Designer, DJ, model, presenter, influencer: Zara Martin is the epitome of the millennial trendsetter. Whether she’s in front of the camera or behind the decks at a fashion-show afterparty, she is unerringly and unquestionably cool. Her glitzy headphone collection for Skinnydip London was a huge success – and has led to larger aspirations to build her own business.
How did you get into DJing?
I was asked to DJ at a London Fashion Week show afterparty; it seems a hundred years ago now. I took the job before I actually knew how to DJ. At the time, I was more focused on TV presenting. So I basically harassed my very talented DJ mate to teach me/stand in the booth with me. I was so scared at first. It’s funny how what I looked at then as a side job has since become my main focus.
What was your best gig?
It was in Berlin – the techno capital of the world. I went on and played a hip-hop set after Swedish House Mafia had been on. Everyone in the club was slightly confused at first, but it ended up being the best night.
What do you think the reason is that there aren’t more famous female DJs?
There are actually lots of well-known female DJs, but apparently you’re only classified as a ‘famous’ one if you produce a track with a Justin Bieber vocal on it.
David Guetta wrote his name down my leg in permanent marker during a live broadcast
What’s the strangest thing you’ve been asked to do when modelling?
It’s all pretty strange, to be honest. However, wearing blue lipstick, lying in a bathtub fully clothed or hissing into the camera like a snake seems to become just another day at the office.
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Any embarrassing moments on TV?
David Guetta wrote his name down my leg in permanent marker during a live broadcast from Vegas. On the embarrassment spectrum, walking around with David Guetta’s name on your leg is pretty high up there.
You’ve already designed headphones and jewellery – what’s next?
I want to expand the headphones into a full-on audio line – I think there is a gap in the market for beautifully designed, moderately priced unisex headphones and speakers, which I would like to fill.
Where’s your favourite place to go out and let your hair down in the capital?
I love the Royal Albert Hall – I’ve seen countless performances there, from Tony Bennett to Cirque Du Soleil, and I even sang on stage there with my school choir when I was 11. If you mean out-out, I used to go to the Groucho Club a lot – although, that place has a habit of erasing memories.
You have British, Indian and Italian heritage – where’s your favourite place to visit in each country?
London – my home and birthplace – is the best city in the world. Udaipur in Rajasthan, India is just breathtaking. And Ravello on the Amalfi Coast in Italy is where I got married.
What’s your next challenge?
To build a sustainable business and start a family. I’ve got quite a lot to do.
What do you spend your money on?
I spend it mainly on food, cabs and collecting shoes. So I should probably rethink my investment strategy ASAP.
What hidden talents do you have?
I don’t know if it’s classified as a talent but people get weirded out when I tell them I have an economics degree.
Jay McLaughlin
Jay McLaughlin
