5 Egyptian Designers You Need to Know

The debut of the “Egypt—Contemporary Rebirth” exhibition space at Somerset House during London Fashion Week was an undisputed highlight of the annual International Fashion Showcase (IFS). The fashion platform spotlights emerging designers from across the world and IFS 2016 ultimately garnered an award for Lebanon and a commendation for Egypt. Style.com/Arabia’s Caterina Minthe speaks with Pashion Magazine Editor-in-Chief and curator of the Egypt exhibition, Susan Sabet, to discuss the new wave of Egyptian designers reviving the country’s creative showcase—both at home and abroad.

“It all started when the British Council extended an invitation to our embassy in London, roughly six or seven months ago,” explained Susan Sabet on the phone in Cairo following a red-eye flight home from London. Sabet, the appointed curator, was tasked with plucking five emerging Egyptian designers to spotlight. Sabet admitted that the scouting task was not an easy one nor was securing funding. Ultimately however, the hard work paid off and Egypt’s exhibition space “Contemporary Rebirth” was honored with a commendation by the British Fashion Council’s Sarah Mower—the council’s ambassador for emerging talent.

Inside the exhibition space Azza Fahmy Design Studio graduate Reem Jano of Reem Jano Jewelry featured a gold-plated choker, headpiece, and cuff inspired by ancient Egypt. Sara El Mofty of Saya Swimwear developed a suit and cape made with faux cobra skin roused from “the sort of haunting images you see of Pharaohs draped with flowing dresses,” explains Sabet. Marsuma Design’s Nour Omar, whose signature is hand-painting clothes and accessories, decorated El Mofty’s body piece and cape. Meanwhile Parsons Paris graduate, designer Maram Aboul Enein of the label Maram, presented two dresses—one in a deep brown tone with elongated sleeves that grazed the floor—and another sheer dress with an embellished bust outline. Finally, accessories brand Sabry Mahrouf by designer duo Ahmed Sabry and Daki Marouf, pushed the envelope with its striking hand-dyed calf leather, 18kt gold accents, mahogany wood handled bag and minaudière inspired by Pharaoh Tutankhamen.