In a remarkable first for London Fashion Week, British-Yemeni designer Kazna Asker seamlessly wove the spirit of Ramadan into her presentation, creating a unique blend of fashion and cultural celebration. On Monday evening, as the sun dipped below the horizon, Asker paused her showcase to share iftar— the meal that breaks the fast— with models, staff, and guests, embodying the communal essence of this sacred month.
A Cultural First at Fashion Week
The British Fashion Council confirmed that this is the inaugural instance where the tradition of iftar has been incorporated into a London Fashion Week event. At just 29 years old, Asker is not only making waves in the fashion world but also carving a niche for inclusivity and cultural representation. “As soon as I realised that Fashion Week would coincide with Ramadan, I knew I had to integrate it into my presentation,” she expressed from her London studio.
The showcase, aptly named *Hour of the Sunset*, captured the essence of Ramadan, a time when Muslims around the globe fast from dawn until dusk. Asker described sunset as an “energy-shifting” moment, a time of reflection and community, which she sought to honour through her work.
Creating a Majlis Atmosphere
Transforming the British Fashion Council’s NewGen space into a traditional majlis—a communal Arab living room—Asker set the scene for her guests. Cushions adorned the floor, reminiscent of her grandmother’s home in Yemen, where meals are shared in a collective spirit. “This arrangement was the perfect way to break fast together,” she noted, highlighting the importance of community in both her culture and the presentation.
As half of the show unfolded, the room transitioned into a serene setting with dimmed lights and a soothing Arab instrumental soundtrack. Dates and chilled water were distributed from handcrafted baskets, while Sudanese-Australian writer Yassmin Abdel-Magied recited Mary Oliver’s poignant poem *The Sun*, followed by a heartfelt supplication to mark the fast-breaking moment. As the models stepped down from their elevated platforms to partake in the iftar, the atmosphere was filled with a sense of unity and celebration.
Fashion Meets Empowerment
The iftar menu showcased dishes from Juma Kitchen and authentic Palestinian dates, nourishing not only the team but also the guests, many of whom were also observing the fast. “It’s going to be wholesome celebrating together,” Asker remarked before the presentation commenced.
As the models glided across the carpeted platforms, they flaunted an innovative mix of tailored pieces and cultural Yemeni attire. Intricate gold coin headpieces and henna-inspired body art by the collective HuqThat adorned the models, while Asker boldly challenged traditional gender norms. One female model sported a jambiya—a traditional Yemeni dagger belt typically worn by men—integrated into a striking power suit, a statement on the strength and empowerment of Muslim women.
As Asker reflected on her journey, she recalled her time at Central Saint Martins, where she made headlines for being the first designer to feature hijabi models in a 2022 MA showcase. “Growing up in Sheffield, I never saw modest fashion represented in a cool way, and that drove me to create change,” she shared.
A Legacy for Future Generations
The presentation marked not only a significant moment in Asker’s career but also the conclusion of her collaboration with the British Fashion Council’s NewGen initiative. “It’s the end of the day, and the end of this chapter in my life,” she said. “I’ve done everything I wanted to do, and I have no regrets.”
Laura Weir, CEO of the British Fashion Council, expressed that London Fashion Week serves as a cultural platform, allowing designers to showcase their unique narratives. Asker undertook extensive research into cultural dress across various countries, drawing inspiration from communities in Egypt, Oman, and beyond. “Everywhere I went, I encountered a Yemeni community interpreting their culture through their surroundings,” she noted.
An orange tree stood at the heart of the room, symbolising the Persian tale *The Man Who Planted Trees*. Asker interpreted this as an allegory for her experience in the NewGen programme—sowing seeds for the next generation of designers to reap the benefits in the future. “I hope my work leaves a lasting impact,” she concluded.
Why it Matters
Kazna Asker’s innovative approach at London Fashion Week not only celebrates the rich traditions of Ramadan but also challenges the fashion industry to embrace diversity and inclusivity. By merging culture with contemporary design, Asker has opened the door for future generations of designers to express their identities without compromise. This moment serves as a powerful reminder that fashion can transcend mere aesthetics, becoming a platform for dialogue and cultural understanding.
