In a bold move towards global expansion, Maje Paris has opened its doors in Cairo, Egypt, marking a significant milestone in the brand’s international presence. We sat down with Dounia Derriche, pivotal in this strategic move, and Charlotte Courbon, who oversees Maje’s global brand identity, to delve into what this venture means for the renowned Parisian fashion house.
DOUNIA DERRICHE
Q: Tell us what it means to you having this Maje Paris store in Egypt?
A: Opening our first store in Egypt marks a significant milestone for our brand. This strategic expansion not only allows us to bring our exclusive fashion closer to a new and discerning audience but also underscores our commitment to global growth and cultural exchange. Egypt, with its rich history and vibrant market, presents a unique opportunity for us to connect with style-conscious consumers who value quality and innovation. Establishing a presence here is a testament to our brand’s dedication to offering exceptional clothing and experiences to fashion enthusiasts around the world.
Q: How long have you planned for this?
A: We have been meticulously planning and working towards this opening for the past three years. This achievement is the result of our relentless efforts and the strong partnership we’ve built with Nile Projects. Bringing our brand to Egypt has been a complex and rewarding journey, reflecting our commitment to quality and our passion for fashion. Working closely with our local partner, we’ve overcome numerous challenges to ensure that our store meets the high standards our customers expect. This collaboration has been instrumental in helping us understand and embrace the unique cultural and market dynamics of Egypt, allowing us to create a shopping experience that resonates with the local clientele. We’re incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished and excited to bring our collections to Egypt. This new store is not just a retail space; it’s a celebration of our brand’s dedication and the vibrant spirit of our new market.
CHARLOTTE COURBON
Q: What does it take to translate a brand from one continent to the other? Is the branding language different in Cairo than it is in Paris?
A: To build our global brand identity, it’s crucial for us to stay true to our founder’s original vision and ensure every action we take aligns with our brand DNA. We empower women to express themselves through their wardrobe, encouraging them to be bold, to celebrate, and to be seen. The Maje woman embodies effortless glamour, is quintessentially Parisian—free, spontaneous, and playful. This unique vision, while rooted in Paris and the myth of French elegance, resonates universally and internationally. While maintaining our core identity, we carefully adapt to different markets, emphasizing what makes the most sense for each audience.
Q: We’re seeing a lot of international brands opening in Egypt? How is Maje different?
A: Maje is a Parisian fashion brand that defines effortless glamour, blending natural elegance with a feminine edge through delicate fabrics and flattering cuts. Its Parisian roots bring timeless allure, capturing the quintessential chic of French style. This unique style resonates with Egyptian women’s fashion, which blends tradition with modernity and emphasizes elegance and vibrant details, making Maje a perfect fit.
With Maje’s Cairo store now open, the brand continues to bridge cultural gaps through its distinctive blend of Parisian sophistication and global appeal. Dounia Derriche and Charlotte Courbon’s insights highlight not only the brand’s strategic vision but also its dedication to adapting and thriving in diverse markets. As Maje Paris paves the way in Egypt’s burgeoning fashion scene, it invites fashion enthusiasts to explore and embrace its timeless elegance, now more accessible than ever in the heart of Cairo.
