People with airs and graces do not make good colleagues: Aliya Zaidi
Former supermodel advises newcomers to enjoy the craft and not make a big deal out of it
LAHORE:
As one of the most sought after style icons in Pakistan’s fashion history, former supermodel Aliya Zaidi’s edgy and effortlessly feminine aura has not tempered with age. She strutted on the ramps from New York to Karachi in the early 1990s and emerged at the top of the heap, certainly in terms of an exclusive and chic sense of fashion. She was featured in every fashion magazine in the region and headlined for every top designer of the country as well.
Now in her 40’s and living away from home in Hong Kong, Zaidi spoke to The Express Tribune about her view on the fashion industry in Pakistan.
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It is not only the fashion industry but people in general as well, who see a model’s life and career as an epitome of good fortune. Agreeing with this, Zaidi said, “It is all about time, place, and opportunity. How you are discovered and the opportunities that come along the way. For us, they were quite limited.”
When asked how she managed to thrive in an industry rife with competition, she shared, “The business of fashion is competitive. Back then it was less about the money and more about making your name.” Zaidi added, “Since we all were growing at a similar pace, it was a great union of all involved designers, photographers, makeup/hair stylists, choreographers, models and even sponsors. We all worked hard and received the fruit of our efforts. Being the muse of a fantastic designer was considered such an accolade.”
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Zaidi pursued modelling as a hobby when she was 18, and was simultaneously doing her Masters in Business Administration. However, she left the industry at 25 to focus on career in the corporate sector. Stating that she quit modelling when she was at the peak of her career, Zaidi advises today’s models to do the same. “The safest time to exit full time modeling is always at the top. A graceful exit is of the best kind,” she stated.
On the same note, she encourages aspiring models to be professional in their work. “Have some gratitude - nobody likes working with anyone with false airs and graces. Have fun, you make amazing memories – enjoy them”.
Talking about what was the most exciting part of modelling back in the day, Zaidi mentioned, “Walking the ramp was definitely my highlight – nothing like having hundreds of eyes on you at one time. The rush of adrenaline is such a thrill.” Currently, Zaidi is busy spending time with her family and is working on various projects, details of which she did not reveal. “I still have close ties to the fashion industry and get my annual fix of it.”
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As a mother of two, Zaidi does not fixate herself in a particular phase of life. She is still in control of her slender figure and her favourite exercises are hot yoga, swimming and circuit training.
When asked if she sees any disparities between ex supermodels and the next generation supermodels, Zaidi said, “I feel the models of our generation had a different spirit altogether. We loved fashion, working hard and working together. We believed in teamwork. From the makeup artist, to the photographer and stylist, everyone was equally involved in the shoot. We were pioneers in our field and took very mindful steps - created an environment of professionalism.” She also feels there was no element of materialism at her time and everyone was sincere in their work.
Zaidi feels each model had a distinct personality and sense of style – something she feels is lacking today. “A unique voice and presence is missing now. Each model at that time had a distinct personality.
The personalities at that time were larger than life and continue to be the faces on billboards today.”
Throwback Thursday is a weekly feature in which we document the lives and careers of Pakistan’s veteran models
Have something to add in the story? Share it in the comments below.
As one of the most sought after style icons in Pakistan’s fashion history, former supermodel Aliya Zaidi’s edgy and effortlessly feminine aura has not tempered with age. She strutted on the ramps from New York to Karachi in the early 1990s and emerged at the top of the heap, certainly in terms of an exclusive and chic sense of fashion. She was featured in every fashion magazine in the region and headlined for every top designer of the country as well.
Now in her 40’s and living away from home in Hong Kong, Zaidi spoke to The Express Tribune about her view on the fashion industry in Pakistan.
Good looks don't translate to good luck: Frieha Altaf
It is not only the fashion industry but people in general as well, who see a model’s life and career as an epitome of good fortune. Agreeing with this, Zaidi said, “It is all about time, place, and opportunity. How you are discovered and the opportunities that come along the way. For us, they were quite limited.”
When asked how she managed to thrive in an industry rife with competition, she shared, “The business of fashion is competitive. Back then it was less about the money and more about making your name.” Zaidi added, “Since we all were growing at a similar pace, it was a great union of all involved designers, photographers, makeup/hair stylists, choreographers, models and even sponsors. We all worked hard and received the fruit of our efforts. Being the muse of a fantastic designer was considered such an accolade.”
Tight clothes do not make supermodels: Natasha Hussain
Zaidi pursued modelling as a hobby when she was 18, and was simultaneously doing her Masters in Business Administration. However, she left the industry at 25 to focus on career in the corporate sector. Stating that she quit modelling when she was at the peak of her career, Zaidi advises today’s models to do the same. “The safest time to exit full time modeling is always at the top. A graceful exit is of the best kind,” she stated.
On the same note, she encourages aspiring models to be professional in their work. “Have some gratitude - nobody likes working with anyone with false airs and graces. Have fun, you make amazing memories – enjoy them”.
Talking about what was the most exciting part of modelling back in the day, Zaidi mentioned, “Walking the ramp was definitely my highlight – nothing like having hundreds of eyes on you at one time. The rush of adrenaline is such a thrill.” Currently, Zaidi is busy spending time with her family and is working on various projects, details of which she did not reveal. “I still have close ties to the fashion industry and get my annual fix of it.”
Pakistani society sees models as escorts: Iffat Rahim
As a mother of two, Zaidi does not fixate herself in a particular phase of life. She is still in control of her slender figure and her favourite exercises are hot yoga, swimming and circuit training.
When asked if she sees any disparities between ex supermodels and the next generation supermodels, Zaidi said, “I feel the models of our generation had a different spirit altogether. We loved fashion, working hard and working together. We believed in teamwork. From the makeup artist, to the photographer and stylist, everyone was equally involved in the shoot. We were pioneers in our field and took very mindful steps - created an environment of professionalism.” She also feels there was no element of materialism at her time and everyone was sincere in their work.
Zaidi feels each model had a distinct personality and sense of style – something she feels is lacking today. “A unique voice and presence is missing now. Each model at that time had a distinct personality.
The personalities at that time were larger than life and continue to be the faces on billboards today.”
Throwback Thursday is a weekly feature in which we document the lives and careers of Pakistan’s veteran models
Have something to add in the story? Share it in the comments below.