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Faryal Aftab of Muse possesses not only an ethereal, pre-Raphaelite beauty, but also an intriguing perspective on the business of fashion. Through her creations, she offers the discerning Pakistani woman a chance to discover a more sensual, and captivating side to herself. Afshan Shafi catches up with Faryal to discuss, lawn, personal style and much more!

What do you think of designers lending out samples?

I don’t because how can I sell it if somebody has already worn it?

What trends would you like to see die?

Those fancy Patiala shalwars, they should definitely die. Bell sleeves and those other sleeve things that touch the floor, they should die. All those odd knots and twists should die. If you have print, knots and forty other things happening on one outfit, that very aesthetic should die.

Would you say that you have a more pared down perspective on summer fashion?

I think that I do, I don’t understand why women here shy away from wearing block colours in the summer. Why is it so hard to wear, say a pale pink kurta in soft cotton? Why does everything have to be so complicated?

What would you say about lawn fever?

It’s saturated with buttons, lace, print, embellishment, you name it , it’s on there. You have to see that the garment doesn’t do anything for the “woman” herself. Is it making a woman look more desirable or prettier? I don’t think so.

If Muse were to come out with a lawn collection, what would it be like?

I would make sure that the prints were more girly, more delicate. I wouldn’t put two or more prints together. The shirt and dupatta would have more simple floral motifs , not enormous flowers but smaller in size.

What are your plans for expanding Muse in the future?

We’re expanding in all the big cities soon and are currently also in talks with big design houses in Paris for a special project. Fingers crossed!

What do you think makes a woman stylish?

I think that if a woman takes care of her hands and feet, has her hair done, then she feels good. Being well groomed is stylish. If you are groomed, then even non-designer wear can look beautiful.

Muse is in talks with big design houses in Paris for a special project

Photography by Naveed Bhatti

Rapid Fire

Who are your favourite International designers ?

Christian Dior, Lanvin, Chloe, Saint Laurent, Valentino, Rodarte

Who are your favourite local designers?

I would say that I don’t have a particular favorite locally but I do admire Kamiar Rokni’s work. I love the traditional techniques that he uses. Across the border I do follow what Sabyasaachi is doing.

Favorite Jewellery?

I love wearing teekas, maatha pattees  and other hair ornaments. I hardly wear other types of jewellery.

What is your favourite high street store?

I love Zara, especially the menswear section more then womenswear

Favourite shoes in your closet?

These Chanel ones where you switch on a button and the shoes light up.

Favourite Movies?

‘I am Love’, ‘Priceless’ which is a French film and ‘ Notes on a Scandal’. I love documentaries as well for example ‘ The Last Emperor’ by Valentino

Your closet is a shrine to?

Muse

Favourite Books?

I like reading, but I like easy reads. My favourite is How To Be A Parisian Wherever You Are

Celebrity you would love to dress?

There are so many—most of the models who walk for Christian Dior, or Chanel. French actress Marion Cotillard is a perennial favourite as well as Audrey Tautou.

Critically acclaimed fashion extraordinaire and master couturier, Fahad Hussayn’ s designs depict history, art, architecture as well as diverse cultures all meshed with modern and contemporary sensibilities. Specializing in “Art Couture,” “Exclusive limited Edition Prints,” ” Bespoke Menswear,” “Custom Commission Novelty Creations” and “Bridal Masterpieces,” Fahad’s signature creations use extensive design research and development. His style is known for its traditional revival hand embroideries, vintage grandeur, outstanding artistry, intricate embellishments and contemporary techniques in a ballad of epic fusion. Always head on with interesting inspiring themes, his collections range from bold, edgy and dramatic to sophisticated and elegant. His creations are repository for the precious memories of the special occasions they represent and the unique history behind them

PHOTOGRAPHY by OKB FILMS

MAKEUP & HAIR by MARAM & AABROO

JEWELS GOLD BY REAMA MALIK

Coordination by Afshan Shafi

By Afshan shafi

For this week’s style me up, the stunning Zoe Khan serves as the muse for Crimson by Saira Shakira. Impeccably accessorized and polished, Zoe styles these must have lawn ensembles to perfection!

