it was the lashes. I asked him if something was holding him back.” There was, and it turned out to be Nikkie’s manager, Wes. Once again, probably not the way you’re imagining it to be. “Dylan thought I was in a relationship with Wes. Being the gentleman he is, Dylan didn’t want to overstep his mark.” As soon as Nikkie cleared up the confusion, the two started dating and the rest is history. All things Nimya As of one of the top makeup inuencers, we imagine that Nikkie was asked repeatedly when she’d launch her own brand. “I held back from creating my own brand for so long because I was too scared. I’m such a perfectionist and if people had told me they didn’t like a product, I would have taken it so personally.” When she announced that she was bringing out her beauty brand, Nimya, her fans went wild. Founded on the principle of creating your own identity in a world full of labels, Nimya represents Nikkie’s empowering messages of self-love through the universal language of skincare, makeup, and, in true Nikkie style, a portable fan. “There’s so much that goes into launching a brand - the ideas, the formulas, the packaging, the names, the PR, the shipping, customer service. Sometimes I wonder what I get myself into. But then I get messages like, ‘I’m menopausal and your Blow Before You Glow fan is the only thing keeping me sane’ and ‘the License to Glow Serum has really changed my skin’ and it’s so rewarding. It makes me realise that I did do it right, I did When you come to Dubai, it’s eyeliner, glitter, smoky eyes. The rst time I came to Dubai, I felt so at peace wearing my full beat. Hat: Evelyn McDermott Millinery Jewellery: Talent’s own 41 On The Coverget the formulas right, and I’m helping people with their own insecurities.” Perhaps the brand had a greater meaning for Nikkie, too. An exercise in self-trust to prove to herself that she could make it happen. The products were formulated with her Middle Eastern besties in mind. “One of my biggest goals is longevity. All those hours we spend on our makeup, I want it to last. The Where It All Starts cream is like a makeup magnet. It’s a little bit sticky and it helps makeup to stay on the face. My Set It and Forget It setting spray creates a protective layer on the skin to keep makeup intact and oil at bay. I know people in the UAE love their powder and baking. My setting spray transforms powdery skin into real-life skin again, without looking oily. It’s designed to keep makeup on.” “Now that my rst palette is launched, I can’t wait to see the looks. I am so excited to see the creativity of people. I just can’t wait.” As a homage to her heritage, Nikkie chose orange and blue as her brand colours. In a world full of rose golds, Nimya stands out. In addition to the vibrant packaging, she included the blue and orange tones as powders in her palette and even included a few Dutch names for the shadows. “The palette is a comfort palette: everyday, wearable glam.” As for the surprising pop of her brand colours, “I put them in there to dare you to step outside of your comfort zone.” Btw, you can get your hands on Nimya products in the GCC, head over to Watsons stores or shop online at nimya.ae. Social media today For anyone who is looking to start their social media careers now, Nikkie advises to begin with TikTok. “People’s attention spans are much lower now and TikTok caters to that. The long- form videos that were popular on YouTube seem to be more of a thing of the past.” Nikkie herself is a self-described TikTok devotee. “One thing I’ve seen on TikTok is that brands pack orders while livestreaming. It’s so addicting to watch. There’s an account I’m obsessed with called Highland Crystals. They have a huge tumbler with crystals, and you can order scoops. They take a big basket and scoop out your crystals. This account literally has me in a chokehold. I wake up and think, I’ve got to see how the scoops are this morning. I can’t stop watching it.” Is she a crystal hoarder? “I don’t have any crystals in my house yet. I know a lot of people get strength from them. Honestly, I’m this close to ordering a scoop. I just want to see what it looks like.” As far as her own social media career goes, one thing is for sure: it’s thriving. “It’s a luxury that my job is something that I’m passionate about. I love learning about TikTok trends, whether it’s crystals for the house or crystals on the eyes. There are times when algorithms and shipping partners can be a pain. But when you resolve it and work it out, it’s all the more satisfying. I am extremely lucky with the life I have and the support I have.” What’s next We don’t need to even look into our crystal ball to know that Nikkie’s future is limitless. She knows it too. “Looking forward, I want to work with Harry Styles or Taylor Swift. I would love to have them on my YouTube channel. I did Eurovision and it was an absolute dream. I feel like there are spaces for me in TV hosting in the USA. Right now, I’m focused