Class of 2025: Maham Asim weaves personal thread into fashion

By Drew Thompson

Since childhood, Maham Asim has felt drawn to fashion – the innate creativity of assembling pieces, the experimentation of mixing styles, the confidence that flows from clothing. And she draws inspiration from her homeland.

Asim is from Pakistan, though she grew up in Northern Virginia’s Woodbridge area. As she graduates this month from Virginia Commonwealth University’s School of the Arts with a bachelor’s degree in fashion design and a minor in fashion marketing, her heritage is close to her heart – and her work.

“My collections often draw from my personal values and cultural background,” Asim said. “I also pull heavily from my Pakistani heritage, reimagining traditional elements in ways that feel contemporary and elevated.”

Her decision to pursue fashion started with her expansive creativity: Asim enjoyed all forms of expressive outlets, whether through painting, drawing or handcrafts. But the appeal of creating clothing remained constant, and the opportunity blossomed at VCUarts, whose sense of community and embrace of hands-on learning drew her to the program.

“It felt like a place where I could grow not just technically but personally — surrounded by people who were passionate, supportive and driven,” Asim said. “I wanted to be part of a program that would challenge me while still giving me a creative family, and VCU felt like the right environment for that.”

VCU exposed her to both the technical and communal aspects of the fashion industry. While the professional experience of patternmaking, illustration and garment construction is valuable, the personal connections and network are crucial as well.

At VCU, Asim founded her namesake label and hopes to open her own business to share her ideas and designs across the country.

“The idea of building a namesake label comes from wanting creative autonomy and the ability to design with purpose — rooted in identity, culture and modesty — while contributing something meaningful to the industry,” Asim said.

Inspired by her Pakistani heritage, Asim creates collections that convey storytelling and identity. She approaches her designs through what she calls a “modest lens,” with a focus on high-quality work that can still reflect restrained fashion and refined artistry.

With her degree in hand, Asim plans to move to New York City, where she can hone her craft in graduate school in one of the world’s fashion centers.

Even as Asim leaves Richmond, her late nights in the studio surrounded by peers will stick with her for a lifetime. Those nights were filled with chaos, camaraderie and creativity, and she said that energy will power her path in the fashion industry.

“I’m grateful for the experiences and people that have shaped my journey so far,” Asim said. “I’m excited for what’s next.”