Okhtein

Egyptian siblings Aya and Mounaz Abdelraouf founded their brand Okhtein–or “sisters,” in Arabic—as a result of their vision to bring true luxury back to their home country. A favorite of celebrities including Beyoncé and Olivia Culpo, Okhtein was born in 2013 when the designers sensed a gap in the market for luxury accessories produced in Egypt. The sisters both hold degrees from the American University of Cairo, and as lifelong residents of the city, they infuse their heritage into each of their elegant designs.

Featuring a range of signatures from studded shoulder bags to ornate minaudières in metallic finishes, all of Okhtein’s designs are crafted with philanthropy in mind, as the goal of promoting Egyptian artistry through local manufacturing processes remains central to the Okhtein ethos. The brand works with several Egyptian based NGOs that provide opportunities to skilled female artisans who fuse clean lines with intricate finishes such as embroidery, hardware and tassels.

Catapulting to success after winning the DDFC/Vogue Arabia Fashion Prize in 2016, the brand continues to grow its range in the lifestyle space, counting a star-studded celebrity following that includes Gigi Hadid, Beyonce and Madonna as part of its VIP client list.