on creating more products for Nimya.” Something that’ll never change is the amount of love she puts into everything she does. “With everything I do and everything I put out, I pour myself into it wholeheartedly. I never take any shortcuts and I never take the easy route. I fully stand behind all my videos, products, masterclasses, and TV hosting gigs. My intention is to always translate that dedication, passion, and love I feel to everyone who comes into contact with all that I do. We feel it, Nikkie. We truly do. H A I R : B E T T Y B E E P R O D U C ER S: STEF F H AW K ER & T W INK LE STA N LY C O NTE NT D I R E C T O R : R O U H A N A E L H AG E D I G ITA L E D IT O R : SA R A A L H U M I R I LI GHTI N G AS SISTA NT: YASIR A LI SH A H H A I R AS S I STA NT: V U H O N G K Y A N H BEAU T Y BY N I M YA , SH OP PA BLE AT WAT S ONS . A E Headpiece: Yana Markova 42 On The CoverDress: Comme Des Stars Earring: Yana Markova 44 Your pretty mani deserves the limelight, and so do all these gorgeous Arab jewellery brands. From Lebanese Sophia Beirut’s pearl pieces to Fyne Jewellery’s dainty, sustainably created diamonds, the Middle East’s nest bling has so much to offer this szn. Take note: Stacking is the only way we’re wearing jewellery this season PHO TOGRAPHY B Y EFRAIM EVIDOR, ; S T YLING B Y MERCEDE S FLEMING AND BHARGI DE S A I Rings (left to right): High Hopes “Amal” Signet by Fyne Jewellery, Dhs3,340; Les Femmes Lumières Leonie by Sophia Beirut, Dhs327; Pale Leaves by Donna Hourani, Dhs9,916 Bracelets (top to bottom): Whatever Femme Fatale Bracelets in Pink Enamel, Black Enamel and Turquoise Enamel, Dhs5,250 each; Starstruck Tennis Bracelet by By Mystique, Dhs6,800; Madrid Bracelet by Sophia Beirut, Dhs327 Rings (left to right): Vivid Leaves Ring, Dhs9,916; Fallen Leaves Ring, Dhs15,425 both by Donna Hourani Bracelets (top to bottom): Crossroads Sapphire Bangle, Dhs6,900; Crossroads Diamond Bangle, Dhs7,950 both by Maveroc; Astra Sparkle Bangle by By Mystique, Dhs6,300; Crossroads Tsavorite Bangle by Maveroc, Dhs6,900; Rachel Bracelet by Sophia Beirut, Dhs327 The Stackable Bangle by Azza Fahmy, Dhs2,562 Claudia Bracelet by Sophia Beirut, Dhs165 Love Calligraphy Cuû by Azza Fahmy, Dhs18,273 BY SA R A A LH U M I R I Menage a Trois Ring by Maveroc, Dhs5,400The sophisticated trend is all about options: Wear one with a coordinating top for a posh situation or with separates for a more casual feel. Pair one with long boots or pointed- toe pumps. No matter what, though, you’ll be serving a side of delicious leg. Mini Skirts BY M E G A N U Y A N D A N D R E A Z E N D E JAS The itty-bittier, the better. Fashion is having a 1. Courrèges, Dhs1,980, courreges.com. 2. Jonathan Simkhai, Dhs2,000, jonathan simkhai.com. 3. H&M, Dhs106, hm.com. 4. Sandy Liang, Dhs1094, sandyliang.info. 5. Coperni, Dhs3,670, coperniparis.com. BOGDAR JONATHAN SIMKHAI 16ARLINGTON JONATHAN SIMKHAI 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 16ARLINGTON Mini Moment CL OCKWISE FROM LEFT : COUR TE SY BOGD AR ; COUR TE SY JONA THAN SIMKHAI ; GET T Y IMA GE S. 1 2 3 4 5 45 FashionCosmo: Why did you decide to start SANTA BRANDS? Yana Stanislavska: It wasn’t totally on a whim, but there was a certain degree of spontaneity. Before SANTA BRANDS, I had a career as a lawyer, which was fullling and exciting but didn’t leave much room for creativity. This artistic energy within me needed to be addressed, so one day I just knew that it was it! I needed to start anew in an industry that always seemed to be magic to me. C: Tell us the story behind the name? YS: I’ve named the brand after my daughter, Santa - my greatest source of motivation and energy. I wanted to create something that would make her believe it’s always a great idea to follow your dreams. Setting an example of a woman in business for her is something that makes me work harder and aim for the biggest prizes. C: The brand has truly taken over the internet, with the biggest celebrities and inýuencers across the world wearing your pieces. Did you ever anticipate this level of success? YS: It’s hard to anticipate such things, but I indeed dreamed of it. SANTA BRANDS was created to share a very specic kind of energy - erce, condent, quirky and sexy. My designs are more of a mood-setter rather than ‘it’ pieces just for an on-trend look. C: What was the ürst piece that went viral? YS: The transparent crystal dresses were an undoubted success. I love all our designs and feel very happy about their success, but this was a breakthrough. Santa Brands is about to take over Known for its high-octane glamour, crystallised cuts, and glittering paillettes, Santa Brands founder Yana Stanislavska has undisputedly achieved her goal of leaving a mark on the fashion scene. Now, the Ukrainian designer is ready to conquer the world. C: You’re headquartered in Ukraine – how has the impact on the country over the last year aûected your business? YS: Logistics, supply and production processes indeed became