The conversation around sustainability is more intense than ever post-COP28, where the alarming role of the fashion industry in climate change became a major talking point. With fashion responsible for a staggering amount of waste and emissions, designers and consumers alike are moving towards more sustainable choices. If you want to play your part in fashion’s green revolution, here are some Middle Eastern and African brands you need to check out:
Okhtein
Okhtein, a luxury accessory brand from Egypt, is known for its stunning handcrafted bags and accessories. Founded by sisters Aya and Mounaz Abdelraouf, the brand collaborates with local artisans, ensuring fair wages and preserving traditional craftsmanship. Expect intricate embroidery, cool metalwork, and a hint of Egyptian heritage.
Bouguessa
Dubai-based Bouguessa, led by Faiza Bouguessa, is synonymous with timeless minimalism. The brand’s sophisticated silhouettes and neutral tones are crafted from eco-friendly materials, making each piece a sustainable staple. Bouguessa’s commitment to reducing fast-fashion turnover means investing in quality, seasonless clothing that never goes out of style.
Sara Tamimi
Sara Tamimi, the Emirati designer is shaking up sustainable luxury. Her collections feature bold prints and innovative cuts, all crafted with low-impact techniques. Locally sourced fabrics give her designs a cultural flair that screams glamour. If you’re after standout pieces that are as responsible as they are gorgeous, Sara Tamimi is your go-to!
The Giving Movement
The Giving Movement is a UAE-based athleisure brand committed to eco-friendly fashion. Their stylish activewear, made from recycled plastic bottles and bamboo, combines comfort with sustainability. Plus, the brand donates $4 from every purchase to charity, making your wardrobe refresh a philanthropic act.
Reemami
Reemami is all about playful, artistic designs with a conscience. Founded by Reema Al Banna, the UAE brand uses upcycled fabrics to create bold collections that often feature collaborations with local artists. Perfect for fashion rebels who want to stand out while supporting sustainability.
Roni Helou
For those who want fashion with a purpose, Roni Helou is the name to know. This Lebanese designer is all about zero-waste and ethical production. Using deadstock fabrics, the brand creates cool, contemporary pieces that make a statement both on and off the runway. Fashion that cares about the world? Sign us up!
Lemlem
Founded by Ethiopian supermodel Liya Kebede, Lemlem is an artisan-driven brand known for its handwoven cotton garments. Lemlem’s designs support local weavers in Africa, providing them with fair wages and job opportunities. The brand’s limited production model minimizes waste, while the Lemlem Foundation focuses on improving maternal health and economic development in African communities.
Azza Fahmy
Azza Fahmy is an Egyptian jewellery brand that uses recycled precious metals and gemstones, the brand crafts luxurious pieces inspired by Arab culture. Azza Fahmy is dedicated to preserving ancient jewelry-making techniques and supports local artisans with fair labor practices.
Kaftish
Dubai-based Kaftish offers bold, bohemian-inspired kaftans and dresses made from eco-friendly fabrics like organic cotton and linen. The brand’s small-batch production reduces waste, while its designs celebrate traditional embroidery techniques. Kaftish is encouraging consumers to choose quality over quantity.
Fyunka
Fyunka is a Saudi Arabian brand known for its quirky and playful accessories. Specializing in vegan leather bags, Fyunka uses eco-friendly materials to create fun, statement pieces. Their designs often feature nostalgic elements of Arab pop culture, and the brand extends its sustainability efforts to include recycled packaging.
