Are you struggling to keep up with ever-changing fashion trends? You’re not alone in your quest for a wardrobe that balances tradition with modern style.
You’re at the center of this story, facing fashion challenges and cultural influences. Luckily, you have a trusted guide with the expertise to help you refine your look.
In this article, we’ll cover:
- Historical evolution of Iranian fashion
- Key fashion styles and influential designers
- Current trends and their influences
Update your wardrobe now with our tips and advice. Imagine a look that blends classic style with modern trends, enhancing your confidence and style.
Historical Evolution of Iranian Fashion
Iranian fashion has changed a lot over time. In ancient Persia, clothing was rich and patterned. During the Safavid era, people wore bright colors and fancy headpieces. In the Qajar period, European-style jackets and hats were introduced.
In the 20th century, Western clothing became common under the Pahlavi dynasty. After the 1979 Iranian Revolution, the dress code shifted to modest Islamic attire, including the hijab.
Recently, the ‘Revolution of Zhina,‘ sparked by Mahsa Amini’s death in September 2022, has impacted how Iranian women view their clothing. The protests, led by women and youth, have called for the end of mandatory hijab laws and government oppression.
3 Centuries of Iranian Fashion
18th Century: Qajar Dynasty
During the Qajar era, Iranian clothing was deeply influenced by Persian traditions and Islamic values. Both men and women followed a modest dress code with layered garments and rich materials.
Women’s Clothing: In the Qajar court, Iranian women wore long chadors made of silk or velvet, covering most of their bodies. Underneath, they wore long-sleeved tunics and wide skirts. They also adorned themselves with gold and precious stones to show their wealth and status.
Men’s Clothing: Men’s styles included long tunics, jackets (known as qabā), and shalvars (wide trousers). They also wore large, conical hats or turbans. Their clothing featured rich materials with decorative embroidery and metallic threads.
20th Century: Pahlavi Era
During the Pahlavi era, Iran changed a lot under Reza Shah and Mohammad Reza Shah Pahlavi,, which affected clothing styles.
Women’s Clothing: In the mid-20th century, Iranian women in urban areas, especially among the elite and middle class, adopted Western clothing. Skirts, dresses, high heels, and modern hairstyles became common. In contrast, rural Iranian women and those from more conservative backgrounds continued to wear traditional chadors or other modest Islamic attire, reflecting a blend of modern and traditional Iranian Culture.
Men’s Clothing: Men commonly wore suits and ties for work. Western-style clothes, including European-style military uniforms, became the norm.
Late 20th Century(Post-1979): Islamic Revolution
The 1979 Islamic Revolution brought major changes to Iranian dress, especially for women, as new Islamic dress codes were introduced.
Women’s Clothing: Women had to wear the hijab and modest clothing in public. The manteau (long coat) became common, worn with loose trousers and head-covering scarves. The chador was preferred in religious settings, featuring muted colors and modest styles.
Men’s Clothing: Men’s clothing also shifted to reflect Islamic values. While many continued to wear Western-style suits for work, these suits became more conservative in cut and color.
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3 Popular Fashion Styles in Iran
Traditional Styles
Traditional Iranian Clothing varies by region, reflecting the country’s cultural richness. These styles are often worn during festivals, weddings, and cultural events.
Chador: This full-body cloak is worn by Iranian women, especially in religious or conservative settings. It covers the entire body, leaving only the face visible, and is usually black.
Shalvar and Pirahan: Men wear shalvar (loose trousers) and pirahan (long tunic) in rural areas and on special occasions.
Regional Variations: In Kurdistan, Luristan, and Baluchistan, women wear colorful dresses with headscarves and jewelry. Men wear loose pants with wide belts and turbans.
Modern Urban Styles
Street Fashion: In cities like Tehran, Isfahan, and Shiraz, young people blend Western and local styles. Women in Iran wear colorful manteaus, loose headscarves, jewelry, and sunglasses. Men wear slim jeans, t-shirts, and sneakers.
Casual Chic: Many urban Iranians adopt a smart-casual dress code with well-fitted clothing. Women might opt for long, loose-fitting cardigans or jackets over jeans or trousers. Men often choose shirts, chinos, or jeans with casual blazers. Neutral tones and subtle patterns are common in these styles.
Workwear and Business Attire
In professional settings, Iranian fashion combines modesty with sophistication.
Workwear for Women: Women wear long coats or blazers with skirts or trousers and matching headscarves. They add simple jewelry and stylish shoes.
Workwear for Men: Men wear tailored suits or business-casual clothes like dress shirts and trousers. They might wear dress shirts with chinos and a blazer for a casual look.
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4 Notable Iranian Fashion Designers
Nima Behnoud
Brand: NIMANY
Specialty: Nima Behnoud is an Iranian designer who combines traditional and modern styles. His brand, NIMANY, features Persian calligraphy.
Signature Style: Persian calligraphy on jackets, t-shirts, and accessories.
Nima dresses celebrities like Anne Hathaway and is featured in top fashion magazines.
Farah Pahlavi
Role: Former Queen of Iran
Specialty: Farah Pahlavi combined Western and Persian styles in her elegant gowns and tailored suits.
Signature Style: Elegant gowns and tailored suits with Persian touches.
International Impact: Farah Pahlavi was a key fashion figure, appeared in global magazines, and modernized Iranian women’s fashion.
Shirin Guild
Specialty: Shirin Guild, based in the UK, is known for her minimalist, oversized designs that blend traditional Iranian clothing with modern styles using materials like cashmere and silk.
Signature Style: Loose, comfortable outfits that are simple and androgynous.
Recognition: Her designs are shown in museums and admired for their timeless elegance.
Maral Yazarloo
Specialty: Maral Yazarloo blends traditional Iranian styles with modern fashion, using bright colors and patterns.
Signature Style: Modern clothes with traditional Iranian designs, bold patterns, and luxurious materials.
Recognition: Yazarloo’s work is known for combining Iranian and modern styles and is featured in fashion shows.
3 Key Influences in Iranian Fashion
Political and Social Changes
Pahlavi Era Modernization (1925-1979): Iran adopted Western fashion in cities. Farah Pahlavi mixed Western and Persian styles.
Post-Revolution Dress Codes (1979-Present): After the 1979 revolution, Iranian women dressed more modestly. Today, designers make stylish, modest clothes with layers and accessories.
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Art, Film, and Popular Culture
Artistic Expression: Iranian art influences fashion. Shirin Guild uses Persian calligraphy and patterns, and Nima Behnoud adds Persian motifs to modern clothes. Celebrities like Anne Hathaway wear Behnoud’s designs, showing the mix of Iranian art with global fashion.
Social Movements
Women’s Rights Movements: Iranian women use fashion to express themselves while following dress codes. Influencers like Hoda Katebi show this mix of styles.
Modest Fashion Movement: Modest fashion features stylish, respectful clothing. Brands like Persian Pallete make modern outfits that blend trends with traditional values.
Iranian Fashion: A Recap
Iranian Costumes blend traditional and modern styles, showing the country’s rich culture.
Designers like Nima Behnoud and Shirin Guild mix Persian elements with current trends to create a unique look.
This blend highlights the uniqueness of Iranian clothing and its growing influence on global fashion.