Pakistani Fashion Designers
Ahsan Nazir
A name out to steal the fame in the fashion name - Ahsan Nazir. A newly entrant in the Pakistani fashion scene, he has all it takes to win the hearts of many, with his fresh designs and different outlook.
Aijaz Aslam
Aijazz Aslam runs a men's wear boutique in Pakistan. Aijazz is the lucky one to have started his business early enough, and nowadays he is doing good in menswear both ethnic and western.
Aijazz, himself a designer entity too, started designing few years back, since he was into modelling. He was founded to be keen in having his own clothing line after working as model for some big fashion designers in Pakistan.
Aijazz Aslam hope's to keep on introducing new fashion ideas in Pakistan and aims at being one step ahead by other fashion designers. Aijazz's product line includes Embroidered sherwani, kurta, traditional groom couture and wedding accessories like turbine, shawl and vivid scarf for men.
Amina Tahir
Amina Tahir formally launched her collection in 2003 under the title of Amina’s Collection. Owing to her natural flair for fashion, she had been designing for friends and family since 1997. She has held exhibition in New York, Lahore and Islamabad. Her collection consists of formal shalwar kameez, lehnga, choli, choori dar pajama, kurta, embroidered kurtis, bridal wear as well as casuals.
One distinctive quality of Amina Tahir, that sets her apart from a sea of designers is her departure from typical flowery motifs. Her clothes depict abstract designs and figures (birds, dragons) which are not only a visual treat to behold but are refreshing and contemporary.
Her future plans include holding fashion shows in Pakistan, India and opening ethnic boutique in London.
Amina Yasmeen
I don’t call myself a full-fledged designer as yet. But what I do is appreciated by my clients.” Mansoor commented that designer shirts should have vivid embroidery, style, grace and a concept unique to that particular designer. Mansoor Khan works under the designer label "Amina Yasmeen". Only around for a couple of years, Mansoor already has a reputation for making clothes that are out of this world. Talking to him, one is encouraged that the upcoming talents are experts in their field. Many have raved about Mansoor’s designs, saying his work tends to break traditional designing values.
At Amina Yasmin, another difference is of jamawar cloth, used mainly for ghararas. “There is a jamawar cloth that costs Rs 70 per yard and then there is a jamawar cloth that costs Rs 700 per yard. So you see where designs and cuts matter, cloths also have a say on the pricing of an individual shirt.”
Mansoor is getting ready for more fashion courses. Apparently he has his sights fixed on a foreign university that will enhance his qualities in the fashion field.
Amir Adnan
Despite it being a textile hub, fashion, style and glamour are not labels commonly associated with the industrial Punjab city of Faisalabad. Amir Adnan took up the challenge to introduce all these aspects of modern high street style to the textile capital of Pakistan. In doing so, Amir Adnan along with his team of organizers took Faisalabad by storm. Advertising was prominent in all the major newspapers and there were hoardings all over the city. The fashion show was Aamir Adnan and Huma Aamir Adnan's first trip to the city where they presented their exquisite collection of casuals, semi-formals and formal wear for both men and women.
Aamir Adnan yet is looking beyond the usual horizons and planning to open an outlet in every possible prospective market of fashion. Aamir Adnan organised a fashion show in Pakistan with special help from old friends and colleagues like Khawar Riaz (KR CREW) and Ather Hafiz, the men's wear designer at Libas. Khawar Riaz provided the models and was in charge of their grooming and make-up.
The collection that was presented on the stage carried a wide range of designs and latest styles of formal shalwar kameez and semi-formal salwar kameez for both genders. The men's collection portrayed simple colours like black, blues, greens and browns with the elegance of embroidery on kurta and sherwanis that is associated with all Amir Adnan products. The eastern wedding wear was the most well received. The second segment of groomswear capsuled the glory and majesty of our traditions. The sherwanees were elegantly embroidered using semi-precious stones and delicate hand embroidery that made every model look like a member of the royal courtyard of the Maharajas and Emperors. Pure silk Jamewar turbans provided the picture perfect glory of the past represented as today's fashion statement.
Females were also dressed to create an awareness of fashion in Pakistan. Huma Adnan's beautiful collection was displayed on the ramp like a soft spring breeze blowing in the heat of the scorching summer sun. Huma Adnan's collection consisted of beautiful and detailed cuts that are the perfect amalgamation of western styles with an eastern touch for the modern woman of not just Pakistan but the world. The designer plans to launch this fusion line in the USA very soon. Huma Adnan stylized collection of bridals matched the sartorial image of their male counterparts. Presenting brides and grooms together allowed the designers to represent traditions with style.
Ammar Belal
ABCD by Ammar Belal Men's T-Shirts, Jeans, Casual Wear, Street Wear
From the kings and Queens of Pakistan’s fashion realm to yet another charming prince. At first, one might argue that there is only a slight design factor incorporated in each garment that Ammar Belal’s label ABCD produces. While most of the bigger and established brands are playing safe these days by catering to their specific target audience, ABCD has the advantage of experimenting on casual wear while being led by an equally innovative and classy designer. This is what gives ABCD a cutting edge. Also while every other designer is experimenting with one or more aspect of bridal wear, ABCD is strictly street wear couture and that’s that. Lately, his famous customized jeans by the brand name of AS JEANS have become a raging fad in the city.
Asifa and Nabeel
Asifa and Nabeel Pakistani Designer
Asifa and Nabeel are two young designers with an indisputable flair for fashion. They together form a formidable team of eastern plus trendy dresses. Asifa and Nabeel duo work with a variety of fabrics. They mix bright and subtle hues in a unique fusion of colour displaying a finely tuned aesthetic sense. Wasli, Karachob, Zardozi, Silk and Threads are used in exciting juxtaposition to create unusual and unique garments.
The comprehensive range of outfits includes fashions for all occasions: bridal wear, formal and semi-formal wear. Exclusive designs are available for special occasions. Asifa and Nabeel’s collection fulfills the demand of modern lifestyle along with Eastern tradition.
