The Definitive Guide to Living in the Capital , Cairo , Egypt

For many women, the thirst for chic
clothes is never satisfied. No matter how cluttered our wardrobes might be, we
always know how to make room for more. The fact that Cairo is home to a
diverse collection of local and international clothing brands only serves to
feed into our unhealthy obsession.

Etam is one of those shops where you
walk in empty-handed to just take a look around, and walk out with at least an
item or two. The dents that might occur in your wallet later on are just
collateral damage. With several branches all over Cairo, Etam’s Citystars branch
is located on the first floor of Phase 2, offering casual wear with an elevated
twist.  

Etam is a quiet shop, with only two
sales attendants hunched over a computer. Given the fact that this reviewer was
the only shopper, it didn’t feel understaffed. The lack of attention was, in
fact, a plus. You can take your time perusing around without constant
interruption and that annoying feeling that your every move is being monitored.

The shop mostly carries casual wear,
including summer-friendly ankle-length dresses in floral designs and loud
patterns with prices starting at 899LE. Also on offer is a wide range of
cardigans in different colours and fabrics. A knitted cardigan will set you
back as much as 500LE.

At the time of this reviewer’s
visit, there was a 50% discount on a limited selection of shorts. Originally
priced at 500LE, a pair of denim shorts was selling for 250LE. Given the fact
that the shorts would only see occasional use at the beach, 250LE still seems like a lot. You can also find casual blazers that sell for around 700LE and white
basic shirts in moderate quality and a variety of colours, priced at 250LE.

There is also a nice collection of
fabulous and summery accessories including beach totes, scarves and necklaces
as well as sneakers, sandals and flip-flops. You can find a simple leather bag
for 280LE in respectable quality, and a pair of floral sneakers priced at above
300LE. Scarves are available in wild patterns and floral designs for just over
100LE.

Although the quality of Etam’s
clothing is questionable and many items are definitely overpriced, it pays to
take your time perusing around; savvy shoppers can spot an item or two that is
both fashionable and offers great value-for-money.