There is a Palestine that dwells inside all of us, and Palestinians everywhere continue to be passionate and connected to their heritage. The presence of Palestinian culture is potent and will continue to be so, just take a look at every match played during the FIFA World Cup in Qatar, where people are standing in solidarity by waving the Palestinian flag during every match.
In the face of adversity, many Palestinian entrepreneurs and creatives have found ways to express their culture and identity through their work, creating beautiful and thought-provoking products, and we have selected a few Palestinian-owned brands that should be on your radar. These Palestinian–owned brands and creatives are doing amazing work to celebrate and promote Palestinian culture and identity. By supporting their work, we can help to empower Palestinian communities and promote the appreciation of Palestinian culture and identity.
Reemami
Reemami is a unique and inspiring UAE-based fashion brand founded by Palestinian designer Reema Al Banna. Reema was inspired by her time growing up in the UAE and set out to fill a gap in the market for modern womenswear that blended western and eastern styles. Reema founded Reemami in 2010, and it has since become one of the most popular fashion labels in the region. Reema’s signature style is a fusion of traditional silhouettes with modern cuts and fabrics, creating pieces that are timeless and on-trend. The brand is dedicated to supporting local communities and businesses, using fabrics and materials sourced from local artisans and vendors.
NURNEI
Nurnei is a jewellery brand founded by Palestinian-British designer Noor, currently based in Greece. Her jewellery is designed and produced in a local artisan workshop using traditional jewellery methods. NURNEI strives to create timeless jewellery that celebrates the beauty of Palestinian heritage and culture. The brand reflects the culmination of subjects that inspire the designer, such as nature, history, and identity as a Palestinian in the diaspora. The pieces are a reminder of the beauty of Palestine, where each tells a story and conveys a message of resilience and strength.
Meera Adnan
Meera Adnan Label is a Palestinian contemporary RTW label founded by Meera Adnan, who was born in Saudi but moved to Gaza in 2004. The label’s work focuses on reclaiming the narrative, drawing influence from religious, political, and local references in order to create a romantic and nostalgic visual monologue. Meera Adnan Label has become a symbol of Palestinian culture and identity, and the garments produced by the label are designed to honour and celebrate the beauty of Palestinians. The label aims to create a sense of pride and belonging in the Palestinian community through its collections. The brand uses traditional Palestinian textiles and embellishments while also incorporating modern silhouettes, cuts, and design elements. By doing this, Meera Adnan is able to create unique and beautiful pieces that represent the culture and heritage of Palestine. The label also works with local artisans and craftsmen to create garments that capture the spirit of the community.
Zaid Farouki
A guest on GRAZIA’S Preserving Palestine podcast, Palestinian and Dubai-based designer, Zaid Farouki creates art and apparel that celebrates Palestinian culture and identity. His work is an innovative blend of traditional and modern styles that represent the multifaceted nature of Palestinian identity. His heritage often inspires the traditional Palestinian motifs in his work. Many of his pieces feature symbols, colors, and patterns that evoke the story of many struggles. His designs also draw upon traditional embroidery. Farouki’s designs incorporate modern and urban elements, whilst also drawing upon traditional embroidery. He often combines traditional motifs with modern features. This combination creates a unique aesthetic that is visually striking and culturally significant.
Reema Dahbour
Reema Dahbour, a self-taught designer, founded her eponymous slow fashion brand Reema Dahbour in 2014. Starting out as a small fashion outlet in Amman, Reema Dahbour’s designs quickly gained traction and the brand became the label of choice for hundreds of Arab women. From walking down the red carpet to being featured in Middle Eastern TV productions, Reema Dahbour’s bespoke designs have become synonymous with quality and elegance. Dahbour is best known for her unique interest and expertise in espousing the traditional Palestinian cross-stitch into chic and modern fashion. Her signature style is an ode to her Palestinian heritage and she embraced her true calling in the fashion industry and continues to create beautiful and timeless designs.
