You may or may not know Saqhoute, Mirna Nakhla, or Farah Abdelhamid’s jewelry. Over the last few recent years, a growing number of independent designers began to emerge and carve their own space in the local market. They represent the heart of Egypt’s local fashion and jewelry industry. Unlike the big and global retail brands in America, Italy and France, independent designers form the foundation and the building blocks of Egypt’s future local market, which is gradually trying to become less import-reliant. In 2019, garment exports from Egypt earned $1.598 billion, according to the data released by the Readymade Garments Export Council (RMGEC), making it the second largest sector after agriculture. Yet, with the recent COVID-19 pandemic and the lack of sufficient funding and support, many of them risk falling behind after years of learning to stand on their feet. The industry is starting to face great shifts, both globally and locally, and many will be forced to adapt or face even more difficulties. Globally, many fashion businesses and retailers have already announced bankruptcy. For instance, in May 2020, renowned designer Diane Von Furstenberg’s British business cited mounting losses and…
Socially Conscious and Slowing Down: How Egyptian Designers Are Coping With COVID-19 Crisis
June 12, 2020
