Unpacking: March

I had a plan...March had a different one. Let’s unpack.

How are we already in March? I swear I was just packing away the Christmas decorations, and now we’re here…hovering between the last bit of ‘the Dubai version’ of winter and the first hint of spring. March always feels like that weird in-between phase. It’s not exactly time to fully embrace the warm weather, but also…I’m kind of over dull winter skin and craving tanned, sunkissed skin.

I feel like March is the month where things start shifting…our routines, our moods, and our beauty habits. Skin needs a refresh…kind of like you’re shedding the dull, dead layer, energy levels need a bit of boost, and as per usual, I’m questioning if my wardrobe even makes sense anymore. I have to admit that I question this countless times throughout the year. I can’t be the only one?

So, let’s unpack March. The beauty products, the trends, the little things making life feel fresh again…and sometimes a little confused. Because if we’re stepping into a new season, we might as well be honest about it.

I had this vision of March being that month…the one where I finally get my life plan in order…you know, the plan I made in January. The clean diet, good sleep, sticking to a schedule…all the things that make you feel like you actually have your sh*t together. I was going to be ahead of work…like really ahead of work (this is something I can just never seem to ever do), feeling fresh, glowing from the inside out, and just thriving in general.

In my head, I had it all planned out. March was going to be productive and balanced. I was going to get ahead with work before my sister came into town (because in all honesty, whenever family plan to visit, we basically work overtime for two weeks straight beforehand just to be able to enjoy the time they’re here). But that usually isn’t enough for me…I have this wildly ambitious intent to also stay ahead for at least a week after they leave so I don’t feel rushed the second they leave. Smart, right?

Well…let’s just say March had other plans.

You know when you have the best intentions, but life just kind of laughs in your face? That was March.

I did manage to stay low-carb (which, considering my sister and brother-in-law were in town, is a personal achievement, so I deserve an award). I don’t actually know how I resisted to be honest, but I did, and I’m so proud of myself. There were even a few nights where we wrapped up early - mostly leading up to Bobby’s Spinneys Cycle race (which he did so well at!), so I took full advantage of it. I stuck to my usual 6am start, got some solid work done in the mornings, and managed to write at least one newsletter every other day. Not exactly the level of productivity I was aiming for…but I’ll take it.

Then came the plot twist. My Mum and Dad decided to make a surprise visit toward the end of my sister’s trip. I love seeing them (especially since I hadn’t seen my dad in ages). The surprise element kind of threw me off. I think I spent the first few days of their trip working non-stop so that I could actually spend time with them and relax without stressing about work. It’s the end of March, and in all honesty, I’m still not caught up on work. And guess what? My sister is coming back…literally tomorrow, for another week - which I’m excited about as we’ll get some one on one time. So at this point, I’m just trying to accept that getting ahead is a fantasy I need to let go of…..just for now at least.

Oh, and then Bobby made a last-minute trip to London for a Porsche Dakar event in Wales, which meant even more schedule juggling. But on the upside, I got some rare alone time with my parents, which I cherished because it never happens. Those little moments are everything to me.

Somewhere in the middle of all this, I read my first fiction book that I literally couldn’t put down (full debrief in my last newsletter). And just when I thought I was getting through March in one piece, I got hit with a two day cold…which then turned into fluid in my ears…which then turned into vertigo. And I’m still getting over it.

So, yeah. March didn’t exactly go as planned. But honestly? I wouldn’t change a thing.

Spent a day at Nobu by the Beach, aka my favorite beach club. Super chill, no chavvy tourists, and most importantly…zero pressure to look a certain way. Just good vibes, great food, and the kind of atmosphere that makes you want to stay all day.

Finally went to Ling Ling for food instead of just drinks, and it did not disappoint. The food is Insane. Worth every bite, and now officially on my go-to dinner list.

