Plans To Promote Iranian Fashion

Tehran, July 9, IRNA -- The Iranian Working Group for Organizing Fashion and Clothing plans to design clothes based on elements of Iranian culture for state officials attending international meetings. Wednesday edition of the English language newspaper Iran Daily quoted Hamid Qobadi, secretary of the working group, as saying that officials interested in wearing such clothes have been asked to send their requests. ˈThe idea to make special clothes for politicians is aimed at promoting Iranian culture and values through clothes,ˈ he said, adding that the attire of politicians and state officials will display the characteristics of Iranian culture. Qobadi referred to clothes designed for Catherine Ashton, European Union’s foreign policy chief, by an Iranian fashion designer in the last Iranian year (ended March 2014) as a very positive step. The exquisite dress was designed by veteran fashion designer Mitra Tamjidi, which was hailed as a very positive step in promoting friendship and peace. ˈThe materials used in Ashtonˈs dress were all from Iran and cost between $500 and $666,” he said. The secretary noted that he has proposed to the Majlis to design office clothes for state employees in accordance with Islamic and Iranian values. Qobadi also said a fashion and clothing event has been planned for university students, the first three rounds of which will be held biennially. ˈThe event is expected to expand and will be held seasonally in the next three years,ˈ he said. “One of the universities will host the contest in a rotating manner and students will display their works in it.” Iranˈs clothing history is very rich, as it hosts numerous ethnic groups with unique clothing styles. While colors and decorations are common features of Iranian clothes made by all ethnic groups, exposing parts of body to the public is banned by all. Iranian designers are increasingly including Persian and Islamic elements in their artistic works./end