Yesterday, the temperature first thing in the morning was -2° Celsius and we had to scrape ice off the cars. A few days ago, we were driving around in 33° heat, with the air conditioning turned up to Max. I think it’s safe to state that coming back from Dubai has been something of a shock to the system. Never mind: Madame Persolaise and I thrive on such meteorological challenges… at least, that’s what we say to ourselves.

I’ll do my best to tell you about our travels, but as ever, time and other commitments will dictate how much I’m able to share. There’s certainly a fair bit to write about, not least the proliferation of niche brands since I last visited that part of the world. I’ve also got an idea for what will hopefully turn out to be a fun competition, so stay tuned.

For now, I’ll leave you with an image and a question. Here’s Mr Danny Fuller, advertising the latest Chanel masculine in one of Dubai’s many malls. I wonder if those of you living outside the Middle East can spot what’s different about his appearance in this poster…


Persolaise.


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4 thought on “Surfin’ UAE”
  1. Unsurprisingly, they've painted/photoshopped a modest wetsuit on his body — still a pretty face.
    Look forward to reading your travel tales, once your teeth have stopped chattering so you can hear yourself think.

    — Lindaloo

    1. Lindaloo, well done 🙂 However, I have to say I was actually surprised to see this being done to the poster. I don't think bare male flesh mattered very much in the UAE in the 80s and 90s.

      As for whether his face is pretty… I think that might have to be the subject of another blog post.

  2. Did you manage to pass by Bloomingdale's and Galeries Lafayette?
    Those are where the majority of niche are available.

    Coincidentally a fellow BNer was visiting the UAE so I took him on the Dubai-niche-perfume tour.

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