SPOTLIGHT: Egyptian Label Elodie Studios Is an Elevated Take on Basics

CairoScene

05-02-2025

With five years of experience as a model, Mourad Ragab, the founder, had an insider's perspective on what the Cairene market was lacking.
Under the Spotlight: The subtle, timeless unisex pieces of Élodie Studios.
The Setting: Cairo, Egypt.
The Frame: Minimal, neutral designs in subdued hues for both men and women, featuring preppy crochet polos, terracotta shirts, and relaxed-fit pants.
Élodie in Three Words: 'Subtle, elegant, matured,' says Mourad Ragab, founder, creative director, and designer of Élodie Studios.
About the Founder
Mourad Ragab's journey into fashion began almost by chance but quickly turned into a passion. A full-time model for the past five years, Ragab credits his sister, a creative director, for encouraging him to take the leap into the industry. His connection to fashion runs deep—sketching designs and creating shoe concepts since childhood.
Élodie Studios became the catalyst for Ragab's transition into creative direction, a field he had always been curious about. 'Creative direction was something I always wanted to do, but I didn't know where to start,' he admits. His brand offered him the freedom to experiment, take risks, and embrace mistakes. 'With my brand, I can push boundaries and try new things in ways I couldn't when working with clients,' Ragab explains.
About the Brand
Élodie Studios was conceptualized two years ago after Ragab identified gaps in the market through his experience as a model. 'I saw an industry stuck in the same formulas,' he says. The brand name itself reflects his vision, drawing from the Greek definition of Élodie as 'foreign riches.'
The debut collection, focused on textured fabrics and knits, was a testing ground. 'I wanted to study the market, understand my audience, and gauge their response,' Ragab shares. This experimental phase helped shape Élodie's identity as a brand that reimagines classic designs with a modern twist.
The Muse
'I'm inspired by archived pieces from brands like Ralph Lauren and Bottega, especially from the '90s,' Ragab says. These vintage finds—embroidered denim, worn jackets—spark ideas for reinterpretation. He also draws inspiration from '90s and 2000s cinema, channeling the understated elegance of that era.
The brand's motto, 'In order to find yourself, you must first get lost,' resonates deeply. 'It speaks to men, especially those who play it safe,' Ragab explains. Élodie introduces crochet vests and mesh tops for men, encouraging them to explore freedom and individuality.
If Élodie Were a Person…
'Élodie is that chic, classy friend you borrow clothes from and trust for fashion advice,' Ragab says.
Textures and Materials
While Élodie is often associated with knitwear and crochet, Ragab is clear: 'The brand is so much more than that.' Future collections will explore new directions, including Japanese raw denim. Most current designs use terracotta fabric, a material Ragab had to experiment with extensively to overcome challenges like shrinkage and weight adjustments for seasonal versatility.
Design Philosophy
At its core, Élodie embodies quiet luxury. The brand prioritizes fit and silhouette, offering an elevated take on basics that feel timeless rather than trend-driven. 'Élodie isn't about loud designs or oversized logos. It's subtle yet striking—pieces that spark a comment or two without being flashy,' Ragab explains.
A cropped, boxy polo, for example, redefines a classic silhouette for a younger, fashion-forward audience. 'It's about the details,' Ragab emphasizes.
In Mourad Ragab's Words…
'I believe you should wear the piece; the piece shouldn't wear you.'