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Signs of change among Iran’s middle class

Before seeing a local production of "Ivanov" by Russian playwright Anton Chekov, women share a cigarette, a habit once frowned upon. Middle-class Iranians are increasingly finding ways to express their individuality while gradually expanding the boundaries of what the mullahs deem acceptable behavior.

Before seeing a local production of “Ivanov” by Russian playwright Anton Chekov, women share a cigarette, a habit once frowned upon. Middle-class Iranians are increasingly finding ways to express their individuality while gradually expanding the boundaries of what the mullahs deem acceptable behavior.

  (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times)

Lately, Iran’s people — more than 60% of them younger than 30 — have signaled that they want less interference in their private lives.

Iran's changing middle class

Sarmad Kodeiri, left, and Shehrzad Bolandkish walk to their Western-inspired wedding party in a secluded garden outside Tehran.

  (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times)

Iran's changing middle class

The newlyweds dance the first dance at their party. “We tried to do it our own way,” he said. “… I think our style represents the style of about 20% of the people of Iran.”

  (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times)

Iran's changing middle class

Young people gather in a park despite admonitions against mingling of the sexes.

  (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times)

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Iran's changing middle class

Traditionalists frown upon domestic dogs, which they regard as unclean and a mark of Western decadence, but more and more middle-class Iranians are keeping pets at home. Above, Hashim Mahmoud trains his husky, Jessica, at a park.

  (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times)

Twins Setayesh, left, and Sogand Ghadimi, 16, with their dogs, Hagen and Russell. In the background is Hashim Mahmoud with Jessica.

Twins Setayesh, left, and Sogand Ghadimi, 16, with their dogs, Hagen and Russell. In the background is Hashim Mahmoud with Jessica.   (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times )

Iran's changing middle class

Fashionable women in Tehran wear the mandatory attire — head scarves and long coats — loosely around their hair and snugly around their bodies.

  (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times)

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