The eleventh edition of PFDC Sunsilk Fashion Week, organised by the Pakistan Fashion Design Council, took place from 9 – 11 of March 2018 in Lahore. 20+ Pakistani designers and high street brands showcased their prêt-a-porter collections on the runway. The shows included both luxury evening wear as lawn/voile pieces.
Nida Azwer‘s luxury prêt collection ‘The Mughal Court’ really stood out. From the colour palette including shades of blue but also gold, ivory and muave, to the historical references and regal styles…this show was a feast for the eyes!
HSY‘s grand finale was also a highlight. With his luxury prêt collection titled ‘Knight’ HSY paid accolade to the powerful women in his life and all of those around the world. These women don’t need a knight in shining armor to safe them, they are their own knights, fierce and powerful, speaking up, fighting back and taking control.
Who better to pose as the showstopper than the beautiful Mehreen Syed, who owned the runway in a ruby red gown decorated with red embellishments. The collection includes a lot of black, combined with fine embroidery and sparkling elements. Fierce & powerful with a hint of rock & roll!
Another designer showcasing a similar theme was Hira Ali with her collection ‘Woman is Future’, celebrating strong & confident women. The models were holding up banners, protesting against societal issues. The designer announced forming a ‘Women in Fashion’ collective that will work towards raising awareness on various issues women face in Pakistan’s society including the wage gap for domestic and factory workers.
All over the world women are standing up, whether its Hollywood speaking up with the #metoo movement or Pakistan celebrating women’s rights. Feminism and emancipation are hot topics. Women and men all over the world are raising their voice! Art & culture, like fashion is a great (public) way to make a statement and be heard.
Check out the gallery for all of my favourite looks shot by Faisal Farooqui and his team at DragonFly
Nida Azwer
Fahad Hussayn & Shiza Hassan
Rouge & So Kamal
Saira Shakira & Sania Maskatiya
Saira Rizwan & HSY
Zonia Anwaar & Hira Ali
Mona Imran & Arjumand Bano
Photography by Faisal Farooqui and his team at DragonFly