On Saturday morning, those who visited the Altyn Asyr Shopping Center were pleasantly surprised to see a fashion show there. Home to clothes stores, the shopping venue is popular with local residents of all ages and out-of-town visitors and is always full of shoppers. Today, it played host to the fashion parade to mark Ashgabat’s 140th anniversary. 

Turkmen models were walking the runway displaying creations by designers of the Textile Ministry of Turkmenistan and the private fashion house Mähirli Zenan.

The fashion event showcased women’s casual and evening wear, clothes for young fashionistas, and original men’s suits. The local designers’ collections boasted a diverse array of colors and accessories.  

Seed beads, feathers, voluminous sleeves and quaint headwear... But there is a common thread that ties all the pieces within the collections together: they were inspired by the national culture and style. The beadwork features a traditional Turkmen ornamental motif, and even the bow tie is a nod to the ethnic traditions.  

US Ambassador to Turkmenistan Matthew Klimow, who happened to be at the Altyn Asyr Shopping Center, also appreciated the true oriental beauty.  

Svetlana CHIRTSOVA

Photo: Yuri SHKURIN