Daily Times

With only a bridal couture week happening every year, pret showcases have been left to designer solo shows only as part of their capsule collection if and when that happens, depending upon budgets and availability, and in the midst of it all, Trade & Development Authority (TDAP) has made it a point to hold its fashion week annually now to cater to an international audience, to bolster ties, attract foreign clientele and strengthen textile trade and business. It was wonderful to see that happening on the two-day fashion week held at a local hotel.

WARDHA SALEEM — the Karachi-based designer showcased a one-tone collection, featuring mainly blacks, blue, silver and cream. It was a western-wear collection of evening gowns, dresses and east meets west stylish saris. Indeed, a very stylish and modern collection however, some pieces displayed ill-fittings that could’ve been worked on. Actress Areeba Habib showstopped for the designer wearing a stunning black gown.

THE PINK TREE — Mohsin Sayeed’s collection is always much-awaited. Being a huge fan of his work, I was quite impressed by this one also. Mostly casual pret, there were couture pieces also. Taking a look at the long kurtas, cotton saris and straight shirts paired with flair pants, one would want to include each and every piece to their wardrobe. Job well done.

HUMAYUN ALAMGIR — the menswear designer’s collection featured suits, boots and pants that got all the ladies’ swooning especially when actor Feroze Khan walked in as showstopper wearing an ice blue blazer with a black tux. I honestly did not like the ill-fitted red blazer but the white and black suits were really stunning.

RISING STARS — finally a collection that was unique, distinct and truly stood out. The fashion students poured their heart out on ways to revolutionise the fashion scene in Pakistan. Their collections were youthful, hip and added colour to life.

PLGMEA — I did not understand the rationale behind Pakistan’s Leather Garments Manufacturers & Exporter’s Association to be showcasing on Day 2 as well, because the previous day’s wasn’t any better but this time, I’d say the jackets looked cooler and the contrasts were better.

FAHAD HUSSAYN — another designer whose collection was much anticipated, featured heavily embroidered skirts, evening gowns, menswear casuals, couture pieces and statement bags.

PARISHAE — this young designer has always stood out for her edgy outfits and bold choices for the ramp and this time was no different. We became instant fans of the tank tops, corset tops and pants and thought Parishae once again outdid herself.

MICHELANGELO WINKLAAR — Dutch designer Michelangelo Winklaar put forth a collection that was for the sexy, bold and confidents woman. Enlarged shoulder pads, sheer evening dresses and statement coats were some of the key outfits from his collection.

ZAINAB CHOTTANI — I was looking forward to this one as Zainab Chottani is already a fashion enthusiast’ favourite. White and black summer outfits featuring pants and short tops incorporating shades of blue with white looked very stylish. Talk about setting trends.

HSY — Hassan Sheheryar Yasin showcased his recently to have come out Trousseau collection. A very coherent collection with a one-tone colour theme of beige, blue, green and peach, the designer showed a luxury pret collection of lehnga choli, straight shirts with flair pants, men’s kurtas and saris.