Young Iraqis are embracing sustainable fashion as they become increasingly aware of the environmental impact of the industry. A recent fashion show in a palm grove near Baghdad showcased upcycled outfits, made entirely from second-hand clothes. The event aimed to raise awareness of vintage wear among young Iraqis.
Fashion with an Environmental Conscience
The global fashion industry is responsible for 2% of greenhouse gas emissions, according to the World Resources Institute. This has led campaigners and climate-conscious social media influencers to push for sustainable fashion. Iraq, which is one of the five countries most exposed to climate change, is feeling the effects of extreme heat, droughts, and desertification. In this context, second-hand clothing offers aspiring fashionistas an affordable way to express themselves and contribute to a sustainable future.
As Baghdad’s streets see more “fast-fashion” and imported brands, the outfits at the Al-Hussainiya event predominantly “green”, a nod to the show’s environmental message. Organizers hope the symbolic parade will raise awareness not just of the need to wear used clothes but also to care for abandoned orchards and disappearing palm trees.
Unique Clothes of Excellent Quality
Ahmed Taher, a 22-year-old stylist who put together the sets for the show, said “second-hand pieces are clothes of excellent quality”. It’s different from what you find in stores. Taher offers Baghdad’s hipsters vintage clothes on Instagram, where he has around 47,000 followers. He sells pieces for around $20. “We want to wear unique clothes and not all look like each other,” he said.
Safaa Haidar, a student-turned-model for the day, said she was attracted to vintage clothes as she could shop “according to my personality”. In the winding alleys of central Baghdad’s second-hand clothes market, stalls overflow every Friday with shirts, shoes, and jeans.
Mohamed Ali, a 20-year-old engineering student, came to buy shoes. “It’s not that we can’t afford to buy new, but here we find better quality and unique pieces,” he said. Now, Ali and most of his friends shop for vintage clothes because of their durability and style.
This fashion show showcased the growing popularity of vintage wear among young Iraqis. The event emphasized the need for sustainable fashion and raised awareness of the environmental impact of this industry.
