When the seven models landed at Mehrabad Airport, they immediately drew the attention of a large crowd that had gathered after rumors of their arrival began circulating in the press days earlier. Many present had never seen professional models from Europe in person. Photographers rushed forward, crowding around the women as they stepped off the airplane, dressed in stylish autumn coats, wide-brimmed hats, and gloves that reflected the signature Parisian look of the period. The media quickly captured the scene: the juxtaposition of Tehran’s dusty runways with the sleek silhouettes of modern French fashion became one of the most memorable images of the year.
The models were welcomed by representatives of Iran’s emerging fashion and cosmetics industry, as well as several figures from cultural and business circles. The choice of the Darband Hotel—located near the foothills of the Alborz Mountains—was itself symbolic. Unlike the larger and more traditional city-center hotels, Darband offered a scenic, somewhat secluded retreat. But this did not stop the media or the public from flocking there. Within days, the hotel turned into a stage where photographers waited hours to catch a glimpse of the models.