Muse: Zoe Khan

Designer: Crimson Lawn by Saira Shakira ’18

Full marks on styling folks! Crimson Luxury Lawn by Saira Shakira’s contemporary designs and meticulous detailing have us swooning. Love how Zoe Khan has styled this stunning one shoulder shirt with perfectly tailored front open bootcut pants. A statement Kelly and Luscious gold earrings give her look a chic and feminine feel.

Everything about this indeginous meets contemporary outfit is whispering class! Zoe wears this piece as an off shoulder straight shirt with culottes. She carries the beautiful ghaara embroidered Tasseled dupatta gracefully on one side. Golden pumps, a chunky necklace and a classic orange Kelly makes for an ethereal look!

Zoe is slaying this number from Crimson Luxury Lawn by Saira Shakira. A straight embroidered shirt, monochrome bootcut pants and the exotic silk fringed dupatta is put together beautifully and makes for a perfect outfit for a lunch date with girlfriends.

Giving us some refreshing summer vibes, Zoe Khan looks chic in this loose thigh length shirt and bell bottoms. We love her effortless beach waves and that delicious yellow Hermes Kelly clutch is giving her the right pop of colour!

A well-known and highly popular director and actor, Adnan Malik is making his film acting debut with Asim Abbasi’s Cake. The talented young man sits down with Ally Adnan, and talks about Cake, Pakistani cinema, minority rights, the charm of family dysfunction, and a lot else

I absolutely believe that all Pakistanis — Christian, Hindu, Muslim, Sikh, Zoroastrians and others — should have equal citizenship

Cake had its world premiere in London’s West End recently. How did it go?

It was absolutely amazing! To see the name of our Pakistani film up in lights in London’s most iconic film destination was enthralling. It was a proper, world-class premiere with a full house and people loved the film.

It took you a long while to sign on to do a film. Why?

Yes, it sure did. I had a few offers after the success of television serial, Sadqay Tumhare, but none that really appealed to me. I had worked in Dil Banjara after Sadqay Tumhare. The serial was not successful and made me realize that I needed to be choosy and selective when deciding to take on acting projects. I resolved to take on projects that appealed to me, both personally and professionally, and that were in line with my personal values. Cake certainly was all of that.

What did you like about Cake?

A lot but three things specifically – the story, the cast and crew, and the director’s vision – stood out.

The script of Cake blew me away when I first read it. It moved me, made me laugh and had me in tears. It was a real page-turner. The team of Cake was truly brilliant. Not only were the actors great, but the crew included some of the finest people in the business, like production designer Aarij Hashmi, cinematographer Mo Azmi and costumier Samiya Ansari, to name a few.

Most importantly, I loved the vision Asim had for the film. He had a fantastic story and he had the wherewithal to tell it in a simple, thoughtful and effective manner. Cake has a lyrical quality to it, which is a reflection of his sensibilities as a director.

Does the finished product live up to your expectations?

It sure does. Cake is a great film with a wonderful story and features some truly outstanding performances. It excels in a lot of areas – casting, editing, cinematography, colour grading, art direction, and costume design – that have often been ignored in Pakistani films and it has great music. It is a well-integrated film, crafted by a very astute director.

I feel that the story of Cake will resonate with a lot of viewers. The themes of aging, family dysfunction, sibling conflict, marital ennui, and love are universal. People will relate to the themes and identify with the characters of the film. We hope that it will become the perfect crossover film that appeals to audiences from all over the world. The attendees of the London premiere were certainly not limited to people from the South Asian diaspora.

What are the strengths of Cake?

In many ways, Cake is a groundbreaking film because of its story and technical soundness.  It is wonderfully written, meticulously crafted and intelligently structured. It is engaging, entertaining and moving and will force people to think about their own relationships and re-examine the way in which they view familial bonds. It will encourage dialogue and debate, and, hopefully effect positive change in the lives of viewers. I know that it stayed with me for a long time after I watched it for the first time at the premiere.

One of the issues that hurts Pakistani cinema is the desire to watch and produce films that imitate Bollywood. Cake is an important film because, if successful, it could change the trend and encourage producers to invest in films that are original and groom audiences to want more than copies of Bollywood films. We need more authentic stories to be told. So, a lot is riding on this film.

