Who? Baktawar Malik
Why? This pretty young girl flaunts her tiny waist in a jumpsuit complemented by choice accessories
Who? Fahad Mustafa
Why? Cool dude!
Who? Ayman Khan
Why? Casual as only a LUMS student can be, she effortlessly blends low key with polished
Who? Nausheen Shah
Why? Because Less is still More!
Who? Khadijah Shah
Why? Wonderwoman has produced a baby and a new highstreet brand all in the last two months and looks like a golden goddess in the meanwhile
Who? Maria Wasti
Why? We love her traditional blush pink gharara
By Afshan Shafi and Eman Bandey
Salama Hasan of the fab blog InVogue Pakistan gives us an exclusive look inside her beautifully curated wardrobe. She styles four immaculate looks from her newly launched line, Hassal Official pairing the clothes with luxe accessories. Read on to see how she brings these looks to life
Neutrals are always classy and we love the details on this blouse. Sheer heels and a trendy bag make this whole ensemble a winner!
We love the subtlety and elegance of this black top. The laidback trousers give this look its comfortable vibe. A quilted black and gold bag and idiosyncratic cut out heels impart charm and edge
Monochrome seperates with spunky yet ladylike heels give this look its appeal. The Yves Klein blue Hermes clutch adds oomph to the whole image
We love how Salama pairs neutral and dark tones and makes the whole look come alive with fun shoes or a cool clutch! Sleek unfussy hair and just the right amount of poise give this whole outfita a timeless appeal
The philosophy of Hilal Silk has always been simple: To provide the finest quality Silk in Pakistan. For over seven decades, the heritage brand has produced finest quality hand woven silk, which due to its exquisite craftsmanship remains a favourite of bridal designers to this day. The fourth generation in the business, Talha Batla’s contribution to the brand has been to merge contemporary style with traditional silk-making technique. Talha tells Sana Zehra how the brand has evolved over the years
Who is Talha Batla?
I am actually the fourth generation in this business. It was started by my great grandfather in 1949 and then my family continued the legacy. Initially, my plan was not to join the family business but to be a corporate lawyer. I finished my ACCA and then my LLB, ready to enter the corporate world but God had other plans for me. In the summer of 2011, my grandfather asked me to computerize his accounting system. I had just given my final ACCA papers and was waiting for the result. I had already applied for LLB and thought it was a good way to apply my financial knowledge to my family’s business, while completing my second degree on the side. It took me six months to get customized software made and implement it. While developing the software I started to learn the other core operations of the business, like production and designing. I decided to continue with Hilal till I was done with my LLB. My law degree finished in 2014 but by then I had already decided that I love doing what I was already doing and after that, there was no looking back. I joined Hilal Silk and here I am, after seven years in the business already, being a major part of this amazing family heritage.
How has your brand evolved over the years?
In 70 years, we’ve grown from having one outlet to multiple ones across the country and from making only silk to offering a wide range of pure fabrics, along with the recent addition of couture.
Describe your line Talha Batla by Hilal Silk?
At Hilal Silk, we cater to everyone with different preferences and style sense from the masses to the classes. Talha Batla by Hilal Silk is my effort in bringing contemporary designs in bridal and handwork range, while keeping the traditional Hilal Silk style alive.
Do you sell any other fabric than silk?
We initially started with silk, now we offer chiffon, tissue, net, maisuri and embroidered fabrics.
What is the key difference between your silk and other silk available in the market?
We take great pride in our products as all silks are pure and produced on hand looms giving it the strength and durability that last for years. It’s superior in quality to anything else available in the market. And I’m sure everyone would agree
Does the brand believe in fair trade? How does your CSR (corporate social responsibility) differ from others in how you treat your employees?
The oldest employee we have at Hilal Silk has been working with us for the past 55 years, so you can imagine how well we treat our employees. Once they work with us they never leave us. We believe in fair trade and are working very closely to streamline it better.
What is your source of inspiration?
Inspiration for me can come from anything. Nature, i.e. birds, flowers, and their colours inspire me. The most recent inspiration I had, came from a carpet in a mosque, the colours were so beautifully blended that it gave me the idea for a new design.
If you’d choose to dress any celebrity who would it be and why?
