What We Are Buying Today: ‘Make Space for Happiness’
Updated 24 December 2023
Jasmine Bager
With 2024 around the corner, “Make Space for Happiness” by Tracy McCubbin asks a question many of us are trying to answer: “How do you stop attracting clutter and start magnetizing the life you want?”
Every New Year, people seem to scramble to start it on a clean slate; they sign up for expensive gym memberships, buy new clothes and stock their kitchens with healthy foods. While that might be a good way to help support a better lifestyle, most of us are avoiding the real dusty elephant in the room.
Most of us don’t want to deal with decluttering the stuff we already have in our homes. It is often easier to add new shiny things to our rooms rather than mindfully remove old boring things.
We all have just too much stuff. Most homes — no matter how big or small — have drawers stuffed to the limit and closets bursting with mostly unworn garments and miscellaneous items.
How did it get that way? Why is it so hard to let go of things we don’t even want?
The book goes into what the author McCubbin refers to as “your seven emotional clutter magnets.” They are described as the “empty parts of us that desperately want to attract one of seven important feelings — purpose, love, connection, wisdom, confidence, self-respect and ease.”
“Clutter is not a superficial problem. It’s an emotional issue that requires an astute solution to help people attain life goals,” she writes.
The book goes into the history of clutter to offer insights into why, as a society, we went into consumerism and how effective marketing tricks cheated us into believing a new purchase would equal a new life.
The book looks at the vulnerable traps we all fall into. And it guides readers to try to understand the emotional reasons why we likely hoard or collect. “Make Space for Happiness” also tries to highlight the importance of overcoming shame or guilt over having too much clutter. Why do we continue to shop, even though we already have an abundance? How can we stop?
McCubbin, who is a professional organizer and CEO of dClutterfly, an LA-based home organizing company, uses examples from her own life and from her clients. The author describes herself as the “daughter of a hoarder,” and tells the reader how she knows firsthand how overwhelming it can be to be weighed down by physical items.
She also offers relatable antidotes from people facing similar things that many of us have gone through to illustrate how her clients were able to overcome some of this burden.
The book cautions us to avoid what she calls “the donation myth.” If you buy something and decide you no longer like it after all, we all tell ourselves “we will just donate it.” The thing is, most charity places don’t want your low-quality discarded items. They likely will end up in the landfill, and that is already a major issue and problem.
McCubbin’s book does not offer quick fixes or false hope. We still need to do the work and to better understand ourselves and our stuff. It is there to remind us that the simple act of reading this book proves you want to change. There is still a chance that we may find a way to declutter anyway so that we, as the title implies, can “Make Space for Happiness.”
Ikram Abdi spotted at Moncler show in French ski resort
Updated 16 March 2025
Arab News
DUBAI: Swedish Somali model Ikram Abdi attended the Moncler Grenoble Fall/Winter 2025 runway show in Courchevel, France, on Saturday, as Saudi Arabia-based model Georgina Rodriguez hit the snowy catwalk.
Courchevel is a French Alps ski resort located in the Tarentaise Valley. It is a part of Les Trois Vallées, the largest linked ski area in the world.
“The energy of winter sports, the warmth and joy of experiences shared on the snow, and the brand’s dedication to dressing all aspects of mountain life, combining high performance and high style, will be celebrated with a memorable brand experience at high altitude,” Moncler said in a statement released in December, before the unusual runway location was unveiled.
Fast forward to March 15 and the luxury label invited the who’s who of Hollywood to the resort’s snow-capped peaks as models walked a landing strip-turned-runway in a flurry of snow.
Abdi was joined by actress Ashley Park, Oscar-winner Adrien Brody, actress Jessica Chastain and South Korean star Lee Jae-wook, among others.
Jessica Chastain at the show. (Getty Images)
While the star-studded audience took in the show, Rodriguez walked the runway in a chunky knitted look complete with knee-high, fur-lined boots.
