Allure By MHT exhibited their fabulous new jewellery collection at FPL.
The Furniture Gallery & Interiors exhibited their exquisite furniture at Sukh Chan Wellness Club.
Brand: Zubia Zainab
Production: Centaur One
Talent: Aidah Sheikh
Photography: Aimal Butt
Hair & Makeup: Shamroze Sandhu
Jewellery: Zahid Jewellers
Influencer, mom and entrepreneur Alyzeh gets candid about her style, her favourite designers and more
How would you describe your personal style?
As of late a bit colorful, fun, with touches of vintage luxe. But for mom duties — athleisure all the way!
Your favorite fashion designer?
Loving Toteme and Celine lately!
Do you believe in sustainable fashion? Have you changed your wardrobe to make it more sustainable in the recent years?
I’ve been a collector of vintage Chanel for the past 15-20 years so I’ve always been into sustainable fashion in some capacity. I love the idea of buying pre-loved vintage pieces and have been collecting pieces for ages.
Where in Pakistan do you love to shop?
At my exhibits. I have a company called The Exhibit — we host multibrand expos every couple of months with everything from fashion, interiors, jewelry, accessories, make up and so on — there are some established brands on board and some upcoming ones, I always end up picking some gorgeous things. Our nation is so talented!
What is the oldest item in your closet?
My grandmother’s sari with real gold and silver work on it. Truly an heirloom piece.
What, in your opinion, are must have items that are essential to a great closet?
A good pair of jeans, a nice pair of gym leggings, some plain t shirts, a set of loafers/pumps and a classic bag.
Your most prized possession?
My daughter! Material things literally mean nothing in the bigger picture.
Your favorite accessory?
My arm candy. I love stacking my bracelets!
What item in your closet makes you cringe?
There’s a few. You know how some things can be so ugh but you absolutely love them… I have a few pieces like that and I’ll never get rid of them — hence they’re still in my closet lol.
How does style differ in the two big cosmopolitan cities that you live in, Lahore and London?
In London I feel I can be less conservative and that I can really push my limits and experiment with fashion — plus I can buy new season items instantly. In Lahore if I wear western it takes ages to get your shipment across, and I dress very conservatively in comparison. However, I also love love love what the local brands are doing and love buying unique pieces (like some nice co-ords) hand pairing them with my personal style.
We speak to the actor about his upcoming work,his bucket list and more
Did you always want to be an actor?
It happened out of the blue. As a fresh graduate of theatre, film and television (TFT) from BNU I jumped into work as a line producer under HUM TV initially. I mostly prioritized working behind the camera but Alhamdulillah for where life has brought me now.
Out of all your projects, which one is your favorite?
For me, my favorite project is always what’s coming next and anything that is in the making under my attention. So currently that would be a feature film called Money Bag Guaranteed, The legend of Maula Jatt, a comedy feature film Shortcut and Jindo a drama serial.
What do you like to do on days when you’re off from work?
Those are my favorite days of the year. I love being lazy when I can. I like to practice the extrovert side of my personality too. I like to go watch a movie or go out with my friends. I love chilling with Barfi. I’m a go with the flow kind of person.
Do you think that there is a stigma attached with working in the entertainment industry? If yes, how do you deal with it?
I do agree that there is a stigma attached to the entertainment industry. However, things are changing now due to the way the new breed of actors are conducting themselves. However, I do feel that this stigma stems out of the roots of the hypocritical nature of our society. It’s ironic that people don’t want to associate themselves with you but at the same time, they’re striving to get a selfie with you. I believe they’re ignorant because they don’t realize how much hard work goes into it. I personally don’t pay heed to such opinions because of where I stand in my career and life right now.
Name three things on your bucket list.
- Performing Umrah or Hajj.
- I’m really trying to start to praying five times a day. I really do aspire to be able to do that.