You play the character of Romeo, a Pakistani Christian, in Cake. The character is very different than your own. Was it difficult for you to play this role?

Playing Romeo was a daunting task at first but Asim was very certain that I was the actor to play the character. It was his belief in me, more than anything else that convinced me to take Romeo on. The preparation to play this character was tough but, once I got into it, playing the role became easy.

How did you prepare for the role of Romeo?

Very diligentl.

A lot of research went into playing the character of Romeo. It had been written so well that I wanted to do full justice to the role. Asim and I had a lot of discussion about Romeo’s person, history and psyche. We created a backstory for him. I spent a lot of time with people similar to Romeo in environs that were frequented by them but were totally alien to me. I remember the first day when I wore his wardrobe, donned the moustache, and walked down the street near a commercial market. I noticed that people engaged with me very differently. I looked at myself from their viewpoint and realized that I was no longer Adnan Malik; I was Romeo. The reaction of people to the persona of Romeo emboldened me to get fully into his character. It was a great experience.

A lot of attention was paid to Romeo’s look as well. Asim had written him as a young man who wore checkered shirts with jeans. I did not think that jeans went well with the character and found a pair of pastel coloured, bell-bottomed pants, which my father wore in the sixties, for Romeo. They gave the character a retro look. Asim, Samiya and I decided to give Romeo a moustache and add a cut to one of his eyebrows to allude to a more complicated and, perhaps, dangerous past. I think that the effort that was put into getting Romeo’s look right was rewarded very richly. He looks like he is from another era, and, in many ways, given his values, he really is. His world view and sincerity are from an era far gone. In many ways, Romeo embodies nostalgia in the film.

You seem to be very fond of the character of Romeo.

Yes, I am.

Romeo is quiet but charming and the moral compass of the film. When I saw him on screen for the first time, I viewed him as another person, instead of myself, and found him to be very likable. He is a strong person but deals with others with kindness, sensitivity and patience. I think he is truly a hero for the twenty-first century. I think in this era of female empowerment and with the Me Too movement, we need to reexamine the portrayal of men in popular culture. In the Subcontinent, we have always depicted the hero as an alpha male. I do not believe that a grown-up, spoilt momma’s boy, who is perpetually angry, picks fights easily, and chases women relentlessly, is a “hero” in this day and age.

We need to redefine the “hero” for the twenty-first century. In my mind, he is a man who is strong, kind, supportive, emotionally intelligent, and a believer in gender equality. Romeo is such a hero and very much a man after my own heart.

What did you learn Pakistani Christians while researching the role of Romeo?

I learnt that they are not at all treated well by Pakistani society. That’s very upsetting because, in a truly Islamic society, all citizens have equal rights, and religion is never the basis for any discrimination. Islamic law considers Muslims and non-Muslims to be equal and does not accord any special privileges to Muslims. The history of Islam is full of instances where Muslims and non-Muslims have been treated equally and are subject to one and the same laws. Indeed, Christianity and Judaism have flourished in many Islamic empires. It’s upsetting to see Muslims in Pakistan treat religious minorities with contempt, disdain and unfairness.

On the positive side, I discovered that Pakistani Christians are intensely patriotic and love their country dearly. They do have a strong desire to become a part of the mainstream and be treated with love, respect and kindness.

Do Christians have equal citizenship in the predominantly Muslim Pakistan?

No, but they should.

I absolutely believe that all Pakistanis – Christian, Hindu, Muslim, Sikh, Zoroastrians and others – should have equal citizenship.

Why do you think the population of minorities in Pakistan has decreased by more than fifteen percent since its creation in 1947?

It has decreased because we have failed to treat minorities with fairness, kindness and equity. We have denied them equal citizenship and not allowed them to live with us in peace and harmony. Many Islamic countries, Egypt, Malaysia and Turkey, to name a few, have succeeded where we have failed. It makes me profoundly sad to see Pakistan lose the rich benefits of diversity due to the exodus of minorities.

The constitution of Pakistan guarantees the rights of minorities. A few laws have been passed to protect the rights of religious minorities, as well. Yet, the country seems to be plagued by systemic, endemic and egregious violations of freedom of religion. Do you believe that the laws and the constitution have failed to protect religious minorities because they contradict societal, cultural and local norms, or is there another reason for their failure?

