The county’s fashion industry which marked its significance abroad has also kept traditional trends alive by introducing clothing that reflects our own culture. The industry in recent days has witnessed revival of old traditional dresses ahead of Eid festivity, an event that every year generates huge economic activity, with lion’s share going to the ready-made garments. The blend of new and old to mark a festive event brings customary dresses like Angrakha, Frocks, Baggy Shalwars, hand embroidered shirts, Ghararas and Koties in the market with an innovative approach to attract potential clients. Designer Sarah Babur said fashion reflects our social and cultural values and it adopts modernity which symbolizes the spirit of a live nation moving towards success and absorbing global innovations. Traditional embellishments like Tussles, Beads, Kiran, Silver Coins, Mirrors and embroidered buttons are to grab every individual’s taste and requirement, she added. Sarah said hand embroidery stuff is now being used on even hand bags, clutches and sandals. The prominent traditional foot-wears like Punjabi Khussa, Kolhapuri Chappal and Peshawari Chappal that present country’s cultural identity are also coming with a fresh and blended touch. Sarah said that the truck art, that acclaimed global applause, was not only associated with trucks but foot-wear fashion industry was using this art and especially the printed Khussas are an example to it. This summer, she said, solid colors are more in trend as compared to contrast or printed. Duppata is an essential part of Pakistani dresses for that material like net, rocket net, silk and organza are in, she added. Fashion designer Imran Saeed said social media was playing important role in shaping and introducing multi-cultural trends to attract woman clients, who always remain on the watch to grab something new and different to look distinguished. A student, Amnah Ali, said, “For this Eid, I am planning to make Anghrakha frock with straight pants and hand painted Khussa to make a composite of traditional and modern style.” She said replicas of expensive brands were a hot choice of middle and lower middle segments to enjoy popular vogue. Published in Daily Times, May 28th 2018.