- I’m trying to be a good human being.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
I don’t know. I didn’t expect 5 years ago that I’d be just where I am right now. So only God knows the future. I think I’m merely happy where I am right now. I am trying to live this moment to the fullest.
There is a major cancel culture these days. Do you ever feel the pressure of that getting to you in terms of what you say or what you post?
I love this quote from Charlie Chaplin that says: you do not need power to bring in the world, but love instead. So I believe the power to cancel someone is something I discourage. The culture can be a very powerful way to manipulate and mis-use any situation.
I think empathy, tolerance and patience are the emotions that should trend. I certainly don’t feel threatened by it. I don’t seek validation through my posts. Which is why I don’t really post that much, I just talk about the stuff I feel strongly about.
How important do you think social media is in today’s world for an artist?
I hate the misuse of social media. I surely support the notion that it is very important for an artist today to project your work. If used wisely, I think it’s a great tool. Otherwise it’s not really important for an artist.
What’s the best thing about being on set?
It’s an entirely different world. I would say it’s ability to help you disconnect with reality cause we all love to fantasize and dream.
Who is your favorite director?
For dramas my favorite directors are Anjum Shehzad, Badar Mahmood and Haseeb Hassan. My favorite film directors are Bilal Lashari, Nadeem Baig and Faysal Qureshi.
Favorite Pakistani actors?
Oh there are so many! Sania Saeed, Nauman Ijaz, Samiya Mumtaz, saleem Miraj, Late Mr. Moin Akhtar Sahab, Ahmed Ali Akbar specially in Parizaad, Hania Amir along with Kubra Khan, Yumna Zaidi & Iqra Aziz to name a few.
What advice would you give to young people who want to be actors but might be struggling to get their big break?
My advice would be to believe in themselves. Be persistent, have faith only in Allah. This is the key. There are no other. Don’t go for anything else except these.
Aneesa looks ready for the summer in this fab beach look. She pairs her Mermaids cutout dress with the Hermes Oran sandal. The scarf tied around her head brings the look together!
Amna always knows how to make a style statement and she does just that in this outfit. Her neon green top is perfect for spring. We love the flared + ripped jeans combo, right on trend. Her mini Lady Dior adds a pop of color to the outfit.
Hania Amir turns heads at the Arab Fashion Week in Zeena Zaki. The sparkly black co-ord set with the garter midriff made this dress a great choice for the event. Hania chooses to slick back her hair and keep her make up simple.
Amna Baber is channeling some major Greek Goddess energy in this hot pink Muse Luxe saree. We love her glowy makeup and glossy lips. She keeps her hair flowy and open. Her look exudes femininity and we are here for it!
Alishay looks stunning in this monochrome look. She wears a full sleeved black top with high-waisted cream pants. The flared bottoms are all the rage right now and her bag looks super cute. Her simple hair and makeup goes perfectly with the outfit.
Real bride Sawab looks like a dream in this red Sabyasachi outfit. She accessories the outfit for her big day with some gold jewelry. We love her simple look and she proves that sometimes less is definitely more. Priyanka who?!
Anaya By Kiran Chaudhry exhibited their luxury lawn collection “Afsana†with much fanfare at Café L’amour.
Swyft Logistics threw their annual sundowner which was quite the hit.
Women, trans people, non-binary folk, and men walking side-by-side through the streets, as bystanders look on, people marching in tandem to the beat of a drum and the chant of rhythmic slogans, thought-provoking placards being brandished justice are just some of the things one can expect to witness at the Aurat March.
2022 will mark the fifth year that women in Pakistan have mobilized and marched shoulder-to-shoulder in an attempt to reclaim public spaces and demand the fulfillment of rights that are extended to them by the laws of the state
Asal Insaaf or Reimagining Justice is the theme for this year’s Lahore chapter of the Aurat March. While conversing with Ajwah, who has been volunteering for Aurat March Lahore since 2019, I asked her how the volunteers of had gone about the process of drafting such a detailed manifesto and list of demands:
“The Aurat March manifesto is always a collaborative effort. Since we can’t speak for all communities, we keep contact with them, hold meetings, ask them about their problems, and what a world with justice looks like to them. This time, in the manifesto, we are not only listing problems, but also emphasizing that there can be no resolution of these issues without an attitude of care, without building up communities themselves.”
