Unique upbringing propels Kazna Asker into fashion industry's distinct niche
British-Yemeni Designer Kazna Asker Redefines Fashion with Heritage-Rich Collections
Kazna Asker, a designer hailing from the Yafa tribe, often referred to as the 'people of the mountains' in her community, is making waves in the fashion industry with her unique and culturally rich collections.
Asker's journey in fashion began with her grandmother's hand-me-down sewing machine and a YouTube video. This humble start has now led her to international recognition, including winning the Fashion Trust Arabia (FTA) Prize in the Franca Sozzani Debut Talent category in 2022.
Her designs draw on her experience as a Yemeni raised in England, creating a unique fusion of traditional Yemeni prints and embroideries with a British aesthetic. This fusion was evident in her latest collection showcased at the Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI) Lakme Fashion Week (LFW) in Mumbai, India.
The collection, inspired by Asker's grandma's journey as a shepherd in Yemen, explored migration and heritage, blending Middle Eastern and specifically Yemeni traditions with modernity. One of Asker's favorite looks from the collection was an electric-blue abaya-inspired jacket and maxi skirt with contrasting traditional woven fabric inlays. The look was styled with layers of chunky silver jewellery and scarves, and completed with an over-sized hat that was an ode to Yemeni shepherds.
Asker's designs for her brother's nikkah (wedding) went deeper into her tribal culture and traditional dress. The traditional dress, a simple square piece of fabric with a neck hole and armholes, was dressed up with silver and tinsel.
The showcase of Asker's collection was part of FTA's Guest Country Award, a trailblazing initiative that takes past FTA Prize winners to selectively-chosen countries around the world. The initiative aims to support emerging designers from the MENA region and celebrates cultural heritage and craftsmanship.
Asker's work extends beyond the fashion industry. She has protested for Palestine and addressed her hometown's race equality commission. Despite her international recognition, Asker remains focused on working with refugees and asylum seekers in Sheffield on fashion projects.
In 2023, Asker made a short film entitled "Fight For Me, Sheffield" that tied in with her first showing at London Fashion Week. She will also showcase her designs at London Fashion Week as part of the British Fashion Council's NewGen program in both September and February.
With her unique blend of traditional Yemeni culture and modern fashion, Kazna Asker is truly redefining the fashion industry.
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