We are currently living in a time marked by increased transparency where brands, cultural institutions, creative spaces, and businesses are facing scrutiny from consumers, a paradigm shift that is both drastic and immensely necessary. Now more than ever, people are conscientious about where they invest their time and hard-earned money, recognizing the importance of supporting entities they trust.
The focus is shifting towards investing in locally-grown brands, contributing not only to individual pockets but also to a broader narrative that nurtures regional growth from within. In the dynamic and culturally rich landscape of the MENA region, where we are constantly creative and curating, there is an abundance of talent to support and relish in.
The vibrant tapestry of the Palestinian creative scene is a testament to this awakening. Amidst the harrowing events unfolding in Palestine, it has never been more crucial to lend support to every creative endeavor emerging from this culturally and artistically rich country.
As consumers, we hold the power to shape the narrative and contribute to the empowerment of local communities so we have decided to roundup a list of Palestinian brands that hail from various corners of the country to support now and always.
SimiHaze Beauty
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LA-based, Palestinian twins Simi and Haze Khadra channeled their eclectic style into their very own make-up brand. The twins launched their US-born cosmetics brand in 2021 with a range of stick-on makeup designs that can be placed on the face for a bold beauty look achievable within seconds. The sticker book features an array of edgy designs inspired by their favorite DJ looks from the past, such as chrome wings, neon negative space eyeliner and holographic cat-eyes. Today, it also sells multi-purpose colour tints, lip products in various forms including balms and glosses, highlighters, bronzing powder and other eye makeup such as eyeshadows.
Taqa Clothing
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Serving as a “portal to the past,” Taqa Clothing is dedicated to safeguarding Palestinian heritage through a continuous homage to traditional production methods for clothing and accessories. Infusing a contemporary and modern flair into the essence of craftsmanship, this sophisticated brand is propelled by both passion and a profound sense of responsibility. Drawing direct inspiration from various Palestinian cities, such as the coastal gem Yaffa, Taqa Clothing intricately weaves the narratives of history into its collections.
Pali Roots
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From keffiyehs to jewelry, PaliRoots is on a mission to shed a light on Palestinian culture by crafting specialty products inspired by its people and identity. Additionally, the brand has two charity programs you can support, the PaliRoots Meal Program and the PaliRoots Funding Projects.
NNBYNN
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Angham Khalil, the creative force steering the ready-to-wear brand NNBYNN, delves into the challenges of forging a unified identity amidst occupation. Through the brand’s explicitly unisex apparel, minimalist design ethos, and muted color palettes, Khalil presents a subtly powerful perspective on Palestinian fashion.
MQAAAR
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Palestinian streetwear brand MQAAAR is a community-based lifestyle brand that began its journey in Palestine in 2023. Through their collections, the brand aims to tell stories, send messages, and take initiatives to achieve a vision of a community and society where everyone understands and stands in solidarity with one another.
Meera Adnan
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Meera Adnan’s eponymous brand is a form of resistance against the illegal occupation of Palestine. From puff sleeved-dresses to oversized blazers, her aesthetic elegantly merges femininity with masculinity.
Anat International
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Gaza’s textile industry has been under a blockade for decades and Anat International is determined to breathe new life into it. Focused on preserving Palestinian tatreez, the label creates genderless denim jackets that are hand-embroidered by men and women in Gaza. They aim to push embroidery out of its stereotypical feminine use.
Hind Hilal
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In the heart of Bethlehem City, Palestinian designer Hind Hilal pioneers local production, reshaping traditional tailoring, and breathing new life into wardrobe classics through innovative proportions and structures. Her eponymous label prioritizes quality over quantity, meticulously crafting each piece to perfection.
Trashy Clothing
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The brainchild of Palestinian designer Shukri Lawrence, Trashy Clothing has disrupted the regional archetypes of fashion since launching in 2017. Sexy, campy, and one-of-a-kind, the streetwear label is known for its DIY approach and kitsch aesthetics. Completely bashing Arab stereotypes, the pieces are a reclamation of what “trashy” fashion means in an anti-classicism, anti-homogenization philosophy.
Nol Collective
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Yasmeen Mjalli’s Ramallah-based label is on a mission to fight for justice and freedom in Palestine. Their soft tailoring, minimal silhouettes, and clean cuts come in warm shades and are ethically manufactured in the West Bank and Gaza. The equity-centered design collective aims to re-humanize fashion in a world where transparency about the people who make our clothes and the impact those clothes have on the environment is pretty rare.
Reemami
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Founded in 2009, Reemami is a contemporary women’s fashion label by the Palestinian-born Reema Al Banna, an award-winning designer based in the United Arab Emirates. Way before sustainability was a part of the conversation, the womenswear designer launched her brand with a commitment to reducing waste, harmful chemicals, and any resources that would be deemed wasteful. Using a combination of local deadstock fabrics and organic cotton and denim that is certified by the Global Organic Textile Standard, Reemani is known for its distinctive hand-painted whimsical patterns.
Hazar Jawabra
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Palestinian designer and artistic visionary Haza Jawabra has redefined knitwear, turning it into fantastical pieces of wearable art. Drawing inspiration from traditional Palestinian embroidery, she elevates her designs with bold colors and intricate patterns. In a seamless fusion of the past and present, Hazar’s knitted masterpieces become vibrant celebrations of Palestinian heritage with a contemporary twist. Her innovative approach transforms each creation into a captivating narrative that pays homage to tradition while boldly embracing the spirit of the modern era.
Skatepal
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This NGO nurtures a vibrant skate community in Palestine, empowering youth across the West Bank. Browse through their collection of graphic tees, jerseys, prints, and even a cookbook – each purchase supports the thriving skate scene.
