It is always lovely catching up with old friends. Tala and I traveled to Paris together on one of the press trips back when I was working in editorial—it was a trip with L’Occitane, and that’s where we became friends. A few years later, Tala continues to grow her career in fashion, lifestyle, and of course, DJ-ing, while I went on to launch my jewelry brand. We reconnected for a catch-up as I worked with her on a very special story. Continue reading to learn more about her journey.
1. Tell us a bit about yourself. In a few sentences, who is Tala Samman?
A curious Dubai kid born in the US to Syrian parents. Started off working in the fashion industry in editorial, and now gets to create content, DJ, and produce.
2. What motivated you to start your journey with DJ-ing?
Growing up, I always loved music. I was around many people working in the industry, and I was just so fascinated by that world. When I was studying at university, I wanted to learn how to DJ—honestly, no specific goals, I just wanted to learn. I started taking classes on vinyl back when I was 18 and I remember I was the only girl in the class, which was intimidating, and I thought maybe this isn’t for me.
My sister always shared the best gifts, so when I moved back after university, the first birthday gift I got from her was a 4-5 hour master class course in mixing at a sound academy. For the next two years, I did a bunch of DJ-ing classes and I didn’t want to tell people about it—worried about their judgment—and at the time there weren’t any female DJs. So I started playing for friends and that’s how it all started...
3. What's your current favorite song?
Anything SAINt JHN or Dave.
4. Can you share with us a typical day in your life? Any secret habits or routines you would like to tell us about?
One of the things I love most about my days is that every day is very different—I get bored easily, so it keeps things exciting. Nonetheless, I am also very organized, and I do have routines and habits that I stick to.
I am all about consistency. For instance, my workouts and cooking sessions are put into my calendar like meetings, which helps me stick to actually getting them done. For someone without a proper daily routine or schedule, my daily habits keep me sane.
5. Can you share your top three style tips?
- What works for people won't necessarily work for you. Don’t stick to trends blindly—choose what suits you.
- I love high-waisted baggy jeans and oversized blazers, but I pair them with something tighter underneath so I don’t get lost in them.
- Have fun with styling. I like to try different things and invest in timeless pieces I can wear and restyle regularly.
6. Let’s move on to jewelry talk. What are the most precious pieces of jewelry you own and why?
I can say I’m probably the opposite of my mom who dies for jewelry. I like pieces I can wear every day that feel effortless—like hoop earrings and rings I can take off easily or keep on even while sleeping or showering. Simple stacking pieces that go with everything.
7. Any jewelry styling tips you can share?
I love to stack and layer dainty things. I usually wear 4–5 necklaces every day and stack earrings. I probably have 12 earrings on one ear—they’re all special to me and rarely change. I also wear 8 rings at all times, and I’m excited about my new rings designed by Hiba.
8. What have you chosen for your special Hiba Jaber custom-made jewel? Can you tell us more about the story behind the piece?
This is my second design with Hiba. I adore her and love watching her brand grow. My first piece was a thin duo ring with my sister’s initials. The new piece has the initials of my grandmothers, Hayat and Fareeha. They were both very special in my life—it feels powerful to have them with me in a ring.
9. What is a quote you live by?
I don't know if there's one specific quote I live by, but I save a lot of quotes daily. As I grew older, I realized that peace and health are the most important things. You can’t buy good health. One quote I love is: "We are constantly growing and everyone you meet is a teacher in the journey of life."
This was Tala's story... What will your story be?
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