HSY thinks that farshi shalwars are for everyone
Farshi shalwars seem to be everyone’s Eid look. PHOTO: File
Farshi shalwar is making waves in the fashion industry, with almost every major designer incorporating this traditional yet elegant attire into their collections. Social media is buzzing with reels and posts showcasing the revival of this classic trend. However, not everyone agrees on its suitability, and opinions are divided among fashion critics and designers. On Saturday, top Pakistani fashion designer Hassan Sheheryar Yasin (HSY) weighed in on the debate during his appearance on a local channel's Ramazan transmission, sharing a perspective that clashed with fellow designer Maria B.
HSY expressed a strong stance in favour of the farshi shalwar, advocating for its universal appeal. He encouraged women of all body types and ages to embrace the outfit, emphasising its beauty and modesty.
"Everyone should get it stitched," HSY stated. "Farshi shalwar is deeply rooted in our culture and offers an elegant and modest fashion choice for women from all backgrounds. Whether someone is modern or traditional, the desire to look stylish while maintaining modesty is a common thread among Pakistani women. This outfit allows them to embrace fashion without revealing their body curves."
He further elaborated on styling options, dispelling the misconception that farshi shalwar is only suited for specific body types or should only be paired with short shirts. "Let me tell you, you can wear a farshi shalwar with a knee-length or long shirt - it looks incredibly stylish and graceful. Even women with a fuller figure can opt for longer chaaks on their shirts to enhance their overall look."
Contrary to HSY's inclusive stance, Maria B had a different opinion regarding the farshi shalwar trend, as she expressed on her Instagram on the same day. While she acknowledged its beauty, she suggested that it is more flattering on younger women who are tall and slim: "I love seeing my daughter, Fatima, who's twenty, in a farshi shalwar but me? Not always."
She went on to say that the first consideration to buying and styling a farshi shalwar is age, and that older women should avoid it. She also said, "If you are short and on the curvy side, you should be careful. Not every trend is for everyone." This statement sparked debate among fashion enthusiasts, with many agreeing with HSY's assertion that fashion should be accessible and adaptable for all body types and ages.
With two of Pakistan's leading fashion designers holding opposing views, the conversation surrounding farshi shalwar continues to gain traction. As this trend evolves, one thing is certain - farshi shalwar is here to stay, with designers and fashion lovers shaping its future in diverse ways.