The most important demand that was put forth is for the government to make efforts to bring about structural changes. The advocates of Aurat March have called for authorities to introduce judicial reforms that will have a lasting impact, rather than implement short-term measures. They claim that changes such as greater representation of women and minorities in the legal system, although a step forward in the right direction, will not be enough to overturn or even counteract the misogyny, classism, and sexism that is prevalent in courts and the patriarchal institutions that have informed the laws and procedures of the judicial system.
As it currently exists, the Pakistani judicial system focuses heavily on punishment as a way to combat the crimes and the injustices that citizens are made to suffer through. The problem with this approach is that the fear of punishment is not a powerful enough deterrent, especially in a system that is fractured and allows criminals to walk free and whose laws leave room for impunity even when it comes to serious crimes. The manifesto states that more resources should be allocated to preventative, rather than punitive, measures.
The manifesto also claims that defamation laws are inherently anti-survivor and are often abused by perpetrators to make themselves appear as victims, which is why they should immediately be decriminalized. Furthermore, laws that exist to protect women, such as the Punjab Protection of Women Against Violence Act 2016, should be implemented properly to ensure the security of women in public and private spaces. Another point that is stressed upon in the manifesto is with regards to the various “safe city projects” that the government has launched and how they are a waste of public funds that could be better distributed towards creating survivor-support mechanisms and welfare programs. There are barely any shelter homes or affordable housing options that the survivors of domestic abuse and gender-based violence can seek refuge in after escaping abusive households and/or marriages.
“In the manifesto we talk about how communities have a collective responsibility, where they can be an important source of intervention. The rehabilitation of prisoners who have served their time is important and our communities can play an active role in that,” said Ajwah when I asked her about the significance of rehabilitation of ex-convicts and why this section was included in the manifesto.
The idea of Aurat March was borne out of the need to propagate feminist ideals in a country that is ruled by out-dated colonial laws and patriarchal structures. Contrary to popular belief, feminism does not aim to promote misandry and disseminate a narrative that women are superior to men. Instead, feminism is a belief system that strives for the equality of all genders and works to liberate them from confining gender roles. Feminism emphasizes the protection of women’s rights, those of the transgender community, and minority groups, in particular, and attempts to elevate their voices, because these are the sections of society that have historically been marginalized and oppressed.
Women marching on the streets and demanding their rights is a sight that attracts controversy and criticism from onlookers and the media each year. While discussing the inevitable backlash that the Aurat March receives each year, Ajwah told me about some of the efforts that volunteers had made this year to curb vitriol from the public and prevent false narratives about the March from making rounds on social, digital, and print media:
“We think that there is definitely going to be backlash and we don’t know what it’s going to look like…Almost all of our social media posts try to curb the narrative that women who march are spreading ‘fahaashi’. One of the major ways that we have tried to shift that narrative is through our ‘Collective History’ series through which we have tried to show that this is not a western movement, but something that is borne out of feminist resistance -even though it wasn’t explicitly called ‘feminist resistance’- that existed here in the past also…One of the problems we face each year on the day of the March is with regards to media reporting, so we hand out media passes to ensure that volunteers and participants of the March only speak to media outlets we trust to carry our message forward.”
Even amidst a call to ban the Aurat March and to observe “International Hijab Day” in its place in a letter penned by the Minister for Religious Affairs, Noorul Haq Qadri, to Prime Minister Imran Khan, volunteers, supporters, and prospective attendees of the Aurat March are hopeful that the March will take place peacefully and will prove to be a successful display of women raising their voice against oppression, violence, and injustice.