Laws work when they reflect the norms, beliefs and morality of people, and fail when they are at odds with the intellectual, moral and cultural fabric of society. The people of Pakistan need to believe that treating religious minorities with fairness, equality and justice is the right thing to do; unless that happens, the laws won’t work. The only way to ensure the effectiveness of the laws is to develop a culture where religion is not allowed to become the basis of any sort of discrimination.

Do you believe that Cake has the power to positively affect the manner in which minorities are treated in Pakistan? 

Yes. I hope and wish that is makes a difference.

Ally Adnan lives in Dallas and writes about culture, history and the arts. He tweets @allyadnan and can be reached at [email protected].

Photography by Yaseen Lakhani

 

 

By Mahlia Lone

The recent success of the inaugural edition of the Lahore Biennale Foundation (LBF) made the city of Lahore shine and its citizens feel proud and happy. The art work was exhibited at seven historic venues at the Shehr-o-Funn (city of crafts).

One of the main aims of the Biennale is to promote and exhibit art in a way that makes it accessible to the public at large and not just a select group. It was heartening to see that people from all walks of life attended this event and curiously appreciated the art works on display, for example the breathtaking and awe-inspiring site-specific contemporary art installations. Qudsia Rahim, director of LBF, explained: “Some of these engage with the idea of nature, others work with Lahore’s layered history and diverse geography, while others allow chances for us to take control of our own narratives.”

We look forward to its next edition after two years. Bravo team LBF!

Shahzia Sikander’s audio-video installation Disruption as Rapture with voice over provided by Ali Sethi, at the Summer Palace, Lahore Fort. Photography Atif Saeed

Imran Qureshi at work on his new series of paintings made especially for the Lahore Biennale 01. Photography Hammad Gilani

Imran Qureshi’s breath-takingly beautiful  site-specific fibre optic installation Idea of Landscape, highlighting the artificiality of the landscape now, at the Summer Palace. Photography Atif Saeed

Aisha Khalid meticulously used hundreds of thousands of commom pins to produce the carpet titled More Beautiful for Having Been Broken displayed at the Shahi Hammam. Photography Atif Saeed

Noor Ali Chagani’s Brick Installation dealing with the immense pressure on a man to build a house and provide the income to run it for his family, at Bagh-e-Jinnah. Photography Usman Saqib Zuberi

Bani Abidi’s Memorial to Lost Words displayed at the Lahore Museum. Photography Atif Saeed

Aisha Khalid’s mirrored  installation effectively and effortlessly shows what the Shahi Hammam must have looked like when it was functioning

Iftikhar Dadi and Elizabeth Dadi’s Roz o Shab 2018, neon light installation, at the Summer Palace. Photography Usman Saqib Zuberi

Qudsia Rahim, director of LBF

Shahroz Sabzwari may be the son of veteran actor Behroz Sabzwari, but he has made his own place in the field of acting and modeling, making his mark with his impeccable performance in the drama serial Tanhaiyan Naye Silsilay and Nanhi. Though his debut movie Chain Aye Na flopped at the box office, his recent hit serial Zard Zamano Ka Sawera made that look like a little bump in his very shiny ride. Sana Zehra sits down with the star of drama serial Seep to talk about love, life and his plans

One regret you live with?

None

How are you different after the release of your movie Chain Aye Na?

I’m much stronger.

What insults your intelligence?

Lies

In an emergency who would you call for help?

I have a lot of friends I can call but in an emergency I would call Naeem Khan.

Ever falsely accused of something?

No

What do you think people say behind your back?

He is one pompous @#%*!

What temptation have you successfully resisted?

A lot of them! (Laughs)

If you are in an honesty room with Syra what would you ask her?

Syra is an open book really. I don’t need to ask her anything.

First thing that comes to your mind when you think of the word fun?

Music

Name one commonly held belief that you find offensive?

That you shouldn’t eat to lose weight. No, you need to eat and eat right to lose weight.

Crazy held belief you held as a child?

That my mother was a tooth fairy.

Tell us about your project Seep?

