Cairo in Leather

Let’s face it: a full leather outfit is probably not the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Egypt. Yet, leather and Cairo actually share a deep, historical bond that made my wardrobe choice feel like an obvious tribute rather than just a fashion statement.

The Connection: Cairo and Leather

You might be surprised to learn that Egypt is home to one of the oldest leather-working traditions in the world. For millennia, Cairo has been a hub for tanning; even today, the city houses the Magroura (the historic tannery district), where artisans have perfected their craft for generations. In ancient Egypt, leather was a symbol of status and utility, used for everything from the sandals of Pharaohs to the complex chariots of the military. Wearing leather in Cairo isn't just a style; it’s a nod to a 5,000-year-old industry.

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One major advantage of visiting Cairo in December? The weather is incredibly leather-friendly. It was around 18°C, which felt closer to 14°C with the breeze, perfect for staying comfortable without overheating.

While most leather enthusiasts let the thermometer dictate their wardrobe, I’m a bit "special", I wear what I love regardless.

Even so, I received plenty of messages asking if I was too hot. On the contrary! When the sun dipped and the evening temperature hit 11°C, I was grateful for the insulation.

Another message I received; how "courageous" I was for wearing leather in an Arab country.

I took it as a compliment to my spirit, though perhaps a misunderstanding of the reality on the ground.

I certainly consider myself courageous, but my fashion choices are never an act of defiance against local culture; rather, they are a celebration of personal style within a landscape of growing tolerance.

In a place like Egypt, where the calls to prayer harmonize with the bells of neighboring churches, you see a tapestry of coexistence that has evolved significantly over the years. This modern openness is the true mark of progress, a shift toward a future where diversity is respected rather than suppressed.

While I am mindful of strict dress codes in sacred spaces, covering what must be covered, I have found that respect lies in the silhouette and modesty of the garment, not in the restriction of the material itself.

Choosing leather isn't a breach of protocol; it’s a choice of texture.

Walking through the vibrant streets of Cairo, I didn't sense shock or disapproval from the people I met. Instead, I rather encountered a genuine curiosity and fascination that felt like a bridge between cultures, a positive, silent dialogue sparked by a simple outfit and sustained by mutual respect.

Concerning my clothing choices, I packed strategically: my staple Perfecto jacket and a leather coat. But for the Pyramids, a true bucket-list moment, I debuted a new piece: an asymmetrical leather dress that I absolutely adored. I paired the dress with my Perfecto and cowboy boots.

Walking among the Great Pyramids, I felt a strange sense of empowerment. There is a raw energy in Giza that feels ancient and divine, reminiscent of an era when goddesses were worshipped and monuments were built for eternity. And… my outfit felt like enhancing the magic of the moment.

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Day two was dedicated to the long-awaited Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM). After decades of anticipation, stepping inside felt like an experience. Knowing that museums are kept at strictly controlled, cooler temperatures to preserve the artifacts, I opted for leather shorts and my long leather coat.

The GEM is a masterpiece of modern architecture, featuring a massive statue of Ramses II that greets you in the atrium. While much of the collection is still being transitioned, the Tutankhamun gallery (the "Golden Tomb" artifacts) is breathtaking. Seeing the intricate gold work and ancient chariot leather fragments through the lens of my own leather attire felt like a full-circle moment.

However, if I’m honest, the raw, outdoor majesty of the Pyramids still held a stronger grip on my heart.

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My Impressions of Cairo

• The Scale: Everything is far. Expect 45-minute taxi rides just to cross the city.

• The Pace: No one is in a hurry, whether at the airport or a restaurant. Cairo moves at its own speed.

• Safety: Despite my "extraordinary" and authentic outfits drawing quite a bit of attention, I felt completely safe throughout the trip.

There is still so much to see, a Nile cruise and Luxor are calling my name, but I’ll save those for next time.

One final travel tip: One local airline lacks the advanced systems required to land in heavy fog. If the weather turns, you might end up in a different country with a 10-hour wait, finding yourself a different solution to reach your final destination, but that’s just the risk of the adventure!

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