'I faced a lot of criticism'
Ramadi designer Rana Ahmed breaks barriers with her expanding fashion business
ANBAR — Rana Ahmed, a fashion designer from Ramadi, has transformed her dream of owning a small boutique into a thriving enterprise with two women’s fashion design workshops. After finding success at her first location on Al-Orzdi Street in central Ramadi, she recently marked the opening of a second branch in the city’s Khalidiya area. Looking ahead, she hopes to extend “Rana Fashion” beyond Anbar to other parts of Iraq.
Rana’s collections range from Gulf attire to casual and formal wear, evening gowns and wedding dresses. “My journey started at home with a big dream to become a renowned fashion designer,” she told 964media. “I trained under Turkish experts and earned an internationally recognized certification in fashion design.”
She credits her husband, Omar Ahmed, for ultimately embracing her ambition and giving her the support she needed. Another key supporter was her friend, known as Umm Fahd. Initially, Rana faced skepticism and criticism for working in the marketplace, especially within a conservative society. “I faced a lot of criticism, but some customers, especially women, welcomed the idea of dealing with a female designer,” she said. “Over time, the criticism turned into encouragement and support.”
Women in Iraq encounter many obstacles to joining the workforce. In March 2024, the International Labour Organization reported that only 10.6% of Iraq’s 13 million working-age women are employed or seeking work.
Rana attributes her success to quality craftsmanship, stressing that her fabrics, imported from India and Turkey, make her designs difficult to replicate. She employs several seamstresses who work in both morning and evening shifts. In addition, she has established a two-stage sewing center offering training for beginners and more advanced students.
To celebrate her newest branch, Rana is offering discounts of up to 50% on her clothing lines. “My advice to all women is to strive to achieve their goals no matter the obstacles,” she said. “Challenges make us feel the taste of success and joy.”
Her husband also encouraged others to back their spouses’ ambitions. “Don’t turn your wife into a housemaid,” he said. “If she has ambitions, support her to achieve them. Sometimes, a man’s success comes from the success of his wife.”
Customers like Shahd Abdullah, a loyal client, shared their appreciation for Rana’s dedication. “Rana Fashion is not just a place for clothing; it’s a story of success for an incredible woman from Anbar,” Shahd told 964media. “I wouldn’t go anywhere else for my clothing needs.”