Bunto Kazmi
Bunto Kazmi - Pakistani Designer
There is a quiet dignity in the Kazmi household. On entering the residence/showroom, one feels transported to a modern Mughal atmosphere with the family members floating from one room to another with some higher purpose and the attendants going about official and personal work at the same time. Today everyone refers to Oriental Fashions as Mrs. Kazmi's bridal wear without their trying – it is rare to see the design house in shoots or advertised in any form. It is to their credit that one of the oldest fashion houses has achieved its fame by word of mouth and reputation rather than being backed by fashion degrees and marketing strategies.
One can’t help but feel as if Bunto has stepped out of the sets of Devdas into the real life hustle and bustle of modern day professions - but she is not sandwiched here. If anything she is the fantasy part of the creations, which bridge the practical with the ideal. This has resulted in a design house that boasts creations at international levels and has been exhibited in museums globally. More importantly, it defines our cultural identity and puts Pakistani couture on the map because of the commitment of the Kazmi institution. Day professions - but she is not sandwiched here. If anything she is the fantasy part of the creations which bridge the practical with the ideal. This has resulted in a design house that boasts creations at international levels and has been exhibited in museums globally. More importantly, it defines our cultural identity and puts Pakistani couture on the map because of the commitment of the Kazmi institution.
Deepak Perwani
Deepak Perwani Pakistani Designer
Deepak Perwani, designer, runs a men's boutique in Pakistan. As the fading century slips into the new millennium, his couture shows signs of staying power and a newfound confidence. The Dubai fashion show was an instant sell out with his truck art accents, and the Zargalli premier, Deepak Pervani broke all hell loose when he sent models down the runway in the most sensuous and seductively draped ensembles that complimented the jewellery presentation perfectly well. Despite the fact that today Deepak Perwani is a good name; the real man shows no signs of arrogance or snootiness.
He never suffered from an inflated ego; humble to the core Deepak truly believes in the ‘live and let live philosophy’ and may be that’s the reason for his glorious success.
Deepak Perwani's product line includes men's embroidered kurta, groom sherwani, casual shirts, bridal wear, and bridal accessories, saris and formal wear.
Elan
Élan is a French word and is synonymous with style, confidence and elegance. The label Élan has come a long way since it started and is now considered one of the most sought after brands in Pakistan. By making it’s collections available in all major cities at exclusive boutiques, such as Rehanna Saigol’s ‘The Shop’ in Karachi, Mélange in Islamabad and The PFDC boulevard 10-Q in Lahore, Élan has become a force to reckon with in the fashion Industry. Furthermore, Élan’s is opening its flagship store at the Mall of Lahore and also launching its prêt wear at Labels, one of the most popular multi- brand clothing stores on Zamzama Boulevard Karachi.
Élan design philosophy stands for exactly what the word means. Clothes are supremely elegant and though there is versatility in each collection the underlying aesthetic of restrained glamour and pizzazz is never compromised. Élan’s outfits can be traditional or modern, heavily worked or lightly embellished but they are always easy on the eye, an attribute lacking in the work of most local designers. The cuts and colour palette are also quite unique with most buyers’ going weak kneed over the beautifully draped shirts and pants. All materials used in the prêt and the couture lines are 100% pure giving the clothes season after season longevity and with stringent quality control and flawless finishing Élan outfits are the perfect choice for anyone interested in super luxurious clothes.
At Élan extensive research is done in terms of colours, cuts, motifs and international trends. The prêt line showcases a variety of prints which is an influence from the international catwalks. “I am greatly inspired by western trends as they keep evolving and are constantly setting the bar for innovation and renewal without which the greatest names in fashion can become monotonous and irrelevant” Khadijah Shah, Creative Head Élan.
Élan’s client base has rapidly expanded in the last two years; it has clients not only within Pakistan but also abroad especially in the US and the UK. The reason for the brands success, “On time deliveries, quality control and most importantly I will never design anything I will not wear myself” says Khadijah Shah.
Faiza Sami
Faiza Sami Pakistani Designer
Faiza Sami believes Pakistani embroidery has interesting influences that range from the Chinese to the Turkish Enlarge. From designing jodas for former Pakistan Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto’s wedding; to being commissioned by the esteemed Victoria Albert Museum, UK; to reviving the heritage of the stitches of Sindh; Pakistani designer Faiza Samee has clearly been there and certainly done it all. Born with an artistic bent of mind, Faiza Sami was one of the frontrunners of the fashion industry in Karachi at a time when there was no fashion school 25 years back. “I got into designing by accident. Having lost my mother at an early age, I had to shop for the trousseau at my brother’s marriage. To my dismay, I discovered that ancient embroidery techniques were languishing due to lack of patronage. My journey into the fashion world began by sourcing these vintage fabrics and trying to keep our heritage alive,” recalls Faiza Sami.
Showing at Bridal Asia 2003 for the second time, where she stole the limelight from designer Ritu Kumar on Thursday at Uppal’s Orchid, Samee believes Pakistani embroidery has several influences that range from Chinese to Turkish. “Karachi is more like Delhi. It is a bit conservative unlike what I saw in Mumbai. But my forte is formal and trousseau wear that focuses on making bridal wear really, really interesting,” Faiza Samee elaborates. Navratan, her collection, is inspired by jewelled hues such as emerald, garnet, ruby, jade and coral. “We never had the kurti revolution that was seen here, probably because most girls still prefer the fitted silhouette. This is the back to the ’70s look that had body-hugging kurtas teamed up with churidars, now that straight pants are out of fashion,” says Faiza Samee. Being one of the pillars of the fashion industry back home in Pakistan, she wants a fashion week there on the lines of India.
However, Faiza Sami does admit that unlike India, Pakistani designers are quite laid-back and very disorganised. “Someone has to take the lead somewhere and make an effort to put it all together. I guess it will take time but we need to get it right in the first place,” says Faiza Sami.
