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About the author:

Tala Raassi, an Iranian-American fashion designer, was born in Maryland, USA and raised in Tehran, Iran. Raassi, termed “One of the Most Fearless Women in the World” by Newsweek Magazine, impressed the fashion world with her talent in exclusive swimwear. She is devoted to “celebrating the beauty of a women’s body through her designs and empower women all around the world to follow their dreams.” For Raassi, “fashion is freedom.” 
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Fashion is Freedom by Tala Raassi

The inspiring true story of how courage, a dream, and some needle and thread can change a life forever . . .

Since she was young, Tala Raassi knew her fate lay in fashion. But growing up in her beloved homeland of Iran, a woman can be punished for exposing her hair in public, let alone wearing the newest trends. Despite strict regulations, Tala developed a keen sense of style in backroom cafes and secret parties. She never imagined her behavior would land her in prison, or bring the cruel sting of a whip for the crime of wearing a mini-skirt. 

Tala’s forty lashes didn’t keep her down – they fanned the flames of individuality and inspired her to embrace a new freedom in the United States. As she developed her own clothing label, her exploration into the creative, cut throat community of Western fashion opened her eyes to the ups and downs of hard work, hard decisions, and hard truths. 

Fashion is Freedom takes us on a journey that crosses the globe, from Colombia to Miss Universe, and inspires women everywhere to be fearless . . .
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"Though her story is unique, all women can be inspired by her bravery and her perseverance. Fashion Is Freedom is a great testament to the power of hard work, regardless of where you come from."
-Joanna Coles, Editor in Chief of Cosmopolitan​

"I was so moved with Tala's undying determination! I love that she fought back against oppression by moving from Iran to the U.S., launching her fashion line, creating super sexy styles for all, and embracing the 'BIKINI' as a symbol of freedom!"
-Monica Wise, L*Space Founder, Designer, and Creative Director 

"A truly inspiring story of perseverance and passion.  Tala's honest account of the real trials and frustrations facing any fashion entrepreneur, proves that hard work and an optimistic spirit pave the way to success."
-Mary Gehlhar, author of The Fashion Designer Survival Guide and lecturer at The New School at Parson School of Design

"When Tala Raassi received an unthinkable childhood punishment—40 lashes for wearing a miniskirt—she didn't hide in shame. She did the opposite, launching a fashion line to celebrate women's bodies. Her story is extraordinary."
-Abigail Pesta, award-winning journalist and Vice President of the Overseas Press Club of America

"Tala is a beautiful example of empowerment and strength. Fashion is Freedom shows us not only an incredible woman on the rise but additionally, a woman who did not allow the difficult hardships she faced on her journey to deter her from chasing her dreams and creating change in the world. I am inspired by her bravery and fearless nature."
-Jenna Ushkowitz, Actress, producer and author of Choosing Glee​


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  • Authors
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