Psychedelic
Islamabad based bridal designer, Shazia Kiyani feels strongly that only if her clients look good, does she look good. Keeping that in mind, she advises women on flattering cuts that suit their specific body type. Shazia talks about the dos and don’ts of fashion and her upcoming Fall/Winter Wedding Collection to Haider Rifaat
By Haider Rifaat
What drew you to fashion design? Were you always passionate about it?
From the very start, I had decided that if I were to work professionally, it would only be as a designer. I was very certain about it.
You are perhaps the pioneer designer with a bridal studio in Islamabad. What made you take this initiative?
I was into fashion and I loved wearing clothes. I was a painter as well so I had that creative element. When I designed a dress, my friends would request me to create the same dress for them. When more people began to approach me, I decided not to work from home but take designing on as a proper profession. I eventually designed my own collection and had a grand opening for my studio.
How have customers responded to your label in Islamabad?
The response is very positive. The concept of a design atelier did not exist in the capital city. People really appreciated one to one personal appointments and the studio’s comfortable ambiance.
What does fashion mean to you?
Fashion is the way you carry a dress. A short top is not suitable for every body type. If you carry something regular extraordinarily well, it is fashion.
As a designer, what is your input in the creation of a dress?
I try to give my 110 per cent. I start from scratch and complete the finished products on my own. I am not the only one involved. It is a team effort. My team is quite helpful but I never compromise on creativity. If I am producing something, I try to look at it from all the angles. I receive daily images so my involvement is crucial in almost everything.
Tell me about your upcoming collection.
It comprises of flattering, traditional dresses with long silhouettes and vibrant as well as subtle colours that work well in the Fall season. The collection is inspired by detailed work and 3-D motifs. I hope we receive a positive response.
What is the colour palette of this collection?
We have kept a very interesting palette consisting of shades of deep red, gold, burgundy and green amongst others. We have blended these three vibrant colours with golds.
Which fashion weeks is your label a part of this Fall?
There is Bridal Couture Week scheduled in December, followed by London Fashion Week. I’ve been invited many times to Milan Fashion Week, but it falls during the peak time for our business and we already have two very important shows to do. If I find time for it, I will definitely go.
Affordable fashion is the way to go now. Does your brand fulfill this requirement without compromising on quality?
We try our level best. Islamabad is not a market with business communities. We try to provide products at different price points.
A majority of Pakistani women fall in the UK size 14 bracket. Are there any flexible size options available to women?
We custom make dresses, take detailed measurements and schedule fittings. Not every cut suits everyone, so we suggest flattering cuts to our customers. There are some designs that have short lengths that I lengthen because short dresses just don’t flatter shorter, plumper bodies. I provide my clients the same feel and texture with longer dresses.
Of all seasons, which collection is sells the most
Our Winter collection sells the most. There are holidays in different parts of the world and people are eager to visit Pakistan for the wedding season. That is perhaps the best time for us and our sales are quite high.
Where else in the world is your label operative?
We launched in London last year. Our next target is Birmingham and New Jersey. I need a big team for this kind of work. It is complete handwork and you need skilled workers for it. It’s a gradual process but we will be starting soon. Either Birmingham or Manchester is definitely our target this year and we will later branch out to the U.S.
What do you look for in models for your professional shoots?
I look at their expressions and the way they give meaning to a dress while carrying it. There is an element of royalty involved when models wear my outfits.
What typical component in womenswear should change?
That’s a very important question. I find overdone work very typical. Everyone is excessively adding to the dresses, including myself. We are not conceptualizing a design that is in line with international trends.
Does your brand offer men’s fashion?
There are kurtas and sherwanis for men but they are custom made. We are planning a menswear line and luxury pret. Although I have a team, it is a one-woman show for now (laughs). If you have someone to support you in your family, things can work out. Recently, my son has started helping me so I can expand on the idea.
Has your family helped you establish a successful career or did you have to put up with struggles?
There are always hurdles when you start something but my family has been supportive. My children have helped me a lot. I must thank my youngest one, Afaan. He was only four years old when I began working. If I am under pressure, my son encourages me and counsels me. He has been very helpful.
Does pressure ever get to you when you are leading the front and creating gowns and diverse wardrobe options from start to finish?
