The Iranian-Born Creative Redefining Beauty Through the Overlooked

W: Wendy Rowe I:

Ali Gohari’s journey to the forefront of the Leeds fashion scene didn't begin in a studio, but in a lifelong fascination with the British "vibe." Born and raised in Iran, Ali’s transition to the UK was more than a geographical shift; it was a soul-searching mission to merge his personal history with a new creative language. His 2023 graduate collection is the culmination of that evolution, proving that life experiences—the grit, the daily grind, and the cultural shifts—are the most powerful fabrics a designer can work with.

At the heart of Ali’s design philosophy is a concept he calls "unfavourable." While the industry often chases the immediate "wow" factor, Ali finds his muse in the unwanted and the things that wouldn't typically amaze the average observer. He takes the discarded and the mundane, elevating them into high-concept garments that challenge our perception of prestige. This commitment to the "unfavourable" turned heads at the LBU, earning him the title of Most Creative Collection at the 2023 RUN Graduate Fashion Show.

For Ali, the design process is a full-throttle embrace of both the digital and the tactile. He navigates the world of Photoshop with the same precision he applies to his sewing and practical construction. Beyond the technical skills, his university journey served as a profound realization: his love for fashion transcends the final product. He views the act of creation as an end in itself—a relentless drive to build and innovate "no matter the outcome." It is this raw, unfiltered passion that fuels his work ethic and keeps him grounded in the studio.

Ali’s ambitions are as sharp as his tailoring. While he is currently focused on gaining industry experience and refining his craft over the next few years, his ultimate destination is clear: the helm of a major global brand. As a future Head Designer, he carries a defiant message for those following in his footsteps: "Just be yourself; people around you do not exist when it comes to designing." By ignoring the noise and staying true to his "unfavourable" roots, Ali Gohari isn't just making clothes—he’s making a statement.