Seep is on air now. It is Shaista Abbas’s debut. I’m very proud of it, as it’s very different.

Who did you get the most retakes with?

Sarish Khan

What is your most useless talent?

Nothing, everything has been pretty useful so far.

How do you seek someone special’s attention?

By talking. I sure can talk!

One song that you can never get tired of?

Running away by Hoobastank

Do you believe in love at first sight?

Yes, yes! With Syra.

Have you ever been stalked by an ex?

Yup

Who do you think has it easier, men or women?

Women

Who do you think is the best dressed celebrity?

My uncle, Jawed Sheikh

If you get a chance to ask God one questions what would it be?

I ask Allah questions every day. I’m very much connected to Him.

If Hareem Farooq and Hania Amir were drowning who would you save first?

Hareem

Rule breaker or take permission?

Take permission

Who would rather by your costar in 007?

Syra, who else?

Who is your favourite actor?

The late Marlon Brando

What is that one character you feel like you should’ve never said yes to?

No such character

An advice from your father that you should’ve followed?

Just recently, my tooth cap came off and my father said to go get it fixed right away. I didn’t listen and lo and behold I have severe toothache right nowL

Most embarrassing comment anyone has ever made?

There were a lot of lethal comments made when Chain Aye Na trailer was released.

Describe love in three words?

I can’t describe love in three words. I can write a whole book about it!

One word for Chain Aye Na?

My first film

One word for awards?

If you have a good jury then that’s fine, but awards should not be given based on public opinion or as a result of a popularity contest.

One word for Botox?

I like it. Everyone should get it done.

Do you think you got it before your time?

No

Do you think people should invest money in flop films?

I think investment should be done regardless. Whether it’s smart or not, the end result always speaks for itself.

Who would you rather go dancing with? Mahira or Maya?

Maya Ali

Imagine A movie scene. you have to introduce your girl to your mother. Who would it rather be: Soha Ali or Shaista Abbas?

Shaista

Who would you rather arm wrestle? Bilal Ashraf or Ali Rehman?

Ali Rehman because I might have a chance with him, but Bilal Ashraf hell no!

If you were given a chance to do a high school musical that would you rather do it with: Sonya Hussain or Armeena Khan?

Sonya

Were your exes invited to your wedding?

I invited some of them.

Did they show up?

One of them did.

Imagine you are swimming in sunny California and suddenly you start drowning. Who would rather be your lifeguard: Sadaf Kanwal or Amna Babar?

Sadaf Kanwal

Imagine there is an alien attack happening. who would rather be your side kick: Kubra Khan or Syra Shahroz?

If I say Kubra Khan my world will end so I will say Syra Shahroz.

If you had a choice of a personal butler, would it rather be Sanam Baloch or Sarish Khan?

Sarish Khan

And why is that?

Because she’d be one hot butler.

Who is that one actress you really wish to work with?

Maya Ali

Rate the following as the best actress: Mahira Khan, Mehwish Hayat or Saba Qamar?

Mehwish Hayat, Saba Qamar and Mahira Khan

What does GT mean to you?

Good times!

“I invited some of my exes to my wedding”

Off the Cuff with
Shaista Abbas

Making her debut with the drama serial Seep opposite Shahroz Sabzwari, Shaista is the younger, half-sister of Meera Jee and is a paralegal by profession. Growing  up in London, her Urdu is not fluent so she’s working extra hard on her dialogue delivery as  all eyes are currently on this beauty. Sana Zehra sits down with the ingenue for a fun rapid fire session

Most googled question: Are you really Meera Jee Sister?

I’m her half-sister.

Do you think you got special treatment because of your sister?

I don’t think so. I had to audition for this role just like anyone else

How come you are not so active on social media?

That’s because I am a very shy person.

What is your personal grievance?

Don’t have any.

Who is your style icon?

Aishwarya Rai. I think she is gorgeous, a real lady and has a positive energy around her. She exudes optimism.

What is the most expensive gift you bought for yourself?

A pair of gold earrings

What do you think about celebrities posting pictures of various brands on their social media?

Well, if something makes them happy then why not? If it gives them a sense of achievement then why not celebrate it and share it with the rest of the world and give inspiration to young girls as well? No harm in that!