The purpose of the manifesto for this year’s March is to urge practitioners within the judicial system to focus on not just legal justice, but economic and environmental justice as well. While legal justice refers to effective implementation of the Constitution of Pakistan and enforcement of the Rule of Law, economic justice pertains to the condition wherein measures are taken to eradicate the exploitation of workers, ensure sufficient incomes, and bridge the gender pay gap; and environmental justice relates to the idea that every citizen of the state should have equal access to clean air, water, and unpolluted land for living.
We must realize that there is still so much work to do and a lot to overcome. Only by reimagining the idea of justice as encapsulating the resolution of legal, economic, and environmental crises in Pakistan can we move towards creating a feminist future where every person is granted their due rights and has access to a safe and healthy living.
Ace fashion designer Fahad Hussayn talks to us about his struggles in the industry, his inspirations and more
When did you first realize that you wanted to be a designer?
I always wanted to be an artist, I think for my household, being a designer was far more acceptable than me being an artist. I remember my mom telling me artists die poor. So subconsciously, I was driven to channeling my art toward design and fashion. My mother had a small setup where she made clothes at home. Her studio was home to me after school. That’s where I learnt most about fashion. That’s where I was inspired and in the process I explored the art that was inside me. In my opinion, any medium that gives us the opportunity to explore our craft is a gift from nature itself.
What was your first job out of college?
My first job was my own brand! I started working on it when I was in college and I launched it after I graduated.
How do you think the fashion industry has changed since you’ve been in it?
The fashion industry has become more chaotic. I also feel like a lot of the love for fashion has faded away. People accept mediocrity in the name of affordability. There are still no laws for the fashion industry and almost no government support. The worst part is the growing culture of the social media mob mentality. For me, fashion was far more respected and profound a decade ago.
Tell us about your muses.
I’m not a people’s person. I very rarely connect with people. It takes time & chemistry for me to connect with someone. I love all the talented women I work with. They’re all inspirational in their own way & never cease to amaze me. But Seher & Munazza are super special to me. Seher started off with her career with us. She’s a graduate in fashion design from PIFD & it took us very little time to became friends. Munazza is a rare beauty. She’s confident, self made, smart and we bonded over our love for black & everything goth. There’s nothing more inspirational than watching these strong women be who they are and be so fabulous at it.
What collection of yours is your favorite?
Haha! From my past life, I think Putlighar has to be my favorite. However, my relaunch collection Saobanjara is also extremely close to my heart.
Who is your inspiration?
Some days, nothing at all. Over the years I’ve learnt how to deconstruct design to just a process. Inspiration requires emotion & feelings and in the real world, some days one just doesn’t have those. I can take a beautiful facade of a building and turn it into a bridal. I can take a picture of people oddly dressed on a road and use it for color palette. Inspiration is a constant process. Other days it has to be mechanically dealt with. If something really moves me, I write about it & take it from there.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
I want to take Fahad Hussayn & print museum to a global scale. I want to try new and different things with them with a different set list of audience that we haven’t tried before. It’s a work in progress.
Your favorite international designer?
McQueen forever! Lately I’ve been in love with how Daniel Roseberry has resurrected Schiaparelli and combined wearable art with fashion.
What do you like to do on days that you’re off?
I try not to take days off from work. If I do, I spend them cooking and end up with a good meal shared with friends.
If you could go back and tell yourself one thing before beginning your career what would it be?Â
Don’t fall for everything you’re told; and perhaps I’d like to teach myself how to handle social anxiety.
Are you still involved in the day to day running of the brand?
Very much — every thing requires chaperoning if you want to achieve results.
What do you think are some of the downsides of being in the fashion industry in Pakistan?
It’s mostly the lack of respect people have for the job, but then that’s a general issue with most Pakistani people. They’re bitter and unappreciative. It’s difficult to create new things for an industry that doesn’t even uphold niche markets.