Hassan Shehryar Yasin
Hassan Shehryar Yasin, HSY - Pakistani Designer
While Hassan Shehryar Yasin's (HSY) choreography always has an upbeat pace, not for him leisurely sashaying on the catwalk by the models. Never has this been more evident than at his recent showing of the DuPont Lycra 'Has It' collection designed by Hasan Shehryar Yaseen. And little wonder, with over 70 outfits shown by 30 models, fast and snappy remained the mood for the show - apt, for a western wear collection featuring togs for both the male and female wardrobe. No gender discrimination here, equal numbers of outfits for both were shown.
Hasan Shehriar Yaseen promoting fabrics with Lycra blend, the 'Has It' campaign's theme being, 'You either have it or you don't' brings the product to a more personal level, while differentiating Lycra blend garments from the rest. Projecting the designer chosen for designing a spring/summer 2004 collection for the multinational by saying "Hassan Shehryar Yasin has it" in the introduction as a pun might be taking the branding element too far, since not only was branding very much in evidence at the venue, but giveaways included lots of literature on the same. Along with a multimedia presentation and a couple of speeches thrown in, a word has to be put in for subtlety here.
Effectively bridging the gap between raw material - fabric, and the finished product - a prét line, DuPont has shown the way for the textiles industry to gear up for more value-added products. In the competitive global market for apparel, fashion and textiles, with our basic textile sector infrastructure in place, there remains the need to boost exports. While the Lycra-incorporated apparel line is aimed at both the local as well as foreign market, an interesting fact, as pointed out by DuPont was that "all fabrics used" were locally produced by different mills, primarily Nishat mills, Liberty mills, Master Naqshbandi Industries, Artistic Denim and Siddiqsons Denim.
Hina
Ms. Hina Arif introduced herself formally to the fashion world with opening of her boutique of High Fashion Pakistani Dresses ten years ago to customize with the taste of every woman.
Hina has launched her new collection of formal wear comprising sarees, lehangas and suits in her characteristic Pakistani style. Her emphasis is on the right combination of resplendent colors, floral embroidery and stunning styles. In her new ensemble, she has used a wide variety of fabrics, including silks, nets, cotton, tissues, organza, georgette and chiffon.
Her collection and other designs from magazines are available exclusively on internet.
imbias
Imbias always prefers to make classic and comfortable designs, means convenient to carry. The best thing in his part is that he never imposes his designs to the costumers; rather he favors on what really suits them. Imran is a brilliant designer in designing Bridal wears as well. He introduced so many nice varieties in Kurta & Sherwani, particularly.
He wants to present very good & soft image of Pakistan at international level. Due to his dedication with his work, he will achieve the goal one day of making his renowned name throughout the world.
Jugaan - by Shazia Wajahat
Jugaan - by Shazia Wajahat Pakistani Designer
Shazia Wajahat carried inborn gifted qualities from her father who had been doing his business in India. Before partition her father was interviewed by BBC for being a self made businessman and touched the infinity of his business in India & Pakistan.
Shazia Wajahat, designing under label "Jugaan" inherited some qualities from her father. In 1995, Shazia who is painstakingly research oriented, nature loving, conceived her to be a fashion designer. Shazia has exhibited her work all over Pakistan, today her name is well recognized and in the field of formal, evening and bridal dress designing in land and abroad.
Shazia Wajahat is very much optimistic, well committed with her profession and every day she creates and thinks many new designs along with different style/cats, by making sketches.
Junaid Jumshed
In a short time span of 5 years, Junaid Jamshed has built a name and goodwill in the market as a fashion designer wear outlet for men and women with a unique range of products. Junaid Jamshed helps people build an elegant image that is in sync with their cultural and social values.
Kamiar Rokni
I am a fashion designer based in Lahore. I have been in the business for almost ten years. I started the label karma in 2000 and helped establish s a leading brand of couture and prêt a porter until parting ways in 2007 to create my own label" Kamiar Rokni". I am a women's wear designer with a fairly wide range, and am comfortable with many styles and enjoy making eastern, western, bridal, fusion, casual and formal clothes. I am very passionate about what I do and have met with success and recognition early on in my career. I have three Lux Style awards under my belt, an Indus style award and a Maku Hari Grande prix award from Japan from my student days.
I see myself working in fashion for as long as I can however recently I have branched out into the world of media. I am a chat show host for Dawn News, my show "No Reservations" is in its third season and I am also a radio jockey for FM89. I occasionally write as a social commentator. I believe in finding avenues to express myself through. One day I intend to act, sing, dance and sail around the world.
Kamiar Roknis and Maheen Ali
Karma is one of those lucky few who always knew what it is they wanted to do with their lives. "I knew I wanted to be a designer much before the Pakistan School of Fashion Design (PSFD) had even been established. I don't think I would have ever been happy doing a nine to five job even if it is a lot less exhausting and less time consuming than this one. Anything concerned with aesthetics is my cup of tea whether it is doing home interiors or landscaping or home accessories etc.".
Kami is an interesting mix of contrasts and contradictions. Bred and born in Pakistan, he feels more at ease designing a pair of trousers and a tank top than a shalwar kameez. "Probably because I've always been wearing westerns and I've been reading Vogue since I was six. Also due to the nature of the training provided by PSFD you will find that most of the graduates will be more proficient in designing Westerns than Easterns since our entire syllabus is designed and executed according to the guidelines sent by the mother school in Paris and the emphasis thus is on the designing of jackets and skirts rather than on the making of ghararas and lahngas."
Karma is about clothes that demand attention without eclipsing the person wearing them. Karma's label is about innovative fashion; modern, fresh, glamorous, yet timelessly elegant. Fashion is more than the clothes you wear. It is the way you live your life. Karma's clothes reflect that individuality. They are about style, a sense of aesthetic beauty that is relevant anywhere and everywhere in the world.
Karma
Karma is a label synonymous with success, brilliance and creative excellence. After eight years of staying at the top and catering to elites and ordinary clients alike, karma has built for itself an exalted niche which unarguable belongs to them. Today, Karma is known to deliver style, taste and elegance and in doing so, it is revamping the image of an eastern girl.
Karma was never a flexing-muscles project for its founding designers; who always nurtured it for a blast off into space. Though it was started in a drawing room, the professionalism and dedication that it was dealt with never really made into anything but a budding business. From the drawing room to, two couture studios, eight outlets locally and one in the Middle East and the newly renovated upscale corporate headquarters, karma surely has come a long way, not to mention again in eight short years.
