How has Iraqi Fashion developed?

Fashion in Iraq has developed depending on many factors from past to present. Since Iraq is a country that has hosted many civilizations throughout history, fashion has also reflected this diversity. The region known as Mesopotamia in ancient times is considered one of the first settlements in history. During this period, Mesopotamian people generally used cotton and linen fabrics in their clothing. While women used more decorations and colors in their dresses, men preferred simpler and single-coloured clothes. During the Middle Ages, clothing style also changed with the influence of Islam. During this period, women generally covered their heads and men wore long dresses. Additionally, under the influence of the Ottoman Empire, Arab and Turkish motifs began to appear on clothing. In the modern period, fashion in Iraq began to change under the influence of Western culture. Especially since the beginning of the 20th century, clothes imported from Europe and America have become popular among Iraqis. During this period, western-style clothing and trends became widespread, especially among young people. However, the fashion industry has been greatly affected by wars and conflicts that started in the 1980s and continued into the 2000s. During this period, the war environment and economic difficulties negatively affected the fashion industry. However, there has been a revival in the fashion industry in Iraq in recent years. It is observed that fashion events are held in the country and designers emerge. Today, the Iraqi fashion industry is developing with the influence of international brands as well as local designers. Iraqi designers create unique designs by combining traditional and modern styles. Additionally, Iraq's rich cultural heritage and handicrafts are also used in fashion designs.