What about people who cannot afford these brands?

It’s a sad reality that so many people are in want and are suffering. We should all help them but if someone wants to enjoy life then I say let it be. God has everything. He can provide anything to anyone. We are divided into social strata for a reason. Everything should be taken positively.

Ever seen a ghost?

No, but I wish to because I don’t get scared.

If you have an unlimited food supply what one thing would you want to eat?

Fish and eggs

What is your guilty pleasure?

Chocolates.

Favorite Music?

Punjabi songs

Last video watched on YouTube?

Series of interviews of celebrities

Last crush?

I had a crush on my classmate.

Any tattoos?

No, I’m not a tattoo kind of person.

Analog or Digital?

Digital

Who is your spirit animal?

I love dogs.

If you are a magician and you could change one thing about yourself what would it be?

I’d make myself more beautiful.

Can you cook?

Yes, I love to cook.

Fahad Mustafa, Junaid Khan, and Ahsan Khan: Who would you want to work with in the future?

Fahad Mustafa

Out of these two who would you say yes to a dinner date. Imran Abbas or Mikaal Zulfiqar?

Mikaal Zulfiqar

An actor you really wanted to work with?

Mikaal Zulfikar

What is your take on Botox and fillers?

Something very convenient nowadays, a good thing to have I guess. I appreciate the people who would be that daring to go for it.

Have you ever been hit on by a co-star?

Maybe

Have you ever committed to a shoot and not show up?

No way, I’ve always met my commitments.

If you have an opportunity of losing one memory what would it be?

Hating someone.

How many times have you been in love?

I love to love and I love the feeling of love and I don’t mind falling in love again and again.

Everything is fair in love and war—True or False?

True

What does GT means to you?

Every time can be a good time.

Photography:

Arsalan Bilgrami of a.bilgrami studio

Hair & makeup:

Shaista Studio Z salon and spa

Shahroz grooming:

N-Pro

Location courtesy:

The Deli

Shaista is Meera’s younger, half-sister

“We are divided into social strata for

a reason” (Hmmm    )

By Mahlia Lone

Nida Azwer

Lady-like Elegance

Hussain Rehar

Sharp Tailoring

Sania Maskatiya

Monochrome Magic

HSY

Gothic Revival

Arjumand Bano

Tropical Vibe

Saira Shakira

Empire of the Sun

Fahad Hussayn

Floating Blossoms

RICI MELION

Dress to Impress

Republic by Omar Farooq

Weekend Wear

Saira Rizwan

Easy to Wear

Mona Imran

Pop Artist

Shirin Hassan

Pink Poppies

Zonia Anwaar

Orange You Glad

Who? Purniya

Why? We love the navy colour, grommet detailing and flattering draping of her gown

Who? Asma Chishty

Why? The friendly publisher looks elegant and chic in the perfectly put together ensemble

Who? Kamiar Rokni

Why? The new design director at Sapphire is always tastefully dressed

Who? Selina

Why? What a great tropical jacket by Arjumand Bano, which the PR maven has worn over black and paired with red peeptoes

Who? Sara

Why? And this designer never has a hair out of place, and is always immaculately turned out

Who? Ramsha

Why? This is so cute on her and also pops on the red carpet

Who? Mehek

Why? Young and fun

Who? Ather

Why? A fashion risk that somehow works

Who? Anushey

Why? The optic illusion dress is different in a good way. She smartly keeps her accessories simple

Mahlia S. Lon

Recently, I spent a sunny Sunday exploring the various exhibitions put up by the Lahore Biennale Foundation 01 showcasing the Shehr-o-Funn. People from all walks of life were out and about, interested to view what was on display and curious to learn and see life from the artists’ viewpoint. The Punjab Government, LBF team, sponsors and artists did a great job organising the event, arranging the logistics and lending their talent, making meaningful, thought-provoking art accessible to the public at large from the mightiest to the most humble. I myself felt joyful wandering around Old Lahore checking out the installations and paintings as I would anywhere in the world, but not as we usually do insulated in our daily lives. Not only were the exhibits wonderful to look at and the Sufi concerts divine to hear but thought provoking as well. It’s so much more effective to demonstrate your opinion subtlely and make a person reach his/her own conclusion based on the feelings invoked than to bash someone on the head with an idea and ram it down his/her throat. In case you missed it, we have some of the highlights for you in this issue.

