One on one: Hira Ali

Hira Ali takes us behind the scenes of Hira Ali studios, a clothing label known to break moulds set through the years. Drawing inspiration from art and culture, Hira has put forth estimable designs that exude contemporary elegance while staying true to the traditional grace that comes with eastern fashion. Find out which fashion era she admires the most, her favourite silhouettes and the one rule she lives by



Where do you derive your inspiration from?

My inspiration comes from art and literature. On my travels I make sure I visit the art districts and museums. Alice in Wonderland inspired my debut collection. It was my imagination of her world that was reflected in that collection.

What sparked your interest in fashion?

From a very young age I knew I would be an artist, and fashion design became a medium for my art. My mother introduced me at a very young age to the process of fashion design and it became my passion.

How has Hira Ali Studios evolved in the past few years?

We are growing everyday, more than anything our designs are dynamic and evolve with us. We are in the business of creating the extraordinary and we take it as a challenge every day to give the world something special, something new.

Sequins or pearls?

I love sequins and the variation in shapes and colours that they come in. On my embellishment material shopping sprees, I tend to grab all the odd shapes in sequins.

What skills are important for a successful career in fashion design?

Impeccable aesthetics.

What one fashion trend do you think should be left behind stepping into 2019?

Black fishnets.

What are some of your favourite silhouettes and why?

I love cropped tops, if I could wear them every day I would.



What in your opinion has been the best design trend in the past five years?

I love how the designing process has become extremely experimental especially in Pakistan. Kudos to all the stylists and designers who have been pushing boundaries and really helping fashion to progress in this country.

What are you fascinated by at the moment and how does it feed into your work?

I am absolutely fascinated by 18th century art in museums and it’s so fascinating to see how the trends that we have today are mostly inspired by everything that’s already been done and thought of in the past. Fashion is always advancing but in my opinion it is close to impossible to create anything new.

What advice would you give to a young designer?

Trust yourself.

Are you superstitious or do you have any rules you live by?

Only one rule : Anything worth doing is worth doing well.



What is the most challenging aspect about a career in fashion?

I don’t think there is just one most challenging thing, you just have to face every challenge that comes your way and keep going.

What is your favourite place to shop in the world, and why?

It may sound very strange coming from me but I am not big on shopping I’d rather spend the same amount of money on travelling.

What are the three pieces every woman should have in her wardrobe?

A pair of jeans, a white and black t-shirt.

Name a celebrity you’ve loved in your designs?

Zara Peerzada.

What helps you get in the zone when you are designing?

My surroundings, I need to be in a happy place.

How would you describe the current state of fashion industry?

It’s at the cusp of evolution.

Which era of fashion do you admire the most?

The 90’s.

If you could wear one colour and one colour only for the rest of your life which one would it be?

White!

What is in store for Hira Ali Studios in the future?

Great things!