Old Cairo inspired these sisters to create handbags worn by Beyoncé and Gigi Hadid

Old Cairo Inspired These Sisters to Create Timeless Luxury

Activelifezero.com – Old Cairo inspired these sisters to create a luxury brand that has captured the attention of celebrities worldwide. Nestled within the labyrinthine streets of Old Cairo lies a treasure trove of history that has served as a gateway to Egypt’s capital for centuries. This historic district has long captivated creative minds, including Egyptian siblings Aya and Mounaz Abdelraouf. During a visit over ten years ago, the sisters experienced a profound sense of timelessness that would eventually shape their creative vision. Aya Abdelraouf described the feeling as being transported to another era, noting that it seemed as though the entire world had paused around them.

Brass and Heritage in Every Stitch

Old Cairo inspired these sisters to look beyond the stunning architecture and embrace the local artisans they encountered. They observed generations of craftsmen preserving traditional techniques to produce intricate lamps, delicate jewelry, and elegant tableware. This deep appreciation for heritage became the foundation of their luxury label, Okhtein, which translates to “two sisters” in Arabic. The brand seamlessly merges Egyptian artistry with contemporary bag design, creating pieces that honor tradition while embracing modernity. Signature pieces often feature bodies made from engraved or textured brass, complemented by premium leather accents. Mounaz Abdelraouf explained that brass remains the core component, transforming each bag into a collectible item that tells a story.

A recurring motif across their collections is the palmette, resembling a fan-shaped palm leaf. This symbol originates from a specific wall behind the Gothic-style entrance of the Madrasa of Ibn Qalawun, a 13th-century religious institution and tomb. According to Aya Abdelraouf, these patterns historically functioned as dividers or pauses in poetry and the Quran, adding layers of meaning to each design.

Global Appeal and Cultural Identity

Okhtein has garnered international acclaim, attracting high-profile admirers such as Beyoncé, Gigi Hadid, and Emma Watson. The designs strive to capture the multifaceted nature of Egypt through understated nods rather than overt symbols. Aya Abdelraouf noted that their creations avoid clichés like pyramid shapes. Instead, they celebrate the nation’s diverse identity. Mounaz Abdelraouf emphasized that Egypt encompasses North African, Middle Eastern, Arab, Coptic, and Muslim influences simultaneously. Old Cairo inspired these sisters to create pieces that reflect this rich tapestry of cultural heritage.

A Boutique Among the Pyramids

With locations in Cairo, Dubai, and Riyadh, the brand recently established a presence at the Grand Egyptian Museum near the Giza pyramids. Recognized as one of the largest museums dedicated to a single civilization, the venue offers a unique setting for the sisters’ work. Architect Walid Zeidan designed the space, drawing inspiration from the journey pharaohs took in wooden feluccas along the Nile. Mounaz Abdelraouf expressed her awe at being situated before the statue of Ramses II, calling it a humbling experience. She believes the location allows visitors to carry a fragment of modern Egyptian culture back home.

The museum holds a glimpse of what Egypt has to offer in terms of civilization. So, to be part of this glimpse is just insane. To be right in front of the statue of Ramses (Ramesses II) is very humbling.

Roots and Resilience

Since debuting in 2014, Okhtein has expanded beyond handbags to include fine jewelry and accessories. The sisters collaborate with global craftsmen, sourcing embroidery from India and Italian leather panels. Their younger brother manages daily operations and strategic growth. Fashion is woven into their lineage. Before Okhtein, their grandfather ran a textile shop, importing fabrics globally and visiting fashion hubs like Paris and Milan. Aya Abdelraouf remembered her grandmother as a model-like figure whose closet felt like a treasure trove of vintage pieces. Old Cairo inspired these sisters to create a brand that honors their family’s legacy while pushing boundaries. Today, Okhtein stands as a testament to the power of heritage and innovation working hand in hand.