When you reach a certain level in your career, your personality becomes stronger and you overcome pressure. Our bridal season December through February is an incredibly tough time. The customers panic and we have orders to produce in a timely fashion while also juggling bridal weeks.
Who inspires you in the field of fashion design?
I would say Nilofer Shahid. Internationally, I really like Zuhair Murad and Elie Saab. They are doing great work!
Are there any style no-nos we should know about?
I never consider something outdated. Some designs are timeless and if carried well, they look good on people. For me, a big no-no is not following your bodyline. Say there’s a healthy woman who requests me to make a lehnga or a gharara for her son’s wedding that would be a no for me. I give suggestions to my clients and help them with different options.
At the young age of 17, Rafay Israr caught a lucky break working on Weekends with Mahira. He catapulted to other gigs, getting hired as a backup musician for top music artists, like Atif Aslam, Ali Zafar, Abida Parveen, Edward Maya and Rahat Fateh Ali Khan. Inspired by such top level talent, the ambitious young musician started writing and composing his own music. Rafay tells Sana Zehra about his recently released singles Sajni and Beliya
Tell our readers a little about yourself and how you stepped into music?
I ventured into music at the age of 16. As I don’t have any family member in the music industry, it was extremely difficult for me to convince my family. I was able to prove myself though, and they were able to accept music as a legit(imate) career. Initially, I started singing at my school functions. Then, I did unplugged performances at cafes. From there my music journey progressed and I started getting concerts. So far, I have performed in almost 300 concerts all over Pakistan.
What’s your favourite genre in music?
I cannot actually choose a specific genre by saying “I love Xâ€, but for me I love any melody that touches my heart and the tune is catchy. I think, if someone can easily sing along to your song then it’s working.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
In five years, I see myself touring with my band and performing all over the world. Watching the crowd lip sync with our songs is truly the best feeling in the world.
Tell us about your latest release Beliya and who composed it?
After my debut song Sajni, I have recently released my second single called Beliya and the response has been amazing. I composed it myself just like I compose all my other songs.
Recently, an Indian record label has signed me on. I’ll talk more about it soon!
What are your upcoming projects? Any new music videos or releases happening anytime soon?
I plan to release a couple of singles this year. Last year. I stopped doing shows and recorded my music so there are a lot of different flavours. We did a lot of collaborations with different musicians, as well and experimented with different genres. The next music video is releasing on Eid ul Azha and I’m super excited for it.
Do you think the music industry is evolving and is there scope for newcomers?
The music industry is stable and evolving. A lot of concerts are now being held so there is always a good scope for new musicians. Upcoming talent can’t complain about not having a platform because there are tons of shows promoting and supporting young talent. Things that are missing right now are music TV channels and record labels.
“Recently, an Indian record label has signed me onâ€
What’s your favourite vacation spot?
Santorini, Greece is my favourite vacation spot. I look forward to shooting my music video there in the near future.
“Upcoming talent can’t complain about not having a platform because there are tons of shows promoting and supporting young talentâ€
If you were offered to work with Bollywood singers, which singer would you like to do a duet with?
Umm the wish list is long though but, to name but a few, I’d love to work with Shilpa Rao, Neha Kakkur and Monali Thakkur.
A few words for your new fans out there?
I would like to thank all my fans out there for such an overwhelming response to Beliya and Sajni. To all those who have not heard my songs, listen to them and post me feedback.
Let’s stand together and support original Pakistani music! XOXO
Filmstar Sana has starred in 300 projects since making her debut in Syed Noor’s Sangam back in 1997. Her most recent release has been the comedy Jackpot. The down to earth actress surprises Sana Zehra with her no nonsense attitude
Pakistani cinema has been unfortunate in that quite a few films have flopped in the last couple of months. When people write honest reviews, actors get defensive. What’s your response to film critics?
Our cinema is still immature (Editor’s Note: Still?) and it will take time to reach the heights that we all want to see. We should be optimistic, willing to experiment and appreciate instead of always criticising.
Using only one word per person, what was your first impression for the following people?
Mahira Khan:
Very talented
Shaan:
Legend! He isn’t working but he’s still a legend for everyone. I mean he’s worked for many years in this industry.
Your thoughts on the Pakistani film industry?
The Pakistani film industry is now divided between the cities: Lahore, Karachi, Islamabad, etc. We should not be divisive but work as a unit.
