When outspoken activism is almost criminalized, fashion can take center stage to express resistance, solidarity, and support towards a certain cause or in defense of a marginalized community. A medium through which so much can be said while using very few words, over the years, designs that were initially conceived to convey subtle messages have evolved into louder than ever proclamations of values, and beliefs.
In our region, the Palestinian cause has always found its place on garments. Through different symbols and drawings to specific stitching methods and embroidery techniques, with time, the Holy Land’s struggles have managed to weave themselves into the very fabric of our region’s fashion, constantly being upheld as a reminder to speak up and raise awareness for them when needed. An example of such shared sense of sartorial solidarity can be seen in the wearing and reinterpretation of the Palestinian keffiyeh— a square-shaped scarf adorned with a fishnet pattern symbolizing the land’s connection to the sea, bold lines representing historical trade routes, and olive leaves highlighting its economic and cultural importance for its people.
Increasingly more visible since the tragic events of Oct. 7, the piece of cloth is now more than ever synonymous with the ongoing quest for justice for Palestine. No longer at the stage of being a quiet symbol, some creators have now taken it upon themselves to reimagine the ways in which the keffiyeh can be incorporated into everyday wear, subtly conveying its message without the traditional associations. Below, shop six stylish ways to show your support for the resistance.
Nazzal Studios
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This Palestinian-owned fashion brand is dedicated to creating clothing that doubles as wearable art as seen in this unique lace keffiyeh.
Suez Studio
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Keffiyeh Patchwork Jacket; $360
This patchwork jacket is made up of 36 separate pieces of a keffiyeh scarf. Extremely versatile, it can be worn on its own during the hotter season and layered in winter.
Trashy Clothing
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Sabah Wrap Midi Skirt; $95
The mesh wrap skirt can be styled with a pair of knee high boots and a white tank top for an effortlessly stylish look that’s perfect for night or day.
Norf x Blad x Fichier Caché
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AA7 Heavyweight White Tee; $50
The cotton t-shirt is emblazoned with a graphic of a Palestinian youth firing a slingshot. An ode to the “atfal al-hejara” (the children of the stones), all proceeds made from the collaboration between Norf, Fichier Cache, and Blad will be donated to the Palestine Children’s Relief Fund (PCRF).
Mohamed Nour Designs
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Kuvrd
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A bucket hat is a summer essential— Bonus points if it’s worn for a good cause.
