Fashion is usually associated with women, or so is our mindset. The international women’s runway shows attract a bigger audience and capture more media coverage. Yet the business of men’s fashion is a 573.50 billion dollar industry, according to Statista for insights and facts. Since the 2011 revolution, the Egyptian fashion industry has expanded from mainly “manufacturer” to actually producing “designers” whose creativity and quality proudly match their international counterparts. Menswear and men’s accessory designers are no exception. We look at some of our designers and brands that have engraved their names and built a loyal following among Egypt’s most fashionable men. From the custom-made tuxes by Moaaz El-Behairy to the full-fledged range of men’s wear by Concrete there is something for everyone, from casual outings to red-carpet appearances.
FROM CASUAL TO TUXEDOS: CLOTHING BRANDS
“THE LAST MAN STANDING”: MOAAZ EL-BEHAIRY
Moaaz El Behairy, the Egyptian high-end brand founded by Moaaz El Behairy specialized in men’s tuxedos portrays the vibe of Will Smith’s ‘Men in Black’. His collection’s photoshoot portrays the brand’s slogan ‘The Last Man Standing’. The brand’s collections and customized tuxes are not the only mesmerizing thing about Moaaz, but it’s his inspiring story. Moaaz, is a true inspiring model, for not giving up after his near-death experience. Four months after his graduation, he got into a car accident that almost killed him. Moaaz, who’s now one of the most famous fashion designers in Egypt, decided to pursue his career and not just settle for a restricted life in a wheelchair. Get to experience luxury in his tuxes by appointment!
THE DANDY: WASEEM KHADRA
Vintage yet modern. This barely defines Waseem Khadra’s designs that breathe a blend of old Hollywood glamour and today’s trends, presented in a rather ‘avant-garde’ manner. The Egyptian fashion house changed our vision of the classic suit and transformed it to suit our times. Waseem Khadra’s store, located in one of Cairo’s most elite areas, Zamalek, stands out with it’s rich classic interiors. Among the celebrities who rocked in more than one look bearing the stamp of Waseem Khadra are actors Amir Al-Masry, and Ahmed Magdy.
“ITALIAN SOUL, EGYPTIAN MADE”: AHMED HAMDY DESIGNS
Ahmed Hamdy Designs is a one-stop fashion house that has everything the well dressed gentleman is looking for. From light summer polos and shirts, to tuxedos, belts and shoes. Retailed in his boutiques across Cairo, founder and head designer Ahmed Hamdy is known for classic design and high quality and aims to cater to a sophisticated crowd.
THE ALL-ROUNDER: CONCRETE
If you’re one who looks for a one-stop-shop that caters to all your wardrobe needs, from beach wear to evening wear, Concrete is your address. The official sponsor for Al-Ahly’s football team, is an Egyptian clothing brand that was founded back in 1989. Considered a pioneer in the local men’s fashion industry, designed in Italy and produced in Egypt, Concrete boasts 21 branches across the country.
ECO-FRIENDLY CASUAL: SACER
Designed and produced in Egypt, baptized with a Latin name meaning ‘sacred’ and advocating mental health, Sacer is a unisex clothing brand specializing in sustainable, ethical, eco-friendly streetwear. Their slogan is “Ethical, Sustainable, Circular”. Three words that portray the brand’s ethos which is offering clothes made of organic and up-cycled materials. Retailed locally and internationally, if you’re up for modern and out of the box looks, well, then Sacer is the brand for you.
TIMELESS PIECES: MEROË
Design, quality and fit are among the top criteria when shopping for new wardrobe pieces. Egyptian unisex brand Meroë got your backs! They know what’s missing in your wardrobe. Their staple pieces are practical, comfy garments, and daily essentials. Finished in high quality cottons they are made to last beyond one season in every aspect.
“COOL & THE GANG”: UNTY DESIGNS
Your one-stop shop for incredibly cool outfits! Trendy, creative, and young, Unty Designs is known for their unique t-shirts and outerwear. The unconventional prints, Arabic calligraphy and color blend represent the brand’s DNA. That’s besides the super cool stickers that mimic their designs, you can also shop on their website. If fun and cool vibes are your thing, Unty is your absolute go-to!
STEPPING OUT: LEAD FOOTWEAR
Egyptian footwear brand Lead distinguishes itself not only with exceptional designs, but labelling each and every style with unique names. You can attract attention in Spider Web or make an entrance with The Masterpiece. If you favor the 1920’s, you can time travel in the Black and White Taxi. Wild is another excellent option if you don’t mind answering questions like “where did you get that?”
Have you picked your favorite pair yet on the brand’s online store?
ICONIC: YOUSHI DESIGNS
The missing piece of the puzzle for accessorizing your tux. Youshi Designs, an online store, is proudly making luxury footwear for men in Egypt. X an x were spotted stepping out on the local red carpet wearing classic signature style Youshi Designs.
WHO SAID JEWELRY IS ONLY FOR WOMEN?
EXCLUSIVELY FOR MEN: HUWA
Irresistible charm! Huwa was the first local brand dedicated solely to men’s jewelry. Today the brand offers a wide range of accessories that also cater to stylish women. You’ll get lost between their unique signature lapel pins, charming rings, elegant collar pins or dazzling necklaces and bracelets. And if you fancy cufflinks, well, this brand can easily turn you broke! Huwa is available online and at their newly opened store in The Nox Mall, New Cairo.
THE SPIRITUAL EXPERIENCE: GYPPO
Gyppo is an ideal choice if you’re a lover of gemstones and everything inspired by nature and earth. The brand prides itself in crafting jewelry made out of real dried and oxidized insects and plants, mixed with metals and gemstones. Bringing nature as close as it can get Gyppo will always capture everybody’s attention.
AUTHENTIC: AZZA FAHMY
“An exclusive society for those who believe that life’s true luxury is the ability to explore our existence”. Those are words found in “The World of Azza Fahmy” story, summing up the brand’s ethos. Although you may think the jewelry collections by Egypt’s leading designer are solely crafted for women, they do offer plenty of fine jewelry pieces for the stylish men about town!