The Layers & Layers Edit with Egyptian Model Mai Yakout

With a DIY twist and endless experimentation, Mai Yakout’s style is a playful mix of tomboy edges and girly touches.

Mai El Mokadem

Dec 13, 2024

Mai Yakout’s style journey is one of constant reinvention. From her early years of wearing the hijab to embracing her evolving tastes, Yakout, a Cairo and Dubai-based model, has never shied away from experimenting with her look.

“I started off more tomboyish, but eventually, I realized that wasn’t really me,” Yakout tells SceneStyled. That propelled Yakout to explore a more feminine style. Over the years, her wardrobe has become a playground of contrasts - combining sharp lines with soft fabrics, and layering unexpected textures. Her approach is hands-on, literally: crafting her own clothes, reworking pieces, and layering with a playful, yet polished touch.

The self-taught fashion lover isn’t just a model; she’s also a content creator and creative director, leading her to work with global names like Dior Beauty and Sephora, and regional ones like That Concept Store, Nora Label and Adidas Arabia. “I always layer different fabrics, and add my own twist to what I like,” she explains. Her style is an ongoing experiment, one where she continuously plays with silhouettes and color, ultimately finding new ways to make each piece her own.

Mai Yakout’s Off-Duty Look

“My off-duty style is all about simplicity with an elevated touch. I love creating chic everyday outfits that embody the ‘less is more’,” she explains. “For my go-to look, I pair straight-leg jeans with a classic black or white top, keeping the palette neutral and timeless. Over that, I throw on a tailored black blazer. I love big bags for everyday use, because they add structure and sophistication.”

The Row | Jerome double-breasted wool and silk-blend blazer

The Row | Eglitta mid-rise straight-leg jeans

Nora Label | Elyse Top

Yves Saint Laurent | Cassandre Extra Thin Belt in Crocodile Embossed Leather

Demellier | Tokyo Large Suede Tote Bag in Brown

Le Monde Beryl | Leather Mary Jane Ballet Flats

Jude Benhalim | Interchangeable Meteorite Earrings

Karen Wazen | Olivia Sunglasses in Black

Mai Yakout’s Casual Errands Look

“For a more relaxed or sporty day, especially if I’m running errands or grabbing a casual breakfast, I love throwing on a cozy hoodie. My go-to colours are dark green or a deep navy, rich brown, paired with black trousers for a more polished yet laid-back vibe with a blazer coat,” she unveils. “I opt for small studs with an embedded green detail to tie in a pop of colour and add a bit of life to the outfit.”

The Row | Indra oversized double-breasted wool-twill coat

Sporty & Rich | H&W Crest Cropped Hoodie in Chocolate/Cream

The Row | Straight Leg Wool & Silk Blend Straight Leg Pants

Marc Jacobs | The Sack Bag

Stone & Strand | 10-karat gold emerald and diamond single earring

New Balance | 530 Sneakers White Mesh Low Tops Halqua

Flabelus | Sethe

Karen Wazen | Harper 2.0 Sunglasses

Mai Yakout’s Chic Night Out Look

“For a night out, I’ve recently been loving jumpsuits - they’re timeless and always make a statement. I love layering my jumpsuit with the Carolyn top from my collection for an added dimension and a hint of sophistication,” she says. But a look is never just about the clothes. “For nights out, I gravitate toward a smoky eye or a soft, brown-toned smoked look, depending on my mood. My go-to mascara is YSL - it never disappoints.”

Adam Lippes | Barclay belted embellished wool-crepe jumpsuit

Nora Label | Carolyn Top

Bottega Veneta | Andiamo Long Small Leather Clutch in Black

Toteme | The Sharp Leather Slingback Pumps in Black

LIÉ STUDIO | The Sonya gold-plated earrings

Oscar de la Renta | Tennis embellished earrings

Yves Saint Laurent | Stacked Cuff Bangle in Gold

Yves Saint Lauren | Bangle in Resin

Mai Yakout’s Evening Glam Look

“I pair my Paulina top with white straight-leg trousers, balancing the bold top with the crisp, clean lines of the pants. I keep the same luxe accessories from previous looks - layered gold necklaces, and a chunky bracelet for added shine. I finish the look with pointed heels and a classic black clutch with gold detailing for a refined touch.”

Nora Label | Paulina Top