Maha Gorton On Her Personal Style, Life With Children and The Secrets To Becoming A Successful Business Owner
The former Bazaar Junior cover star shares a day in her fashionable life as a local business owner and devoted mother to Ayah,12, and twins Faisal and Zayed, nine
LIFE
How has your life changed since your cover shoot with Bazaar Junior, back in 2019?
It has changed on so many levels. I’m discovering a new chapter with my children moving towards their teenage years, whilst I continue to work and grow Little Farasha. I have also started developing my career in fields such as writing. These last two years have also culminated in me being given a clean bill of health, and reminded me of the importance of self-care.
Please tell us about Little Farasha…
Little Farasha is a Middle Eastern-inspired lifestyle and fashion accessories brand. I started the business when my twins were six months old. I couldn’t find trendy bibs for them, so I started making them myself!
The secret to being a successful business owner?
Not losing sight of why you started and never ever stop believing in yourself.
Best highlight?
There have been many – from the actual launch of Little Farasha, to the expansion and launch of the first kidswear collection and most recently, the release of the Ramadan collection.
How do you juggle life as a working mother?
I try to find a balance. Focusing on one or the other and giving that my full attention in that moment.
Being a mother means…
Loving and knowing a soul before you even meet it. It means living with your heart outside of your body. It is the hardest job one can do, and at the same time the most rewarding.
Maha with sons Faisal and Zayed, daughter Ayah and the family dog, Bailey
Causes closest to your heart?
Breast Cancer Awareness – the Pink Ribbon campaign. My mother, my sister and I have all been impacted, and we are so grateful it was found when it was. Early detection is key. I’m also a big supporter of animal welfare and rescue societies.
FASHION
My personal style is…
Classic, feminine and minimalistic.
Designers you love?
Tory Burch and Carolina Herrera.
And high street labels?
Zara and Arket.
Who is your style icon?
Queen Rania. Her style is the epitome of grace, modesty and elegance for the modern woman.
Most cherished accessory?
My Clash de Cartier ring. It’s such a beautiful blend of classic elegance paired with edgy design.
Celebrity wardrobe you’d like to raid?
Amal Clooney’s.
Amal Clooney
Favourite childrenswear labels?
AlexandAlexa, Ralph Lauren Kids, and of course, Little Farasha.
Ramadan Calender with gift pockets, Dhs300, Littlefarasha.com
Do your children have strong opinions on their outfit choices?
Absolutely. They each have their own individual style and I feel it’s really important for them to feel comfortable in what they wear.
What’s their style?
Ayah’s style is an incredible fusion of grunge and boho. The twins are both more into sportswear, with Faisal always opting for bright colours and Zayed leaning towards understated looks.
BEAUTY
Can’t live without products?
Two Faced Better Than Love mascara, bareMinerals Bareskin liquid concealer and Charlotte Tilbury Filmstar Bronze & Glow.
bareMinerals Bareskin concealer, Dhs125, Feelunique
Better Than Love mascara, Dhs125, Too Faced at Sephora
Favourite fragrance?
Chloé by Chloé.
Best spa?
Talise Ottoman Spa at Jumeirah Zabeel Saray.
What’s your skincare regime?
I’ve recently started following a Sisley Paris regime. The Phyto-Blanc La Mousse range is great. I also take a daily hydro collagen supplement from Novelius Medical.
CULTURE & TECH
City you adore?
London – because of the energy, the culture, the inclusivity and the diversity of the people.
Favourite restaurant?
Masti in Dubai.
Top dish?
The seafood paella.
Favourite movie to watch with the kids?
Jumanji.
Jumanji
Book that changed your life?
The Power of Now by Erkhart Tolle. It’s a reminder that we can create a better future by creating a good present by focusing on positivity, and to make the conscious choice not to complain but to adapt and focus on gratitude.
Pros of social media?
Inspiration and networking.
Cons?
Bullying and perpetuating a false sense of reality, especially with regards to body image.
Do you allow your children to use social media?
I do allow certain channels, but it’s monitored closely.
Apps you can’t live without?
Google Maps and Breethe.
From Harper’s Bazaar Arabia’s Junior S/S 21