In the recent years we’ve seen you come into your own, you express yourself a lot more in terms of your own fashion also. What changed?
I think I evolved out of the public opinion game. My friends, family and my therapist helped me get over it. I think being a figure that’s constantly watched I fell victim to caring too much about what other people wanted to see me as; so I stopped doing things the way I wanted. I was told to blend in. I used to read really vile comments about to how I was perceived and looked upon for my hair, the kajal I wore in my eyes, my clothes, the shape of my body and my choices. I got thrown into the black hole of the opinion game. I’m at a point now that I don’t care who thinks what of me. I’m my own man, loved by my family, my friends & people who appreciate me — I don’t care anymore what masses think about my hair length — haha!
Photography | Asad Bin Javed
Hair & makeup | Fatima Nasir
We love ourselves a nice slip dress and Minahil is a sight for sore eyes in this one. We love the combination of white boots which adds a little bit of edge to the outfit. Her loose waves and earrings complete the look.
We love Ryan’s smart casual look. She wears a lilac oversized botton-down with cropped pants and heels. She pairs the outfit with chunky gold accessories and wears her hair down. 10/10!
Influencer Salama Hassan looks stunning in this outfit by Zain Hashmi. She pairs the gorgeous outfit with simple makeup and a coral lip. Salama wears her hair straight in a middle part and accessorizes with silver jewelry.
Shanzay Sheikh turns heads in this Agraani outfit. We love the combination of white and blue — perfect for summer. We love Shanzay’s traditional take on the outfit. Her big jhumkas and silver bangles complete the look.
Sasha turns heads in these saree pants. We’re obessed with this fusion outfit. The silver mukesh, the beautiful border and those classic flared pants are all to die for. Sasha pairs the look with a silver clutch and simple jewelry. Perfect!
Digitally printed sarees are all the rage right now and Ushna Shah looks striking in this white and blue one. Her low blouse and chunky heels go perfectly with the outfit. We especially love her straight her and simple makeup.
Pakistan’s trending retail brand, Image celebrated the launch of its most coveted Printkari’22 collection via an exclusive influencers meet up at Image’s newly launched outlet in Rawalpindi Saddar
Very Light Purple Furniture exhibited their fabulous furniture in an exclusive event.
Tower 21 is the tallest luxury apartment building with an infinity pool, mechanical parking. The brand hosted a meet and greet to celebrate the pre-launch at Gulberg. The event was managed by ARPR.
Influencer and model Mustafa Yazdani talks about his career, his bucket list and hobbies
Did you always want to be a model?
I modelled a little bit when I was a kid, but it was never something I aspired to. Most of my work has been with Rastah. I also do the art direction for them and my involvement there has sort of been a happy accident.
What’s it like being a male model in the Pakistani fashion industry?
I don’t think I’m a model worth worrying about, nor am I very deeply entrenched in ‘the scene’. So I don’t know how much authority I can speak with. However, my personal experience has been overwhelmingly positive and I’ve gotten to collaborate with brilliant artists and created beautiful things.
Who are your favourite Pakistani designers?
I love what Rastah is doing for Pakistan’s image globally. I’m obsessed with the craft and playfulness of Kamiar Rokni, and deeply enamored with the sexiness of Muse.
What was your first shoot like?
My first shoots in childhood were with Lajwanti and Leisure Club and I remember feeling like I was better than everyone else at school by virtue of being a model. When I started modeling again, I was lucky because my first shoot was with Natasha Zubair, and she can make anyone look good.
What do you do on days off from work?
I’m rarely ever off work these days but when I do get time to myself, I try to make time for my friends, read what I can and zone out on my phone for an embarrassing amount of time.
Do you work out?
I’ve started working out recently, as I’m starting to age out the whole ‘waif’ fantasy. Someone once told me that if I wanted to book more Eastern I should think about investing in a barrel chest. I like working out for how it makes me feel, but I’ve always really liked my body as it is.