What was your experience working on the small screen?
It is always a pleasure and a great learning experience.
We absolutely love your six pack abs. What’s your preference—exercising your mind or exercising your body?
I think it’s a package. Exercise works for your mind and body both at the same time. I exercise for my health, which is much more important than anything else.
Would you rather have people be more straight forward with you or have them carefully choose their words?
That’s a difficult question. They have to be problematic for me to back off.
If you get a chance would you be part of Big Brother?
No, I would not want to be part of Big Brother because I don’t like the vibes given in the show. The people who participate are known to be infamous and I never want to be that.
Is there any regret in life that you still have and want to fix?
I don’t have any regrets. I am confident with whatever I do and my choices.
What annoys you most about women in general?
When women talk about brands all the time and pretend to be something they aren’t. I don’t like being around pretentious people.
Are there any compliments that you think are actually insults?
Interesting question. I love working out and when people say your body has started to look like a man’s, I get peeved. I mean, like really?! That’s all you can see? They don’t understand about body types but feel the necessity to criticize without even giving it a second thought.
Is there anything that your mind encourages you to do but your willpower always holds you back?
Willpower always holds you back or else your mind always says to do things you shouldn’t be doing.
How would you give someone constructive criticism?
I criticize people less because I focus on myself more. I need to improve myself a lot more before judging others. I can only suggest if asked.
One word on the following:
The competition in the industry?
Nonsense and useless. The industry isn’t even fully established yet, so what’s the competition about? You can’t call this an industry right now. People are more worried about their self-image than their quality of work.
Lip fillers?
If you need it, go do it.
Love?
Love is very important for the body, mind and soul.
Marriage?
Respect
In the industry, who is your closest friend?
I have a very professional attitude. I’m on good terms with everyone and don’t really have many fights or bad blood. I’m not really close to anyone as such, but I am on close terms with Resham and Meera. We actually started our careers together so we enjoy a good friendship.
What’s your favourite novel?
Many
Favourite movie in the past five years?
I recently watched one and I completely forgot its name.
Favourite horror movie?
I actually watch more cartoons because of my kids.
Favourite solo artist?
Rahat Fateh Ali Khan and Atif Aslam
If you were stuck in the elevator with the following people, what song would you sing?
Salman Khan?
Tere Mast Mast Do Nain
Javaid Sheikh?
Yeh Dil Aap Ka Hua
What’s the one thing you would never wear, even if you were paid to do so?
A net burqa
What’s the first thing you notice about someone when you meet them?
The way he/she sits and talks.
Who is the ultimate social media queen right now?
Aiman and Minal
Who is the ultimate fashion queen right now?
Ayesha Omar. I like her style
Lahore or Karachi?
Both. Lahore, Karachi, Islamabad, Multan, etc. I think all cities have different things to offer.
If you got the chance to make a documentary, what would you make it on?
Sufism. I belong to Multan and have many wonderful childhood memories. If I ever get the chance, I would definitely revisit and take pictures of those places.
Who is that one celebrity in the film industry that really needs a stylist?
So many. Some people might say that about me. We all need a stylist because we might like something but the stylist help us to put it all together.
What is the one word in the film industry that everyone needs to stop using?
Everyone says, “Okay, no problem†to everything but in reality there are a lot of issues. People need to acknowledge that and try to resolve it instead of saying, “No problem!â€
What one piece of advice would you give actors if you got the chance?
I don’t think upcoming stars need advice. They need more exposure and a platform to exhibit their talent. Whenever they get a proper platform, they know how to present themselves.
I just love Sajal Aly’s acting and work. She’s no less than any international actor.
If someone sent you as a judge on a morning show, would you accept it?
Yeah sure.
What is your biggest phobia in life?
To gain weight
Any message for your fans and any upcoming films?
I just want to add that people who watch Pakistani cinema should stop criticizing and need to start overlooking the flaws. Show some respect to people who are working in the industry. We need positivity in our daily life. Keep in mind that we don’t have any academies or learning institutes for the cinematic arts.
I have noticed that you aren’t that old, but most people call you baji, how do you feel about that?
I’ve been working for almost a decade it really does not bother me. It’s okay, as long as I am getting respect.
Why did you choose to do Jackpot?