The model, who is the longtime partner of football icon Cristiano Ronaldo, has modelled for luxury brands before and was recently spotted sitting front row at Lebanese label Elie Saab’s Paris Fashion Week.
Rodriguez walked the runway in a chunky knitted look complete with knee-high, fur-lined boots. (Instagram)
Elie Saab’s Ready-to-Wear Fall/Winter 2025-2026 collection transported the Paris Fashion Week audience to the world’s most exclusive mountain retreats, where relaxed glamour meets alpine allure.
At the show in March, Rodriguez wore a pristine white outfit that was in tune with Saab’s alpine theme. The ensemble featured a luxurious, textured top adorned with delicate feather-like details, adding a touch of avant-garde flair.
Rodriguez also recently joined forces with Lebanese dance group Mayyas, who won the 17th season of “America's Got Talent,” for a new campaign released earlier this month.
They starred in an advertisement for Egyptian real estate company Horizon Egypt Developments, where Rodriguez and the Mayyas promote Saada, a real estate development in New Cairo in Egypt.
For her part, Abdi, who posed for photographs at Moncler’s latest show, made her catwalk debut in 2018 during London Modest Fashion Week. She went on to walk for the likes of Iceberg and Charles Jeffrey and she has fronted campaigns for major international brands, including Burberry and Nike.
Bella Hadid swaps praise with Donatella Versace after fashion shake up
Updated 16 March 2025
Arab News
DUBAI: US Dutch Palestinian supermodel Bella Hadid shared praise for Italian fashion icon Donatella Versace on Saturday, days after the latter announced she will be stepping down as the creative director of the Italian luxury fashion house founded by her late brother Gianni Versace.
“Donatella era … will live on for infinity,” Hadid posted on Instagram alongside a carousel of images of her various shoots for the storied fashion house.
Bella Hadid shared praise for Italian fashion icon Donatella Versace on Saturday, days after the latter announced she will be stepping down as the creative director of the Italian luxury fashion house founded by her late brother Gianni Versace. (Instagram)
“Our time together will be memories I am buried with. The first time I truly felt beautiful in our industry … thank you for being fashion mother to us all, for making us feel loved, beautiful, unique, sexy, happy,” she added.
Versace replied with her own message for the model, who has starred in campaigns for Versace and has hit the runway for the luxury label on numerous occasions.
“Bella, your words truly mean the world to me. You are beautiful inside and out with a heart made of Versace gold. I love you so, so much. Thank you for always being there for me. With love, Donatella Versace,” she wrote in the comments section.
Bell Hadid posted a carousel of images of her various shoots for the storied fashion house. (Instagram)
The designer will assume the new role of chief brand ambassador, Versace’s US owner Capri Holdings announced on Thursday.
Versace will be replaced by Dario Vitale, who most recently was design director at the Miu Miu brand owned by the Prada Group. His appointment is effective on April 1, the Associated Press reported.
Versace, 69, welcomed Vitale, emphasizing in a statement that “championing the next generation of designers has always been important to me,'” while Vitale, 41, thanked Versace for "her trust in me.”
Versace was thrust into the role of creative director in 1997 after her brother's murder in Miami, at first tentatively and then with a boldness that led to some big runway and red carpet moments.
The creative shift comes amid speculation that the Prada Group is in talks to buy Versace from Capri Holdings, which paid 2 billion euros (currently $2.2 billion) for the fashion house in 2018. The U.S. group also owns Michael Kors and Jimmy Choo, AP reported.
Miuccia Prada acknowledged interest in the brand on the sidelines of Milan Fashion Week last month, while Versace made no comment at what was to be her last runway show.
DUBAI: Rachel Zegler, star of Disney’s upcoming live-action movie “Snow White,” turned heads at a promotional event in Europe this week when she appeared in a breathtaking creation by Lebanese designer Elie Saab.