My sister wanted her ears pierced so the obvious choice was Maria Tash (where I’ve had my piercings). When she first told me, it sounded exciting…I was fully expecting something cool, like a Helix or Conch piercing. Turns out she just needed her normal lobe re-pierced. Groundbreaking. I did try and convince her to try something different, but realistically I don’t think it would suit a high-flying lawyer! But at least she got the full luxury piercing experience.

Had a Padel day, but not before shopping all morning…which we really didn’t expect to tire us out so much. By the time we got to the game, my muscles were already destroyed from leg day the day before.

And thanks to my sister (again), I did my first-ever Reformer Pilates class. She got me into Padel (which I’d love to do more often but you need a partner, and I don’t think hubby is as into as me), and now she’s got me hooked on this too. I found a place not too far from me that focuses on longterm health and lifestyle…Connect Pilates. We did a private duet class, and I loved it so much that I went ahead and booked ten private sessions. Who even am I? Pilates girl era is in full swing.

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• META RayBan Smart Glasses - I can’t begin to tell you how excited I am about these. I think this purchase genuinly gave me more joy than buying a bag or shoes. They don’t disappoint by the way. You can record vertical content (literally through your eyes), listen to music, answer calls, make calls, take pictures, ask questions. It’s like having your own personal assistant that’s tailored to you.

• Lime Beige Wool Blazer - This oversized blazer is so lightweight and comfy. It’s perfect for spring and the sizing is great. Sometimes ‘oversized’ can be a bit too oversized…this is perfect.

• Lime Satin Maxi Skirt - I’ve been on the hunt for the perfect fitting satin skirt. This is it. It’s fitted and slightly fluted at the ends and an actual maxi length.

• Oliver Peoples X Khaite 1984c Flat Top Sunglasses - I’ve wanted these from the moment I saw them. I had them delivered to my sister in the UK as it worked out cheaper so she’s bringing them with her. I’m kind of in love with them.

• Karen Wazan Carolyn Sunglasses - I really did need a sunglasses upgrade. Honestly, I did. I’ve been wearing the same MiuMiu and Saint Laurent ones for ages. I have plenty of others but I’m maintaining I needed more. These are perfectly sized and lightweight.

• Frankie Shop Zion Bomber Red Jacket - definitely out of my comfort zone with the color but I kind of love it. I found a slightly darker red version so I may just go for that…not sure if this is too bright for me.

• Bottega Veneta Embellished Aviator Style Sunglasses - Clearly I don’t need another pair, but I went into the Bottega store and tried these….absolutely stunning.

• Dear Frances White Mesh Flats - I want a pair of white or neutral flat shoes that I can wear with jeans. I want comfort and style and I really loved these. I saw that Charles & Keith do an identical pair for a fraction of the price but I’m not sure they have them in stock.

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Let’s talk about the things I’ve been quietly obsessed with lately…because honestly…I can’t keep a beauty secret for long.

First up: the ZIIP Halo. I’ve been using it religiously…this little pocket rocket is no joke. I’ve noticed over the past few years that my jowls have become more prominent (love that for me), so this has become my go-to treatment. It’s actually slimming my lower face area, and the best part? It saves me money and time because I can do it myself at home. If there’s a way to not book a million in-clinic treatments but still get results, I’m all in. By the way you can use my code for a discount: NUZIIP

Speaking of treatments, I just booked myself in for another Aerolase session, and I cannot wait. My first one was that good, and I’ll be sharing the full breakdown with before and after pictures in an upcoming newsletter…because if something works, I’m going to share it!

Now, onto hair…I went for a consultation at my usual skin clinic about hair fall because, honestly, it’s been stressing me out. They recommended Minoxidil and a cocktail of other things, but after doing some research, I decided not to go ahead with it. Apparently, it only works while you’re using it, meaning I’d have to stay on these meds forever. No thanks. I need a long-term fix, not a temporary one. So the hunt for a better solution continues…

And finally…this one even surprised me. I’ve recently stopped over-lining my lips. Not that I was ever crazy with the over-lining, but I definitely used to make them look a little fuller. Recently, I saw a picture of myself with just a tinted lip balm and barely any lip liner, and I loved how natural and balanced it looked. So that’s my new vibe…toned down lips. Never thought I’d say it, but here we are. I’ve had no filler for a couple of years now, and honestly? Best decision I ever made for my face.

