Half Greek, half Jordanian sisters, Nafsika and Stephanie Skourti, established their womenswear brand out of their home in Jordan as an ode to the female voice.
With a practice rooted in research, they work to export the nuances and stories of Jordan. Through print, embroidery, and ongoing textile development they create sharp separates, couture details, and modern tailoring. Weaving cultural narratives and explorations of region-specific history and humour, the Nafsika Skourti aesthetic is a beautiful pairing of glamour and anti-glamour. Avid listeners and observers, they are women designing for women; serving the many facets of femininity through cut and expression of dress.
We talk to the sisters about where to find the best food, fashion, and culture in their hometown of Amman, Jordan.
The best time to visit Jordan is:
May or June, just before the summer heat hits. It’s the perfect time to enjoy Jordan’s diverse history and geography.
Our first pitstop should be:
The Citadel and the Roman Theatre for a dose of history right in the middle of the city, followed by breakfast at Hashem for the best hummus and falafel, and Knafeh (a molten cheese and caramelised vermicelli dessert) at Habiba for dessert.
Your favourite hotel to check-in at is:
Beit Al Fanan is a gorgeous artist’s residence turned guest house, built by award-winning local architect Ammar Khammash.
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For an early morning workout head to:
Try Reformer Pilates at One with Nature or, if you’d like to get some cardio in, check out Magma Gym, a state-of-the-art fitness centre with a great view.
Where should we go for breakfast?
Head to Rainbow Street where you can find Falafel al Quds to grab the best falafel sandwich on the go, or visit Shams El Balad for fresh twists on local classics.
How about for a long, lazy lunch?
Sufra is a great place to explore authentic Jordanian cuisine, or for the best Lebanese mezze in town, head to Fakhreldin but bear in mind that you’ll definitely need a nap afterwards.
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Your favourite restaurant in town?
Alee, with a Jordanian-inspired gourmet menu.
And for dinner with friends?
Brasserie Julie for a five star meal and great relaxed atmosphere.
The drink to order at the bar:
Carakale is a local brewery with specialty brews to suit every taste. Here, order Arak, a distilled anise spirit usually served mixed with water while eating mezze. It’s a Middle-Eastern classic.
The best place for people watching:
Rumi Cafe in the old neighbourhood of Weibdeh is the perfect place to perch and while away an afternoon.
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The culture spot to rave about:
Darat Al Funun always has amazing exhibitions set in old residences from the 1920’s, as well as besides old Byzantine ruins in the gardens. The MMAG Foundation is also great, it’s a genuinely inspiring space: between their curation and their initiative, we always walk out feeling more inspired than when we walked in.
The best place to treat yourself is:
Le Spa for their signature facial and massage. It’s heaven.
Where can I go shopping?
The Nafsika Skourti Showroom! Hotspot Concept Store is also a good place to find up-and-coming local brands. For local trinkets, souvenirs, and surprising finds, head downtown and explore the many stalls and shops.
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A must-try spot for date night?
Bar in the Back is a speakeasy joint set behind 13C (a wine and spirits shop), where you can buy a bottle of whatever you want and enjoy it in the restaurant. Their food is also delicious.
Your favourite neighbourhood:
Weibdeh, it’s an older neighbourhood that has recently had a revival and become a hub for great cafés. It has beautiful architecture and is so nice to walk around in.
For the best views head to:
The Loft is great for sunset drinks, and Manara Arts & Culture Cafe is great for coffee overlooking the hills of Amman. For a more adventurous setting, Wadi Rum desert also has breathtaking sunset views.
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For a change of pace try:
A canyon hike in the Wadi Mujib Biosphere Reserve. It’s a great way to cool down with beautiful scenery.
Great day trips include:
Petra is of course the number one spot to see when visiting Jordan. You can also head north to explore the ruins of the ancient city of Jerash, one of the largest sites of Roman architecture outside of Italy.
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How should we spend the final day of our trip?
Go to the Dead Sea for a day, and pamper yourself at one of the many hotel spas. When you go you have to try the famous Dead Sea mud and a ‘float’ in the sea.
Souvenir to take home?
Some Dead Sea mud to relive your experience and treat yourself at home. Definitely some zaatar and olive oil too.
A book to read before we go:
The Arab Center: The Promise of Moderation by Marwan Mouasher.
In one word, Jordan is:
Home.
The one place only locals know about is:
There’s nothing like going to Teta’s (grandmother’s) house. That’s always where the best food is. Make friends with a local and they’re sure to invite you over.
Essential items to pack?
Our AW22 collection is full of pieces suited for nights out in Amman; whether that’s dinner with friends or a romantic date night.
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Any Questions or Tips to add?