NEW YORK,— Kurdish fashion designer Lara Dizeyee has been listed among the “25 Most Inspirational People in the World for 2025” by the U.S.-based Gladys Magazine, a recognition that highlights her role in promoting Kurdish identity through modern fashion and design.
Dizeyee’s creative vision and cultural storytelling have placed her alongside global figures such as Nicole Kidman and David Beckham, marking a milestone for Kurdish representation in international media.
The BBC has released a new episode of its acclaimed documentary podcast series “In the Studio.” The 34-minute program follows her preparations for Milan Fashion Week, where she is set to debut her first major collection. The event represents a breakthrough for Kurdish fashion and a landmark moment for female designers from the Middle East.
Born in Vienna and raised in the United States, Dizeyee’s early life was shaped by displacement after her family fled Iraqi Kurdistan during years of conflict.
She later earned a degree in international relations from George Mason University in Virginia and went on to build a successful career in the oil and gas sector, holding leadership positions in various public institutions.
Despite her success, Dizeyee eventually shifted paths to pursue her lifelong passion for fashion and culture. Without formal training, she founded her own fashion label in Erbil, blending modern design techniques with traditional Kurdish craftsmanship.
Her creations, known for their vibrant colors, layered textures, and intricate detailing, reinterpret historical Kurdish garments for contemporary global audiences.
Her latest collection, titled “Milan Enchanted,” draws inspiration from Kurdish history and heritage, presenting a balance between cultural preservation and innovation. Dizeyee’s designs aim to keep Kurdish identity alive in the global fashion conversation.
The designer, daughter of well-known Kurdish artist Homer Dizayee, has lived and worked in Erbil for more than 15 years. She is fluent in five languages including English, Kurdish, Farsi, Arabic, and German, and describes her mission as one of connection and representation.
Speaking about her career transition, Dizeyee said she hopes to make Kurdish costume “a household name” and to share “the beauty and depth of Kurdish culture” through design.
Her journey from the oil industry to the international runway, as noted by Gladys Magazine, reflects a commitment to creativity, resilience, and cultural pride.
Both the BBC feature and Gladys Magazine recognition underscore Dizeyee’s growing influence in a global industry that continues to seek diverse voices and new perspectives rooted in heritage and authenticity.
(With files from Agencies)
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