Like many other design houses around the country, Karma too had the flare and the enthusiasm to make it big. But for them, `big` had an entire new meaning. After being acclaimed internationally and locally, opening outlets and having fashion shows around the globe and a massive clientele which feels privileged to be a part of the Karma family; it seems Karma is just doing what it does best; i.e. being the best.
Today the Design director, together with her creativity and acute work ethics makes an outstanding combination to head the fashion house. Strictly professional and exceptionally she is taking Karma to places Pakistani designers have seldom seen. Her vision for Karma exceeds territorial boundaries and goes beyond simply dressing up women.
This is where, Newport West steps into the scene. Collaborating with this American based company is perhaps the best thing that could have happened to Karma. When Newport West first came to Pakistan, they were willing to invest in a reputed design house but one that they could trust with complete ease. They were willing to completely take over the financial and corporate side of the business and let the designers do what they originally meant to do. It believed that a design house running purely on talent needed a direction and a structure that they could fall back on and for them Karma seemed to fill out the requisite form to precision. And so Newport West made Karma into the only corporation of its kind in the country.
Karma holds a strong market positions in its three existing business segments; Karma Wedding which deals with only bridals. Karma Couture that deals with formal wear and Karma Pink which is the prêt brand. In October 2008 Karma launches Karma Fabric which will be unstitched seasonal fabrics keeping Karma’s signature design philosophy and color in mind. Karma Nation will be introduced by December 2008 which will be a trade label for the brand geared towards volume and the masses.
In 2009, karma plans to launch Karma Bling, which will be high-end costume jewelry and next summer, Karma Sole that will consist of trademark jewelry chappals and mules. Karma today symbolizes a brand rather than a name. Judging by their past record of effortlessly succeeding in any endeavor that they put on their schema, it will be no surprise to see Karma pulling it off yet again.
With a thoroughly organized business, complete with a corporate setup, Karma who have already taken over the local market, plan on joining the big guns in the international arena. And why not; when the professional and smooth running of the corporation is at par with any international design house around the world!
A country that timidly backs off when it comes to setting trends and making statements, Karma has decided to take it upon itself to change it all. By doing so, they are not only giving themselves the satisfaction of making it big but also giving a country something to be proud of.
Kechoos - by Jehangir
The label Kechoo's one of the best fresh fashion houses of Pakistan is a collection of art merged in eastern wear. The Fashion Designer Jahangir Khalid whose label turns out to be his nick, actually, Kechoo. 28 years old Keecho has learnt the basics from Pakistan School of Fashion Designing and his creative nature.
He came in the fashion Industry in 2003 but within one year he attracted all the art admirers at his fashion house because of his quality work in Bridal dresses.
Bridal dress means a lot to an eastern girl, a one true time of honour and happiness therefore when it comes to designing a wedding dress Kechoo puts an extra effort for having a lot of options for embroidery and creation, Kechoo's specialty is Bridal and Sari's, His favourite colour combinations are Pastel colours. He is very enthusiastic and filled with energy. He always says that every new bridal dress is a challenge, a challenge with an opportunity, an opportunity to prove his art.
Khaadi - Shamoon Sultan
Khayaal began eight years ago by Durnave Chaudhri when an interest in fashion design was translated into a formal enterprise committed to reviving traditional patterns in clothes making. The enduring inspiration behind the idea has been a reinvention of haute couture, delving deeply into ancient culture yet simultaneously being able to tailor it to contemporary tastes.
Meticulous attention to detail has been integral to Khayaal's success. Durnave spends much time with her clientele to determine their requirements. As the genesis of unique apparel begins to take shape, she personally supervises a team of highly skilled artisans. The process is akin to creating a mosaic, bringing together a range of sartorial talent in designing, colour selection and stitching. In order to remain true to her original convictions, the creations always carry the traditional motifs that have become Khayaal's signature. The work is both inventive and innovative and has successfully resuscitated nearly extinct forms of zardozi and embroidery.
Khayal
hayaal began eight years ago by Durnave Chaudhri when an interest in fashion design was translated into a formal enterprise committed to reviving traditional patterns in clothes making. The enduring inspiration behind the idea has been a reinvention of haute couture, delving deeply into ancient culture yet simultaneously being able to tailor it to contemporary tastes.
Meticulous attention to detail has been integral to Khayaal's success. Durnave spends much time with her clientele to determine their requirements. As the genesis of unique apparel begins to take shape, she personally supervises a team of highly skilled artisans. The process is akin to creating a mosaic, bringing together a range of sartorial talent in designing, colour selection and stitching. In order to remain true to her original convictions, the creations always carry the traditional motifs that have become Khayaal's signature. The work is both inventive and innovative and has successfully resuscitated nearly extinct forms of zardozi and embroidery.
Klash - by Kanwal Lashari
Klash is one label commonly known for the best formal line in town. The fashion designer Kanwal Lashari of Klash had groomed her skills at National College of Arts Lahore where she was found an astounding student and right after her completion at NCA she joined Nee Punhal & kept on working there for a year to learn more in fashion designing while gaining some practical experience as well.
Later she joined Libas International and worked their as a chief designer for more than a year. She has also participated in some of the exhibitions for her Hand Painted Saris which turned out to be a big hit in the market while bringing more fame to her name.
She has a fabulous control over formal line and her special focus is always on the eastern body structure for the best eastern wear, Now that she is very much satisfied with her work and upon her clients request now she will be launching her Bridal wear along with formal line.
Lajwanti by Afzal Ali & Ana Ali
Lajwanti primarily started as haut-e-couture high-end Bridal fashion house. Producing masterpiece Bridal, Formal and party wears on customer's demands. At present lajwanti has added on to Prêt-a-porter ready to wear line both for men and women and has set a small weaving unit to weave silk in the old traditional way the KHADI hand woven fabric, we also have power looms unit through which we get custom made fabric for our consumption. Lajwanti was formally launched in March 1999 with a sales outlet in Pearl Continental Hotel Lahore and started dealing with made to order Bridal and party ware costumes. Due to its high quality intricate designs and exclusive finishing Lajwanti met with resounding success from the very start.