Being in this industry, you get a chance every now and then to dress up celebrities. We usually work with easter wear. If I had to choose one celebrity to dress it would be Sushmita Sen because of the grace and elegance with which she carries her clothes.
Favourite all time designer?
There are many, to name a few Alexander McQueen’s work really inspires me. For eastern wear, Dr. Haroon and Sabyasachi have to be my favourites.
What are the key trends for bridal and wedding wear for the upcoming season?
Bridal is all about colours and cuts. Sadly, embellishement takes the back seat. But to me, people have finally started understanding what intricate work is and how it can enhance the look of the whole outfit. So if you ask me, people who are just using big stones and thick (mota) dabka are so last season because people want intricacy and that’s what bridal wear this season should be.
What trends would you like to see die?
One trend which I really want to see die is Angarkha cut in bridal dresses. I just hate seeing Angarkhas for bridals, it just kills it for me.
What do you hope to see more of from designers in bridal and wedding wear this season?
I want designers to experiment more with colours. Sticking with red for the wedding day needs to go. It’s so overdone
What is coming up this season? ?
Our next line is coming by the end of September. It’s a modern take on some of the most traditional dresses, like saris. We also have fresh looking Nikkah outfits.
Will we see Hilal Silk in fashion shows and changing its marketing style from old school to contemporary?
Frankly, Hilal Silk doesn’t need marketing. It has been the going strong with word of mouth for decades now and I don’t think it’s going to be any different in the future. Although you might see Talha Batla by Hilal Silk changing the game and creating a niche.
By Eman Bandey
Designers are rethinking this classic as it has become a major 2018 trend. Get a silk scarf that you can use in multiple ways, including as a a bag strap or even as a nontraditional ankle strap!
This season’s totes are well quite super-sized, which I’m not complaining about. They’re perfect for travel and for the woman who’s always on the go.
Opt for hands-free with all the fanny packs and necklace pouchettes. Best for men and women who are always doing something. Some are too small to even fit your cards but other can fit the necessities.
Designers have spared no expense when it comes to jewellery. Let’s just say right now bigger = better. With floor scraping earrings and gigantic necklaces, this trend calls for confidence and unapologetic boldness.
Ditch your phone and keep your hands warm. At least that’s what designers are hoping for. Gloves are available in all different colours and lengths but for those who are glued to their phones, Chanel is selling fingerless ones similar to those Karl Lagerfeld alway wears.
Chunky and ornate cuffs are stylish for many reasons, one being they look like a work of art. Wearable art is on trend in the fashion industry. They’re an easy way of incorporating jewel tones and exotic motifs into otherwise basic looks.
A simple modification on a tried and true accessory that looks radically original. Elegant, there’s something decisive of this look. The long and dangling varieties sweep the collarbone and create a romantic asymmetry.
Leopard print accessories have been gaining popularity. This might not be everyone’s favourite print but opt for a smaller accessory in this print and test it out.
An updated and industrial spin on the classic belt! Chunky hardware and straps give a belt an extra dimension of texture and infuse it with an urbane sensibility. It can transform any look like the classic turtleneck and jeans combo and endow a simple outfit with an upscale mood.
1. Folklore
This bistro conveniently located at one end of M.M. Alam Road provides an excellent spot to refresh you after you’ve hit the boutiques. The food is actually delicious, flavourful and well priced. What’s not to like?
2. Divine
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3. Naturals
Naturals brings fresh & healthy food for you and your family. Shop for organic products, dine in at Flavors Cafe and experience live grinding of premium natural flours and spices at 229 FF Commercial Market, Phase IV DHA, Lahore. Check it out on facebook/instagram/twitter/snapchat @naturalspk.”
Singer/actress/TV host, Komal Rizvi has been in showbiz since the age of 16. Not only has she starred in hit serials and been a popular VJ but she also sung the oft played bhangra ditty Baooji back in ‘97, as well as pop and folk songs since then. Rizvi is all set to make a comeback with her new release Hello Ji. Komal tells Sana Zehra what it’s like being a female singer in Pakistan
Does Hello Ji have a message you want to share with your fans?