What are your hobbies?
I like to paint, read, write, all of that. But anyone who knows me will tell you my greatest hobby is just being pretentious on Instagram.
Name three things on your bucket list.
I want to throw a drink in someone’s face. Own a pet cow. Write a book.
How important of a role do you think social media plays in a models life in todays world?
Social media is everything. Most people contact me for jobs through Instagram. I took a break from social media for a month or so and lost out on some great work. Inversely, it can also be a bit irritating to feel like you’re being pigeonholed into a certain identity because of your social media presence. I’d like to try everything.
What advice would you give to young models?
Be pretty, show up on time, and don’t be afraid to embarrass yourself.. oh, also get good at waiting. Being on set is mostly just waiting around.
This 70’s trend has made a serious comeback. Whether it’s jeans, formal pants or eastern wear, flared pants are everywhere right now; and to be honest we kind of love it because comfort + fashion is always the best combo. Here are some of our favourite fashionistas rocking this trend.
Fitness coach Asfandyar Ahmed talks to us about his fitness journey, the right way to start working out and the importance of a fitness coach
How and when did your path to fitness begin?
I started working out myself when I was 14. Being a big kid, my coach at Metafitnosis at the time put me on the right path which was the correct combination of training including strength & functional training. I worked with a coach initially and then I eventually started training after getting exposure in the field for 8 years.
Tell us about your gym Metafitnosis and the work you do there.
Metafitnosis was started 16 years ago by my coach who couldn’t continue on because he had other plans. My mother who is the backbone of the business took over and has run it ever since. It is a concept never seen in Pakistan before, which is solely a personal training studio. Every client has a coach assigned to them that watches each and every movement of theirs with the utmost attention and detail.
What are some of the challenges of working in fitness in Pakistan?
To start off with, health and fitness does not get the importance it should get compared to how it is in other parts of the world. Whether it is the accessibility to good equipment or finding variety for nutrition. I would say, 50-70% of both things are imported goods which are heavily taxed and quite difficult for a lot of people to sustain over a long period of time.
What are some tips you can give to people who are starting on their fitness journey?
Most people when starting their fitness journey rush into everything at once. They want to start working out 6 times a week and start a super strict meal plan at once. That might work for some but for most is not sustainable. I would recommend first finding the right facility and coach to start you on the right path and then let yourself and your body ease into the routine. There is absolutely no harm in taking baby steps.
What sort of a diet plan do you recommend?
I am a strong believer in moderation. A lot of people want abs super fast or will starve themselves if they have a wedding or special occasion coming up. That might work for you for the time being only for a limited amount of time but will absolutely destroy your metabolism in the long run. Your diet needs to be a lifestyle. It needs to be something that you can sustain for the rest of your life. Of course it is completely okay to indulge in your favorite foods once a week but on regular days, your meals need to consist of protein, carbohydrates and fats in a balanced amount.
Any advice for the people that cannot find the right motivation?
As I mentioned earlier, a lot of people want to start living a better and fitter lifestyle and they do try to start off with it, but it is all implemented too quickly. It’s important to focus on training before nutrition. A lot of people would disagree but if we don’t move enough and increase our activity, we’re definitely not going to burn anything off. Whether it is starting to increase your activity at home by using the stairs more or running around and playing with your kids, you should definitely start off slow.
How many days per week do you recommend people workout?
If you’re a beginner, I would recommend starting off 3 days a week for 30-45 minutes but it all depends on the endurance and physical capacity of an individual.
How important is it to have a Fitness Trainer?
People think that they can follow Instagram or YouTube pages and train themselves but that could also be a bit risky and result in severe injury. I think it is very important to hire a coach who knows what they’re doing so that they guide you through the process and help you achieve what you want. Definitely invest in an experienced and knowledgeable personal trainer, your body will thank you in the years to come.
Who are some of your inspirations/ fitness coaches that you look up to?
