Middle East Photo Diary

We were lucky enough to experience the beauty of the Middle East in the past month, travelling from the UAE to Jordan over two and a half weeks.

The beauty and diversity these countries have to offer is unparalleled. Experience the hot and dusty deserts from Dubai to Wadi Rum, with the stretch of orange and red lasting for miles in every direction. For a change of pace, head to Southern Jordan where the crystal blue waters of the Red Sea reach 30°c and the ancient ruins of Petra stand where they have outlasted civilisations.

Take a peek at what we discovered.

Pier to the Red Sea, Aqaba

Pale in comparison, Jordan

The Ancient City of Petra

Expanses of Wadi Rum

Sunset in the desert, Dubai

Season Trend: Pointed Ankle Boots

Diavolina Pedro Boot

Senso Lyla I

Words by Tara Smith

Ankle boots have resurfaced time and time again from the modern wardrobe and have firmly cemented themselves as staple items for every shopper. While each season, the trend may tweak a little (such as heel height, colour or shape) you can depend on the fact that once Winter and those colder months roll around, the ankle boot will be out in force.

Are you turtley enough for the turtle club?

Cooper St Russian Roulette knit dress in Blush – shop here

Words by Nakita Marendaz

Knitwear is the bread and butter of winter and like a hot cup of tea, a cozy bed and a good book, the turtleneck knit is a necessity this time of year for every woman.

New in Town: Huxtaburger Hawthorn

The Huxtaburger

Words by Tara Smith

Hawthorn already has a stellar reputation when it comes to casual dining, only improved by the recent arrival of Huxtaburger on Glenferrie Road.

Known for ‘hot beef and cold beer’, Huxtaburger chains have been a Melbourne favourite since their inception in 2011. Best described as an American burger bar, Huxtaburger are known for their simple yet delicious burgers, crinkle-cut chips and good vibes around Melbourne. Their newest addition in Hawthorn is the fourth restaurant to open up, and is in prime location to feed the masses on Glenferrie Road.

Season Trend: The Winter Coat

The Fifth Helicopter Coat in Black

Words by Tara Smith

As we say goodbye to Summer for another year it’s time to rethink wardrobe options for the cooler months. Namely, it’s time find the ideal winter coat that has the power to transform any look from boring to warm and stylish in seconds. Winter coats come in many sizes, shapes and colours which can make searching for one a little overwhelming.

New enfant on the block: Entrecote

Words by Nakita Marendaz

Entrecote. Parisian Steakhouse & Bar. Steak frites with unlimited sides of fries and salad. Open till midnight daily. Must we go on?

Know your Nudes

Image source: http://www.maccosmetics.com.au/

Words by Tara Smith

If there is one unsung hero to every lipstick collection it is the staple nude. A quiet achiever yet a must-have addition to every makeup bag, a nude lipstick provides options for everyday, evenings as well as cementing its spot on high-fashion runways. While essential, it can be tricky settling on a shade that you feel confident wearing without looking washed out or feeling too dark.

Top 5 Eats: Glenferrie

Words by Tara Smith

Glenferrie has swelled into a popular eating destination for many. From university students arriving in swarms from Swinburne or for those just looking for a quality breakfast/lunch in a stylish suburb, Glenferrie caters for all. Having been patrons at many of the surrounding eateries of Glenferrie, TheMelbourneCollective compiled a list of the top 5 eats in the area.

Beauty trend: Glowing skin in winter

Words by Nakita Marendaz

As winter closes in on us down under, there’s a trend towards glowing, luminous complexions to counteract the cooler weather’s dulling and drying effect on our skin. That being said, in our opinion there is no better product than the Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk foundation to fake that dewy glow this season.