Palestinian Embroidery Gets Modern Makeover by New Generation
Translated & summarized from Al-Shams by baba
Palestinian embroidery is experiencing a revival as a new generation of designers and artists incorporates traditional motifs into contemporary fashion, including everyday wear and accessories. Young designer Noomi Hadbeh is among those updating the craft, while initiatives like Samar Quresh's "Majdal" project aim to make it more accessible. UNESCO recognized Palestinian embroidery as Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2021, acknowledging its cultural significance and role as a social practice passed down through generations.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Palestinian embroidery is being integrated into modern fashion by a new generation of designers.
- Young designer Noomi Hadbeh is updating traditional motifs for contemporary menswear and everyday wear.
- Embroidery is appearing on a variety of items beyond traditional garments, including accessories and home decor.
- UNESCO recognized Palestinian embroidery as Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2021.
- Initiatives like Samar Quresh's "Majdal" project aim to reconnect the craft with daily life.
Palestinian embroidery, once confined to traditional garments stored by families, is now being integrated into contemporary fashion, appearing on dresses, shirts, men's wear, and accessories. Designers and artists are revitalizing this ancient craft by presenting it in a modern context that resonates with younger generations. While the craft never truly disappeared, remaining present in homes and cultural memory, it is now finding new expressions beyond traditional attire.
Young fashion designer Noomi Hadbeh, 26, from the town of Mayser in Wadi Ara, exemplifies this trend. He incorporates traditional geometric motifs into menswear collections, preserving the classic stitches while updating their presentation through contemporary fabric cuts. For his 2026 collection, he utilized blue thread to make the embroidery a part of everyday wear.
This shift sees Palestinian embroidery motifs appearing on jackets, dresses, scarves, accessories, shoes, and even home furnishings, expanding the craft's presence beyond traditional occasions. This allows for the integration of ancient symbols into modern pieces chosen by youth according to their personal style, making them suitable for daily wear rather than solely for special events.
Beyond mere decoration, Palestinian embroidery carries a deeper significance. Historically, embroidered garments served as a means for women to express their identity and regional affiliation, with diverse patterns and colors varying across different Palestinian areas, often linked to specific places and social life. In 2021, UNESCO recognized Palestinian embroidery as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, highlighting its role as a social practice passed down through generations and a source of income for some women.
Today, the younger generation is rediscovering embroidery, viewing it not just as the work of grandmothers but as an element in artistic projects, fashion designs, exhibitions, and educational workshops. In Jerusalem, researcher and craftswoman Samar Quresh is working on developing tools and techniques for Palestinian textiles through her "Majdal" project, aiming to reconnect the craft with daily life and make it accessible to enthusiasts of all ages. Exhibitions featuring historical garments alongside contemporary designs also introduce embroidery to new audiences, demonstrating its potential for evolution rather than remaining a museum piece. Ultimately, the resurgence of Palestinian embroidery lies in finding new ways for young people to carry its symbols forward, stitch by stitch, on modern garments, ensuring the craft's continued relevance through evolving forms.