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

Shops in Cairo are mixed bag, at best. But through all the fakes and bootlegs, a select few right-minded, fashion concious outlets go the extra mile, spend the extra buck, and bring Cairo’s fashionistas what they yearn for; top quality international designers. Just prepare not to eat for a month.

Beymen Cairo:

Located in the Four Seasons Nile Plaza, in Garden City, Beymen is at the top of the list of places to go on a scavenger hunt for some quality designer items. With popular labels such as Hervé Léger, Roberto Cavalli and Prada making regular appearances, shoppers have a nice variety of clothing – both evening and more casual – shoes, handbags and other accessories, to choose from. Their Facebook page can keep you updated with their latest collections.

Ego:

Carrying labels that include YSL, Stella McCartney and Jimmy Choo, Ego offers a range of items that includes shoes and handbags. There’s also a men’s section with suits, formal wear and shoes by Armani and Hugo Boss, while designer baby lines are also available, such as Armani and Ralph Lauren. The shop is deceptively larger than initially meets the eye; they even have an in-house tailor for adjustments. While the original shop is located in Heliopolis, downtowners can rejoice because word is, a Zamalek counterpart is on its way. Click here for their Facebook page.

Hip:

Rania Shahin’s baby, Hip, found in the First Mall in Giza, is another main player in the high-end shopping scene. Offering items by the likes of Balmain, Zac Posen and Alexander McQueen, the boutique also carries the work of lesser-known designers such as David Szeto and Jo No Fui. What makes this trendy spot so special though, are the 80% discounts they offer during seasonal sales. Stay up to date with their happenings by visiting their Facebook page.

Villa Baboushka:

The massive fuchsia doors that greet you at Villa Baboushka, found on Ismail Mohamed Street in Zamalek, are a good indicator of what lies beyond; extravagance and  grandeur, with a touch of something whimsical. The boutique carries international designers such as Vivienne Westwood and Mara Hoffman, as well as Middle Eastern ones such as Beheya and Shorouk. Along with the clothes, however, furniture items and artwork are also available to buy – we dare you to leave empty handed. Check their Facebook page for more details.

Amuse:

Another shop that offers more than just clothes is Amuse. On the ground floor of Borg Jeddah on Ismail Mohamed Street in Zamalek, this loft-meets-warehouse concept store is modern, edgy and stocks all sorts of clothing, jewellery, accessories, as well as furniture, miscellaneous home items and books; fashion, design and art all in one. The clothing lines include designers such as Shorouk, House of Harlow and Clash, while furniture pieces by local brand, Alchemy, can also be found. Their Facebook page can help keep you updated.

Ghazl Banat:

Having recently moved locations, but remaining on the island of Zamalek in the Degla Center on Hassan Sabry Street, this boutique – which sweetly translates to ‘cotton candy’ – is another recommended spot for some wallet-depleting shopping.  With brands such as Helmut Lang, Rebecca Taylor and Graham & Spencer, Ghazl Banat offers quality and style, at a somewhat less pricey level than aforementioned outlets. Regardless, this boutique is sure to satisfy all tastes from chic and bohemian, to funky and eccentric. Click here for more details on their collections.

Bring on pay-day!