In the 1970s, a photograph taken by Thomas Abercrombie during his assignment for National Geographic captured a moment on a Gaza beach that would ignite a passion in a young Palestinian woman named Yasmeen Mjalli. The image featured a man surrounded by vibrant skeins of red, yellow, and blue yarn, a scene of craftsmanship and tradition that was unfamiliar to Yasmeen in her Palestinian homeland. This captivating photograph marked the beginning of a journey to rediscover and celebrate Palestinian heritage, ultimately leading to the birth of Nöl Collective.
Nöl Collective is not just a fashion brand; it’s a testament to the resilience, creativity, and determination of Palestinians to preserve their rich cultural heritage. Yasmeen Mjalli embarked on a quest to unearth forgotten traditions, uncovering the beauty of handwoven fabrics, hand-spun wool, naturally dyed yarns, and the intricate art of traditional cross-stitch embroidery. This journey took her from weaving studios in Gaza to the workshops of Nablus and the family-owned ateliers in the hills of Jerusalem, all the way to a factory in Bethlehem. Through Nöl Collective, Yasmeen and her team are weaving stories of Palestinian artisans and their commitment to keeping indigenous practices alive.The upcoming spring collection from Nöl Collective is a vivid reflection of Yasmeen Mjalli’s vision and the heart of the brand. Set against the backdrop of Hackney and worn by Palestinian and Afghani models Lilac Khatib and Silai Estatira, this collection embodies the themes of movement, heritage, and persistence. It is a tapestry of color, featuring the work of artisans and craftsmen from the West Bank. Soft greens and neutrals serve as a canvas for vibrant pops of color, adorning a range of pieces from sweatshirts and slouchy cargo pants to naturally dyed dresses, hand-embroidered baby tees, miniskirts, and hand-woven shoulder bags.What sets Nöl Collective apart is its unwavering commitment to ethical and sustainable production. It’s an initiative rooted in the principles of hyper-localism and intersectionality.
For Yasmeen Mjalli, a garment must possess a soul, and that soul is found in the people who create it and the land from which it springs. The artisans and craftsmen of Nöl Collective are not just makers; they are revolutionaries challenging a global fashion industry that often prioritizes profit over people and the planet.Living and creating in Palestine presents its unique set of challenges. Apartheid roads make it physically challenging to meet with producers and artisans. Moreover, traditional fabrics, embroidery, and crafts that are integral to Palestinian identity have faced threats in recent history. However, the resilience of Palestinians shines through as artisans and craftsmen across the occupied territories persist in their mission to safeguard their heritage.Nöl Collective is more than a fashion brand; it’s a movement that champions heritage, sustainability, and empowerment. Yasmeen Mjalli’s journey, ignited by a photograph from the 1970s, has evolved into a powerful narrative of Palestinians finding joy in their crafts, even amidst adversity.
The brand’s intersectional approach to design and production places people and their stories at the forefront. Through the hands of artisans, the land they tread upon, and the shared history they uphold, Nöl Collective is a testament to the enduring spirit of Palestinians.In a global industry where fashion often speaks of trends and glamour, Nöl Collective’s voice is a profound one. It speaks of tradition, resilience, and a commitment to heritage. As the brand continues to weave Palestinian culture into its sustainable creations, it serves as a beacon of hope for the preservation of traditions that have defined generations. Nöl Collective is more than fashion; it’s a tribute to the enduring legacy of a people and their artistry.