Featuring intricate embroidery, delicate beadwork and a regal silhouette, the gown was a testament to Saab’s signature artistry. In soft, ivory-toned fabric, it featured delicate floral appliques and shimmering embellishments, with a structured bodice supported by thin straps. A flowing overskirt cascaded into a train.
The overall aesthetic was of a dreamy, enchanted forest, in line with the Snow White theme.
Featuring intricate embroidery, delicate beadwork and a regal silhouette, the gown was a testament to Saab’s signature artistry. (Getty Images)
The actress carried a red apple-shaped purse, a symbolic nod to the fairytale’s poisoned apple. She also wore silver platform heels and minimal jewelry.
The new “Snow White” is a reimagining of the 1937 animated classic, which was Disney’s first feature-length animated film.
Zegler stars as the titular princess, alongside Gal Gadot as the Evil Queen.
Controversy has plagued the movie since it was first announced. Many activists called for a boycott due to Gadot’s stance over the conflict in Gaza.
An Israeli and former member of the Israel Defense Forces, Gadot has been an outspoken supporter of Israel on social media as well as in a passionate speech on March 4 when she was honored at the Anti-Defamation League’s annual summit in New York City.
“Never did I imagine that on the streets of the United States, and different cities around the world, we would see people not condemning Hamas, but celebrating, justifying and cheering on a massacre of Jews,” she said.
Zegler has repeatedly given interviews and used social media to advocate for a “Free Palestine,” indicating a rift between the two leads.
Meanwhile, some Disney fans have questioned casting Zegler as Snow White as she is a Latina actor. The “West Side Story” star also faced backlash when she called the 1937 original “dated” because the prince “literally stalks Snow White.”
DUBAI: The Saudi influencer shares her favorite shows, top trends, and the accessory she would never pair with a little black dress.
Best TV show or film you’ve ever seen?
Well, it’s actually an anime series called “Attack On Titan.” But for a live-action show it would be “Stranger Things” for sure. And for a movie, “Interstellar” remains untouched.
Worst TV show you’ve ever seen?
I would say “Dynasty.” It was too dramatic for my liking with no good plot.
I hate silver accessories for a little black dress. I feel like gold adds a touch of elegance and contrast, whereas silver can sometimes look too muted or harsh against the darkness of the dress.
Best fashion trend of 2025?
Bohemian style. I love how effortless, free-spirited and artistic it feels. It really aligns with my personal style. The flowy silhouettes, earthy tones and intricate patterns make every outfit look relaxed and stylish. My favorite pieces are maxi skirts, crochet tops and layered jewelry, especially with natural stones or beads. They add such a unique personal touch.
Worst fashion trend of 2025?
Slim-fit pants. I never liked skinny jeans back in the day, and I don’t think I’m going to start loving them now either.
“Do not take criticism from people you wouldn’t take advice from.” It helps me filter out negativity and focus only on constructive feedback from people whose opinions truly matter. Not everyone’s judgment is valuable or relevant to your growth. It’s been a game-changer for building confidence and staying true to myself.
Worst advice you’ve ever been given?
I have been advised to behave a certain way if I wanted to “grow.” That advice made me anxious and disconnected from myself. Then I realized that all it takes is just to be authentic.
Best book you’ve ever read?
“The Four Agreements.” I love it because it offers such simple yet powerful principles for living a more peaceful and authentic life. The four agreements are: being impeccable with your word, not taking things personally, not making assumptions, and always doing your best. It completely shifted my mindset. It helped me let go of unnecessary stress, improve my relationships, and focus on personal growth.
I don’t think I have read a bad book so far. You learn something from every book you read.
Best thing to do when you’re feeling low?
I like to take a shower with salt to cleanse my energy whenever I am feeling low. And I put on good music and just dance! Dancing does wonders. Afterwards, I feel so much lighter, refreshed and more in tune with myself. The salt shower washes away any negativity, and dancing helps me shake off any stuck emotions. By the time I’m done, I feel re-energized, more positive and ready to take on whatever comes next.
