07/05/2025

Story of a Kurd from Rojava (West Kurdistan)

My passion for this craft began when I was young. I still remember clearly how my mother used to design traditional Kurdish women’s dresses, and I would watch her with deep admiration and fascination. My name is Hassan Muhammad Saleh. I was born in 1992 in the city of Kobanê. I learned this craft from my mother, and my journey in the field of fashion design began in 2008, when I was just 16 years old. This profession has taken me to different places. After the ISIS attack on our city, we were forced to leave Kobanê, and I later found myself in Turkey. That experience deepened my understanding of the value of culture and the importance of preserving it through my work. In the world of Kurdish women’s fashion, I discover countless details. Every garment holds a story and a history. I especially enjoy designing women’s dresses, as they reflect a world of creation and diversity—unlike men’s clothing, which often follows a single, limited style. Kurdish women’s dresses stand out through their vibrant designs, rich colors, and delicate embroidery. They represent an artistic expression of Kurdish women’s resilience and creativity. I consider Kurdish women’s clothing to be an integral part of our folklore and cultural identity, and this fuels my love for the craft even more. These garments hold a special place in our hearts and are a source of pride, especially during our social and cultural celebrations. In the end, they symbolize our joy and honor in having such a rich and vibrant culture.