Rama Duwaji Steps Out Wearing A Palestinian Designer To One Of Nyc’s Most Influential Banquets

Photo: Supplied

In a quietly powerful moment this week, artist and activist Rama Duwaji stepped out wearing a design by Palestinian label Reema Dahbour to the IMEU Banquet in New York City.

The look, which was an intricately embroidered olive-gold gown rich with traditional detailing, was a celebration of Palestinian craftsmanship.

Shared by the designer on Instagram, the post described the evening as “a gathering that plays a meaningful and important role in fostering awareness, dialogue, and community.”

Held by the Institute for Middle East Understanding (IMEU), the banquet brought together voices across advocacy, media, culture and politics. Rather than opting for traditional Western eveningwear, she chose a piece deeply rooted in Palestinian identity, textile heritage and artisanal storytelling.

The gown itself reflected Reema Dahbour’s signature approach: contemporary silhouettes infused with historic embroidery motifs and regional craftsmanship.

Since her husband, Zohran Mamdani, was sworn in as the Mayor of New York City earlier this year, Duwaji has used her newfound profile to support a slew of Middle Eastern designers.

Case in point: on her first day as the First Lady of New York City, the Syrian-American artist opted to wear a look by Palestinian-Lebanese designer Cynthia Merhej of Renaissance, Renaissance.

Photo: Supplied

The coat was a custom piece for Rama and was designed in Beirut. Per Cynthia herself, the coat was made from faux fur and wool, based on a design from her FW23 collection.

At the time, the 28-year-old’s stylist, Gabriella Karefa-Johnson, her fashion choice “sends a message”.

“On her first official day as first lady of New York, Rama is wearing a small, independent woman designer from the Middle East,” the stylist wrote of Rama’s inaugural day as NYC’s First Lady. “That representation resonates. It reverberates. Because fashion communicates. It sends a message.”

And it appears that’s still the aim – and we’re totally here for it.