Gap: Global Brand Debuts in Cairo’s Mall of Arabia

Shopping

Gap

- 04/07/2011

Gap: Global Brand Debuts in Cairo’s Mall of Arabia

Gate 4, Mall of Arabia, Juhayna Square
0238210500 0238210391

reviewed by

Haisam Awad

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Last October, the suits at Gap dropped an absolute clanger when they attempted to change the company’s iconic logo. The new logo lasted all but a week, and heads rolled. Cairenes should forgive and forget, though; because Gap has finally arrived in Egypt. Unfortunately, it’s in the stranded abyss that is Mall of Arabia, but fans of their trademark style won’t mind the trip.

Those who are familiar with Gap will find this branch exactly as they’d expect; the shop is large, bright and economically spaced, and the displays are practical and easy to browse through. Advertising campaigns would have you think that the trademark Gap hoodie is as essential to a wardrobe as any item of clothing that you will ever own, but we just can’t see it working in Egypt in July. Nonetheless, if you must own one, it will set you back 499LE and comes in a range of muted colours.

A large collection of jeans are available, and cater to most fits including the straight, boot-cut and slim varieties, as well as skinny fit jeans for women. They are generally slightly cheaper than you’d find at shops like Levi’s, with the most expensive pair selling for 599LE. They’re basic but feel durable and of good quality. Slacks are out in full force for the summer, and for the men’s wear department, this is the highlight; especially a pair of worn denim-blue slacks that combine the best of both worlds. They retail at 499LE, while standard slacks are a little cheaper at between 400LE and 449LE and come in the basic beiges, greens and navies.

Androgyny is still in, and is being championed by Gap through its collection. The women’s and men’s clothes are almost indistinguishable, but for sizes and cuts. Women’s shirts aren’t that far removed from the designs of men’s shirts. Smart-casual shirts for men are plentiful, and at around 399LE, are costly but well worth the price tag if you’re looking for quality. Polo shirts are in the same vein, and range from 199LE to 229LE for basic muted colours in plain and in thick horizontal, rugby-shirt-style stripes. Guys can also grab a pair of cotton boxer shorts for 129LE, while well-fitted, plain t-shirts are available for 129LE in crew and v-necks for both men and women.

Ladies can enjoy Gap’s collection of dresses, which are modest yet stylish in design and colour, and wide in range. Maxi dresses are of course at the forefront, and are available for between 449LE and 699LE.

There is also an impressive kid’s wear section that boast as many different styles and designs as the men’s and women’s. Boy’s polo shirts, t-shirts and shirts range from 96LE to 200LE, while girls’ dresses sell for between 180LE and 250LE

Here’s hoping that more Gap branches will start popping up around Cairo; Gap’s breezy and minimalist approach to casual wear is sorely needed in Egypt.