The Definitive Guide to Living in the Capital , Cairo , Egypt

Shopping in Cairo isn’t always easy. In fact, it can, occasionally, be a nightmare. While many international brands and chain stores are readily available and more arrive by the month, finding quality, reasonably-priced basics can be somewhat of a challenge. Like so many things in Egypt, the difference between the best and the worst is immense.

Cottonball in Zamalek, however, has gone some way to fulfilling that need, stocking an extensive range of simple, plain Egyptian cotton-made t-shirts.

Having recently opened, the shop’s stock is reflected in its decor; simple and unfussy. The light grey and white walls allow the vast amount of colours to standout.

At the heart of the shop’s concept is supporting local industry and each of Cottonball’s lines is named after a different Egyptian governorate; for example, a line of v-neck t-shirts is named Aswan – a very cute touch by the owners.

Though there is a healthy amount of men’s t-shirts, the ratio definitely swings towards women’s, in models, fits and colours – as is the case usually in Cairo. Speaking of which, the colours covered by Cottonball’s products are seemingly infinite – you’ll find everything from loud neon lemon yellow, to demure rose pink.

Though not available for purchase as of yet, Cottonball is currently displaying samples of handmade accessories, too, though no definite date of when the full range will be in store has been locked down as of yet.

When it comes to prices, everything about Cottonball suggests that it will be expensive; the focus on the fact that it’s all made with Egyptian cotton as a gimmick and its location on the ‘high-end’, ‘upmarket’ island of Zamalek being two potential indicators that this place isn’t going to be exactly cheap. However, quite refreshingly, prices are rather reasonable.

Across both the men’s and women’s lines, long-sleeved t-shirts are 135LE, regular short-sleeved t-shirts are 125LE and tank-tops are 99LE. In addition, you can by any three t-shirts for 300LE.

Despite the simplicity of its product – plain t-shirts – the quality of the merchandise makes it sturdy and comfortable. It’s a t-shirt – what could go wrong?