We’ve almost done it all. The seasonal trends and regional designers. The fashion breakdowns and need-to-knows. Even accessorising the accessory. What have we yet to give its moment? The whimsy, hayati!
From cutesy ceramics to customisable journals, it’s these small tidbits that make us truly glad we’re just a girl.😌 Here’s your guide to inserting a bit of colour in the mundane everyday. Cue the best whimsical indie Arab brands to shop at RN.
@waggish.ae
This UAE-based brand simply gets it. From illustrated mugs to cool magnets, the creative business has landed itself a spot on Cosmo ME’s wishlist. Our favourite? It just has to be their gahwa cup pop socket. It’s symbolic and sweetly nostalgic, all while still being playful with its modern takes on colour combos and crafty design. Which would you choose?
@midnightstopp
We’re off to a strong start (we almost called this UAE-based brand our favourite too, uh oh). This one’s for the thought daughters, the Pinterest moodboarders, and Substack provocateurs. With their banger leather covers and mesmerising curated styles, these custom journals easily have a one-way ticket to our wishlist, and probably yours too.
@terra.eg
The Algo-gods have blessed us with this hidden gem, and aren’t we glad they did. Headquartered in Egypt, this creative hub sells arguably the cutest journal charms (and journals, too, of course!). From cowhide to leather options alike, Terra’s handcrafts give you the paper space to do things in style. So, are we thinking stars or hearts? 🤔
@youmademyday.qa
You Made My Day makes things cute. They’re based in Qatar. If you didn’t know, now you do. 💅 Their thing? Exclusive drops. And it’s safe to say we’re left obsessing every single time. Are you not seeing the creative genius in those gorgeous designs, diva? From limited edition blankets to all sorts of curated prints, this shop channels major Pinterest inspo.
@oqueofficiel
There are two types of hot girls in this world: ones with a clump of tangled necklaces on their bedside table and ones with necklaces neatly stashed away in their designated boxes. Is this meant to be a battle-of-the-divas incitement? Nope, both slay. You know what else does? Having a portable (UAE-made) home for your everyday stack. And it has your name on it. Enough said.
@shopqalam
It’s official, Qalam’s our girl crush. From Bahrain’s heart to yours, the gift shop stocks goodies ranging from puzzles to stickers and cute tote bags. As we casually test our willpower by scrolling through their storefront, we fall for the credit card trap, aka the fenyal section. The jumbo-sized Arabic coffee cup is adorned with patterns from old Bahraini door designs. Just cop it.
@almatjar_sein
Al Matjar is there for you on every treat yourself occasion. Or shopping ban violation, no judgment here, babe. We get it; they’re just that cool. Celebrating cultural motifs from across the region, the local convenience store understands the power of balancing heritage with contemporary aesthetics, making for designs that tell stories in their own right. Need.
@studio.yamine
Meet Yamine Daaboul, a Syrian Brit making serious waves with her ceramic works. Think of her art as an ode to culture, nostalgia, and burdened identity all on one plate, literally. In referencing classic Arabic sayings, Daaboul’s studio calls upon a longing familiar to many across the diaspora. Her ceramics feel like a piece of home away from home.
@dearhumaan
Dear Humaan makes prints that seriously go hard 🔥. Think Al Serkal-core but (Saudi’s Version). Please get the TS reference lol. In all seriousness, this art store brings some of the region’s most talented, niche designers with a global audience, and we think it’s safe to say Cosmo ME’s sat for the show. It’s new age cool. It’s nostalgic. And it’s giving us everything.
@gorzah.ae
Gorzah is peak just a girl energy. 🎀If the Lana Del Rey aesthetic and Khaleeji maximalism were to have a baby, it would be this. A sentimental jewellery box too basic for your taste? Dw, the handcraft store’s got you. UAE tatreez techniques meet lush fabrics to sew on a mabkhara to the coveted armoire, making for a truly whimsical blend, the Arab way. Just how we like it. 👏
Check out your April guide next!