Amir Taghi, a New York-based designer, embodies a unique fusion of his Persian heritage and Texas upbringing. He delivers tailoring to womenswear, giving his collections a distinct touch of clean lines fused with folkloric colors and patterns.
The artistry at the core of his designs lies within the women who inspire him: from the bold glamour of Texan icons such as Jerry Hall and Lynn Wyatt to the regal elegance of Persian figures such as Qajar princesses. These muses form a dialogue between West and East, past and present, and shape what his brand offers, which is versatility.
Taghi has been creating collections and bringing his vision to life since he was a teenager, later refining his craft under the guidance of desitners such as the late Oscar de la Renta and Jack McCullough and Lazaro Hernandez of Proenza Schouler.
This fall marks a milestone in his journey: he joins the Official New York Fashion Week Schedule, where he will continue to seamlessly reflect his two worlds on the runway.
Where are you from? How is your hometown or background weaved into your designs?
I’m a native Houstonian, and my roots run deep in Texas. The women here carry themselves with an effortless power. Whether they’re running errands or stepping out at night, their glamour feels authentic and unforced.
In the beginning stages of creating a collection, where do you search for inspiration?
I always turn to my Iranian heritage as a starting point. There’s an endless well of inspiration to explore within it. For my Fall 2025 collection, I was influenced by Persian artist Monir Farmanfarmaian. Her work—from her geometric mirror sculptures to her lesser-known floral drawings—offers a rich dialogue between structure and softness that I find fascinating.
I also wanted to juxtapose her with an Iranian Qajar princess, a figure known for blending the elegance of Ballets Russes with Islamic culture in her dress. Each season I strive to reveal a different side of my culture, something I believe is often overlooked or forgotten in the West. It’s about discovering and sharing those stories through my work, making sure these histories are honored and kept alive.
What was your first experience with NYFW, and how has that shaped you as a designer?
Honestly, my first experience with NYFW was a bit of a secret. Like many students, I snuck into Ralph Lauren’s Fall 2016 show. It was unforgettable. He had transformed his Madison Avenue boutique into a cozy salon. Ralph Lauren is known for his ease in American sportswear, but with a twist that makes the clothes feel special. That season the show was a treasure trove of Persian rug prints, metallics and jewel-toned gowns. The details were delicate, yet everything felt like it was made to be a forever piece in a woman’s wardrobe.
As an American designer, I’ve always wanted to create for real women—clothes that are timeless but with a surprising element, pieces that are built to last but never blend into the background. I want every design to feel both reliable and distinctive, something a woman can wear every day but still feel uniquely herself.
If you had to use one of your own pieces for the rest of your life, which would it be and why?
It would definitely be our Greig Coat. One of the core ideas of the collection is convertibility. The coat can become a vest, a bolero or even a trench. I’m constantly on the road doing trunk shows, and I always pack my wardrobe in a carry-on. Being able to transform one piece into multiple looks is essential. It’s about creating versatility and fluidity—clothes that adapt to a woman’s lifestyle and mood without ever sacrificing style or purpose.
