Stitched amid conflict, Palestinian luxury sneaker brand Resolute RGL launches in the U.S.

Resolute RGL, a nascent Palestinian fashion house, has officially launched its collection of luxury sneakers in the United States, bringing a centuries-old art form to a global audience. The distinctive feature of these sneakers is the intricate tatreez embroidery, a traditional Palestinian cross-stitch technique that has been passed down through generations of women, particularly in the South Hebron Hills region of the West Bank. This ancient craft, with its characteristic geometric patterns often inspired by the natural beauty of the Mediterranean landscape—evoked through motifs like stars and cypress trees, and a palette of earthy browns, deep blues, and vibrant reds—is deeply woven into the fabric of Palestinian homes, adorning everything from household textiles to personal garments.

The establishment of Resolute RGL in March 2025 represents a deliberate effort to safeguard Palestinian cultural traditions and artistic lineage against the backdrop of ongoing conflict and occupation. For Kifah Adra, a master artisan and the long-standing head of the Women’s Weaving Cooperative in Masafer Yatta, a collection of hamlets in the South Hebron Hills, preserving these traditions is as vital as protecting human lives. The cooperative, which has been instrumental in teaching and perpetuating tatreez, now comprises 250 women who meticulously hand-stitch the embroidery onto Resolute RGL's products. This initiative provides a crucial source of economic empowerment and cultural affirmation for these women.

Resolute RGL was co-founded by Kifah Adra and her son, Basel Adra, a Palestinian journalist and documentary filmmaker known for his work highlighting Palestinian life and struggles. They are joined by a diverse group of Palestinian and international activists, including Maria Chacour, Nicholas Jacob, and Joseph Levin, who contribute their expertise in design, operations, and global outreach. The brand's inaugural product line features luxury sneakers, with prices ranging from $250 to $350, showcasing the detailed tatreez work. The company plans to expand its offerings to include other footwear styles, such as sandals and Mary Janes, all embellished with the signature embroidery. The overarching vision of Resolute RGL is to humanize the Palestinian people by sharing their rich cultural heritage and artistic resilience with the world, ensuring that their legacy is not erased by political turmoil.