Ctrl+Z Jewelry by Zinab Chahine: Beirut’s Hidden Gem of Storytelling Adornments

A Graphic Designer’s Love Letter to Lebanese Craft

In a city brimming with creative energy, Zinab Chahine’s Ctrl+Z Jewelry stands out as a fresh, narrative-driven discovery. Launched just a year ago by the Beirut-based graphic designer, the brand reinterprets Lebanese and Middle Eastern motifs with a playful, contemporary edge. Each piece feels like a wearable snippet of culture—handmade with a twist that’s distinctly her own.

The Aesthetic: Where Heritage Meets Whimsy

  • Organic Shapes: Think earthy curves, asymmetric hoops, and tactile textures inspired by nature.

  • Cultural Codes: Subtle nods to Arabesque patterns and Levantine craftsmanship, but with a modern, graphic designer’s eye.

  • Conversation Starters: "Jewelry should have a voice," says Chahine. "Mine whispers stories of Beirut."

Why It’s Special

  1. Local Soul, Global Appeal: Perfect for the cultured nomad who treasures one-of-a-kind finds.

  2. Mindful Craft: Each piece is handmade, celebrating slow fashion in a fast-paced world.

  3. Unexpected Retail Spots: Hunt for Ctrl+Z at Luanatic in Monot (Beirut’s quirky-cool hub) or catch Zinab at pop-up exhibitions across the city.

Zinab’s World

  • Fashion Muse: Edie Sedgwick ("For her fearless, oversized earrings")

  • Go-To Boutiques: Urban Outfitters abroad, hidden Lebanese gems at home

  • Digital Inspo: Confashions from Kuwait + UrbanSouk for regional flair

Ctrl+Z is Beirut’s answer to jewelry with a heartbeat—ideal for those who wear their curiosity on their sleeves (and ears, and neck).

Find It: @ctrlz.jewelry | Luanatic Boutique, Monot, Beirut
"Because sometimes, the best souvenirs aren’t postcards—they’re the stories you wear."

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Leila Antakly

Leila Antakly is the founder and editor of Antakly Projects, the independent cultural platform she launched in New York in 2003 as Ninu Nina. Syrian and Colombian, she began her career at Vogue Italia and has spent more than twenty years in conversation with artists, musicians, designers, photographers, and inspiring thinkers around the world.

https://www.ninunina.com/
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