Where to shop

Assyla Said Akl Street, Saifi Village Monday-friday, 10am-7pm Saturday, 10am-6pm (01 970333; saifivillage.com/shops/assyla)

Orient 499 Aida Kawas is behind the abayas at Orient 499. She focuses on traditional cuts but uses modern material, from French and Italian linens, to wool and cashmere, stretching all the way to Indian fabrics, which results in colorful creations, ornate

with embroidery and sequins. 499 Omar Daouk Street, Mina El Hosn Monday-saturday, 10.30am-7pm (01 369499; orient499.com)

Waw Designs Waw Designs has a collection of different cuts, varying from Gulf style with huge sleeves, to the Levantine style, which has a much smaller, square cut for the sleeve. Maysaa Sultan is the woman behind the designs. John Kennedy Street, Clemenceau Monday-friday, 10.30am-8pm