That’s a tough one but to name a few would be Bret Contreras, Scott Abel, Steve Mac, Dr, Aaron Horschig & Nam Thomas.
What do you have to say to people that give up too quickly because they don’t see results?
Patience is key. I think that would apply for almost everything. When it comes to your body you need to give yourself time. Suppose you put on 10 inches on your waist in a year, it took you a year to put those on so you definitely need to give yourself a similar amount of time to take it off in a healthy way as well. Regimentation & repetition is where the party is at!
The supermodel reveals her beauty and fitness secrets, hobbies and more.
What’s it like seeing yourself on the cover?Â
It’s always an honour to land a cover and it’s really exciting for the entire team because every one has worked so hard at bringing this dreamy concept to reality.
How did you decide to pursue acting/modelling as a career? Did you always want to become an actor?Â
I studied at a Performance Arts school in London so it was impossible not be interested in something related fashion and dramatic arts from a very early age.
Has your perception of the modelling industry in Pakistan changed over time?Â
I do feel that I have really grown to love and appreciate Pakistani fashion while working as a model. Pakistani womenswear is just so beautiful and diverse and I am lucky that my work as a model means I get to be surrounded by the newest designs.
What are your hobbies outside of modelling and acting?Â
I am currently obsessed with home decor. I spend quite a lot of time going to furniture stores on my days off. When I’m lost on my phone, I am most probably scrolling through Zara Home and H&M Home. Even when I’m travelling I like exploring their local home decor stores. I find coffee tables, wallpapers, arm chairs, cushions and lamps so beautiful and fascinating.
What is your beauty routine?
I do invest in quality skincare and am always purchasing highly reviewed skincare products to try out. Apart from the basic cleanse, tone and moisturise, drinking lots of water and removing my makeup before I sleep, I love getting regular Hydrafacials and semi-chemical glow peels from the dermatologist.
Do you work out?Â
YES! I work out to maintain my figure, stay strong but most importantly to release feel-good hormones! I just find that working out is great for my mind as well as my health.
How do you handle the fame that comes with being an actor? Does the hate or the pressure ever get to you?Â
You have to become independent of the public’s opinions. Everyone is allowed to have an opinion but I only rely on my family members and my closest friends for their feedback. If it’s a thumbs up from them, I celebrate. If they dislike something then I just try to improve it.
What’s your favourite part about your work?
The fact that every day is completely unpredicatable!
Who is your favourite designer?
Saint Laurent, Balenciaga and Celine
Name three things on your bucket list.Â
1) Eat sushi in Japan
2) Get married
3) Own a successful business
Who is your inspiration?Â
100% my mother. I have always admired her dedication to her work as a Doctor whilst being the perfect homemaker! I am generally inspired by people who can balance work and family lives successfully.
Describe your perfect day off when you’re not working.Â
Brunch and shopping with my favourite girl friends.
What advice would you give to young models?Â
There’s only one of YOU and that is what makes you special, beautiful and unique and that is what you should share with the world!
Ayesha is always super stylish and this look is no different. She wears a red on red outfit by YBQ Designs. The rolled up sleeves, maroon khussas and chunky silver jewelry tie the look together.
Our new fave Instagram influencer Tabeer Chaudhry is right on trend with this look. She picks a bright red cropped top and pairs it with black high-waisted jeans. The red Aldo bag and shades complete the look.
Shahveer and Ayesha look absolutely fab. They’re twinning in this warm nude color for a winter wedding. Ayesha pairs her mukesh saree with gold bangles and light jewelry. While Shahveer pairs his suit with a white shirt and dark brown shoes.
Sarwat Gillani turns heads in this amazing Rastah piece from Intermission V. She looks effortlessly cool as she pairs the look with Adidas all stars and wears her hair down. This is one of our fave looks this fortnight!
Sameera chose a stunning Abhinav Mishra mirror work gharara for her sister’s wedding. She accessorized the look with a big teeka and jhumkas and wore her hair in lose waves. We love her entire look!
