Fashion designer and TV presenter Tamara Al Gabbani opens up about beauty and style.
Tamara Al Gabbani, photographed by Sarvenaz Hastroudi at Frioul Dubai, wearing her own collection.
When did your love affair with fashion begin?
I grew up in the Middle East and my mother actually had an atelier when I was very young so it was just a part of my life. Back then we didn’t have shops – there were no malls. You made your own party frocks.
What’s your go-to fashion uniform?
It’s constantly changing.
Name one of your most cherished moments in fashion to date?
When I was the face of DKNY last year. They decided to do a special collection for the Middle East and brought myself and Yalda Golsharifi on-board, I styled the collection and then later modelled it. It was supposed to be for the region but it went global overnight.
Where do you love to shop?
London, especially Selfridges.
Who is your style icon?
It was always Princess Diana. Before I even learnt to read I was already in love with her. She was so beautiful and glamorous.
Tamara Al Gabbani, photographed by Sarvenaz Hastroudi at Frioul Dubai, wearing her own collection.
What’s your favourite fragrance?
I’ve actually worn the same perfume for 20 years, Vivienne Westwood Boudoir.
Any skin secrets?
I love putting argan oil on my face once a week and almond oil around my eyes – the skin there is so sensitive, so when you take your makeup off it’s very dry and that can lead to early aging. I also highly recommend facials; I have them all the time. I go to a salon called Abeer Beauty Spa on Jumeirah Beach road and see Melitsa who is a cosmetologist specializing in skin.
Are there any unlikely methods that you swear by?
Acupuncture actually. It really helps for anti-aging and keeps your blood circulating properly.
What’s your favourite lipstick brand?
Nars, always Nars!
Tell us the beauty products that you can’t live without?
Bioderma make-up remover. I have very sensitive skin and it’s just amazing. I also use their moisturiser and sun block. I love the Estee Lauder daywear moisturiser and I’m a huge fan of their Doublewear foundation because it lasts all day. Sunsilk shampoo and conditioner too.