In the past Four years Lajwanti has expanded by adding one outlet in Karachi in year 2000 another out let on the posh area of M.M ALAM ROAD Gulberg and in early 2003 a franchisee for UK in London.
Lajwanti by Afzal Ali & Ana Ali - One of pakistani designer boutique selling men's and women's bridal formal, wedding, traditional shalwar kameez, sherwanis and much more. address: Gulberg Lahore, Zamzama Karachi, New Delhi India, Chicago USA
Maheen Karim
Maheen Karim is a graduate of the prestigious Central Saint Martins College of Art and Design. After working with globally acclaimed fashion houses in the west Maheen returned to Pakistan to start her own label in spring 2006.
MAHEEN KARIM is a ready to wear label that is Pakistan’s first to specialise in women’s western eveningwear. It focuses on the creation of eclectic luxury garments with the aide of novel cuts and a silhouette with universal charm.
She was recently awarded the prestigious Lux Style Award 2008 for achievement as best Prêt-a-Porter designer in Pakistan. Whilst still in its infancy this label has already seen immense success and soaring sales in prominent boutiques all over Pakistan as well as UAE.
Maheen aims to use the spectacular raw materials and craftsmanship obtainable to her in Pakistan to its fullest promise in order to create garments of global appeal. The passion to create trendy silhouettes and experiment with shape allows her to furnish the woman of 21st century Pakistan and abroad with a sanctuary where she is able find glamour and glitz in a garment without feeling the need to travel overseas in search of grandeur.
Her Spring Summer 2009 collection is an amalgamation of fun spirited holiday eveningwear and luxury occasion wear for the upcoming celebratory season. The new season brings out a host of ravishing new trends and colour palettes. Here we see a munificent use of vibrant inks and glitzy golds at the same time as maintaining the innocence and chastity of ivory and pure white.
These exquisite pieces not only stand out because of the form they take but they are also galvanized in an immaculate elegance with the use of remarkably unusual methods of embellishment. Swarovki crystals embroidered into a tuxedo top dress shirt or even a tailcoat, hence adorning the chic elegance in the woman of today and styling her dapper.
Maria B
I am a fine confluence of art and enterprise. My fashion house by the same name is the only one in Pakistan that has a standardized sizing system, comes up with 5 new collections each year, exports 3 product lines.
Mehdi
Mohammad Mehdi, a graduate of PSFD (affiliated with La Chamber Syndicate de la Couture parisienne, France) took up his passion for sculpture and pottery after completing his degree but decided to switch to fashion designing in 2002, by creating a small collection. The success of that collection led to launch of the brand Mehdi in 2004.
Today Mehdi is one of the top most brands of Pakistan, producing and delivering the most stunning and glamorous designs for the people in love with fashion. Mehdi has a loyal clientele and admirers of his work, both at home as well as abroad. Mehdi has done several fashion shows all over the world. Mehdi’s fashion shows met tremendous success in Lahore, Karachi, Islamabad, New York, Houston, Miami, Chicago, Los Angeles, London and Romania. His collection is available in Lahore, Karachi, Islamabad, Chicago, New York and Los Angeles. His label has adorned a huge number of magazine covers.
Mehdi does not believe in what is in and what is out, he rather believes in statements. He always promises to create a silhouette what a perfect fit, alluring cut, a dreamy fall of the design and mouth watering colors that blend into the signature Mehdi embellishment style. “Versatility is what he labels as his biggest strength”. Mehdi tests the boundary of his creations, be it his casuals or formals, couture or prêt-a-porter. Crafting the perfect designs for the modern woman, who dares to be different and yet maintains her cultural roots, seems to be Mehdi’s forte. Mehdi’s designs combine the elegance and sophistication of yesterday and dynamism and funk of today to produce a unique vision of tomorrow. A vision that is modern yet elegant, unconventional and unseen. Mehdi brings quality in couture with a capital Q. His clothes are the embodiment of today’s woman, who desires to be all she can be.
Memoona Manan
Memoona is well known for her exquisitely-embroidered ethnic bridal wear and has a loyal clientele in Pakistan and England. But her children want to expand the label and take it to a wider audience. Memoona’s son Faraz and daughter Sundas are now part of the design team at Rouge and their fresh outlook was clearly visible in the collection seen on the ramp at BurJuman. The collection was trendy and contemporary, but had all the elegance and the intricate embroidery that Memoona is known for.
The siblings have infused their mother’s label with freshness and vitality with their own line of contemporary fusion garments that have the signature Memoona Manan embroidery and quality, but a young and trendy look.
Monia Farooqi
Aspiring artist turned fashion designer, Monia Farooqui has a whole new take on what to wear after hours… Just in time for the wedding season, Farooqui, whose collection was inspired by "just about everything," provides vibrant colour to an already festive winter.
Colourful stones, beads and embroidery in intricate designs and motifs on contrasting fabrics make her clothes stand out from the rest. Designing both bridal and evening wear, Farooqui's clothes cater to different tastes and wallets.
Designing under the label Jazeb, she sells ready made clothes as well as a variety of embroidered and embellished fabric. When the lights go out, let Monia Farooqui dazzle you!.
Monica Haute-Couture
Monica runs her own workshop specializing in designing, pattern making, cutting and stitching; a section caters for hand embroidery and embellishments. Steeped in eastern tradition but regular exposure to the London city and its Fashion trends have inspired Monica to create fusion outfits and accessories. She uses traditional hand embroidery techniques developed over centuries in the Sub-Continent; however her cuts and designs cater to trendy market. She works mostly with imported fabrics and other raw materials like crystals and sworoski.
Monica is currently based in Pakistan. She has lived in Middle East and traveled to Europe. She started her own label in 2003.
She has exhibited recently on the ramp at Pakistan festival in Washington DC. She has been offered partnership with Saks fifth avenue Designer at London fashion week Feb 08.
