Bella Hadid Stuns in New Dress Highlighting Palestinian Heritage
Palestinian and Dutch-American model Bella Hadid was seen sporting a Pro-Palestine dress made from Keffiyeh material in the streets of Cannes, France.
Like other highly publicized events, the Cannes Film Festival typically shies away from political controversy. However, this year’s event featured several celebrities who weren’t afraid to make some subtle, or not-so-subtle fashion statements surrounding the “Free Palestine” movement.
The model made a more direct approach in her culturally bold statement dress. Hadid, the daughter of Yolanda Van Den Herik and Mohammed Hadid has been outspoken in support of Palestine for years, despite the effect it could have on her career. Her love for her culture and effort to keep her people safe is incredible in an industry that often penalizes people for speaking out.
“I speak about [Palestine] for the elderly that are still living there that have never been able to see Palestine free, and for the children that can still grow up and have a beautiful life.” — Bella Hadid #FreePalestine pic.twitter.com/bnOD32TMWw
— francis (fan) (@bellahadid) October 15, 2023
During her time in Cannes, she wore a red and white archival piece dress by the U.S.-based brand Michael and Hushi. The dress had overlapping ruffles at the bottom, tassels along the hems, and a beautiful, low-cut neckline. It’s a stunning, flowy piece, perfect for a spring festival in France while making a political statement.
Bella Hadid wearing a Keffiyeh dress in Cannes. pic.twitter.com/6SW1UW5kuZ
— lola (@malbwgaf) May 23, 2024
The most enticing part of this dress is the Keffiyeh it’s made of. Keffiyeh is traditionally a headdress worn by Bedouin men across Arab lands, now associated with the protests in Palestine and the political movement. The pattern represents different aspects of Palestinian culture: a crisscross “fishnet” pattern referencing their ties to the sea, lines of “olive leaves” for strength and perseverance, and the three-lined border defining a history of trade routes through the land.
Keffiyehs are not limited to Palestinian culture; in fact, the ones in the dress were more used in Jordan and Saudi Arabia, as Hushidar Mortezaie (Hushi) noted on his Instagram.
This is not the first time that Michael and Hushi have released a Keffiyeh for mainstream consumption. Carrie Bradshaw from Sex and the City wore a Keffiyeh top since costume designer Patricia Field, who mentored Mortezaie, included the piece for the fashion-forward character.
Carrie Bradshaw wearing a keffiyeh?!? SHES AN ALLY!!!! FREE PALESTINE!!!! pic.twitter.com/HDtF7heWbw
— neeshan al-gaib (@thatpakishawty) October 27, 2023
Bella Hadid wearing this statement dress has brought attention and comfort to many, who have seen her continuous support for Palestine. Sometimes it can seem overwhelming, but there are many ways to get involved. From sending donations to GoFundMe’s for families to educating yourself and spreading awareness, check out articles and Operation Olive Branch to find ways to help.
