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"Threads of Peace: Fashion as Diplomacy"

Ayesha Nawaz2025-09-01

Commonwealth Fashion Council

Commonwealth Fashion Council

Can fashion carry the weight of peace?

In her collection “Threads of Peace,” Ayesha reimagines diplomatic dressing as an art form — one that honours memory, builds bridges, and communicates across cultures. Inspired by the wardrobes of Princess Diana and Catherine, Princess of Wales, Ayesha’s work reflects how fashion can move beyond appearance to embody values of unity, respect, and remembrance.

Her three-piece collection draws from the 1996 and 2019 royal visits to Pakistan, exploring how both Diana and Kate used clothing to reflect admiration for local customs and promote cross-cultural dialogue.

✧ Look One: Structured Ivory Coat Dress
Embroidered with peace doves and a subtle map of Pakistan, this design fuses Western tailoring with Eastern motifs. The strong silhouette conveys dignity, while soft details symbolise hope and diplomacy.

✧ Look Two: Royal Blue Shalwar Kameez
A richly embroidered ensemble with zardozi-inspired gold threadwork, this modern shalwar kameez celebrates Pakistani craftsmanship. The colour blue evokes strength and poise, while the embroidery honours cultural richness and resilience.

✧ Look Three: Embroidered Ivory Long Dress
A tribute to Princess Diana’s 1996 tour, this look is adorned with jasmine — Pakistan’s national flower — alongside peace signs and dove motifs. It evokes modest elegance and cultural harmony.

“This collection isn’t just clothing — it’s a message,” Ayesha shares. “It says: we remember, we respect, and we hope for peace.”

The pieces are lined with silk satin, ensuring comfort and luxury, while honouring the tradition of textile prestige in South Asian fashion.


Ayesha’s project stands as a quiet but powerful expression of fashion diplomacy — one that uses embroidery, silhouette, and symbolism to advocate for peace and mutual respect between nations.

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  • Title: "Threads of Peace: Fashion as Diplomacy"
  • Creator: Ayesha Nawaz
  • Date Created: 2025-09-01
  • Location: London
  • Type: ARTWORK
Commonwealth Fashion Council

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