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Egypt is one of 2026’s buzziest travel destinations. In part thanks to the long-awaited opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum near the Pyramids of Giza, the country saw a 20 per cent jump in international arrivals in 2025 – and its popularity is already continuing into 2026. The fashion crowd has already earmarked it as the place to be for winter sun, but what should you pack to respect the conservative dress codes while still feeling like yourself? Modest clothing is encouraged, shoulder-to-below-the-knee coverage is a good rule of thumb, and looser styles will keep you cool in the heat. For mosque visits, female travellers should wear clothing that covers from ankle to elbow, plus a headscarf.
There are more options than ever when it comes to modest dressing; FLUID SILHOUETTES and UNDERSTATED, COVERED DESIGNS have become closely aligned with the fashion world. Brands such as The Row and Toteme and Tove have popularised a demure, elegant aesthetic that hinges on well-crafted, minimal staples to keep forever. The trick is converting these staples for warm weather – an oversized linen shirt, a shirt dress and 70s’ kaftans. This season’s BALLOON TROUSERS are perfect, and chic layered under a tunic top. Dress up any look with STATEMENT JEWELLERY: consider Completedworks’ sculpted pieces, crafted in recycled materials, including vermeil, sterling silver and responsibly sourced pearls.
If you’re looking for a great souvenir to take home with you make a beeline for Cairo’s historic Khan Al Khalili, a bustling open-air market that originated in the 14th century, where you’ll find jewellery, homewares, spices and artisanal textiles. Alternatively, head to second-hand market Wekalet El Balah, a great spot for thrifting. In Aswan, look out for the beautifully made baskets and shawls created using the region’s ancient weaving methods.
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Lead image: M&S
Ella Alexander is Citizen Femme’s fashion features editor. She started her career at the Evening Standard, and has since held senior editorial roles at Vogue, The Independent and Harper’s Bazaar, where she remains a contributing editor. She also writes for The Telegraph, Sunday Times Style, Service95 and CNN. She is an author, having co-written Dame Zandra Rhodes’ memoir, Iconic: My Life In Fashion In 50 Objects, published by Transworld in July 2024. Her favourite travel destination is Catania, Sicily’s second city.
