ERBIL, Kurdistan Region - Kurdish fashion designer Shaima Zahawi represented both Germany and the Kurdistan Region at an international fashion show in Berlin on Saturday, showcasing Kurdish-inspired designs that drew strong praise from attendees, models, and fellow designers.
Shaima Hussein Jamal, known professionally as Shaima Zahawi, told Rudaw's Sabir Yasin on Sunday that she participated in the event under her brand Shaima Design at a fashion show held in Berlin’s Alexanderplatz square.
“People, models, and the designers who attended were very impressed by our designs and welcomed me warmly,” Zahawi said. “They also expressed interest in working with me in the future.”
The event held on July 4, featured nine international designers from nine different countries. Zahawi took part as the representative of Germany and the Kurdistan Region, presenting a collection of Kurdish-style clothing.
Zahawi is originally Kurdish from the Khanaqin district of Diyala province, and has lived in Germany since 2006.
Her participation comes as Kurdish fashion continues to gain visibility beyond the Kurdistan Region through designers and artists in the diaspora.
Traditional Kurdish clothing, known for its colorful fabrics, intricate embroidery, and regional variations, has increasingly appeared at international cultural and fashion events, helping introduce Kurdish heritage to wider audiences.
Zahawi noted that Sorani-style Kurdish dresses for women are her best-selling designs. She added that her clients include not only Kurds but also people from other nationalities who are interested in Kurdish fashion.
According to Zahawi, the positive reception led to new opportunities and invitations from two different countries during the event.
“I have been invited to participate in two international fashion shows and will take part in them next January,” she said.
