A few months ago we published a blog about Kazna Asker, a British-Yemeni fashion student from Sheffield, who some time ago did part of her training as an intern at the TRC in Leiden. One of her T-shirts is now in the TRC Collection (TRC 2021.2654). Kazna has sent an update about her final collection that has just been viewed during the London Fashion Week. She is doing well! …… Here is her report, with some exciting photographs:

Two models showing part of Kazna Asker's collection during London Fashion Week (18-22 February).

On Sunday, I presented my final collection to conclude my MA Fashion at Central Saint Martins, London, during the London Fashion Week. I presented the first hijabi collection they ever had! I used my experience to combine traditional woven textiles, in this case from Middle Eastern carpets and furniture such as a majlis, with technical outerwear fabrics and details such as nylons, fleece and sportswear tracksuits!

Two models showing part of Kazna Asker's collection during London Fashion Week (18-22 February).

My collection focuses on community and challenges the narrative and stereotypes associated with Muslim men and women – to show that we are actually cool people! I combined my British upbringing of tracksuits and outerwear with my Yemeni heritage and Islamic garments. I specifically designed in pairs, to create matching looks to show the brother and sisterhood of our community and that we are all watered by one water.

I got my friends and community to model and wear their own shoes to show the beauty of our sincerity, despite circumstances. The Sheffield community and charity work have always been important to me and bearing in mind that Yemen is facing the world’s largest humanitarian crisis, I have always felt responsible to showcase the beauty of my culture and the selflessness of my people.

Two models showing part of Kazna Asker's collection during London Fashion Week (18-22 February).

I also asked my local community in Sheffield three questions: what does community mean to you, who inspires you today and what are you fighting for? I printed their answers on the back of the garments throughout my collection, as I knew I wanted this collection to be as interactive as possible in order to showcase the voices of my community.

I have attached some fitting pictures and the final runway pictures!

Hope you like them, Kazna, 24 February 2022