Karachi-based designer Adnan Pardesy’s collection was set in a subtle and a pastel colour palette. Sophisticated, unique and very stylish! Lightly embellished kaftans with silk pants, boleros, knee length shirts and pants for the ladies and stunning sherwanis for men were on display. Classical Sindhi folk singer Mai Dhai performed for the designer’s collection showcase. Mai Dhai also performed in concert arranged by the Pakistan Women Festival team on Day 2’s concluding night. Ahmed Bilal’s collection was based in florals mainly, and was rich in couture. There was a lot of organza, jamawar, brocade and also voluminous lehngas. The colour palette was gold and bright pink with colourful embroidery. Fahad Hussayn presented a luxury prêt collection after long, playing with a diversity of colours like pastels, ivories and some bolds. A plethora of digital print jackets for men and minimal embellishments for the ladies; we loved the trendy slit dresses with embellished border pants. Huma Adnan for Amir Adnan put forth a hearty collection consisting of both men and women wear. Monochromes fused with denims were the key combinations for menswear featuring loose fitted pants, long collar shirts and vests. The womenswear stood out for its funky and stylish appeal. Embroidered jackets, printed silk kaftans, embellished pants, and organza sleeves were the key highlights. The stylish headgears and caps will definitely set trends this season. Black silk tops with embroidered pants exuded effortless sophistication and appeal. Mehdi closed the night with his patriotic August 14 collection, consisting of a colour palette of green, white, blue and silver. The veteran couturier’s bridal collection was simple, classy and elegant with minimal embellishments but with strong embroidered detailing – something we all know Mehdi for. Hats off to the creative team behind Starlinks for organising and arranging the spectacular first of this truly inspiring Women Festival. Lajwanti showcased after a long hiatus. Traditional desi bridals requiring plenty of creativity from the design team’s end, we suppose! The second last collection showcase of the night was Nida Azwer’s formal wear featuring exquisite designs, her signature sophisticated cuts and subtle colours. The blue kurta left everyone spellbound. SN Prêt by Sobia Nazir displayed a subtle collection built upon florals, which had trendy cuts, minimal embroidery and lots of tassels. It was based in silk and chiffon. Published in Daily Times, August 16th 2017.