After setting up her blog in 2009, Syrian born but Dubai based Tala became something of a Middle Eastern fashion sweetheart as hundreds of style conscious girls tuned in regularly to check out her fashion and lifestyle must-haves. Four years later and with various regional and international style awards under her belt, Tala is now fronting campaigns for a number of luxury brands. From blogger to It girl in just a few short years, Tala helps set the scene for Middle Eastern style and shows no signs of slowing down.
Motto to live by: Balance is Key - work hard, spend time with family and have fun.
One piece of advice I would give to anyone: Never give up on the things you love.
Lifelong Ambition: To be happy and never afraid of doing the things I love.
Best childhood memory: Visiting Syria in the summers to see my two beautiful grandmothers.
One thing I can’t live without: My Iphone – but that’s a bad thing!
Most loved fairytale character: Tinkerbell, but everyone says I look like Princess Jasmine.
One thing money can’t buy: Quality time with the people you love.
Most treasured belonging: My Acne biker jacket, I’ve worn it to bits.
Early bird or night owl: Depends on the day, but usually a night owl like my mum.
Person I look up to: I look up to so many people in my family, they’re all so strong, smart and make for great entrepreneurs.
Favourite book: Lean In by Sheryl Sandberg – my highlight of the year.
Favourite meal: Americanised Chinese food!
Best home comfort: Homemade halloumi pasta and my feather filled bed.
Website I can’t live without: My Fashion Diary obviously!
Favourite restaurant: Sumosan in London, Teatro in Dubai and ABC Kitchen in New York.
Favourite place in the world: Too many to choose…I love to travel.
Favourite cities: New York and Dubai.
Beauty must-haves: Matte foundation from the Australian brand Becca, gel liner for the perfect cat eye from Bobbi Brown, Beauty Flash balm from Clarins, Chanel Weekend and Kérastase dry shampoo.
Signature scent: Blue Aguave and Cacao by Jo Malone.
Top moisturiser: Pro-Radiance Illuminating Flash Balm by Elemis.
Favourite hairstyle: Wavy with plenty of volume.
Fresh faced or full glamour: Full glamour!
Bad hair day product: Maison de Joelle’s Elixer for the ends.
Style Icon: Marianne Faithfull.
Describe your style: Eclectic.
Favourite designers: Currently Chanel, Ostwald Helgason and Madiyah Al Sharqi.
Ultimate accessory: My Bionda Castana red Tala heels.
Most treasured item: Hermès Birkin given to me on my 19th birthday.
Fashion moment: I can’t think of one, but when I feel good it’s a fashion moment!