If there’s one thing to leave behind in 2020, it’s fast fashion. The industry is weighing a toll on the environment, being singlehandedly responsible for 10 per cent of annual global carbon emissions, that’s not counting the half a million tons of microfibres, they dump into the ocean every year.
If that wasn’t enough, our growing need for cheap clothes causes 85 percent of all apparel to end up in landfills every year.
It’s time for us to prioritize shopping sustainably, and one of the easiest ways to do that is to shop locally. Luckily, a slew of contemporary, ethical and homegrown brands have risen across the Arab world in recent years. Not to worry, they leave no room for stylistic compromise.
Whether you’re looking for sustainable modern designs or high-quality luxury items, local creatives have everything to offer.
From minimal day-wear to eco-conscious couture, these are our favourite fashion brands from the region.
Yousef Akbar
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Who said couture and sustainability can’t go together? The Saudi designer is making the case for ethical couture by using recycled and upcycled materials to create iconic pieces that channel glamour, shimmer and allure.
Boyfriend The Brand
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‘Minimal, subliminal and gender invisible’ as stylist and art director Amine Jreissati puts it, the Beirut-based brand challenges gender equality through minimalistic design, oversized silhouettes and luxurious wardrobe basics.
Emergency Room Beirut
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With their vibrant prints, eclectic design and intricate details, you’ll want to get your hands on one of these one-off pieces. The Lebanese label is dedicated to sustainable and eco-conscious production, upcycling vintage materials and deadstock fabrics into completely unique pieces.
Abadia
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The Saudi ethical luxury brand bridges between tradition and modern design in utter subtlety by merging soft tailoring, clean cuts and warm palettes. Co-founded by social and environmental entrepreneur Shahd AlShehail, Abadia is the perfect balance between feminine ease and masculine structure.
Bouguessa
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Bouguessa is the epitome of sophisticated outerwear in the region. Perfectly-cut tailoring, slick silhouettes and minimalistic elegance, the Dubai-based label has it all.
Mariam Al Sibai
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If you’re a fan of oversized sharp tailoring, then you’ll love Mariam Al Sibai. From floor-length coats to structured power suits, the British-Syrian designer creates outerwear that is as cozy as it is ethical.
Born in Exile
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The Libyan designer Ibrahim Shebani celebrates the heritage and unexplored culture of his home country, combining traditional embroidery and craftsmanship with modern and practical design.
Nafsika Skourti
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The Jordanian brand is all about effervescence and subtle sexiness. From their shimmering slip dresses and dynamic prints to their signature ‘Regina’ corsets and voluminous silk sleeves, Nafsika Skourti will add a touch of glamour to your wardrobe.
Reemami
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The Sharjah-based brand merges eclectic aesthetics and quirky prints perfectly. Made entirely from repurposed fabrics and dead stock materials, it’s playful, ethical and fun.
