Iqra Ilyas- BA (Hons) Photography
Presence Without Visibility
Although the fashion industry suggests prioritising the representation of the clothing, it often relies on narrow standards of beauty and visibility. This project challenges that approach by exploring alternative ways of presenting fashion that align more closely with the values of my community.
Coming from an Asian Muslim background, I have seen how challenging it can be for some women to pursue creative careers while maintaining the boundaries of Islamic teachings and meeting family expectations. Many have the skills and ambition to work in the fashion industry but are not comfortable revealing their faces or identities publicly.
In response, I create images that obscure the model’s faces, allowing the work to feel natural while protecting their privacy. I focus on gesture, movement and fabric to communicate presence, shifting attention away from identity and towards the expressive qualities of the body and clothing.
As a Muslim woman who also chooses not to share personal images publicly, this project reflects my own position. It proposes a more inclusive approach to fashion, where participation does not require visibility.
