PSFW 2018 Day 2: Fashion at its finest

Designers take it up a notch, focusing more on wearability

LAHORE: Day two witnessed designers’ showcasing new concepts, fresh cuts and different inspirations. While creativity, glamour and unusual designs are a common phenomenon at fashion weeks, we appreciated how most designers focused more on wearability this time around.

PHOTO: SHAFIQ MALIK/EXPRESS

The evening kicked off with an afternoon high-street grouped show, followed by evening luxury prêt showcases featuring a solo show by Nida Azwer and a finale grouped show displaying pieces by Shirin Hassan, Shiza Hassan and Saira Shakira. Here’s a lowdown of who showed what on the second day.

Saira Rizwan

Collection: Tribal Bijoux

PHOTO: SHAFIQ MALIK/EXPRESS

The line drew inspiration from an amalgamation of elements indigenous to the rich tribal culture of Africa, Afghanistan and Pakistan. The designer applied archaic methods such as block printing and cross-stitch embroidery coupled with digital printing and computerised embroidery. Saris, ghararas and sharara pants paired with peplum blouses and gowns dominated the collection. Blending modern aesthetics with traditional roots, Saira ensured the pieces were suitable for the spring/summer season – simple silhouettes with minute detailing on breathable fabrics such as cotton and chikan.

Rici Melion

Collection: Ulysses

PHOTO: SHAFIQ MALIK/EXPRESS

The brand made its PSFW debut with Ulysses. Enthused by Lord Alfred Tennyson’s poem of the same name, the collection chronicles the journey of a man through the crusade he has made throughout his life. However, we couldn’t figure out if the man also suffered an identity crisis. It was hard to tell whether the point was to intimidate and shock the spectators or if it was just a styling trick.

PHOTO: SHAFIQ MALIK/EXPRESS

Plaid came in every form and shape on the ramp alongside oversized lapels and patch pockets, tropical floral and Hawaiian patterned shirts and asymmetrical cuts. While the collection was daring, it left us wondering whether the consumer would attempt to wear something from it. While the brand has risen to the challenge of bringing unorthodox cuts and patterns to the fore, it might be daunting for consumers to figure out how to make Rici Melion’s creations look their own. Actor, Azfar Rehman walked the ramp as the brand’s celebrity showstopper.

IMAGE

Collection: Dance Of Spring

PHOTO: SHAFIQ MALIK/EXPRESS

The brand showcased their high-street collection on the ramp with an aim to create designs that are glamorous and chic yet wearable. The offerings featured embroidered chikankari and ensembles in hues of pink, peach and ivory. The strength of the collection was in the simplicity and femininity of the outfits. Dance Of Spring entwined the traditional technique of chikankari with contemporary silhouettes to bring a modern spin to old classics.

Nida Azwer

Collection: The Mughal Court

PHOTO: SHAFIQ MALIK/EXPRESS

PHOTO: SHAFIQ MALIK/EXPRESS

A collection so powerful and creatively undiluted, it reminded us why we love fashion. Elegant and enigmatic, Nida’s line was inspired from the Mughal. The pieces were made from silk, muslin, net and organza in the form of lehengas, jackets and the atelier’s signature kalidaars. What we loved about the showcase was the diversity of techniques employed with leather cutwork being the most eye-catching on the runway.

PHOTO: SHAFIQ MALIK/EXPRESS

The color scheme revolved around shades of mauve, ice blue, gray, gold and ivory. Nida selected the cast of the film, Cake, as the showstoppers. While Adnan Malik made a dashing entry in all-grey pleated jacket and tailored pants, Sanam Saeed stayed true to the theme as she sashayed down the ramp in a gold laser cut flared skirt and front open ivory jacket printed with Mughal-themed motifs.

Shiza Hassan

Collection: The Untamed Azalea

PHOTO: SHAFIQ MALIK/EXPRESS

Shiza stayed true to her design philosophy of creating items that exude femininity and presented sleek and elegant pieces. The collection was all about flirty ruffles, tiers, florals and crystal encrusted embroidery on sheer tulles and breezy silks. Sheer overlays, asymmetrical hems and straight, boxy silhouettes completed the collection.

Shirin Hassan

Collection: The Color Block

PHOTO: SHAFIQ MALIK/EXPRESS

The collection was a mélange of the traditional and modern in vibrant shades of emerald green and bright pink. Shirin ensured that the look for the upcoming season incorporated easy and simple silhouettes with minimal detailing. The designer brought to the forefront the beautiful craft of block printing, highlighting feminine splendour throughout the collection.

Saira Shakira

Collection: Canvas

PHOTO: SHAFIQ MALIK/EXPRESS

The designer duo proved that fashion has no boundaries. With the English abstract painter Ian Daveport as the muse, the brand showcased an upbeat collection. Hot pink, bright yellow, ink blue and orange against the canvas of crisp white and black fabric made the pieces a visual treat. The silhouettes comprised dramatic sleeves, structured draped tops and wide belts.

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