harder to conduct, but we’re not scared of hardships. Such tragic circumstances are hard to live through, but we’re a brave and resourceful nation, so the work was restored as soon as possible. Business owners understand that we’re responsible for our workers, their salaries and taxes that help our country, so wallowing in self pity and doing nothing wasn’t really an option. I feel a responsibility to use my platform and raise awareness for my country right now. In the rst days of war, our glamorous, easy-going and atmospheric Instagram turned into a wartime chronicle. We shared stories, ways to help, and documentations of the absolute atrocities Russian army makes Ukrainians face. I am a citizen of Ukraine and so are my colleagues – and it’s our duty to do everything we can to make this horror stop. C: SANTA BRANDS recently launched in the UAE on Ounass. Why do you think women in the Middle East love your brand? YS: Because they’re known for their glamorous style and aesthetically beautiful taste. C: Where do you hope to see SANTA BRANDS in the next üve years? YS: On top of the world and in the most exquisite wardrobes! t n a f had g m for me st ew in magic ? ghter, on ng a ng an r is and igner isssss rerereadadda y y y y totototo ccccononononquququququerererer ttttheheheheh wwwwororororldldldlld.. Neon Lime Top, Dhs1,570 Flower Obsession Set, Dhs2,700 Neon Lime Mini Skirt, Dhs1,570 From left: One Sleeve Dress, Dhs4,000, Sydney Mini Dress, Dhs2,220 Black Mini Dress, Dhs3,000 Silver High Gloves, Dhs1,600 Maxi High Stockings, Dhs1,800 ALL PEICES AVAILABLE AT SANTA-BRANDS.COM 46 FashionThey’ve officially entered their main character era. BY C H LO E M E T Z G E R If you’re not wearing hair accessories, we don’t know what to tell you... Check your feed—decked-out hair is having a resurgence. But here’s what the pics don’t tell you: Those ornate headbands and dainty pins and clips are just for show. One strong gust of wind—or too-strong marg— and your half-up becomes a whole- down by evening. The unseen hero here is a base of clear elastics that covertly anchors your style in place. If you don’t already have natural texture (hi, braids and curls), rake some texturizing paste through your ends for a finish that feels defined and purposeful— versus just thrown together while leaving the house (even if it probably/ definitely was). When you want your hair... Kitsch No-Snag Clear Elastics, Dhs23 for 100, mykitsch.com Pureology Style + Protect Texture Paste, Dhs432, ninthavenue.ae Petit Moments Claw Clip in Trend, Dhs55, petitmoments.com Scünci Elite Mixed Glam Bobby Pins, Dhs37 for 6, ulta.com YOUR TOOL KIT Half Up @LELETNY @SHOPMACHETE @CHUNKS_SHOP @JENNIFERBEHR TOOL KIKKIKKKIKIKIKIKIKKKKIKIIIIKIKKKIKKKKKKIKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKK TTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTT 47 FashionAmika Perk Up Plus Dry Shampoo, Dhs100 for 5.3 oz., revolve.com Insert Name Here INH BB Pins, Dhs37 for 25, inhhair.com The Hair Edit Sleek Chignon Pin, Dhs37, thehairedit.com Emi Jay Big Effing Clip in Brownstone, Dhs125, emijay.com All Up Perfection is the enemy of a great updo. What you actually want is controlled chaos: major texture, some loose ends, casually placed accessories, etc. The easiest way to re-create IDGAF vibes is with dry shampoo (especially if you have slippery, too-clean hair) and bobby pins. Blast your hair with dry shampoo for grit; twist, twirl, and smash up your hair; then pin the hell out of it to lock the “chill” in place before adding your clips and barrettes. @LELETNY @AFROANIHAIRLOVE @KANEL_DENMARK@CHUNKS_SHOP@KRISTIN_ESS thehairedit.com hidi YOUR TOOL KIT When you want your hair... THIS P A GE , COUNTERCL OCKWISE FROM T O P: COUR TE SY AFRO ANI LIMITED ; COUR TE SY LELET NY ; COUR TE SY KANEL; MELISS A KA GERER ; COUR TE SY KR IS TIN E S S HAIR. OPPOSITE P A GE , CL OCKWISE FROM T O P LEFT : COUR TE SY ROOM SHOP ; M . K. S ADLER ; COUR TE SY ROOM SHOP ; NIL U ZARGHAM ; M . K. S ADLER. 48 FashionFrance Luxe Cutout Oval Tige Boule Barrette in South Sea, Dhs60, franceluxe.com Kristin Ess Hair Bow Barrette, Dhs74, ulta.com NatureLab Tokyo Perfect Shine Oil Mist, Dhs62, naturelab.com Fekkai Clean Stylers Flexi-Hold Hairspray, Dhs95 for 6.6 oz., fekkai.com All accessories need a little TLC to keep them from sliding or peacing out entirely. Enter: hairspray—but not in the “duh” way. Before styling, spray the backs of your pins and barrettes to add some grip that’ll keep them adhered to your hair. Working with slippery fabrics like silk? Mist your hair with hairspray until it’s slightly tacky, then layer on your bows and wraps. And don’t worry about looking stiff all over—a dab of oil smoothed through your hair will dissolve any hairspray crunch and replace it with a natural, polished shine. When you want your hair... Down @KANEL_DENMARK @ROOMSHOP@JENNIFERBEHR@ROOMSHOP @JENNIFERBEHR K yo e 2, m Nature Perf Oil M natu n Fran Cu YOUR TOOL KIT 49 FashionNext >