Thursday October 23rd, 2025
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Inside Egyptian Star Nelly Karim’s Lifelong Reign of Glamour

From red carpet glamour to effortless off-duty chic, we revisit the standout looks that have defined the Egyptian star’s ever-evolving sense of style.

Salma Abdelsalam

Inside Egyptian Star Nelly Karim’s Lifelong Reign of Glamour

Few stars embody timeless elegance and artistic poise quite like Nelly Karim. The Egyptian-Russian actress and former ballerina has spent decades captivating audiences - not only through her layered performances, but through a style sensibility that feels both instinctive and refined. Whether stepping onto a red carpet or sharing an unguarded moment off-duty, Nelly Karim carries herself with a dancer’s composure and a quiet confidence that transforms even the simplest silhouette into a statement. Her wardrobe choices- from fluid couture gowns to impeccably tailored suits- reflect a woman deeply attuned to balance: sophistication without excess, allure without artifice.

Revisiting Nelly Karim’s most fashionable moments is to witness an evolution of taste and self-expression. Each look tells a story- of a woman unafraid to merge tradition with modernity, restraint with radiance. From her ethereal Maison Yeya bridal gown to her sleek appearances in global campaigns, Nelly Karim’s fashion journey mirrors her artistry: graceful, daring, and endlessly captivating.

For this edition of Styled Archives, we revisit the standout looks that have defined the Egyptian star’s ever-evolving sense of style.

Baby Portrait | 1980s

In this childhood photograph, Nelly Karim radiates innocent charm in a floral dress with puff sleeves and a large bow.

Playing the Piano | 1990s

Long wavy hair, a black embroidered top, and denim jeans - Nelly Karim sat poised at the piano, a quiet portrait of youthful artistry and introspection.

With Gada Adel During the First Day of Shooting "Isaaf 55" in Cairo | 2001

Effortlessly chic, Nelly Karim stuns with her natural waves cascading over a cosy shearling-lined jacket, radiating warmth and casual elegance.

On the Set of ‘Hobak Nar’ | 2004

A red suede jacket, lived-in denim, and well-worn sneakers - Nelly Karim’s style was effortless and grounded, a laid-back blend of edge and ease.

Displaying Her Best Actress Award at the 28th Cairo International Film Festival | 2004

Beaming with pride, she accepts her award in a strapless black gown complemented by a sheer orange shawl and an embellished coral choker.

At The Opening of the Middle East International Film Festival (MEIFF) in Abu Dhabi | 2007

Radiating early-2000s glamour, she stuns in a richly beaded burgundy gown with sculpted corset detailing, paired with an elegant ruby necklace and statement bracelet.

At the 7th Annual Dubai International Film Festival | 2010

Effortlessly chic, she steps onto the red carpet in a tailored black halter jumpsuit, accessorised with layered gold necklaces and a sleek clutch.

With Yousra At the Doha Tribeca Film Festival | 2012

Nelly Karim shines in an orange sleeveless top, casually layered with a white sweater, black trousers, bold sunglasses, and a delicate pendant for a touch of glam.

In Venice | Italy | 2016

Nelly Karim shines past the golden hour in a fiery-red off-shoulder gown, effortlessly radiating elegance by the sea.

Attending the 73rd Venice Film Festival | 2016

Nelly Karim turns heads in a sharp off-shoulder pinstripe suit, blending power dressing with timeless elegance.

At the Premiere of ‘La La Land’ During the 73rd Venice Film Festival | 2016

Radiant on the red carpet, she dazzles in a strapless velvet gown in deep crimson, paired with diamond jewellery and a sleek updo.

At the 75th Venice Film Festival | 2018

Radiating glamour, she graces the red carpet in a shimmering off-shoulder gown adorned with sequins and sheer panels, perfectly paired with a textured black clutch.

At the 2nd Edition of the Red Sea International Film Festival | 2022

Commanding elegance, she stuns in a sculpted black velvet gown with an asymmetric neckline, elevated by dazzling diamond accents and a shimmering clutch.

At the 7th Edition of El Gouna Film Festival (GFF) | 2024

Worthy of a show-stopping moment, Nelly Karim commands attention in a blush pink gown dripping with intricate beadwork and cascading feathers, exuding red carpet magic with every step.

At the 7th Edition of El Gouna Film Festival (GFF) | 2024

Nelly Karim's statuesque silhouette shines in a form-fitting black mermaid gown with delicate lace detailing, elevated by dazzling diamond jewels.

At the 8th Edition of El Gouna Film Festival (GFF) | 2024

Nelly Karim rules the red carpet in a draped lime-green gown, its regal pleats and bold thigh-high slit crowned by dazzling statement jewels.