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Afghan leader turning heads on geopolitical catwalk
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by Alexander Conant
Friday, February 1, 2002
The interim leader of Afghanistan is receiving well-deserved accolades from politicians and fashion designers alike.
Prior to Hamid Karzai’s appointment, the West — accustomed to bin Laden’s outdated military garb — widely assumed that laundromats and good style were as scarce in Afghanistan as in democracy.
But since his appointment, Karzai has impressed presidents and designers alike by seamlessly mixing traditional Islamic robes and hats with western suits — a combination as delicate as his newfound job.
Karzai’s style is a welcome entry on the geopolitical catwalk, which has favored blue suits for decades. Karzai’s daring wardrobe is turning heads: politicians are clamoring for photo ops and a Gucci designer crowned him the “chicest man on the planet.”
While it’s unlikely Bush will follow suit and trade in his trademark blue tie, Afghanistan’s new leader has already established himself as a cutting-edge fashion leader.
