Munib Nawaz dedicates PLBW profits for refugees on Pak-Afghan border

On Munib Nawaz’s absence from fashion weeks and the 10th anniversary of his brand

KARACHI:

Munib Nawaz is not a new face in the fashion scene but what he has planned for 2016 promises a twist to his usual design aesthetics. Apart from showcasing at the Paris L’Oreal Bridal Week (PLBW) 2016, the menswear designer is also collaborating with a clothing brand, Virgin Teez, and is gearing up for his forthcoming #MNofsubstance campaign.

Regarding his absence from fashion weeks, Nawaz said, “For almost two years, I have been trying to place myself, or rather re-place myself, as to where I stand. With two children to look after, I have realised the importance of fatherhood. My kids made me see that there is more to life than working nine to five. Plus, I was in the middle of shifting to Dubai.”





Fortunately, this time around, Nawaz plans to showcase his line ‘Harmoniously in Conflict’ at PLBW in Lahore later this year. Delving into the details of his collection, he shared, “There is always a paradox in my collections but this time, I am trying to balance it out. You will find a wearable range of my designs on the ramp, which will focus on sharp contrasting colours.” Known for his inclination towards monochrome outfits, the designer shared this will not be the case for the upcoming collection.

The profit he makes from the PLBW collection will be used for the rehabilitation of refugees on the Pak-Afghan border. “Through my PLBW collection, I want to focus on the needs of young refugee children residing in camps around the region. These children have dreams and aspirations to become something in life but they are emotionally handicapped. They have no one to turn to and so, I want people to come forward and help me with this cause.”



Even the collaborative project with Virgin Teez has a humanitarian aspect to it. Kick-started in January, the proceeds from this project will go to underprivileged children at the SOS village and be used to fulfil their expenses for a nutritional diet.

However, the #MNofsubstance campaign is expected to be the most striking project of 2016 – an initiative being launched to commemorate the 10th anniversary celebrations of the Munib Nawaz brand. “The campaign will start soon and you’ll have to wait and see what it is all about. But, the crux of it lies in the men of substance from Pakistan.” The photo-shoot will cover men who have stood up for certain causes in their lives. “The campaign will not just be colourful but meaningful as well. It will be in line with the human cause.”



Earlier this year, Nawaz had planned to participate in Runway Pakistan but the entire event went awry. Speaking of how disappointing the evening turned out to be, Nawaz admits he eventually backed out voluntarily. “I was there all day, but the organisers never showed up. The foreign models and host of the event weren’t paid either and it was a mess.”

Published in The Express Tribune, February 11^th,  2016.

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