Occasionally, we receive emails from visitors to the SHUKR website informing us that they feel that SHUKR prices are too high. We are sympathetic to this point of view. However, SHUKR is an ethical producer of high quality, contemporary Islamic clothing; this naturally comes with a price. We have produced this short explanation in order to clarify what goes into producing high quality Islamic clothing.
1) SHUKR is an ethical, fair-trade Islamic company. We are completely against sweatshop production and pay our workers above market wages that allow them to support their families in dignity and comfort. We also guarantee worker rights as laid out by Syrian and Jordanian law regarding working hours, overtime, holidays, and so forth. In addition, we strive to produce a religious work environment. Not only does the staff pray regularly but visitors to our factory and offices are often surprised at the pleasant environment they find.
2) SHUKR produces original, innovative designs specifically made with the Western Muslim in mind. Designing and creating original patterns is not an easy or cheap process by any means. It requires a talented team of designers and pattern cutters. SHUKR has made it our mission to hire the best talent available for these jobs.
3) SHUKR uses only the highest quality materials, mostly natural in origin, sourced from the top producers in Syria, as well as a limited range of Turkish and European producers. In addition, we undergo great effort to produce our garments according to the highest standards of sewing and production quality. We are always striving to improve our merchandise, while keeping costs as low as possible for you.
4)Finally, SHUKR’s Islamic designs require a great deal of fabric in their construction. Fabric is the major factor in the cost of a garment. Islamic clothing, especially for women, is full sleeved and dresses and skirts must always be full length. Our tops are also longer than typical mainstream designs. In addition, Islamic clothing is cut wider than normal designs to allow a more modest fit.
We do hope that this explains clearly why SHUKR clothing – although initially appearing costly – is, in fact, worth the prices that our customers pay. Here are some typical comments we have received from customers:
"Great clothes! The prices are in keeping with the quality, so don't worry if you think they are a little high - you really get what you pay for".
"I very strongly agree with SHUKR's philosophy of paying workers a fair and living wage and am MORE than happy to pay a little more for a garment so as not to exploit the people who make the clothing we wear".
"A few days ago I read the section of the SHUKR website explaining how the clothing is made and why the prices seem high; afterward, I sincerely regretted giving the low score on the prices and I made the intention to buy more high-quality products from your store. Pardon my mistake, if there is a way to change my rating I would".