Fashion show at Alaxandra palace in July 08 London. Showcased the only Pakistani Designer in International Asian business awards in Birmingham November 08. exhibited at Asian bridal show Manchester in feb09. Showcased only Pakistani couture designer at Bahrain Fashion week09/10 May 09.
VICTORIA ROYALE
Musarrat Bushra
Musarrat Bushra started her professional career only one and half year back, and within this little duration she manages a number of clients in the Pakistan. Mussarat Bushra strives to prove herself to be among the leading fashion designers in Pakistan, and is a fierce competitor in getting to be the best among the best. And Musarrat Bushra owes all this to her determined and sincere hard work.
Nabeel and Aqeel - Pakistani Designers
Five years after Wardrobe and following the triumphant opening of a Nabeel and Aqeel boutique in New York, the designer brothers Nabeel and Aqeel launched their new outlet in Lahore. Walking from Wardrobe to the Nabeel & Aqeel boutique there is a profound change in interior. The first is simpler in white while the second has red walls with long mirrors in golden frames adding to the glamour available there on the racks.
Moving on, a painting of a tiger is framed above a wooden desk. An emerald green loveseat and sapphire blue fur sofas are prominently placed. Dim lighting from two lamps completes the impressive ambience of the office area. Balancing the otherwise loud interior, a beige carpet lends the welcome touch of sobriety.
Nabeel and Aqeel's wedding and party wear collection is currently on display. Shalwar kameez, short shirts with bootleg pants, kurtis, saris and lehngas, the collection is varied. Nabeel & Aqeel used vibrant colours and spread out embellishment, unrestrained is the word. Nabeel&Aqeel has the complete colour spectrum. You will see hot pink and magenta, sky blue as well as pale yellow, fawn and the essential black and white. Those who prefer minimalism may find some of the outfits overdone. Have no fear. Pared down ones such as a plain parrot green raw silk shalwar kameez with a block printed duppatta and a pale yellow shirt with resham embroidery can also be spotted. Then there is also a striking blue short shirt with a crisscross neck and back and embellishment on the bodice. Best of the lot are the saris and lehngas. From amongst the saris you can take your pick from the traditional ones with heavily embellished blouses and the trendy ones with sequinned blouses. For men the boutique offers shalwar kurtas and achkans. Some are plain and some are embroidered around the neck and sleeves.
Naushin Haq
In the fashion industry of Pakistan Naushin struggles to manage herself as a niche designer. Her impeccable flair for designing led her to the conceptualisation of bridal ensembles which have proven to be her forte. She unrolls the fabric of her creative endeavours to present her new collection.
A diversified collection of trendy formal and bridal wear and bridal accessories in the most refreshing colours.
Naushin haq's product line includes trendy formal and bridal wear, ethnic haute couture, bridal accessories and bridal shoes in the most refreshing colours of all the seasons.
Nayna - by Saman Arif
Nayna is a privately owned company that designs, manufactures, and markets traditional Eastern fashion for the contemporary woman.
Nayna's Collection, showcasing Bridal Wear, Formal Wear, Shoes and other Accessories, has tapped into the wealth of rich Pakistani fabrics, and employed the skill of experienced Lahori craftsmen for the production of its hand embroidered and intricately detailed products. At the same time, all of Nayna’s manufacturing is completed in-house, thus enabling strict quality control at every level of production.
Nickie and Nina
Nickie and Nina are two sisters with an indisputable flair for fashion. The two designers together form an impressive team behind based house of Eastern haute couture” Khaleej Times, U,A,E (leading Middle East broadsheet)
“Nickie’s and Nina’s names can be etched alongside the likes of giants Nilofer Shahid and Faiza Samee on the roster of pioneers” Images, Dawn (leading Pakistani broadsheet)
The luxury brand label debuted in 2000 with the critically acclaimed millennium show in Lahore, Pakistan, the success of which brought with it an unprecedented amount of glitz and glamour. That year, Nickie Nina was invited to attend the MTV Awards in Delhi and to showcase at a group show under the aegis of Fashion TV International, in Bombay.
2001, 2002 and 2003 witnessed the brand hold exclusive Fashion shows at home and abroad. Their new collections were showcased in Lahore, Chicago, Orlando and Washington, where their collections were viewed by fashion impresarios and heads of state alike.
The year 2004 was a landmark for the label, having received their first nomination for the prestigious Pakistani Lux Style Awards, held in Dubai, in the best Bridal wear/couture category. Dubai. In February of 2004 they were invited to show at the Pakistani High Commission in London and to exhibit in New York, which they did to much acclaim. On their return to Pakistan, Nickie Nina opened their ready to wear Flagship store in their home city, Lahore in Pakistan, in the high profile shopping street, M.M.Alam.
The following year, in 2005 they showcased at the Presidency in Pakistan, an event organised for George Bush’s visit to the country. They also held their first exhibition at Designer’s Lounge in Dubai and in Houston.
In 2006, Nickie Nina was invited to show their collection to the Saudi Arabian royal family in Jeddah. Following the success of their first exhibitions, Nickie Nina also returned to exhibit in Dubai and Chicago. 2006 also marked the opening of their second outlet in Karachi Pakistan’s high end retail venue, Zamzama.
Last year, Nickie Nina exhibited a collection in Dubai for a third time and to Orlando. In September they exhibited in London and in October, they showed at Lakme India Fashion Week to critical acclaim. 2008 also witnessed the opening of their third retail space in Pakistan.
This year, Nickie Nina showed at multiple international fashion destinations including New York, LA, Chicago, the UK, Bahrain and in Dubai. The label also held a charity fashion show in Pennsylvania, USA. Nationally, Nickie Nina brought to Pakistan their new brand label, Nickie Nina Designer Fabric to much acclaim in both Karachi and Lahore and showcased their fusion bridal collection in Lahore in winter 2008. Watch this space for more on Nickie Nina in 2009!
