Cross Border Love

Fahad Hussayn, Fahad Hussayn Couture

Masterful Musings

What are your designs inspired by?

My work is an extensive and diverse mix of inspirations both from the world of mythology and personalised experiences, specialising in art couture, novelty commissioned creation, exclusive limited edition prints, bridal trousseau and bespoke men’s wear. In every collection, I like infusing different stories, reconstructing heritage and various cultures through extensive research and mold them in my own imagination. The results are grand, unique and intricate. My design etiquette that way is intense and extreme.

How is Pakistan’s fashion industry growing?

We Pakistanis love fashion and thrive on our traditions. Fashion in Pakistan is nothing short of exquisite. People have finally started adapting to locally introduced fashion season to season. Fashion in Pakistan is all about being updated and we host a variety of cultures, social hierarchies, religious sects and differences of opinion. I feel each and everyone here has a unique sense of style, which I find most intriguing.

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How are you changing fashion?

That is a good question. Well, if fashion has a face, I believe I’m trying to transform that face every day. For me, it’s all about breaking the norm and introducing something new. I usually look for areas to incorporate sophistication. What I wish to achieve with my work, eventually is to leave behind a legacy. Not just clothes, but masterpieces that have a unique story behind them with attention to detail and depth – a journey towards the end result.

What does Pakistan lack in terms of fashion?

What the Pakistan fashion industry requires is proper attention. That being said, it seems that eyes of the world will very soon be looking towards Third World countries like India and Pakistan for key fashion inspiration and assistance, if not already.

Feeha Jamshed

Trend Setting

What is your design aesthetics?

Our company’s design aesthetic is based on cuts inspired by our roots which are incorporated into Western wear. However, they do not belong to the category of fusion wear. We try to design unique pieces which are affordable, global and stylish.

What do you think about the Pakistani fashion industry?

I see it as a positive but a slow growing industry.

How are you addressing the needs of young Pakistani women?

Just like our design aesthetics, we believe in changing mono-toned mindsets. When it comes to fashion, we believe in making trends rather than following them. We provide what we feel is fashionable so the clientele would have more choice in buying. And lastly, the game changing environment would be to provide affordable prices.

What does India and Pakistan have in common in terms of design?

I feel that the scope of fashion in countries like India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and any country like ours is much more because we have a lot more to prove. From the grassroot level to the creative director of a company, all are skilled craftsmen, who have learnt and acquired their talent on their own.

Mohsin Ali

Made in Pakistan

How would you describe your design philosophy in three words?

I think my design philosophy revolves around being young, colourful and eccentric.

How is Pakistan adapting to the style universe?

Pakistan is going through a fantastic fashion revolution. We have gone through a tough time in the last few years, but things are looking brighter every day. All this is being translated into fashion as well. It looks more global than ever before!

How do you think you are bringing about a change?

I feel I’m bringing about a difference by using only what Pakistan produces, the fabulous textiles, rich embroideries, global silhouettes, I feel I am bringing ‘Made in Pakistan’ in the forefront.

What makes Pakistan’s fashion rich in its appeal?

The sub-continent has a lot more to offer than just producing textiles and doing embroideries. Our fashion is rich and thanks to social media, it’s definitely being recognised globally. It will take a bit more time, but we are surely on the right path.

Ali Xeeshan, Ali Xeeshan Theater Studio

Cult Follower

What sets you apart as a designer?

My design aesthetics are best described as an unconventional take on the traditional cultural heritage, redefining beauty with the urban twist using orthodox Pakistani design elements.

Do you think the current fashion situation in Pakistan is ideal?

The current fashion situation is ideal for any brand or fashion house in Pakistan as the industry isn’t too new or too old, it’s just the right time to make your own space in it.

What are the reasons behind your brand being one of the game changers of the industry?

My brand has been labelled as a game changer in the Pakistani fashion industry by putting up larger-than-life fashion shows, bringing unique ideas for styling and presentation of my collections, and my take on fashion which is global. It’s not just about the clothes it’s a cult!

How would you define fashion in the sub-continent?

Fashion is fashion! It has the same meaning in any country, first or third world. It’s an ideology and everyone brings their own creative flair to it. People’s own views and unique interpretations of designs is what make this industry fun.

Shakira Usman, Saira * Shakira

Redefining Sophistication

How would you describe your design aesthetic?

We at Saira * Shakira believe in pushing the boundaries of bridal wear by infusing contemporary silhouettes with traditional craftsmanship. We cater to the modern Pakistani woman who isn’t afraid to take risks yet understands that timeless elegance is the key to looking good. Cutting edge yet immensely wearable, our clothes redefine tradition to give it an avant-garde flair.

How is the fashion industry shaping up in Pakistan?

It’s a really exciting time to be part of the fashion industry. With the boom in retail and the proliferation of social media outlets, consumers are much more discerning about style and quality. Pakistan is producing cutting-edge fashion that is making waves internationally as well.

How do you make fashion relevant in today’s fast-paced times?

Our aim has always been to take the traditional and merge it with the modern and in doing so, we hope that we are succeeding in our mission to modernise techniques, create contemporary silhouettes that would work anywhere in the world and make fashion relevant to the times we live in today.

How would you define style?

Fashion is a way of life. It is a celebration of art, culture and heritage. For a country like Pakistan, it not only helps to reaffirm the unique traditions and crafts that define who we are, but in a more tangible manner, a thriving industry can contribute towards supporting and creating myriad job opportunities.

Sania Maskatiya

Devil is in the Details

What is your design ideology?

Our philosophy is to be ‘glocal’; using inspiration from all over the world and amalgamating it with our signature aesthetics where each collection is inspired by a unique theme and motif, and each piece embodies a story of its own. Currently, our brand distinguishes itself with its uninhibited use of colours, intricate design work, and refined cuts.

How is Pakistan becoming a frontrunner in fashion?

The fashion industry is vibrant and exciting at the moment in Pakistan. There are a lot of new designers coming up and with the social media revolution, they are reaching out to the audience from their studios/shops. We have renowned fashion platforms such as PSFW, PLBW, FPW and BCW that highlight the entertainment and business side of the industry. Designers are now experimenting with fabrics such as lawn. Every spring-summer, you have about more than 60 brands creating the same. Some designers are focusing on high-street fashion, it just goes to show that there is a lot of energy and growth in the fashion and textile field in Pakistan.

How are you making a difference?

Well, to be honest I can’t say I am the only one. There are so many people striving every day to make a difference so I am part of the movement.

How can Pakistan grow as a fashion destination?

There is a lot of room for growth and endless opportunities. Pakistan and India share great aesthetics and a rich cultural heritage to draw from, when it comes to fashion and textiles.