Critical Fashion Histories & Design Anthropology

Dr Nargess Khodabakhshi is a researcher and lecturer in Fashion and Design Studies with a PhD in Cultural Studies, an MFA in Fine Arts, and a BA in Graphic Design. Her research explores fashion histories through critical and decolonial lenses, highlighting narratives from Global South contexts.

She has developed and taught courses in Cultural Studies, Fashion Studies, and Design Anthropology at leading arts universities in Austria. Committed to the social role of public education, she collaborates on creative, practice-based projects with various stakeholders to support transgenerational and postmigrant empowerment.

She welcomes calls from academia, creative industries, and the public sector that advance diversity, equity, and sustainability through real-world solutions.

Selected Publications

Engagement & Services

“Zwischen Konsum und Underground: Modebeziehungen von Dubai über Teheran bis Istanbul,” Lauf der Mode, iz3w, March–April 2020.

1. Lecturing and academic research across arts institutions

2. Public speaking, keynotes, and cultural journalism

“The Fashion Cities of the Middle East,” Research Collective for Decolonizing Fashion, October 2020.

3. Qualitative design research for institutions and businesses

4. Art-based coaching for individuals and creative teams

“Here We Are: Women in Design 1900–Today,” Furniture Museum Vienna, Journal of Design History, 2025.

5. Strategic support for grassroots communities and NGOs