Nickie Nina are currently available In Lahore at their MM Alam Outlet and at The Boulevard 10 Q and in Karachi at the Nickie Nina Zamzama Outlet. Their studio is also available to contact by appointment only at +92 42 6673800. www.nickienina.com
“It is obvious that when it comes to fashion, Nickie and Nina belong to the rare breed that sets trends” Images, Dawn
“Nickie Nina show that sticking to family in fashion is a success” Jyoti Kalsi, Tabloid!, U.A.E
Nilofar Shahid
Nilofer Shahid, director of the fashion house Meeras, comes from a family of warriors, poets, writers and painters.
One could say that she was almost genetically sensitized towards the finer things of life. Of course being brought up on a steady diet of Khalil Gibran and A.R Chaughtai’s paintings only served to further accentuate her talent.
From an early age Nilofer was drawn to the art of craftsmanship, an obsession that continues to date. Thus, in 1992 with the launch of her fashion house Meeras, Nilofer made an almost natural transition from being an avid admirer to becoming an active participant.
The themes of her collections reflect her deep affinity with the land of her birth – from Islamic calligraphy to Mughal architecture to the heritage of central Asia, Nilofer’s work has spanned the east in its truest meaning.
Nomi Ansari
Nomi Ansari has gradually made a name for himself as a designer known for his extravagant sense of colour. He has started stocking outfits at two stores and is available in both Karachi and Lahore. Nomi's clothes are a fine mix of ethnic and contemporary elements dazzled by bright colours. For the ready–to–wear collection designed for the Eid season, Nomi has chosen a one–colour base for his line – white, what he calls the colour of purity. Nomi states that the collection is based on minimalism. He also emphasises the fact that the pricing is more affordable when compared to his other lines. This one aims straight for pret buyers.
"I have used textured fabrics this time like cotton karandis etc and the cut is the most important aspect of this collection," says Nomi. The clothes are ethereal with delicate embellishment in an array of hues – which show his never ending love for colour. One can pick that short shirt and trouser or Patiala that has become so famous recently. "The response on Eid is always great, everyone wants to buy something new and for this, the best is to have a ready–to–wear line as no one wants to go through the fuss of ordering."
Reet
The word Reet means tradition. Although tradition may not seem to be a priority for the boutique that gave us denim shalwars and a line of day wear in very modern jersey-knit, it is actually a driving force behind the international Reet boutiques.
Reet staged the first street fashion show in Pakistan outside their boutique and uses ancient fabrics such as screen-printed georgette in modern outfits including bikini tops and culottes. All these ground-breaking moves do not mean that his boutique is inappropriately named. To the contrary, Reet believes that the only way to keep tradition alive is for each new generation to use it.
Rizwan Baeyg
Rizwan Baeyg has been described in many flattering (and sometimes not so) terms. Rizwan Beyg is mindful of all influences in his life and fairly sensitive about these. It can truly be said he's been there and done that.
Rizwan Baig describes the fashion scene in Pakistan in 1986 as being on the 'brink of revolution' and 'brimming with radical ideas'. Rizwan Baig was one of those fashion radicals who broke all the rules. Rizwan Bayg explains his almost accidental venture in to the world of fashion. Attending a wedding in Karachi with some friends, Rizwan Bayg casually commented on how beautiful Pakistani women were but how poorly dressed. These friends challenged him as a basic designer (albeit of buildings and interiors), to introduce some designs for women. He took up this dare out of sheer 'gumption and a stubbornness' to prove his point. Rizwan has never quite looked back. He was invited to put together a fashion show for charity and overnight Rizwan became the talk of the town. However, this does not mean he has not developed or evolved. He explains the concept of fashion as he sees it.
Rizwan Beyg is sometimes irked at the international fashion culture which tends to clump together Pakistani fashion with Indian. "It's not the same thing at all. We have different identities and are coming from different places and going different places,.In that sense, we designers become ambassadors for Pakistan every time there is an international fashion show".
At the Asian Bridal Show in Delhi, Rizwan displayed his work. He explains, "I did not wish to shock. Nudity is not the culture I've inherited. I believe in tradition". But Rizwan Beyg does not let his work get lost in the sea of zardozi work and other traditional embellishements used in bridal dresses.
He explains he likes to retain the essence of local bridal wear but likes to "play around with the concept". So he raises shalwar lengths, crops shirt lengths, fuses western sarongs with skirts and with everyone going crazy with colour, Rizwan Baig sticks to pastels. "I'm not a fashion victim and I like to keep my clothes whimsical".
This led to the introduction of Rizwan's diffusion line. He was the first in Pakistan to introduce printed and designer voille and cotton fabric that targeted the masses. This was accessible and affordable wear and in his view, real fashion.
Saadia Mirza
Saadia Mirza’s VIRTUES, the label, is boldly quixotic. Unique in its creations, the outfits are like costumes, defining individual women with a raw power of fascination, which is in all essence characteristic of true femininity.
Concentrating on diversity, Saadia Mirza has expanded her creative energies in five different lines: VANITY, VINTAGE, VISION, VOYAGE, and VISAGE. All dramatic and spectacular, each line offers a myriad of choices for those who are more expressive of their own individuality. From vibrant bridal line to flamboyant glamour and classic silhouettes, from innovative and classy western wear to a colorful and bold blend of east and west and finally the hand made accessories that flaunt uniqueness and class, Saadia Mirza offers that rare option of exclusivity and distinctiveness.
Saim Ali
One of the Pakistan’s busy famous fashion personalities, Saim is getting fame day-by-day, both at national and at international level.
Saim is very busy and social person but still he tries to get time for his friends and family. He gets lots of inspiration from his mother and wants her to be with him forever. His Mother was also a fashion designer Farrah Gillani.
Saim is a man who loves challenges and he is on the view that we have to survive in all types of circumstances.
Salman Malik
Conceived the idea for Aangan after seeing the derelict state of the traditional weaving industry in Punjab.
Aangan's 'eco-friendly' cotton and khaddar outfits bear the loving stamp of the weavers' toil, for each fabric is hand-made over a considerable time. The spiritual theme behind every pattern has travelled through time from generation to generation. It is for this reason that Salman Malik's weavers refuse to commercialise their craft; they reject higher profits and do not amend any patterns or colours.