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• RMS Cream Eyeshadows - These are the easiest cream eyeshadows to blend! If you want to know what I would buy…this is it. There are shimmer and matte finishes, and you need the smallest amount for great transfer and color. Once they dry, they don’t budge. You can blend with your fingers or a brush. You can thank me later.

• Guerlain Abeille Royale Youth Watery Oil - Wow. This is the ultimate hydration for my skin. If like me, you don’t like using oils on your skin (you may find them too heavy), then this is for you. It’s a hybrid oil that feels ultra lightweight yet gives you the hydration of an oil. Trust me…you’re going to love this.

• Patrick Ta Major Skin Foundation - This is my current go-to foundation for a luminous finish. It literally focuses on luminousity…with just the right amount of coverage, that’s buildable.

• Charlotte Tilbury Eye Trends Eyeshadow Palettes - These are the first mini eyeshadow palettes I love. They have amazing pigment, no fall-out, the shimmer shades actually transfer perfectly onto skin, and the color options are stunning.

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I have to say, I think I’ve finally found a stylist in Dubai who actually gets it. My friend Amrita is the first person in a long time who has truly inspired me when it comes to fashion. I’ve never been one to blindly follow trends…don’t get me wrong, I love fashion, but I only pick out the trends that actually fit my personality and style. And let’s be real, in the fashion world, it’s not always easy to find someone who isn’t subtly (or not-so-subtly) judging you based on whether you’re wearing the latest ‘it’ brand or trend. Maybe Amrita does notice those things, but she definitely doesn’t make me feel judged. And for the first time, I totally understand why people make sure their makeup is flawless before meeting me…because when I met her, I was very aware of how I was dressed.

If you know me, you know I’m a neutral girl through and through. Black, beige, maybe some white…nothing in between. I’ve tried adding color to my wardrobe, but I always end up feeling completely out of my comfort zone (although I am kind of obsessed with the red leather jacket from Frankie Shop…baby steps). But at this point, I’m fully accepting that bold colors just aren’t me when it comes to tops or pants, and that’s okay.

Speaking of The Frankie Shop, I’ve realized this is my kind of style. Even when I do venture into colors, they’re always muted, wearable, and not screaming for attention…that’s it, thats the best way I can put it…I don’t like anything on me that screams for attention (I think that’s how I approach my makeup style too). And can we talk about how rare it is to find a fashion creator who actually shares what they’re wearing? You’d be surprised how many don’t…which, like…why? I really don’t understand! What’s the point of influencing if you’re not actually telling people what you’re wearing? Make it make sense.

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• Paradise - not gonna lie…we’ve already binge watched this. It’s SO GOOD! No spoilers…just watch it.

• Suits LA - Look, it’s not as good as the original Suits with Harvey, but it’s trying. From episode 5 it gets much better. I’d suggest watching the first 4 episodes as background tv.

• The Best Man, Final Chapters - So there are a few movies prior to this series which basically brings you to this. I didn’t watch them and you honestly don’t have to in order to watch this. I really enjoyed this show, it’s real and relatable.

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March, you were chaotic, unpredictable, and a little all over the place…but somehow, I wouldn’t have had it any other way. Between surprise family visits, work taking a backseat, new beauty obsessions, and a battle with vertigo (seriously, why me?), this month was anything but smooth. But if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that life doesn’t wait for us to get ahead or to have the perfect schedule. It just keeps moving. So rather than trying to control every detail, I’m going to try and learn to move with it. Here’s to April…hopefully a little less hectic, but knowing me… probably not.

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