‘Disgusted’ British fashion icon bins honor from late queen over UK’s Gaza stance

British designer Katharine Hamnett throws her CBE in the bin. (Instagram/Katharine Hamnett)
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Updated 22 February 2024
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‘Disgusted’ British fashion icon bins honor from late queen over UK’s Gaza stance

  • Katharine Hamnett: ‘I’m disgusted to be British for our role in genocide in Gaza’
  • She released a video saying her CBE ‘belongs in the dustbin’ along with PM, opposition leader

LONDON: British fashion designer Katharine Hamnett has renounced an honor she received from the late Queen Elizabeth II to protest against the UK government’s stance on Gaza.

Hamnett, 76, famed for pioneering the slogan T-shirt, was made a commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire in 2011 in recognition of her influence on the fashion industry.

This week she released a short video clip showing her outside her front door, wearing a signature T-shirt with the words “Disgusted to be British” emblazoned on the front, throwing her CBE medal into a bin.

“I’m disgusted to be British for our role in genocide in Gaza,” she said. “This is my CBE. It belongs in the dustbin, with (UK Prime Minister Rishi) Sunak and (Labour leader Sir Keir) Starmer.”

Hamnett, who is noted for her political activism, released the clip ahead of a series of proposed motions in the House of Commons calling for a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas in Gaza.


Review: ‘ASL Line,’ abayas from the comfort of your own home

Updated 02 January 2026
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Review: ‘ASL Line,’ abayas from the comfort of your own home

There’s no question about the abundance of abaya boutique and shopping options in Saudi Arabia — but sometimes an influx of choices can leave one feeling overwhelmed.

As the winter edges closer in the desertscape, we’re looking for comfortable, yet fashionable, winter abaya for the season. 

ASL Line is one place that has caught our eye, not only for their distinctive pieces, but their quality as well. From the diversity of their colors to the uniqueness of their patterns, it’s a great place to shop from the comfort of your home for abaya that will last in your closet for quite a while. 

Their winter collection features a 34-piece drop. From velvet and chiffon abayas to floral trims and ASL exclusive prints, the assortment has something for any occasion.

For a night out, they have several pieces that are designed with black stretch taffeta and patterned velvet, adorned with tassels, embroidery and embellishments in a flare cut. 

One truly dazzling piece is a maroon abaya constructed with Korean velvet fabric with stretch taffeta in a flared silhouette that would be perfect with black heels and bag for an elegant look. They also have a number of velvet looks for winter that are great options for casual and office wear. 

Within the past year, the shop launched their ASL Couture line, inspired by 1800s Parisian fashion with a Saudi twist. From high-end pieces to ready-to-wear ensembles, their breathtaking designs adorn classy floral designs and palm accents that will turn heads at weddings and special occasions. 

The one downside of the shop is that it takes a while for your order to be delivered, even for the ready-to-wear pieces.

Our last order took a little under three weeks to arrive, but they do have an exclusive set of black abayas that are delivered within 24 hours only in Riyadh.