Styled Archives: Mona Zaki's Most Memorable Looks

Resident girl next door in the late '90s, leading lady of Egyptian cinema for over two decades, and soon to bring the legendary Umm Kulthum back to the silver screen, Mona Zaki has grown up in front of the camera. She’s evolved as both an actress and a woman, with the Arab world watching her every step. From her breakout role in Edhak El Sorra Telaa’ Helwa (1998) to her bold turns in ‘Ehky Ya Shahrazad’ (2009), ‘Ashab Wala A’az’ (2022) and most recently ‘Rehla 404’ (2024), she’s not just been watched, she’s been followed, admired, and endlessly discussed.

In this edition of Scene Styled Archives, we take a look back at some of Zaki’s most memorable fashion moments.

Dubai, April 2001

Photoshoot in Dubai

In a moment that perfectly captured early 2000s charm, Mona Zaki posed in a baby blue sequined tank top paired with black trousers, an effortless nod to the era’s love for sparkle and simplicity. It’s a snapshot of a rising star still untouched by the hyper-styled pressures of the digital age.

Cairo, May 2002

Mona Zaki and Ahmed Helmy’s Wedding

For her fairytale wedding, Mona embraced the early 2000s bridal codes: an off-shoulder gown with voluminous sleeves, a structured corset bodice, and delicate floral detailing. The look was completed with a layered choker, a major trend at the time, and soft, romantic curls under a classic tulle veil.

Cairo, August 2005

Honored at World Youth Day, United Nations Information Center

In a vivid crimson and white gown topped with a sheer chiffon overlay.

Venice, September 2009

"Scheherazade, Tell Me a Story" Photocall, 66th Venice Film Festival

For her major Venice debut, Mona chose a ruched electric blue cocktail dress accented with shimmering silver panels and a vintage Fendi, a playful, kinetic choice that mirrored late-2000s red carpet codes. In an era obsessed with standout textures and futuristic finishes, Mona’s look fit seamlessly into the global festival circuit’s aesthetic of energetic, unpretentious luxury.

Cairo, May 2010

Best Actress Award, ART Music, Film, and TV Awards

Mona collected her Best Actress trophy in a lilac one-shoulder gown adorned with a sparkling strap, the very definition of 2010 Arab awards show glam. The look, complete with bold purple statement earrings and a sculpted ponytail, perfectly reflected a time when eveningwear leaned toward sleek silhouettes, strategic shimmer, and bold beauty choices.

Dubai, December 2013

Closing Ceremony, 10th Dubai International Film Festival

Mona stunned in a rose-tinted satin gown with a sculptural off-shoulder neckline, a masterclass in grown-up red carpet glamour. The choice of bold emerald earrings gave the look a jolt of high-fashion energy, aligning with the global trend at the time of pairing jewel tones with silky, minimalist cuts.

Dubai, December 2017

Grand Opening of Bulgari Resort Dubai

Mona embraced goddess glamour in a flowing champagne gown adorned with gold floral embroidery. Stacked gold cuffs and a statement choker gave the outfit a fierce, almost warrior-like edge, in tune with late-2010s luxury trends that celebrated femininity.

Cairo, November 2019

Opening Ceremony, 41st Cairo International Film Festival

Mona chose romance for CIFF’s biggest night, stepping out in an ivory gown with ruched sleeves and a plunging neckline—a silhouette rooted in the late-2010s. Paired with a diamond statement necklace and a soft metallic clutch, the remained unmistakably Mona, striking a balance of boldness and ease alongside Ahmed Helmy’s classic tuxedo.

El Gouna, October 2021

Opening Ceremony, El Gouna Film Festival

In a black Maison Yeya gown with soft pink off-shoulder detailing, Mona delivered one of her most polished red carpet moments to date. The dramatic mermaid silhouette and statement diamond necklace captured a cinematic elegance that defined early-2020s Arab fashion.

Cannes, May 2022

Screening of "Mother and Son" at the 75th Cannes Film Festival

Mona turned heads in a sculptural black gown punctuated by geometric crystal embellishments. With her sleek pulled-back hair, diamond drop earrings, and scarlet nails, she delivered a powerfully minimalist yet high-drama moment.

Paris, October 2024

"Le Défilé – Walk Your Worth" Runway Show, Paris Fashion Week

Owning the runway in a fierce high-necked scarlet mini-dress with a dramatic train, Mona brought pure fire to L'Oréal’s "Walk Your Worth" show at the Eiffel Tower. The structured silhouette, metallic platform heels, and bold red lip gave the look a timeless appeal.

Jeddah, December 2024

Opening Ceremony, Red Sea International Film Festival

Mona closed 2024 in full star mode, dazzling in a strapless silver sequin gown fringed with playful feathered details. The look — part disco diva, part modern siren, leaned into the season’s obsession with maximalist sparkle.