Maria B receives a collection inspired by Palestine

Pakistani fashion designer Maria B is once again in the spotlight of the fashion world with her latest collection, this time dedicated to a cause close to her heart – Palestine. Adorned in the colors of the Palestinian flag — red, white, black and green — the new collection features prints reminiscent of the traditional Palestinian keffiyeh. The designer announced the launch on her Instagram with a message that has sparked praise and controversy.

Captioning her first post, Maria wrote: “Freedom and unity. Presenting a collection that holds a special place in Maria’s heart—a tribute to the enduring spirit of our Oma. Falasteen. Inspired by those who stand tall, this collection embodies unity and strength Launches online and in stores tomorrow… All proceeds from the campaign will go to Palestine.”

While the gesture was meant to show solidarity with the Palestinian people and their struggle, it received a mixed response online. Social media has become a battleground of opinion, with many either praising Maria’s efforts or criticizing the designer for what some perceive as opportunism.

A wave of backlash followed the announcement, with many netizens accusing Maria of exploiting the Palestinian cause for her own gain. One user commented: “While Palestinians are being killed in the blink of an eye, Maria B thinks it’s the best time to start her modeling career by appropriating their culture. Her horrible clothes don’t go to Free Palestine. She needs to be transparent about which charity to send the proceeds to No one falls for this trick.

Another reviewer urged people to support Palestinian businesses directly, instead of buying from Maria: “Instead of buying from this opportunist who uses Palestine for her own branding, I would urge people in the comments to buy things like this directly from Palestinians.”

The reactions did not stop there. Another comment read: “Will you also donate all profits to Palestine or are you just using someone’s suffering to make money?” This skepticism reflects a broader concern among some consumers about the honesty of brands that align with social causes.

However, despite the criticism, Maria has also received significant support from her followers, many of whom praised her for using her platform to raise awareness of Palestine. One supporter commented: “She is the only designer who speaks openly about Palestine.” This sentiment was echoed by others who saw the collection as a bold and necessary statement from a prominent South Asian Muslim designer.

“Love this! Finally a popular South Asian Muslim designer using his platform. Bravo!” wrote another follower, emphasizing the importance of the designer’s influence in the fashion industry and beyond.

Some users even saw the release as a beacon of hope, expressing their willingness to purchase from the collection. “I’ve never waited so long for a collection in my life,” admitted one user, showing the anticipation the release has created among her fans.

Another supporter added: “Respect for you! Can’t wait to buy!” highlighting the excitement surrounding the collection despite the controversy.

Amid the polarized reactions, a significant portion of Maria’s audience remains steadfast in her corner, praising her for her position. “All the feminists in our country attack her, but she does more for Palestine than anyone!” one user argued, defending the designer against her critics.