Zara Terez Tisch is a mother of three and the founder of the women’s wear brand TEREZ. She started the fashion line in New York in 2008 after realizing a gap in the activewear market. Her goal was to design top-quality leggings with vibrant, fun patterns that let people express themselves uniquely through bold colors, playful symbols, and exceptional comfort. We interviewed Tisch to find out more.
Can you tell us a little about your background and what inspired you to start TEREZ?
I started TEREZ in 2008 from the basement of my parents’ home. After going through a dark time in my life, I wanted to create something that brought happiness to myself and others. My goal was to build a brand that focused on the good in this world. Initially, I created handbags and then transitioned to clothing that represented this positivity. I taught myself Photoshop and began designing photo-real graphic clothes and accessories for women and kids. Since then, TEREZ has evolved into a brand offering ready-to-wear, athleisure, swimwear, sleepwear, and more.
Can you tell us about the name TEREZ, also your middle name, and why it’s close to your heart?
The name Terez is very close to my heart as my mother came up with it, and it’s a combination of her two grandmothers’ names.
We love the brand’s bright, bold colors and your mission to spread joy and positivity. Can you tell us more about the brand’s mission?
The brand’s core mission is to spread positivity, encouraging everyone to embrace life to the fullest and celebrate every moment — big or small. This ethos is vividly reflected in all of our lively designs. You will see it in what I wear daily, on my Instagram, in our flagship store, and throughout all of our designs. We are authentically ourselves. Our small and mighty team collaborates to create what we love, supporting and uplifting each other to succeed, both as women and as individuals.
What’s your go-to fitness class on the East End?
I swear by Isaac Boots’s Torch’d as well as Formula x Meredith.
You also have items for girls. As a mom of three, how have your children inspired your brand?
My two girls (and my son!) have played a huge role in inspiring both me and the brand. When we say, “Welcome to the Terez family!” — we truly mean it. We have a blast creating mommy-and-me matching moments with tops, leggings, sweatshirts, and more. By prioritizing my children’s preferences, I design pieces that excite and emphasize creativity and self-expression.
Where can we find TEREZ on the East End this summer?
TEREZ is available through many of our Hamptons events and activations (we had a wellness event with Isaac Boots and Torch’d on July 3 in Water Mill). You can shop online at TEREZ.com, or if you’re in the city, visit our Upper East Side location at 1040 Lexington Avenue!
Which TEREZ pieces are you wearing the most this summer?
I love our TEREZ Twill Pant — it’s so easy and light (cotton!) for summer or even as a transitional item for cooler weather. Plus, our TEREZ Court Collection has great dresses and sets for tennis and pickleball that I am living in, which can also be worn from day to night. We also have fun PJs — perfect for a girl’s night in when it’s too hot to go out, and a ton of great swimwear!
Can you tell us about the TEREZ x MLB collaboration?
We are revolutionizing the fan wear industry for women sports fans and had the pleasure of working with the MBA. This past spring, we launched our second TEREZ x MLB collection, featuring 14 teams, after identifying a niche in the market for fashionable fan wear designed specifically for women and girls. The collection includes fun items such as logoed button-downs, t-shirts, jackets, biker shorts, and sports bras from your favorite teams — with options for both women and girls.
Up next is our collab with the NBA — we are so excited to share this collection in the early Fall!
It’s summer on the East End. What does your perfect day look like?
I am originally from Long Island, so every day on the East End is amazing. I love spending time with my family (and dogs!), enjoying time by the water, hanging with friends, and making the best summer memories.