Worst thing to do when you’re feeling good?
To not be present. It’s so easy to get caught up in overthinking, worrying about the future, or even scrolling mindlessly on your phone instead of fully enjoying the moment. When you’re not present, you miss out on truly experiencing happiness and appreciating how good things feel.
Bali or AlUla for sure. I love the serene beaches, the lush greenery and the spiritual energy of Bali. The culture is so rich, and the people are incredibly warm. It’s the perfect place to relax and reconnect with yourself. And AlUla feels like stepping into another world. It’s such a magical and unique destination. The history and untouched beauty of the place are what captivate me the most — it’s peaceful, mysterious, and awe-inspiring all at once.
Best thing to do to ensure you have a productive day?
Wake up early and start with a high-protein meal. That makes me feel more energized, focused and ready to take on the day. Waking up early gives me extra time to set the tone for the day without feeling rushed, and a high-protein meal keeps me full and fueled, preventing energy crashes. When I start my morning this way, I feel more motivated and clear-headed, making it so much easier to stay on top of everything.
Worst thing to do when you’re trying to have a productive day?
Procrastinate and get lost in social media. It drains your energy, wastes valuable time and takes you further away from accomplishing your goals, leaving you feeling unproductive and frustrated at the end of the day.
Coldplay in Abu Dhabi. It was absolutely ecstatic — the atmosphere was just unreal. They really know how to connect with the audience and create this incredible sense of unity. The lights, the visuals, and the way the whole stadium came alive during songs like “Fix You” and “Viva La Vida” was magical. It felt like such a powerful, unforgettable experience. I left feeling like I had been part of something much bigger than just a concert.
Worst concert you’ve ever been to?
Justin Bieber. He seemed distracted, and the energy wasn’t what we expected. We’d all been big fans, but it felt like he wasn’t giving his best, which was disappointing. We were hoping for a high-energy, engaging show, but it felt more like he was going through the motions. It definitely didn’t live up to the hype.
Siblings Razan and Ahmed Hassan’s brand is only just over a year old, but has already gained global attention
Updated 13 March 2025
Hanadi Merchant-Habib
DUBAI: Siblings Razan and Ahmed Hassan are on a roll. Since the launch of their menswear label KML in 2022, the Saudi brand has rapidly gained recognition, most recently as a semi-finalist for the prestigious LVMH Prize — an annual award for young fashion designers run by the eponymous fashion conglomerate — placing them among global fashion’s most promising new voices. And, in November, celebrity stylist Law Roach opted for a KML creation to wear to the “1001 Seasons of Elie Saab” event in Riyadh.
Through creative director Ahmed’s minimalist designs and sharp tailoring, KML, of which Razan is the owner, is reshaping Saudi menswear by reimagining traditional garments from the Kingdom’s history through a contemporary lens: jackets with shawls, large leather belts of the type seen on Bedouin men, and skirts reminiscent of the ones historically worn by men in the Eastern Province, Jazan and Hijaz.
Ahmed says that their grandmother was a huge influence when he and his sister were growing up in Riyadh. He fondly recalls both her progressive nature and inimitable style. As a young boy, Ahmed would often accompany her to fabric shops so she could get her designs stitched by a local tailor. That exposure to craftsmanship left an impression, though fashion was not initially an obvious career path.
“The family would oppose my trips to the fabric stores,” he tells Arab News. “My uncles would tell her she was ruining me, and her reply would be: ‘Ahmed has taste, so why not?’”
When he decided to venture into fashion, his grandmother wholeheartedly supported him when other family members expressed their concerns — concerns they had despite the fact that the family were progressive, with writers and poets among them, he says. With time, he realized their hesitation stemmed not from disapproval but from societal perceptions of men in the industry. “They wanted to protect me from the stigma associated with men in fashion,” he explains.
