Bathroom Talk with Tara Zadeh

“I started in publishing because I’ve always been drawn to storytelling, design, and visuals. Working in branding and publication agencies in New York, and later as Art Director for The Gentleman’s Journal and Whitewall Magazine in London, really taught me how to shape narratives and create striking visual identities. It was an incredible foundation, but over time, I felt the urge to create something that was completely my own.

That led me to launch my handbag brand, Tara Zadeh, in 2017. It was a natural evolution, taking my design sensibility and applying it to products that people could connect with on a personal level.

Running a brand was intense and hugely rewarding, but it also came with challenges, especially on the production and operational side. By 2020, I decided to close the brand, realising that while I loved the creative side, the business logistics were draining my passion.

Since then, I’ve found a way to bring all of my experiences together in a more fluid, exciting way, through events, social media, and consulting. Organising experiences across London, Paris, New York, and Dubai allows me to combine storytelling, design, and community in a way that feels aligned with who I am now. It’s been a journey of learning what truly excites me and finding the spaces where my creativity can thrive without being bogged down by logistics.”

“For me, beauty is really about feeling good—feeling confident, inspired, and comfortable in your own skin. It’s less about perfection and more about how something makes you feel. While self-care is about finding those little moments for yourself. It’s so hard these days. Anyone who knows me knows I’m always running around, my energy is through the roof, and I’m always moving a mile a minute. I’m still learning to slow down. With my kids, I try to find time for myself after dropping them off at school.

One of my favourite things is going to my favourite coffee spot on Golborne Road, Klear Labs, and having my matcha all to myself for a good 40 minutes before attacking the day. Not to sound annoying, but my mum gave me good Persian genes, so growing up I didn’t focus much on skincare. For me, self-care has always been more about the bigger picture: slowing down when you need to, surrounding yourself with inspiring people, and creating a life that feels good, both personally and professionally.”

"Since turning 35, 2 years ago, my skincare routine has completely changed. I’m so much more careful and attentive now. I always cleanse my face; I used to sometimes go to bed without doing anything, which feels unthinkable now. I double cleanse in the evening, then use a night cream and retinol two to three times a week. In the morning, I start with a serum, then a tinted moisturiser, sometimes a bit of vitamin C serum, and finish with a mist after makeup. That’s my routine—it keeps me feeling good and grounded, even on the busiest days."

“Honestly, the best beauty advice, and it might sound basic, but it’s so true, is sunscreen, sunscreen, sunscreen. I also try to keep my face out of the sun as much as possible; I don’t lie out tanning for hours like I used to when I was younger. And I’ve definitely learned that my skin feels and looks worse when I’m out late, drinking or having a few cigarettes. It’s simple, but these little choices really make a difference.”

“Honestly, I wish I had more balance in my days! I tell myself that all the time, I wish I meditated more, worked out more, and really carved out time for wellness. It’s hard to have a routine when you travel so much like I do and have such a social life, but I try to make it work. I love workout classes, especially at The Method; they’re so fun, and I’m usually soaked by the end. My friend Bash teaches there, and his Glide and Sculpt classes are my favourites. I also really love sound healing. I feel lucky to have friends who practice these things. My good friend Rym started The Atman Club, where she teaches yoga, breathwork, and sound healing. Her voice is so soothing that I often shed a tear during each session. So, while I don’t always stick to wellness practices as much as I’d like, I try to carve out little moments to reset, move my body, and nurture my mind. It’s something I’m still learning to prioritise, but it makes a huge difference when I do."

Photo by Federica Mulinacci

Keep up with Tara Zadeh's adventures on Instagram @tarazadeh.