Olivia Rodrigo Wears Palestinian Designer's
Olivia Rodrigo wore a custom pink dress by Palestinian brand Nöl Collective, which the designer called a powerful message of remembrance.
Pop star Olivia Rodrigo, 23, wore a dress by Palestinian brand Nöl Collective at a press conference for her Daisy Chain Fields festival. The singer's choice was described by designer Yasmeen Mjalli as a statement that Palestinians "are still here; we have not been forgotten," according to a report by Refinery29.
Rodrigo's team discovered the fashion brand and commissioned the piece. While they suggested a classic silhouette in pink, Nöl Collective was given significant creative freedom on the details. The resulting dress was made from raw silk in a soft, dusty rose shade with flutter sleeves and a frilled neckline.
The Symbolism in the Embroidery
The dress featured specific Palestinian embroidery motifs chosen to align with Rodrigo's ethos. The flowers connected to the theme of her Daisy Chain Fields festival, which raised $20 million USD for women's charities. Designer Yasmeen Mjalli explained that flowers symbolize beauty after a storm and support ecosystems. She said the daisy chain motif represented "the power of a united world in the face of adversity."
Embroidered birds on the garment were a clear representation of freedom. Mjalli stated this was intended not just for Palestinians, but for all those who need it globally.
Fashion as a Political and Human Act
Nöl Collective's garments are handmade in Jerusalem, Gaza, Ramallah, and Bethlehem. The brand emphasizes transparency in its production process. Mjalli argues fashion is inherently political, noting that 70% of garment workers worldwide are women, making it a women's rights issue. She also cites the industry's environmental impact.
"When you show how the garment is made, you humanize the process," Mjalli told Refinery29. The hope is that consumers become more mindful, picturing the hands of the women who made each piece.
The Challenges of Creation Under Occupation
Operating under Israeli occupation presents severe logistical hurdles for Nöl Collective. Movement between cities is slowed by military checkpoints, and shipping is challenged by border closures where customs can destroy shipments at their discretion.
The brand relies on overseas shipments for natural fibres it cannot source locally. Last week, a large shipment of hand-woven wools from Indian artisans was destroyed. Mjalli said this was "devastating," as production was already delayed for months.
The fashion house had to pay for the lost fabric and shipping, then cover the cost of replacement materials. It started a GoFundMe to manage the excess costs. Mjalli described creation under these conditions as a form of resistance. She urges support for Palestinian businesses and artisans, stating they create "under impossible circumstances" but persistently search for new ways to continue.