With no formal fashion education programs for men in Saudi, Ahmed instead studied architecture, later interning at Zaha Hadid Architects, where he developed an appreciation for structure and form. Razan, meanwhile, pursued law at Prince Sultan University and she went on to practice it full-time.
“One summer, we both realized we weren’t doing what we truly wanted to do, so I decided to go to the UK to study creative writing, and Ahmed went to Central Saint Martins (in London) for a few courses,” Razan explains.
The pair often discussed starting a brand together, and they frequently talked about fashion, delving into historical research, while Ahmed continuously sketched — though he kept his drawings private.
“It struck us that we have so much that we can bring to the realm of reality from our imagination. We wanted to do something meaningful. Tradition and intention were very important to us,” Ahmed says. “Razan looked at me sketching, and was, like, ‘You better do something with these. You better make them a reality.’”
That was the catalyst for the launch of KML. In August 2023, they launched their debut capsule collection. “We just did three shirts and two pairs of pants, and filled the studio walls with references, research and development sketches,” explains Ahmed.
Towards the end of that year, they applied to the Saudi 100 Brands program. “When we presented our sample pieces to (Saudi Fashion Commission CEO) Burak Cakmak, we didn’t even talk about the brand. Instead, we discussed what fashion can and should be, and how people are going back to their roots and want to (express) their culture more.”
The Fashion Commission recognized their potential, providing support that led to KML showcasing its collections at fashion weeks in Paris, Riyadh and Milan.
“Paris was a wonderful experience. People found our clothes rebellious—especially the skirts for men,” says Ahmed. “But it was rebellious to wear pants in Saudi Arabia 200 years ago! Men everywhere here wore skirts — there were different names for them.”
However, the historical relevance of the clothes was not immediately apparent to many online commentators.
“We’re on a high right now, so we tend to forget the lows,” Ahmed says. “We were slaughtered on social media — people told us we were ruining the culture and how men look. It became toxic, so we quit social media temporarily to focus on our work.”
Neither KLM’s skirts nor its wrap shirts with circular cut-outs at the back were intended to be controversial. Ahmed stresses that throughout the Kingdom’s history, men’s garments have been layered and draped, creating freedom of movement. KLM was simply offering a fresh perspective on them. “People forget: 70 years ago, wearing jeans and a T-shirt in Saudi would have been considered controversial,” he says. “The intention is not for it to be provocative. If anything, we are bringing back dying traditions.”
Ahmed Hassan. (Supplied)
Despite the social-media furor, the skirts sold out.
Much of Ahmed’s design philosophy is rooted in cultural reinterpretation. The idea for cinched waists — or highlighting the waist in some way — was inspired by how Bedouin men would wrap a leather belt or fabric round their waists. He has also designed a long coat with hidden zippers that can be turned into a cropped jacket, highlighting that, traditionally, there have been multiple ways of styling a single garment.
Another key piece is the one-shoulder tunic. During their research, the siblings discovered that the one-shoulder silhouette was shared across ancient civilizations, from Greece to India — highlighting a universal connection.
Last year, celebrity stylist Roach discovered their designs. What started as a casual Instagram message turned into a studio visit, during which Roach spent hours trying on their pieces.
“We thought he would just send someone to pick up a few items,” Ahmed says. “Instead, he showed up himself, spent time with us, and repeatedly told us how this is a cultural product.”
Then came recognition from the LVMH Prize — one of the most prestigious awards in the industry. “Thousands of designers apply, and only 20 make the cut. We were one of them. It still feels surreal,” says Ahmed.
Despite their success, one of the siblings’ biggest challenges is production. Currently, KML’s garments are manufactured in Europe, but the ultimate goal is to bring everything back to Saudi Arabia.
“The fashion ecosystem here is still developing, but we want everything — design, development and runway presentations — to be fully Saudi,” Ahmed says. “Being a Saudi designer is great, but contributing to the bigger ecosystem? That’s even more meaningful.”
