It all began with an advertisement in the press. The British Council Pakistan announced call for applications for the globally run Fashion DNA Project in collaboration with the Fashion Scout and London Fashion Week.
Six designers were selected through an exacting process for Fashion DNA culmination of which was a show by Fashion Scout at LFW ie London Fashion Week.
Maheen Khan, Sonya Battla, Hamza Bokhari of Jeem, Zuriya Dor and The PinkTree Company went through several mentoring session in person and on Skype with Toby Meadows, Safia Minney, Sury Benegal and Carri during a period of six months. The aim was to produce collections that break boundaries and create a global appeal for Pakistani fashion.
On Feb 18, the majestic Freemason Hall played host to six collections that presented an eclectic range of Pakistani fashion. The venue was packed to capacity and reverberating with energy and anticipation.
The PinkTree sent ‘Jahan’ down the Fashion Scout ’17 catwalk at the Freemason Hall to the unforgettable songs crooned by the iconic Nazia Hassan.
“Jahan” is a glimpse to that Pakistan.
The name Pakistan usually brings images of terrorism, conflicts, political turmoil and poverty. Seldom the country is associated with vibrancy of cultures, beauty, diversity, elegance, vivaciousness and richness of heritage.Told through bright, rich colors, “Jahan” is the story that brings our heritage and culture to the world outside.
If intricate embroidery in gold called “zardozi” and with silk thread speaks volumes of highly skilled artisans, then part use of hand woven silks and sheer organza narrates tales of passion and dedication. Liberal use of select motifs such flowers, grape bunches, pomegranate, Dragonfly, butterfly, fish – separately or/and enticed in vines — symbolize life, diversity and a desire to keep creating beauty.
And then sprinkling of words in Urdu reflect The PinkTree’s passion for literature, arts and of course, view towards humanity. Urdu being one of the most lyrical languages, the chosen words visually lend musicality towards the collection. Urdu calligraphy is one of the age old respected arts.
If these elements work as expressions, then silhouettes becomes the voices in this story of passion, love and desires. From straight, structured short dresses to long, flowing capes, billowing trousers to fitted skirts, and sheer tops, different forms are packed in the collection signifying coexistence.
Given the apparent Pakistani socio-political context, “Jahan” may seem escapist, dream – like, but it’s our reality or as Diana Vreeland explained about her New York flat: My Garden in Hell.
The Pakistani designer brigade received a thunderous applause while Nazia Hassan’s lovely voice enveloped the historic venue.
Sundus Anwar believes in the power of clear, straightforward writing. Her blog posts tackle everyday topics with relatable insights and easy-to-follow advice. With a conversational style, she makes complex subjects feel understandable. She’s dedicated to sharing knowledge and empowering readers to take action. Find her latest posts on trending in social.
