The Major Highlights From the Inaugural Egypt Fashion Week

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Everyone who has been to Egypt can attest to a comforting sense of warmth once they arrive. During Egypt’s first-ever fashion week, which got underway this weekend from May 12-14, the creative get together embodied warmth at its very core. Featuring over 70 designers, the “Past Present & Future” -themed fashion week felt wholesome and authentically Egyptian.

The three-day fashion extravaganza kicked off with an opening night event that  took place at the Egyptian Museum on May 12, featuring a fashion show curated by US stylist Julie Matos, that set the tone for the style-filled days that followed. 

The Agricultural Museum opened its doors for the first time after two years of renovations on May 13 and 14, showcasing over 70 ready-to-wear, couture, and pret-a-porter women’s and men’s wear designers’ latest collections. Between shows, guests had the opportunity to explore the history of agriculture and cotton in Egypt throughout history.

In a series of informative panel discussions conducted by industry insiders, fashion experts discussed how to navigate your way around the industry, from starting your own brand to important discussions about the industry’s current state – From Imran Ahmed of Business of Fashion, to iconic Egyptian jewelry designer Azza Fahmy, all attendees gained some insight into the inner workings of the fashion industry.

“The EFW program goes far beyond fashion shows and exhibitions and aims to connect the local, African and Middle Eastern markets through design, craftsmanship, education, sustainability, production and retail,” Egyptian Fashion & Design Council Susan Sabet said in a previously released statement.

In addition to glamorous runway shows and thought-provoking panel talks, the weekend included workshops and an exhibition featuring designers and initiatives from all over the region– a harmonious showcase of what the region can offer.

Read on for some of the major highlights from this weekend. 

Almah 

 

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Designer Yosr Abdelkader provided us with a kaleidoscope of earthy tones, and ruched up fabrics. Underneath her ruffled up layering and organic silhouettes, lies an important message. Drawing inspiration from Egypt’s breathtaking coral, this collection is a reminder that their beauty is no longer if humans do not take accountability for their consumption behaviour.

Paz Studio

 

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Designer Perihan Abou Zeid reinterprets traditional silhouettes from the Mamluk period with a rich color palette, intricate patterns and line work, and silhouettes exuding utmost royalty. She carefully crafted clean whites and vibrant reds, cobalt blues matched with emerald greens, fringes and asymmetrical belts, and sleeveless pleated kaftans— the collection certainly stood out. Paz Studio truly embodied the week’s theme, combining traditional dress, making it modern, and most importantly, exquisitely elegant.  

Daniela Ashba 

The German-Egyptian designer gave us modern, sexy, and just simply cool. The collection weaved in clever streetwear elements with geometric silhouettes whilst remaining ultra-feminine. She created a collection for the cool girl who just wants to be comfortable. The highlight was definitely the hood-turned-cape moment, and (a personal favorite) the cream corset with a bright red laced up back matched with linen pants– comfortable opulence. 

 

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