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Hanan Mahmoud Hanan and her husband, Mahmoud, have a fabulous atelier and showroom. I love Hanan's beadwork - a sort of 3D effect which I love. More recently she has created some stunning costumes covered in big stones ..... well worth a look. I particularly love her dresses. Hanan designs a lot of the Farida troupe range. And our fabulous galabayas.
Hanan and Mahmoud are friendly, genuine and likeable people. They often try and feed my groups - which is greatly appreciated. Hanan is drop dead gorgeous and makes dancers look equally wonderful in her creations. Taxis can never find the atelier yet it is easy to get to by metro. Not many foreigners use the metro so I like to take groups as part of their 'Cairo Experience'.
Eman Zaki Eman is a fantastic designer, she makes costumes for some of the worlds top dancers. Her designs are elegant and make you feel wonderful. Eman's sister Hoda Zaki also makes beautiful costumes, and they are both familiar faces at Fantasia, as guests of the Farida Dance stall.
Eman used to be a dancer herself, which must help her when designing, as her costumes are a joy to wear, comfortable, not too fussy yet completely stunning. She has a great eye for what suits folks, and often makes things with just a suggestion of style and colour from her client.
Eman and Hoda are both friendly and approachable, and have always been a delight to work with when in the UK.
Aida Nour A professional dancer, Aida made a name for herself in the 80's. She now teaches - and designs costumes.
Aida came to the UK in 2006 with the Farha Tour and performed with the show. She was fantastic. Sassy, and fun. A great personality. Her charisma as a teacher also means that she is in great demand for classes and private lessons. Aida is also one of the founders of the 'Nile Group festival' in Cairo. Because she has been a performer, Aida designs costumes that dancers enjoy. She has a range to fit most pockets from cheaper to more expensive. It varies as to how much stock she has at her atelier but it is worth a look.
Pharonics Amira El Kattan is a great business woman. She treats each customer as if they were a queen. You have to make an appointment and she shows you her collection. A great experience with price tags to match the individual attention. Some beautiful work.
Aziz Lebanese born, Aziz is a great character. He is very entertaining to be around and has a great eye for what will look good on a dancer. Some groups have loved his work - others have bought nothing. If you want something a bit different, I would recommend a look.
Sahar Okasha Sahar designed costumes for Dina, Cairo's top dancer, for many years. This established her and her designs as highly sought after. Some incredible bead work and different designs. If you are on a budget, don't go ...... or you may be tempted.

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