T-Diaries: Huma Adnan
A glimpse into the world of Pakistani powerhouses
One thing you have that no one else does?
I don’t think there’s anything I have which no one else has. But I do give credit to myself for juggling between home and business and giving time to my relationships.
How has the Pakistani fashion industry changed over the past years?
The fashion industry has come a long way and it’s time it’s recognised worldwide. It’s the best thing that can happen to a developing economy. The industry is all set to take over the world by storm.
Looking back over your career, what do you think is your best work?
My best work always comes out when I have a deadline to meet. Working under pressure is my forte. I need to be challenged and inspired. Every fashion week that I do, shows my best work.
You are a working woman with a husband and children. How do you maintain a work-life balance?
We are a very close-knit family and I live with my in laws. I have to strike a balance between work and home. My family respects that and is proud of it. So I guess I do a fairly good job of it.
The Superwoman Syndrome is the desire to do everything perfectly, without any time to yourself. What do you have to say about that?
Being a perfectionist is not a bad thing. But sometimes it tends to slow down the process. I am a perfectionist but at the same time I try to find a balance between work and play.
What’s the best way to deal with failure?
Always take failure as another challenge to do better next time.
If you could relive any one day of your life, it would be...?
I am thankful to Allah for each day that he has given me.
What sparked your interest in fashion and accessories?
Accessories are a statement which can style a garment. I love accessories and with my handmade kind, I translate tales of my country for others.
Who is your favourite designer and why?
My favourite designer is Yohji Yamamoto simply because he gave a new life to casual clothing that could have the same status as formal clothing. His undefined, mysterious clothing is what I love.
How did FnkAsia the brand come about?
FnkAsia came about nine years ago when I took an inspirational trip to Florence, Italy. I wanted to be adventurous and different and not fall for the typical trends that you see everywhere.
Tell us more about your design ideology?
FnkAsia translates crafts into the hip and trendy wardrobes of modern women; women looking to be global citizens without having to compromise on their identity.
You and your husband are both designers. How does that work out?
It works out very well. We both have completely different identities just like our brands. We are mutually exclusive and give immense energy to each other.
Any advice for aspiring female designers?
Give most attention to threads and quality. A bad copy shows and shows real bad.
Huma Adnan
Fashion Designer
Published in The Express Tribune, Ms T, August 10th, 2014.
I don’t think there’s anything I have which no one else has. But I do give credit to myself for juggling between home and business and giving time to my relationships.
How has the Pakistani fashion industry changed over the past years?
The fashion industry has come a long way and it’s time it’s recognised worldwide. It’s the best thing that can happen to a developing economy. The industry is all set to take over the world by storm.
Looking back over your career, what do you think is your best work?
My best work always comes out when I have a deadline to meet. Working under pressure is my forte. I need to be challenged and inspired. Every fashion week that I do, shows my best work.
You are a working woman with a husband and children. How do you maintain a work-life balance?
We are a very close-knit family and I live with my in laws. I have to strike a balance between work and home. My family respects that and is proud of it. So I guess I do a fairly good job of it.
The Superwoman Syndrome is the desire to do everything perfectly, without any time to yourself. What do you have to say about that?
Being a perfectionist is not a bad thing. But sometimes it tends to slow down the process. I am a perfectionist but at the same time I try to find a balance between work and play.
What’s the best way to deal with failure?
Always take failure as another challenge to do better next time.
If you could relive any one day of your life, it would be...?
I am thankful to Allah for each day that he has given me.
What sparked your interest in fashion and accessories?
Accessories are a statement which can style a garment. I love accessories and with my handmade kind, I translate tales of my country for others.
Who is your favourite designer and why?
My favourite designer is Yohji Yamamoto simply because he gave a new life to casual clothing that could have the same status as formal clothing. His undefined, mysterious clothing is what I love.
How did FnkAsia the brand come about?
FnkAsia came about nine years ago when I took an inspirational trip to Florence, Italy. I wanted to be adventurous and different and not fall for the typical trends that you see everywhere.
Tell us more about your design ideology?
FnkAsia translates crafts into the hip and trendy wardrobes of modern women; women looking to be global citizens without having to compromise on their identity.
You and your husband are both designers. How does that work out?
It works out very well. We both have completely different identities just like our brands. We are mutually exclusive and give immense energy to each other.
Any advice for aspiring female designers?
Give most attention to threads and quality. A bad copy shows and shows real bad.
Huma Adnan
Fashion Designer
Published in The Express Tribune, Ms T, August 10th, 2014.