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.

(Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times)

Aug. 25, 2016 3:50 PM PT

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

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

(Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times)

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)

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

(Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times)

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. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times )

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)