Yes, indeed. Hello Ji stands for all those people who love doing something or love someone but fear failure or rejection. The message in this song is that times have changed, don’t fear anyone or anything.
“Jo kehna hai kaho ji†(Say whatever you have to say.)
You have been described as “outspoken, energetic, bubbly†and as an “an all-rounder.†What do you feel when you hear people describing you in these terms?
I really don’t consider myself outspoken at all. I suppose it’s all relative. There are so many things I would like to talk about but I have to be politically correct for the sake of my family or the society. But yes, I am energetic and bubbly and that’s how I would like to remain always — positive and happy. Life is too short to take yourself too seriously.
The music industry still seems to be largely dominated by men. Do you think the industry is afraid of strong and independent women? If yes, how does it show? What are some personal experiences you have in this regard?
The industry is changing, but super slowly. It’s about time women artistes should be taken more seriously. We have to work harder. It’s true that women are dealt a lot of “Get out of jail free†cards. So being a woman has both advantages and disadvantages. I, for one, am extremely proud of being a woman. I would not have wanted it any other way.
Do you Google yourself or read what the internet has to say about you or do you feel like it’s better to not pay attention to these things?
Mostly, I try to not hear or read too much criticism because it does take a toll on my level of optimism and motivation, but it’s very hard to not be aware of any trolling whatsoever. Someone or the other in the industry feels the need to make you aware of your failings eventually.
You travel a lot for work. How do you keep your work-life balance?
Since I only work, and spend all my free time with the family, I sometimes have to really force myself to have some “Me†time. In fact, I have now made it a ritual to keep my mornings to myself. It has made a huge difference in my life and my state of mind. My meditation and my riyaaz is key to my inner peace and sanity.
How has your musical journey shaped you in becoming who you are today?
I shape my musical journey. My musical journey does not shape me.
Do you have someone special in your life?
Not yet!
What is one of the biggest misconceptions about you?
That I am a snob
Were any of your songs written to symbolize any life event?
I have over 100 released songs over the course of my career. So yes, a lot of them I have written and composed are relevant to an event in my life.
How do you feel about the way people interpret your songs?
At the moment I’m doing light, fun songs because I believe this country needs some women doing music that can uplift the mood. At some point, I want to do serious music too, but I’m not into the mood for that just yet.
What has been the most enjoyable song you have sung and why?
I like singing Tu Beh Gaya a lot. Rock ballads are just up my alley.
Ever considered joining a band?
Nope
What is your favourite song that isn’t your own?
Unchained Melodies
Any message for your fans?
Stay positive. Keep learning, self-improving and challenging yourself. Grow. Become a light for yourself and others. Stay strong. Stay cool. Pakistan Zindabad!
Mahlia S. Lon
There’s a rich tradition of passing down a craft from generation to generation in most cultures; a collective consciousness that we inherit as well as a diffused learning that we unconsciously pick up growing up in a specific environment, apart from the more obvious one of being taught at our elders’ knees. Many young people rebel and want to go in a different direction from their forefathers, which is their choice, but there are others who choose to carry on in the family tradition. How do they put the stamp of their own individuality on the family business per se is the question we pose to two young men in this issue. Ahad Raza Mir, starring in his first feature film Parwaaz Hai Junoon, tells us how being the son of actor Asif Raza Mir and grandson of Raza Mir, director and Pakistan’s first cinematographer, helps him get his foot in the door but his professionalism is ultimately what helps him prove himself. In a similar vein, Talha Batla got his LLB in the hopes of being a corporate lawyer, but the tug of the family business pulled him in. He is the fourth generation at the helm of heritage brand Halal Silk, his great grandfather having started the business in 1949. Talha tells us how he is maintaining the company’s strengths and loyal clientele while adding his contemporary spin via a new fashion line.
There’s always a moral to all our stories. Hope you enjoy these and other features we have prepared for you!
By Afshan Shafi
Scintillatingly glam and possessing that fey je ne sais quoi, Lana El Sahely is one of our favourite stylestars. Belonging to privilege, she is highfashion and yet never too done. Read on for some of our fav looks
In Louis Vuitton
In Elie Saab
In Nour Hammour with Roger Vivier accessories
In Valentino
In Celine
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
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
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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.
