Taking a shine to the finer things

What Pakistani designers have sallied forth to create for Swarovski’s fashion showcase in Dubai

LAHORE:

It’s becoming crystal clear that international label Swarovski has been active in its attempt to bring Pakistani fashion to the fore, not just within the country but also overseas. As the brand that ventured into the local market last year gears up to hold an exhibition in Dubai on November 4, a string of Pakistani designer heavyweights prep to show their best.

The event will feature 41 couture, jewellery and accessory brands from the Middle East and South Asia, among other regions, who have been commissioned to create one exclusive piece each using Swarovski crystals.

Countries to be represented at the exhibition are the United Arab Emirates, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Lebanon, Iran, Pakistan, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Singapore and Australia. Four Pakistani designers — Tena Durrani, Maria B, Faraz Manan and Élan — are showing in the ethnic-wear segment. Here’s a sneak peek into what they have to offer.

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Tena Durrani



Her piece ‘A Raised, Ethereal’ draws inspiration from Emily Dickinson’s poetry and displays the omnipresence of nature. “Embodied by crystalline birds and delicate floral embroidery, the piece encapsulates the femininity and beauty of springtime,” says Durrani. While designing it, she wanted to juxtapose crystals with stitches and embroidery techniques that her brand has been working with for years. More than 150,000 Swarovski crystals have gone into the creation of this piece. Currently, Durrani is working on her bridal collection titled ‘Omorose’, which will be showcased at Fashion Pakistan Week Winter/Festive in November in Karachi.

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Maria B



Inspired by vintage jewellery from imperial Russia and the bedchamber of Mary Antoinette, Maria B’s piece is dove grey in colour with accents of deep sea blue. She has used pure silk organza, nets and hand-woven silk and experimented with 3D flowers, thread embroidery, nets and beads. “The silhouette is such that can be worn anywhere in the world,” states Maria. The label is currently working on a bridal collection for Pantene Couture Week, their lines for the upcoming season, and relaunching the funky Mgirl accessories in winter.

Faraz Manan



“Our aim with this piece is to show grandeur and sparkle, which clearly explains our design philosophy,” says Manan. The idea behind this outfit is to depict luxury and glamour, using regal fabrics, such as silk and organza. Manan recently opened a store in Dubai with a solo fashion show and is now working on more shows in Dubai besides the Swarovski showcase.

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Élan



Khadijah Shah has set out to create a subcontinental, heavily embellished bridal outfit with iridescent white, grey, pearl and aqua marine Swarovski crystals. The ensemble features a long coat paired with a Chantilly-paneled skirt and stole. “All three pieces have been mapped with our signature art and then delicately embellished with silver metal wire, interwoven with an array of Swarovski crystals and pearls,” noted Shah. The designer is also working on putting together a collection for Fashion Pakistan Week and Élan Vital.

Published in The Express Tribune, October 13^th, 2015.

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