FPW 2018: 5 takeaways from day one

From Amna Aqeel’s modern cuts to Pink Tree’s traditional essence, here are top trends hot off the runway

KARACHI: The opening day of Fashion Pakistan Week (FPW) 2018 witnessed an array of tones, styles and impressions but we were able to pick out the top few that dominated the ramp. From Amna Aqeel’s à la mode cuts to Pink Tree’s traditional essence, here are five trends the designers accumulated on day one of this season’s fashion week.

Cuts

PHOTO: TAPU JAVERI

Both modern day and conventional styles were spotted on the catwalk. Amna Aqeel's collection featured contemporary designs such as asymmetric cuts, cupcake skirts and exposing overcoats. It also included a red-hot, silken suit. But, she wasn't the only designer that showcased a suit. HSY displayed a grey suit entailing an open-cut blazer and cropped cigarette pants while Zainab Chottani's compilation presented a shiny, silver-toned suit with an oversized blazer and wide-legged culottes.

However, Chottani's collection mainly featured eastern designs and therefore, the inclusion of such a bold western ensemble not only brought in the surprise factor but also proved as a sure-fire stand-out.

Longer garments seem to be back in business as all the designers showcased at least one attire comprising either a long-length kameez or gown. HSY went the extra mile and even added pockets! We all know how we ladies feel about dresses with pockets.

Some pieces from Chottani's bridal wear entailed scalloped and dipped hems much like Tena Durrani's and Aqeel's. And having previously spoken of overcoats featured in Aqeel's compilation, Pink Tree, Lajwanti and Huma Adnan's collections also exhibited overcoats – mostly front-open style.

Colours

PHOTO: TAPU JAVERI

Majority of the clothes showcased on the ramp were kept within the pastel spectrum. Nonetheless, there were some pops of colour that made brief appearances. Lajwanti's whole collection, although colourful, was muted. And other than the hint of red, Chottani's compilation followed suit, just like Durrani's and HSY's. However, the ‘King of Couture’ displayed a collection that had a lot of black in the form of menswear similar to Aqeel's ensembles which were dark-hued too but encompassed numerous cuts and prints.

White, in particular, was the colour that stood out from afar. With HSY, Adnan, Durrani and Chottani all showcasing a white ensemble in different forms, don't be surprised if you see many garbed in this shade this season. Pink Tree was the only design house to have played with vibrant tints, exhibiting a collection that featured various shades of bright pink.

Embellishments

PHOTO: TAPU JAVERI

Out with the old, in with the new. Gone is all the gota work that has had everyone encapsulated this past year. The garments on this season's runway entailed a lot of zardozi, bead work, embroidery and sequins.

Fully-embellished pieces seem to be the ongoing trend and the way forward as the gala showcased an array of ornamentation featured on the designer garb. The intricacy within the embellishments on some of the outfits was to die for, especially those portrayed by Adnan and Lajwanti – emanating old school charm.

Accessories

PHOTO: TAPU JAVERI

The jewellery showcased on the ramp offered an array of various pieces, all setting different moods. Adnan went all out with in-your-face jewellery including vibrant, oversized teekas and earrings. On the other hand, HSY opted for no jewellery at all. Nonetheless, it was evident that the time has run out for the much-loved chokers and minimal earrings. Longer necklaces and heavier earrings are back in the game, and are probably here to stay.

One particular accessory we noticed was the embellished belts showcased by some designers. Adnan, Durrani and Chottani all featured belts as part of their collections in one way or another. While Chottani included the belt within a jumpsuit, the other two designers incorporated the accessory into their traditional garments; either over a sari or a lehenga kameez.

Hair and makeup

PHOTO: TAPU JAVERI

Dark, sleek hair seemed to be the ongoing runway trend for most of the models. Whether it was tied up or pulled back, the hair was away from the face. While models walking for Pink Tree, Aqeel and Chottani rocked slicked back buns, HSY added a modern touch with his models bearing high, teased ponytails.

With winter fast approaching, a lot of the models sported black hair. Going dark with your hair may be a wiser choice. Not only will it be season-appropriate but darker hues tend to stay longer during the winter months as the sun isn't able to get to your locks and damage them.

Unsurprisingly, there were numerous smokey eyes on the ramp. As we bid farewell to summer, we say goodbye to the minimal makeup fashions too. Dramatic eyes, sculpted faces, deeper lip shades and matte skin are the way forward this season. Adnan's models were a great example of all these things: Chiselled cheek bones, smoked-out eyes and warm-toned pouts.

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