Extra Extra: Here’s What You Missed from the Week of February 3, 2019

While Ariana Grande’s new 7 Rings album has shot to the top of the charts, her tattoo interpretation – which celebrated the success of the release – was a flop. When the popstar posted a photo of her new tattoo, which was supposed to say “7 Rings” in Japanese, the internet quickly pointed out that a few missing characters meant it actually read “small BBQ grill”. To her credit, Grande laughed off the gaffe and got the tattoo amended over the weekend.

At the age of 97, style icon and consummate fashion collector Iris Apfel has entered the modeling world. The announcement that she has signed with IMG Models – the same agency that represents the likes of Bella and Gigi Hadid – proves that her star is still on the rise.

Oh my god, they’re back again. After 25 years in the music industry, the Backstreet Boys have managed to stay together despite the odds. After a five-year hiatus, they surprised everyone by announcing the impending release of a new album, and then dropped a sugary pop single called “Don’t Go Breaking My Heart”, which you can watch in all its glory, below.

We’re used to music drops from Justin Bieber, but clothing drops are a whole new category entirely. He surprised us this week by releasing a unisex clothing line called Drew House, which features a 14-piece streetwear capsule collection for its debut. Details on the collection were brief and obtuse, with the ‘About Us’ page on the official website simply saying, “drew house is a place where you can be yourself. blah blah blah blahsdbksjdfhl wear like you don’t care. come chill. k. bye.” We were, however, able to find out one interesting tidbit: the line is ethically produced in Los Angeles.

Just in time for Valentine’s Day, Kenzo has unveiled a romantic new capsule collection. Featuring jersey pieces in red, gray, blue, and pink alongside plastic totes and leather bumbags, the limited-edition collection is splashed with “Cupid’s eye” prints and cartoon hearts. To shop the collection, click here.

With Valentine’s Day right around the corner, you might be dropping some hints about gifts for the special day. Here to help is Bulgari’s new ‘Electro Love’ release for Valentine’s Day, featuring a collection of siren red and serene blue bags, wallets, wrap bracelets and scarves. Decorating the collection, you’ll find Bulgari’s signature serpent symbol, accompanied by pierced hearts, signifying the season of love. Bulgari’s fantastic collection has arrived in stores and online at Bulgari.com.

Balenciaga’s new capsule collection – which is exclusive to luxury e-tailer Farfetch – is placing animal-conservation awareness at the center of its focus. The limited-edition collection will be free from leather, fur, and down, and will advocate for animal species that are endangered by featuring illustrations of them.

“Balenciaga is pleased to launch this exclusive collection. Bringing awareness to threatened species and supporting the conservation actions of IUCN is part of our vision,” said Cédric Charbit, CEO of the brand. In a clever touch, the shirts will be available in limited editions, corresponding to the number of a species that remains in the wild.

Piaget’s exquisite ‘Sunlight Escape’ collection has recently expanded, with a second chapter called ‘Sunlight Escape II’ set to dazzle and bewitch. Built on the pillars of three categories – Warming Lights, Exalting Sights, and Dancing Nights – the collection features 17 new pieces that capture the excellence of Piaget’s métier d’art. Expect to see bursts of diamonds, colorful bangles, and peacock-hued earrings.

Curvy girls, rejoice! Last week saw the opening of Marina Rinaldi’s new flagship boutique at The Dubai Mall. For the special occasion, supermodel Ashley Graham arrived to unveil her new collection with the brand, which featured lots of flattering silhouettes and vibrant, tropical prints.

With interiors designed by architect Giovanni Pacciani, the store’s soft, feminine accents reflect the brand’s DNA and feature red and light pink Breccia Pernice marble from Italy, plush Molteni&C sofas, and warm lighting. Located in the mall’s new ‘Fashion Avenue’ extension, it offers everything from denim and workwear to evening options for the curvy shopper.

In 2017, L’EcoleVan Cleef & Arpels arrived in Dubai with two weeks of courses, lectures, and exhibitions on offer. The educational effort has now returned, inviting the region’s public to immerse themselves in the art of jewelry. From March 28th to April 13th, L’Ecole Van Cleef & Arpels will take place at in5 at Hai d3 in Dubai Design District. People of all ages and backgrounds are invited to attend the brand’s many workshops, evening lectures, exhibitions, and film screenings. More details can be found here.