As if doing Insanity workout wasn’t hard enough, I tortured myself even more and went on an ‘online shopping detox’ for a whole month. When I’m feeling fashion cyberspace deprived, window-shopping in malls provided a little bit of comfort.  It was a nice reminder that before being sucked into the online shopping vortex, I would pound the shopping malls on a mission to find hidden gems in stores. I did just that this month so here are my latest March must haves fresh from Doha’s local offerings.

Let me first talk to you about two high-street fashion houses that’s competing for my attention: Zara and Mango. Patrick Demarchelier shot Zara’s latest campaign and the simplicity of the whole collection and the images are both visually striking. I have my eye on a few pieces especially this mustard palazzo pants with buckles. It’s the perfect color to transition into spring without giving up my obsession to hip-hop trousers. Next honorable mention is Mango’s new collection featuring the ever-so-cool Daria Werbowy. It’s a match made in fashion heaven since it successfully temps you to buy everything she wore in the campaign hoping to be a tad cooler like her (that’s genius marketing to you…and I’m buying into it). White Jeans (worn in the campaign) will be a staple for Spring and this beat-up boyfriend pair will make you look relaxed cool like Ms. Daria.

Let me also draw your attention to a store that’s overlooked by many in Doha: GAP. Ryan Gosling might have preached ‘You are better than the GAP’ but not even your photo shopped sexy abs will stop me from going to the GAP Ryan! It’s gotten an additional cool creds thanks to the new creative designer, Rebekka Bay, former COS designer. Expect a much more tailored classics with a twist just like this floral chambray bomber jacket and dip dyed pants worn by Taylor Tomasi Hill. Convinced? You better.

This bomber jacket will go really well with this nautical stripes cropped top from H&M. The material is sturdier than other counterparts in the store but it has a relaxed feel to it. A fresh striped tee is a must this month especially that the weather is getting warmer but with a slight breeze. Pair it with a ‘still going strong’ slip on skater shoes like this perforated spring version from Kurt Geiger. Add a lightweight statement scarf on the must-have list and look no further than Uterque where I found this piece of artwork- you’re welcome.

Two of my lust haves this month are items I found in Dubai mall, I have not been able to take my mind off it since (shopping detox be gone already!). I first saw this Sportsmax dress in their ad campaign and quickly dropped it on my wish list basket. I could see myself wearing it for my upcoming wedding anniversary. Another item on my lust have is The Row’s Jackie O sunglasses I tried on in Boutique 1. Round glasses on a round face does not work 99% percent of the time but this pair worked well on my face and my Asian nose so I’m sold. Another Olsen sister must-have purchase is their new perfume Nirvana Black and White perfect for daytime and nighttime wear.

All these items are available in stores in Doha and online (link on the photo caption above).

Happy shopping!