Salman's exquisitely patterned fabrics are sculpted to modern silhouettes in slinky, flattering cuts. Lungi's are remodelled into layered pants and shawls are cut down to sleek blouse tops. The casual look is supported by the comfort of wide jeans and loose shirts and jackets foro both men and women. Formal moods prevail in more structured lines, with vivid colours spilling into textured layers. As tradition meets the modern vision of Aangan, fashion surges forward with brave new ideas to adorn the body.
Samar Mehdi
Samar Mehdi's creations are an intelligent hybridisation of Asian elegance and Western decadence; of the traditional and modern.
Samar uses mostly natural materials from cotton to silk. Each outfit is a blend of many fabrics , matt vs shine , texture vs plain. Fruit and vegetables are employed to stunning effects in dyeing and printing of fabrics. Awareness of the environment is a by-product of her Western education. Pastels and whites are sculptured around the body in several layers - allowing the wearer to mix and customise the design to their own personal taste.
The layered design means, that there is no such thing as day or evening wear - you just adapt the dress to the occasion.
Samar Mehdi's fashion product line includes formal, casual, evening and party wear.
Sanam Agha
Fashion designer Sanam Agha is an emerging name in the field of Fashion designing. Fashion designer Sanam Agha is trying to establish her name in some different scenario. Fashion designer Sanam Agha is a female Fashion designer with the men’s designing sense; although Fashion designer Sanam Agha also designs the classic outfits for the ladies as well. Fashion designer Sanam Agha is surprisingly designing the men’s wear in some unique way and continuously introducing some innovative concepts in the men’s designing platform.
Besides Fashion designing, Sanam Agha has many other guts to prove herself, she is also a renowned VJ on the different T.V channels. This shows that Sanam Agha is making her prominent place in both Fashion & Showbiz industries of Pakistan.
Let’s see what Fashion designer Sanam Agha will include in the world of Style & Fashion furthermore, to boost some additional style in it.
Sobia Nazir
Sobia Nazir is young, enthusiastic, stylish and effervescent designer whose focus is to bring out her client's best features by giving them what they want and creating unique designer tailor made to meet client requirement.
Sobia's women's fashion designer label in Pakistan and now in UK. Sobia's exquisite designer wear stands apart from all other labels due to the unique blends of colours, embroidery and style. The unique style captures the mood, personality and taste of women with breath taking result.
January 2003 showed a major break through for Asian Bridal wear where Sobia's beautiful bridal wear were successfully modelled and widely appreciated at one of the UK's top Asian Bridal exhibitions. Pakistani designer Sobia Nazir to reveal outfits at "Asiana bridal show 2005" in London.v
Taufiq Hussain
Taufiq Hussain, or the “Dream Merchant” as some choose to call him, has maintained accolades of consistency during his 14-year-old career.
Taufiq Hussain's designs are sensational, each outfit as unique as the individual that it has been created for. In fact it is the fatigue of repetition that has proven inspirational to Taufiq.
Taufiq Hussain has chosen not to attach himself to any particular discipline; his work does not adhere to the rules of either minimalism or extravagance.
The world may be a stage…but you are not part of the backdrop, so don’t dress like everyone else, be a show stealer!
Tazeen Hassan
Tazeen Hasan – sells pakistani womenswear, embroidered dresses, Pakistani bridal dresses, salwar kameez, lehnga choli, pakistani designer dress & wedding dresses.
Are you looking for online fashion boutiques? Bridal fashion? Shalwar kameez? Pakistani designers? Pakistani bridal wear? Designer dress? Everything you will find at TazeenHasan
Tazeenhasan.com – a boutique for Indian bridal outfits,indian womenswear & pakistani women outfits.
Tazeenhasan.com – fashion designer websites & online fashion magazines. Indian salwar kameez, dupatta, shalwar suits, wedding outfits, pakistani and indian dresses are available.
Tazeen Hasan – Indian / Pakistani fashion boutiques. Pakistani and Indian designers of latest fashion industry from Pakistan & India, design bridal dresses, wedding gowns, bridal wear, wedding dresses, kurta, saree, fashionable clothes for boutiques in USA, UK, UAE and all over the world.
TazeenHasan.com – a place where you can find Pakistan / India DESI fashion, indian traditional dresses, bridal wear, pakistani clothes and all types of dresses, gowns, shalwar kameez, dupatta, latest clothes etc.
TazeenHasan – a point where you will find latest fashion dresses, lehnga choli, salwar kameez, wedding dresses and many different clothes, online designed by indian & pakistani designers with latest fashion design skills in mind.
Umer Sayeed
One of the sad things to have happened to fashion in Pakistan is that in the process of accelerated commercialization it seems to have been ‘prostituted’. The new MBA degree that fashion designing has become and the freedom of easy entry (and exit) have collectively flooded the industry with new faces. This new crop of designers may have more exposure and formal training but the respectability and class that the older generation of designers has given to the Pakistani haute couture is not there anymore.
He doesn’t have an outlet because he is not an ambitious person and has been self-financed throughout his career. Living life to the fullest he feels content with whatever he has and doesn’t crave for more. But the quality is something he will never compromise upon. No matter even if he works at a miniscule level he will always remain in the top line of designers.
He is surely larger than the ‘divas’ for whom he designs but oozes no attitude that is directly associated with the latter. Complete candour is his style when he says that he is still unmarried and believes that he is better occupied in his own company and needs some space of his own. ‘How can you expect a person who can’t adjust properly with his own family to live the rest of his life with a stranger?’ He quizzes in his trademark style as we wrap the session.
Zain Mustafa
Zain Mustafa's philosophy of Design is different, definitive and daring. He steering away from the ornate adornment that local designers ascribe to, his creations are starkly striking in their simplicity, elegant to the eye, soft against the skin.
His design's are marked by clear cut shapes and lines defiantly attractive, brazenly bare. There is no commotion of colour , no mayhem of provocative pattern just an adherence to the mastery of cut that creates a flow whether in the "Malmal" or "Khaddar" that falls lovingly on the skin.
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