We Spent 24 Hours With Bambah Founder Maha Abdul Rasheed
I am a super early riser. I wake up around 4:30AM most days. I love the early hours; there's a sense of clarity and stillness. I leave my blinds slightly open so the sun gradually wakes me. The first thing I do is pray Fajr and drink two glasses of water. I then head out for a 30-minute walk with my German Shepherd Ares. Once I'm back home, I start my morning routine. I begin by dry brushing my skin to exfoliate. After that, I jump into the shower, using my favourite body wash, Aesop Geranium Leaf. I apply natural musk oil that I get from Egypt, as it provides a fresh, clean scent (strong perfumes often give me headaches). Next, I brush my teeth, scrape my tongue, and cleanse my face with Beauty of Joseon facial wash. I use organic rose water as a toner, followed by a Vitamin C serum from BioMedical Emporium. To finish, I moisturise with Sisley and apply SPF50.
Part of my routine consists of taking a few drops of black seed oil, followed by a warm drink of lemon water mixed with apple cider vinegar and a homemade ginger-turmeric immunity shot.
I enjoy both dressing up and dressing down. Vintage pieces are a passion of mine, and I constantly look for ways to mix and match different shapes, styles, and textures. I prefer not to put too much effort into fashion and tend to shy away from perfection. I love outfits that make a strong statement about the wearer's personality or mood; to me, it's more about standing out than blending in. Ultimately, I believe there should be no strict rules when it comes to fashion, and I usually don't follow trends. I have a soft spot for ruffles, bows, and polka dots, and I prefer minimal make-up, messy hair, and comfortable jeans. I enjoy adding accessories like simple gold hoop earrings, red nail polish, and sunglasses. I aim to get ready in five to 10 minutes. I find inspiration in Caroline de Maigret and Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy; chic yet effortless. They are women who dress for themselves.
6AM, I check my emails and messages.
8AM I always aim for a savoury breakfast that's high in protein. Most days, I have eggs with avocado on toast, topped with goat labneh and za'atar. On other days, I enjoy overnight oats, chia pudding with blueberries, and almond butter.
I live with my parents, Ahmed and Azza, as well as my dog and my two cats, Asal and Tahina. Every morning, we typically meet at our local coffee shop. They have their coffee while I sip on hot water. We chat for a while before starting our days.
9AM I have a morning class, rotating between Pilates, barre, Synkro, and yoga throughout the week. I'm currently carrying a Chanel 22 bag filled with a scarf, grip socks for Pilates, sunscreen, dates, a power bank, and lip products. After class, I treat myself to a cup of matcha before heading to the office.
11AM I dedicate my mornings to creative direction and deep work, which often feels like organised chaos. It's loud and filled with mood boards, fabric swatches, and samples. I love the creative freedom that comes with working with fabrics, creating mood boards, and watching ideas come to life. However, I really dislike administrative work.
1PM I take a packed lunch to work. It often consists of a warm salad, grilled protein, or a Mediterranean dish. I strive to eat natural, clean, home-cooked meals. When I feel like indulging, I bake desserts that are free of refined sugar. Sometimes, I have lunch with my team, while other days I eat with my family, who work next door. We are a small, close-knit team of about 15 people, and we may lunch together and brainstorm. Afternoons are filled with meetings. Ares comes to work with me, and at 3PM we go out for some fresh air.
4-5PM Evenings typically involve preparing dinner. Occasionally, I go out with friends; I prefer early dinners since I don't like to eat or stay up late. I also enjoy hosting intimate gatherings at home. We gather around the table in the garden with candles, enjoying good conversation. 7PM is dinner time. My favourite meal is grilled sea bass with roasted vegetables. After dinner, Ares and I take a walk before returning home to shower and join my parents in the living room for some fruit and a bit of TV. 9:30PM My nightly routine begins with supplements; magnesium, a castor oil patch, and lavender oil, as sleep is critical to me. I am a light sleeper so my room has to be calm and pitch black.
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