I’ve always supported Pakistani cinema. The character I portray is different and a new one for me. Earlier films didn’t have so much depth and shades to characters as they do now. This character has a comedic element to it.
Additionally, the team was extremely helpful, professional, dedicated and passionate. This is the first film Shoaib Khan is producing/directing. I’ve enjoyed doing his dramas before. I was also excited to work with Sadie Khan, the stylist. I hope everyone’s hard work pays off.
Tell us about your character?
I’m playing Maliki. She is a woman who’s married and is a bit forgetful and not too smart. Everyone else is very smart in the film except her but fortunately the film’s climax is centered on her. Everyone is stuck and has to follow this goofy lady.
It was fun to do, and I am so excited to see how it’ll all come together at the end. We haven’t seen the whole film together, so I think that will be entertaining.
Why should people go watch Jackpot?
It’s thoroughly entertaining and people will enjoy all aspects of it.
Shoot coordination & styling
Umer Mushtaq
Hair & makeup
Eric Send
Photography
Raza Jaffri
Who? Aamina Sheikh
Why? The actress looks classy in an embellished velvet pantsuit
Who? Frieha Altaf
Why? The PR maven has expertly paired her ankle strap sandals with her kaftan
Who? Mehwish Hayat
Why? She’s channeling Kim Kardashian-West in a grey figure-hugging dress and flat-ironed hair
Who? Daisy Shah
Why? The B-wood starlet is elegant in a beautiful nude net sari
Who? Mikaal Zulfiqar
Why? Carries his jacket with aplomb
Who? Sanam Saeed
Why? Covered and sophisticated, yet eye-catching
1. WWF Pak Aims to Make Pakistan Greener by Introducing Rung Do Pakistan CampaignÂ
Mass deforestation is an anathema for our country. Only 2% of Pakistan’s area remains forested. Pakistan has the highest deforestation rate in Asia. As per WWF estimates, every year between 2000 and 2010, Pakistan lost forests at an alarming rate of approx. 43,000 hectares, which is equivalent to half the size of Islamabad, mostly because of commercial use of wood and illegal logging. WWF-Pakistan has made its mission to encourage the growth of sustainable forestry to benefit multifariousness and communities that depend on these forests. RUNG DO PAKISTAN by WWF aims to plant 1.4 million trees across Pakistan starting from 14th August 2018 till 14th August 2019. Get involved in taking charge of the country’s future!
2. Open House Sale at ChenOne
ChenOne announces Open House Sale with up to 50% on the entire range. Get 10% cash discount on the entire furniture range. Rush to your nearest ChenOne outlet or shop online at https://www.chenone.com fo for great deals.
3. Just the right look!
Sadya’s Bridal Salon provides excellence in enhancing your natural beauty. Check out
Instagram @Sadyasbridalsalon
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Contact: 03018444151
Both a necessity of life and our guilty pleasure, shoes can make or break an outfit. Here is a list of the biggest shoe trends this year as exhibited on the latest runway shows.
By Eman Bandey
Marco De Vincenzo
Mules — These pointy-toe high heeled slides are on all the most stylish feet these days, including those of the high priestess of fashion, Victoria Beckham.
Phillip Lim
Slingbacks — Super comfy, yet dressed up looking at the same time, slingbacks should be a perennial in your closet. Reminiscent of the 80s, modern iteration includes block as well as kitten heels. The colours run from good ol’ black to pretty pastels.
Balenciaga
Ugly sneakers — Aka Dad sneakers are everywhere this season. They’re big and bulky but give you height and are comfortable to boot. The trend started by Balenciaga can now be found at Zara.
Malone Souliers
Kitten heels — Aah the comfort of having a low heel that gives you an elegant high heel gait without the teetering! Going with formal attire to a daytime look, these versatile ladylike shoes are sheer bliss.
Chanel
Clear Shoes — PVC, acrylic, clear vinyl who knew high fashion was headed towards plastic. After Kim K-West started sported her Yeezy sandals a few seasons back bringing them into fashion, last year Chanel took the trend to another level with its lucite boot, worth a pretty penny. Now clear shoes come in a whole lot of variations and price points.
Céline
Curvy Shoes — Starting with the YSL shaped heel, this trend is now moving towards curvy heels. It’s more interesting than your basic, straight heel.
