Fashion Labels Popular In Gaza Despite Hardship

GAZA CITY — In the Old City of Gaza, Levi's, Adidas and many other brand names are on display at the largest secondhand shop in the impoverished coastal enclave. Such popular labels are only available at this market, Fras, as the majority in Palestinians in Gaza cannot afford them new but nonetheless still desire them. The Fras Market introduced Palestinians in Gaza to international brands. The goods there are mostly brought in from Israel, and the majority of the brands are Israeli, with a few American and European labels mixed in.

Abu Muhammad Abu Kheir has been a clothes retailer at Fras for more than 15 years. He is satisfied with his work, given the considerable flow of customers. “Although the majority of my customers are poor, I have many well-off customers who regularly come and ask for specific brands,” Abu Kheir told Al-Monitor at his modest shop.