FPW 2014 DAY 3: Setting the stage for winter wear

KARACHI: Fashion Pakistan Week (FPW) came to an end with 21 Pakistani designers who earned their spurs on the ramp of the three-day event. With memorable fashion trends and moments, the event comprised some of the finest offerings of designer heavyweights.

Maheen Khan closed the show with modelling icons, such as Frieha Altaf and Atiya Khan. A highlight of the evening, this was the last runway showcase of Maheen’s eponymous label. She will now present collections of her brand ‘Maheen’ in fashion shows upon request. Here is a rundown of what FPW day three had to offer.

Sadaf Malaterre



Collection name: ‘Contradictions’

Trend alert: Staying true to this season’s FPW favourite, the black-and-white combo, Sadaf’s line was brimming with monochromes. The western capsule collection featured jumpsuits, long skirts and blouses made of fabrics such as silk, net and velvet. Although she played it safe with a restricted colour palette and light embroidery, the runway saw daring and long-fringed silhouettes, which gave the collection an edge.

What we liked best: The striped sleeveless knee-length top with a plain black skirt and fringed stole was a winner.

Nida Azwer



Collection name: ‘Renaissance’

Trend alert: Nida’s collection drew inspiration from the Renaissance period of creativity and innovation. But although she has time and again wowed us with her eastern silhouettes, she didn’t do the same with her western designs. The fusion collection featured lehengas and saris with jackets and crop-tops in rich hues of red, maroon, rust, black and grey. The runway saw digital prints, showcasing the architecture of the Renaissance, floral landscapes and old portraits in luxe fabrics, including velvet, silk, lace, net and chiffon that were embroidered with embellishments and laser-cutting.

What we liked best: The rust and black silk digital print, kimono-inspired ensemble was a standout.

Faraz Manan



Collection name: ‘Shanghai – the cruise collection’

Trend alert: A luxurious collection, with a blush pink rose gold and black palette, adapted to festivities the winter season entails. The shimmery golden tops and intricate use of pearls and black and gold embroidery were paired with modern cuts, which could be easily worn with jeans, black pants and jumpsuits. With this western capsule collection featuring crop tops, flared pants, tweed jackets and embellished gowns and skirts, Faraz brought his A game on the runway.

What we liked best: The off-shoulder black net ensemble coupled with zigzag pants was aesthetically pleasing.

Maheen Karim



Collection name: ‘Ravissant’

Trend alert: From gowns to two-piece suits, the collection exuded royalty and elegance. It included pieces that featured heavy embroidery and sequins. The designer toyed with velvet, silk and net to offer a diverse palette, which ranged from pastel hues to shades, such as blood red, brown and black.

What we liked best: The black glittering ensemble with a short hemline on the front and elongated tale led the pack.

Mohsin Ali for Sana Safinaz



Collection name: ‘50 Shades Deep’

Trend alert: Using a jungle theme, Mohsin used materials such as mesh, leather and layered silk to add glamour to the collection. Dark hues, such as blue, green and red, did nothing to accentuate the digital prints of butterflies and birds, which were average at best. Featuring overly masculine numbers, the collection was a disappointment and did not live up to the coveted SanaSafinaz brand name.

What we liked best: The rainbow-coloured ensemble, comprising bright purple pants and a brown leather belt was relatively better.

Nauman Arfeen



Collection name: ‘Royal Parade’

Trend alert: Nauman brought a majestically-themed menswear collection to the ramp. The palette boasted the colours black, fawn and lavender and featured fabrics, such as raw silk and jamawar. Nauman’s hallmark intricate embroideries and gold beadwork accentuated the suits and short hemline sherwanis. The sharp cuts and fine tailoring are suited best for men looking for something regal this wedding season.

What we liked best: The complete black suit with a jamawar waist-coat.

Maheeen Khan



Collection name: ‘To Karachi, with Love’

Trend alert: Maheen gave the evening a grand finale with the collection. Black, gold and red dominated the line, featuring pieces made of fabrics, such as organza, silk and velvet. The line showcased sweeping cocktail dresses, skirts and capes.

What we liked best: The tomato-red silk ensemble with a loose turtle neck was a total knockout.

Watch the slideshow of FPW 2014 day three here

Published in The Express Tribune, November 29^th, 2014.

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