Ganni
Cowboy Boots — Kick up some dust in a pair. They’ve recently been spotted on several street style stars at various Western Fashion Weeks. You too can follow the trend in the F/W season by mixing cowboy boots with feminine dresses and skirts.
Michael Kors
All white — The industry’s penchant for white shoes continues. With this year’s deadly summer heat, there are plenty of chic, Tipp-Ex white sandals on offer. One particularly desirable pair was introduced by Michael Kors, while another great super comfy shoe is a super white wedge by Gucci.
Asos
Embellishments — Maximalistic is the name of the game right now, especially with Dolce & Gabbana’s embellished shoes. This trend can be easily DIY-ed. Glitzy shoes can add pizzaz to a masculine-looking suit and even spruce up your everyday jeans and t-shirt.
By Afshan Shafi
The three stunning Persian sisters, Elnaz, Tanaz and Golnaz, who earned their Bachelor’s degree in interior design and architecture, are brightening up our Instafeeds with their supercool, sultry style. Their meticulously curated Insta features them in a variety of London locations in refreshingly retro, feminine ensembles. Whether it’s a satin shift or a latex mini with staggeringly high heels, they imbue each look with youthfulness and class. Their beauty look is spot on too, often finished off with a matte red lip and gleaming raven locks. We love getting our daily dose of their glam life. Read on for some of our favourite looks
Mahlia S. Lon
Bridal designers catering to various price points abound in Lahore and Karachi, but shopping choices in Islamabad have always been more limited. Meet Shazia Kiyani who set up one of the city’s first bridal studios. In this issue, she tells us why it’s important for her to give her clients unbiased advice on what suits their specific body types; she also gives us a heads up on the colour palette and silhouettes of her upcoming F/W Bridal Collection. We also have a feature on all the shoe styles on trend at the moment. Accessories are expensive, like everything else, and it’s useful to read this before investing in your next pair of shoes. In addition, singer/songwriter Rafay Israr tells us how he got from being a backup musician to signing with a big Indian music label. Actors, Inayat Khan and Sana Fakhar, from the big budget comedy Jackpot, generously give us insight into their personal lives. With this and much more, GT wishes you Happy Independence Day!
‘This the season of turning officially green!
With the spirit of independence infused in the air, Pakistan has begun celebrating some of its most valued memories of sacrifice and patriotism from the yesteryears.
Keeping up its tradition of celebrating what it means to be a true Pakistani, Pakistan’s favourite, foodpanda is now out on the streets delivering not just our favourite food from across town but also an exciting surprise.
This independence day, foodpanda has collaborated with Pakistan’s newest singing sensation, Kashmir – The Band, to unite Pakistanis with what they love the most: good food and great music!
The campaign has already begun with Kashmir – the band delivering their very first food order packed in cute little pink boxes especially designed for their fans. And that’s not it. The band is also performing an exclusive Azadi jam right at your door step!
To enjoy a hearty meal and great music with your family and friends this independence season, simply use the promo code “AZADIJAM” while checking out on the foodpanda app or website and get a chance to see Pakistan’s favourite band jam with you right in the comfort of your own home.
To check out how foodpanda is winning hearts with its newest collaboration, head over to the campaign’s hashtag #foodpandaAzadiJam and let the true spirits of celebration, patriotism and togetherness spread all around!
Mahlia S. Lon
Pakistan is on everyone’s mind these days. Just in time for the country’s 71st Independence Day celebrations, we asked celebs if they could change one thing about the country, what would it be? What would you change? Let’s become that change with each of us responsible for whatever influence we ourselves have. Talk is cheap, so let’s put our time, money and effort where our mouth is!
With Fall around the corner, we’ve done some international trend spotting for you. The House of Dior has been bombarding Instagram with images of world famous millennials like Gigi Hadid carrying the Dior Saddle Bag bringing it back in popularity. For those of you who can remember, in the 90s the Dior Saddle Bag and the Fendi Baguettes were The fashionable bags to carry. So if you’ve got one hiding at the back of your closet, now will be the time to pull it out and dust it off, ready for active duty on your arm. Great quality and design never goes out of style.
With fashion plus interviews with actor Yasir Hussain, anchorman Kashif Abbasi, as well as musicians Ali Hamza and Zohaib Kami in addition to the Sindhi folktale of Momal Rano, we present you the latest issue of GT. Pakistan Zindabad!
