Mahin Hussain's collection: ‘I see Gold', do you?

Mahin Hussain’s Autumn Winter 2011 bag collection showcased at Ensemble.

KARACHI: For two young shopaholics, the choice between “Roses under the Tree” and “Straight” was not an easy one; the former was a funky, colourful purse and the latter a sequined, light blue and pink clutch.

Examining the accessories as they glanced occasionally at a nearby mirror, the girls finally made a decision: it was “Roses under the Tree.”

Mahin Hussain’s “I see Gold” collection launched on Tuesday evening at The House of Ensemble. Enthusiastic shoppers were treated to the 42 piece collection that varied between purses, clutches and large bags priced within the Rs 5,000-9,000 range.

Bags had interesting names like “Fulfillment” and “Field of Poppies” and were part of the leather collection with gold dabka handwork that was showcased at the fashion house.

But a major part of which was what Hussain was carrying herself a purse called “Gold Love”.

“Most of the bags that you see are in gold. They’re quilted, hand-knotted or textured in a way that is unique.”

Hussain preferred not to include diamante encrusted bags in her collection, explaining that she thinks diamantes are “off beat and old now”.

While there was appreciation for the theme some attendees said her collection was “down-played”, adding that Hussain’s Independence Day collection “rocked the city”.

Director at the House of Ensemble Shezray Husain was full of praise for the designer.

“Her bags are great. People who have individualistic ideals and believe in them, love to shop from her collection.”

“These are statement pieces, each one of them,” said Shezray, adding that the collection was “fun and affordable with an international flavour”.

Later that evening, model Iraj Manzoor performed a pantomime against a gold backdrop. Manzoor was seated in a wooden chair and played a young girl whose mood swings were erratic. Holding a gold clutch, she would often throw it to the ground, pick it  up the next minute and then be all-smiles.

When asked why Manzoor was chosen for this artistic performance, Hussain said, “She is someone who can deliver. She transforms herself in any given situation.”