Additionally, we get up close and personal with young actors Adnan Malik, Shahroz Sabzawari and Shaista Abbas. Fahad Hussayn’s beautifully crafted sartorial masterpieces, Muse’s plans to collaborate with Parisian design houses, all the latest and best fashion straight from the runway of PFDC Sunsilk Fashion Week and much more awaits you in this issue. See you next fortnight

 

1. LUXURY CHAIR

Featuring a print that can be interpreted as classic French Fleur De Lis or Dutch Delftware, this beautiful Luxury Patterned Single Chair is surprisingly versatile. For a French feel, pair it with rustic or shabby-chic pieces and cool walls and floors. Alternately, to bring Holland into your home, go for a canal-side vibe that includes worn wooden furniture and fresh blooms.

2. ONE    

The latest Summer Mirage collection of affordable yet trendy leisurewear is now available at popular high street store One.

3. Freshkon Colored Cosmetic Contact Lens 

Bored with your look? Freshkon Coloured Cosmetic Contact Lens offers a wide range of colours from subtle browns to dazzling blues and greens that will enhance your facial features. Try on a pair, you will feel like a new person.

3. Reeva by Shoe Planet

Comfortable pumps with on trend block heels are availabe at Shoe Planet for under Rs. 3000.

The favoured makeup artist of many celebrities, Eric Sen has been transforming faces for the past 17 years. Sana Zehra gets the latest tips and bridal makeup trends from Eric

What is your take on bridal makeup?

It should be subtle. Not over the top and begging for attention. Brides come to me wishing to look fair and a tone lighter I always tell them let’s just enhance what you have instead of making you look fair. Less is always more.

What are universal beauty tips?

Glowing Skin

Natural looking foundation

Less pressed and loose powder

Biggest makeup mistake women make?

Wrong foundation and over the top back combing.

Top current beauty trends?

Neon pastel colours as well as plum, orange and deep blood red lips.

Do you think these shades would suit everyone?

You need to have confidence to carry any trend tbh (to be honest).

What are the three makeup items that no one should leave home without?

Lipstick

Mascara

Blush

Favourite beauty brand that you think suits our Asian skin types?

MAC and Estee Lauder

How can a bride get beautiful skin?

My advice to them is eat healthy, eat fresh fruits and vegetables and sleep tons. Make a detox water with cucumber slices in it and stay well hydrated. Another tip is to stay away from bleach and use sunblock when going out.

There is a huge trend of using whitening products and bleach is one of them. What would you suggest.

I am against the idea of bleaching. I think we should enhance our natural complexion rather than using bleach. Bleach is extremely bad for your skin. Brides especially must bleach with extreme caution. Who wants blotchy, inflamed, reddish and over sensitive skin on her wedding day?!

If someone really want to bleach their face what would you tell them?

Try using face polish instead if you really insist on bleaching your face.

How has the makeup evolved over the last 17 years since you’ve been working?

Huge change! We have a small industry and my mentors have actually brought in trends that no one else was using at that time. Makeup and hair has seen a huge change but makeup trend seems to repeat itself the most.

How much should a bride trust their makeup artist and how much input should be given?

Always have consultation first with your makeup artist. But some brides are adamant that their lips are bold and eyes are smoky at that point I listen to them but then try to keep eyes a bit subtle since it should have my signature look also.

Which actress or model transforms the most?

Sunita Marshall and Amina Ilyas

Who is the most finicky celebrity to work with?

Haven’t had the chance to meet someone like that, have had a pleasant experience so far with everyone.

Who needs a good makeup artist badly in our industry?

Hard question! I’d rather not answer.

Which celebrity would you want to work with?

I really wanted to work with Sridevi but she alas she’s no longer with us. In the Pakistani industry, luckily I have worked with almost everyone.

Any message for upcoming new makeup artists?

Focus on your work. Respect your seniors. and focus on features don’t get stuck on makeup. Work on enhancing the features instead of just slathering on colourful makeup products.

Photography: Raza Jaffri

Hair & makeup:  Eric Sen

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