Amrij Salon hosted a Spa Party for bloggers and influencers. PR was handled by Rubia Moghees.
Nuriyaa launched their debut lawn collection with a fabulous luncheon at Cosa Nostra.
Close friends of ace designers Nickie Nina held an intimate get together for friends and family
Mr and Mrs Chohan celebrated the nikkah ceremony of their son Jamal with Noor in an intimate ceremony between friends and family.
We speak to actor and model Mahenur Haider about life in the fashion industry, upcoming work and more
How does it feel seeing yourself on the cover once again?
It always feels amazing to see myself on the cover and this time is no different!
You’ve worked with Mohsin Khawar several times before. What is it like to shoot with him?
Shooting with Mohsin Khawar is always a blast. It’s always really comfortable. We all have so much fun on set. I remember shooting with Mohsin a lot when I had just started modelling. I think we’ve worked on countless projects together! We always make a good team.
How did you decide to pursue acting as a career? Did you always want to become an actor?
I guess deep down I always knew that acting was what I wanted to do.
Has your perception of the modelling industry in Pakistan changed over time?
I never formed a perception about the modelling industry in Pakistan. For me, modelling has always been work. It was always a job and that’s how I’ve looked at it.
What are your hobbies outside of modelling and acting?
This is such a heartbreaking question! I don’t get to do anything really because I’m so busy with work. When and if I get a day off, I like to go for a swim.
What is your beauty routine?
I wake up at 6AM every single day. I like to do yoga. Sometimes I work out. I always make sure that my early mornings are dedicated to myself and my mental well being. All of this is, of course, followed by a healthy breakfast.
People in Pakistan don’t consider modelling or acting a ‘proper’ profession. What do you have to say about that?
To be perfectly honest with you, I’ve never come across anyone who has such views. Everyone around me knows how hard I work. No one has ever questioned it being a proper job.
Acting in Pakistan is still considered very taboo. Did you face problems when you decided to pursue this career?
Not really. However, I did face problems when I decided to quit my career. There were so many people who didn’t want me to leave. So I had to come back.
Tell us about your upcoming projects.
I’ve shot a film with Fahad Sheikh which should come out this year InshaAllah. I’m also going on set to shoot my next play in March, so that’s also in the pipeline. I’m very excited.
How do you handle the fame that comes with being an actor? Does the hate or the pressure ever get to you?
People are always very sweet and supportive when they approach me. People that have seen my work and decide to come say hi are always so nice and that is a big motivation for me. I’ve never really gotten any hate so I feel blessed in that regard.
What’s your favorite part about your work?
Literally everything!
Who is your favorite designer?
I personally love Sana Safinaz Couture.
How do you stay in shape?
I do Yoga. I also try to watch my diet and eat healthy.
Name something on your bucket list.
The number one thing that I’ve always wanted to do is skydive!
Tell us about your first shoot. What was it like?
My first shoot was back in 2013. That day was the first time I had worn heels in my entire life! Can you imagine? It was a 2 day shoot for Bareeze’s eid campaign. I still remember it so well. Since it was my first time ever wearing heels, by the end of the shoot I literally couldn’t walk. It was definitely an experience I’ll never forget.
Who is your inspiration?
I get inspired by anyone who’s hardworking, regardless of their profession.
What kind of photo shoots, in your opinion, are the hardest to do?
Underwater ones.
Describe your perfect day off when you’re not working.
Day off? What does that mean?
What advice do you have for aspiring actors and models?
My advice to all those people is to never give up and stay motivated. There is a long road ahead of you; so work hard and don’t lose hope!
Photography:Â Mohsin Khawar
Blue dress:Â The House Of Kamiar Rokni
Saree:Â Mahgul
Coats:Â Quiz
Makeup:Â Saad Nasir
Styling:Â Aarinda Noor