Sanaz Nataj

Sanaz Nataj, an Iranian clothing designer, was born in 1976. After completing her university studies in graphic design, she worked in advertising and web design for five years. In 2008, she embarked on a new creative journey by founding 'Sanaz Nataj Couture,' focusing on the exploration and revival of traditional Iranian embroidery and handwoven textiles.

Self-taught and deeply inspired by the rich history of Iranian art and fashion, Nataj's designs seamlessly blend traditional Iranian embroidery techniques with her unique aesthetic. Her work often features a distinctive style that reflects her in-depth study of Iran's artistic heritage.

In 2010, Netaj's journey took her to Qeshm Island, where she became immersed in the intricate world of southern Iranian embroidery techniques such as glabton, khos, shak bafi, and alab. This experience sparked a passion for empowering women through entrepreneurship and led to her efforts to generate income for the women of Qeshm, Haftrango, and Khorashad villages.

By 2013, through a collaborative effort with weavers from Khorashad, Nataj successfully revived and registered the traditional 'Barak' weaving technique with the Birjand Cultural Heritage Organization. In 2016, her dedication and creativity were recognized with the prestigious Quality Mark for Handicrafts awarded by the Tehran Cultural Heritage Organization. This accolade celebrated her innovative approach to traditional Qeshm Island embroidery, including glabton, shek, and zari techniques. In 2017, her work gained further international recognition when she received the UNESCO Seal of Authenticity. That same year, an embroidered Balochi robe designed by Netaj was featured in the inaugural contemporary Muslim fashion exhibition at the De Young Museum in San Francisco.