Syrian Design Unveiled to the World

by Gabrielle Hennessey

Several Syrian designers made their debut this week at the west Asian country’s first-ever fashion design competition. Held to raise awareness of young designers, encourage Syrians to pursue the arts, most importantly the competition served to make a positive statement to the rest of the world.

Although it remains a relatively conservative country, Syria has a small yet moderately successful domestic fashion industry, with Syrian women being considered among the most fashionable among Arab nationals. One of the biggest challenges facing designers in Syria, however, is the general lack of press both within and outside of the country, and this week’s competition raises hopes that Syria will be taking larger strides to be included as a player in the international fashion industry.

Read the full story {AP via Yahoo! News}

October 12, 2009