Tal Waksal is someone I’ve had the joy of knowing for years. She’s the daughter of one of my husband’s best friends and the founder of Q House of Basics, an Israeli fashion brand that is all about creating the perfect basics. She’s also one of our models for Jones Road (she recently jumped in front of the camera when she was 8 months pregnant) and the inspiration behind our latest limited-edition set, The Tal Kit. I have always been a big fan of her simple and chic style and natural beauty. Below, she shares her beauty must-haves, wardrobe staples, and why her mother is the definition of cool.

Name & Occupation:

Tal Sharon Waksal, founder of Q House of Basics

How did you get where you are today?

After serving in the Israeli army as a commander in the Israel Defense Forces, I came to New York City in 2009 and majored in marketing and communications at the Fashion Institute of Technology.

From there I started working at IRO-Paris as the VP and then started Q House of Basics. I wanted to create the best tee shirt out there. Back then, I felt like there were no good tee shirts to buy and fashion was focused on florals and glitz. I personally believe investing in basics over fad items, yet making sure style cannot be forgotten—even in a tee shirt.

Describe yourself in 3 words:

Colorful, Witty, Ambitious

First thing you do when you wake up:

Check the baby camera.

The 5 beauty products you can’t live without:

• Jones Road Mascara
• Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector in Rose Gold
• Victoria Beckham Lip Liner No. 2
• Hourglass Airbrush Concealer
• Diorshow Pump N Brow 021 Chestnut

Your style uniform is:

White tee-shirt and platforms.

The song you have on repeat:

Harry Styles, Watermelon Sugar

Last person you texted:

My husband.

What does “cool” mean to you:

My mother — [it’s] her attitude, her style, and how unique she is.