Maitha Abduljalil is certainly a name known by every fashion and beauty enthusiast in the UAE. With a large following across multiple platforms including Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, she awes audiences with beauty inspiration and fashion advice, effortlessly exuding grace and elegance. In an interview with Dyuti Chetta, Maitha discusses her journey as an influencer, her style philosophy and inspirations, and more.
Maitha first started her career as a TV host, eventually deciding to share the fashion she so loved with the world. When asked what inspired her to become a fashion influencer, she replies, “I’ve always been passionate about fashion and sharing my style with others, During my 17 years of experience working as a TV host, I developed a deep understanding of the importance of self-care and confidence, which fashion can greatly enhance. Seeing how fashion can transform not just appearances but also self-esteem inspired me to dive into the world of fashion influencing.”
Over the years, Maitha has achieved quite a few impressive feats, including gathering a following of over one million people and even launching her very own brand. However, she hasn’t forgotten where it all began. Reminiscing on the beginning of her career, she stated, “I started by sharing my outfits and style tips on social media, just for fun. Gradually, I noticed that people were engaging with my posts and asking for more advice. This encouraged me to take it more seriously, so I started collaborating with brands, attending fashion events, and consistently creating quality content. It was a gradual process, but the positive feedback and support from my followers kept me motivated.”
Maitha is known for her signature style – one that stems from her personal style philosophy, which emphasizes on authenticity and confidence. “I believe that fashion should be a reflection of who you are and what makes you feel good. It’s important to wear what you love and what makes you feel confident, rather than just following trends.” Rightfully so, she believes that fashion is a form of self-expression, and is most impactful when it’s genuine. She also discusses her fashion inspirations, naming several fashion icons who embody a unique approach to fashion that inspires her to be creative and true to herself. “I draw inspiration from a variety of sources, but some of my biggest fashion inspirations include icons like Audrey Hepburn for her timeless elegance, Rihanna for her fearless and bold choices, and modern influencers like Chiara Ferragni for her innovative and trendsetting style.”
Staying updated and informed about the latest trends is a key part of her job. When questioned how she does so, Maitha unveils, “I stay updated on the latest trends by following fashion magazines, attending fashion weeks, and keeping an eye on social media platforms like Instagram and Pinterest. I also love exploring street style and seeing how people interpret trends in their own way.” She also touches upon the importance of networking with other influencers and industry professionals, which helps her stay in the loop.
Sharing her insider secret to an effortless yet put – together look for a casual day – out, Maitha shares, “For a casual day out, I love to keep it simple yet chic. My go-to outfit would be a pair of well-fitted jeans, a comfortable and stylish top, and some trendy sneakers. I’ll usually add some accessories like a statement handbag and some minimal jewelry to complete the look.” This perfectly exhibits her fashion genius, showing why audiences revere her as a style icon.
Photoshoots, though glamorous, can often be exhausting. Maitha discusses the steps she takes to prepare for a photoshoot to ensure its success. She carefully plans her outfits, taking care that they align with the theme or message she wants to convey. She coordinates with her photographer to discuss location and shot ideas. On the day of the event, her checklist goes something like this – checking hair and makeup, and bringing along props or accessories. Other crucial points include staying hydrated and getting a good night’s sleep before the shoot.
It is no secret that being an influencer, though dreamlike and fun, is a job as challenging as any other. Ruminating on the difficulties of her career, Maitha reveals, “The most challenging aspect of my job is maintaining a balance between creativity and consistency. There’s always a pressure to keep content fresh and engaging while also posting regularly. Additionally, the constant changes in social media algorithms can be tricky to navigate. However, the support from my followers and my passion for fashion keeps me going.” One of the biggest challenges faced by her also includes maintaining a balance between her personal life and career. She manages to do so by setting boundaries and scheduling her time effectively. She goes on to say that she allocates specific times for work and personal activities.
Finally, the interview ends with a discussion on a topic that is beloved by all beauty enthusiasts – a skincare routine. Maitha shares some valuable gems when asked about her routine, calling it simple but effective. “I start with a gentle cleanser to remove any impurities, followed by a toner to balance my skin. I then apply a serum that targets specific concerns like hydration or anti-aging. Moisturizer is a must to keep my skin hydrated, and I never skip sunscreen during the day to protect against UV damage. At night, I use a richer cream and sometimes incorporate a facial oil for extra nourishment. Regular exfoliation and masks are also part of my routine to keep my skin glowing.” Her knowledgeable and insightful answer ends the interview with the beauty and fashion guru on a high note, leaving her audience excited and looking forward to any and all upcoming projects by her.
By – Dyuti Chetta
