Daily Times

What comes to your mind when you hear the words ‘summer’ and ‘fashion’? Let me guess. Designer three piece lawn suits, tulip pants, floral silk dupattas, linen frill sleeves, bold-coloured off shoulders, cold shoulder kurtas? If this is not the exact picture, I must be close.

It’s been years Pakistan has been innovating and experimenting with frills, cuts, and choker neck designs to keep us updated with the latest summer hits and trends. Incorporating a sense of style of other cultures, and taste in vogue, we have introduced a countless blend of prints and textures, all the way from effortlessly chic to multipurpose.

Styles and trends tend to fall in and out with each passing season; what was trending last summer is a ‘miss’ this summer, although if we take a look three years back, the Kaftans we were once sick of have, now, made their place again in the market, and are trending this season. Well-recognised designers and brands have redefined Kaftans, bringing back the comfort in style.

Hard to digest, but to all those new to fashion who may not have a clear concept of the ‘Kaftan’, it is a long, loose garment we wear that comes with holes for the neck and arms. It has, however, advanced in multiple styles over the years. From long to short, loose to tight, and with an open front to insinuate a Japanese kimono look, which indeed comes off as appealing, you can look trendy in style, and yet be in your comfort zone.

Since Kaftans are full body dresses, it automatically reassures our social norms, keeping our attire’s code of conduct in structure. Anyone can pull off any Kaftan look, whether you’d like to dress casual for an everyday go-to look or you’re headed down the beach and feel like wearing something breezy and loose during the pinching heat. You can even choose to wear it formally for an event or a wedding.

The admirable part of the Kaftan is that it is made for everyone, and suits all body types. Whether you’re overweight or excessively petite, you will look incredibly beautiful!

Nadia Khan, a 24-year-old young designer, intrigued by the concept of Kaftan says, “I personally love the look of a Kaftan.” She adds, “I like clothes that are stylish and comfortable, but not too fitted, to suit the hot weather. Kaftans allow you to breathe, while you’re wearing something that is perfectly-tailored.”

I adore the fact that Pakistan’s designers have taken a step back from the festivities of lawn and glanced forward to redefine a piece of art that was once lost. The whole beauty of fashion is in innovation, how a fine work of style is brought back to life with diversity, and how one comeback can unite us all to serve upon similar interests of flair and elegance.

Published in Daily Times, June 28^th 2018.