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We speak to influencer Minahil Wattoo about her style, her fashion influences and more

How would you describe your personal style?

My personal style is always evolving depends on my mood and the trends. But if i have to describe it in a few words, I’d say it’s a combination of classy and trendy with a hint of casual chic!

Your favourite fashion designer?

Have been obsessed with lirika Maloshim and Mohsin Naveed Ranjha for over a year now!

Do you believe in sustainable fashion? Have you changed your wardrobe to make it more sustainable in the recent years?

Yes I do. I am obsessed with solids and colour blocking these days. I own at-least 2-3 different solid pieces in each colour and it’s crazy how much you can do with just a few of those!

Where in Pakistan do you love to shop?

Apart from the stunning designer stores that we have so many of in Pakistan, I love going to Liberty Market. I hardly shop there because I can’t bargain but i loveeee capturing the aesthetic and the vibe of the market on my camera! (For insta mainly 😉

What is the oldest item in your closet?

My black Zara T-shirt. It’s sooo basic but so soft at this point in life and since it’s black, it looks like it’s in perfect condition everytime. I can still style it up or down and it never disappoints. Safe to say it’s not only the oldest but also my most favourite item in my closet.

What, in your opinion, are must have items that are essential to a great closet?

  1. A black T-shirt
  2. A white button down
  3. A classic pair of jeans
  4. White tailored pants
  5. At least 3 pairs of neutral heels
  6. Basic gold accessories

And you’re sorted! You can elevate any basic look with a nice pair of heels and gold accessories! Yes, even a white shirt and a black T-shirt!

Your most prized possession?

My mom’s 24k gold pendant that has Allah engraved in and it was given to her by my late grandfather when I was born. (Emotionally and financially 🙂

Your favourite accessory?

Any sort of solid gold jewelry! Literally!

What item in your closet makes you cringe?

OMG! My Ed Hardy T-shirt with all those diamantés engraved in a skull. Haha, it’s almost vintage but i need my kids to see it.

Musician and It Boy Haider Mustehsan talks to us about his career, his bucket list and more.

Did you always want to be a singer?

I’m not sure but the art of singing/making music was and is an integral part of my life. I’m pretty sure it will remain that way.

What’s your favourite thing about being a musician?

My favourite thing is being able to connect with people that I don’t know. To be able to produce and render an emotion that was personal to me and giving it to the world.

If you weren’t a musician what would you be?

I have a dual bachelor’s in Political Economy and Sociology, and I’m currently a Masters student in the field of Peace and Conflict Studies. This is a path I’m pursuing in conjunction with my music.

What do you do on days that you’re off from work?

Football. And I usually listen to podcasts and utilize other avenues that help keep a constant flow of knowledge to myself. Also, I like to travel.

Name three things on your bucket list.

1- Win a Grammy

2- Write a song with Ed Sheeran

3- Be proud of myself 20 years from now

Who is your inspiration?

My brother and sister.

Do you it is still consider it a taboo to be in the entertainment industry in Pakistan or have things changed?

I’m pretty sure it is. Specially for our women. But then again, my music (I’m sure I speak for the majority of my colleagues) isn’t for the people that think this is a taboo. So it’s not really of any concern to me. We have ways to go and progress as a society, and unfortunately the music is just the tip of the iceberg went it comes to nonsensical taboos.

There is a major cancel culture these days. Do you ever feel the pressure of that in terms of what you post or say?

Not at all. I post what I feel like.

What’s the best thing about performing?

It’s something about the energy you get that reverberates from the crowd and onto the stage. Especially when the crowd knows the lyrics and sings it back to you. It’s magical.

What advice would you give to aspiring musicians?

Don’t indulge yourself in machine driven views. Stay true to yourself and your craft. Consistency is the only way.

Risham stuns in this Rishmal outfit. The white on white is the ultimate look for an intimate wedding or Eid! Keeping it simple, she accessorizes the outfit with long dangly earrings, a sparkly clutch and heels proving that less is definitely more!

Influencer Alizeh Pasha looks absolutely stunning in this teal and white outfit. We love the embellishments on the neckline and shoulders. She accessorizes the outfit with a cute bucket bag and silver heels. 10/10!

Misha is our new favourite fashionista who makes no mistakes when it comes to fashion! Misha looks fab in this Sehrish Rehan outfit. This look is perfect for Eid or family dinners. She wears her hair down and pairs the outfit with black strappy heels. We’re obsessed!

There’s something about Mommy and Me outfits that makes us swoon. Supermodel and now mom Amo B and her daughter Baby Naz twin in these gorgeous kurtas by Minikins. Amna wears her hair in beachy waves and pairs the outfit with her Hermes Oran Sandal while little Naz accessorizes hers with sparkly sandals and a teddy. So adorable!

Manahyl turns heads in this stunning lime saree by Kokab Zia. The saree truly is a work of art with gorgeous embellished borders and a long pallu. Manahyl ties back her hair and keeps her makeup simple. We love it!

Ushna Shah is the epitome of grace in this Elan number. The dress is definitely a sight for sore eyes. We love the embellished bodice. Ushna wears her hair in loose waves and accessorizes with big silver earrings. It’s giving!

Socialite and influencer Alizeh Rabbani takes us inside her closet

How would you describe your personal style?

Whatever I’m comfortable in. I can never step out wearing something that is not true to my inherent aesthetic.

Your favourite fashion designer?

I have many but off the top of my head: Rizwan Beyg and DVF.

Do you believe in sustainable fashion? Have you changed your wardrobe to make it more sustainable in recent years?

Yes! I’ve recently enlightened myself a lot on fast fashion and their carbon footprint share. So now when I shop I try very hard to not fall prey to impulse itches and trends and only get classic and timeless pieces. I’m not entirely there yet but trying my best. Even for my second baby, I made a conscious effort to recycle my elder son’s clothes especially since babies grow at the speed of light and hardly get to wear their clothes.

What, in your opinion, are must-have items that are essential to a great closet?

A nice pair of jeans, a white shirt, a good pair of sunglasses.

Where in Pakistan do you love to shop?

I love all lots of brands, but the place that gets me most excited is Lahore Center!

What is the oldest item in your closet?

My grandmother’s jewelry.

Your most prized possession?

Nothing. I never get too attached to any of my things. For me things have zero emotional value.

Your favourite accessory?

My signet ring and my tennis bracelet.

What item in your closet makes you cringe?

Haha I have many “what was I thinking” items; but my gold metallic Oxford brogues top the list.

Makeup artist Hira Khan speaks to us about the DO’s and DON’T’s of makeup

Tell us about the makeup trends for summer?

For summer I always prefer to keep my makeup look clean. Maybe a pop of color on the eyeliner to lift your look or a clean face with a bright lip color.

What are some tips to make foundation look natural during the summer?

Focus on good skin care and your foundation will always look flawless! I also believe in the less is more policy when it comes to applying foundation or concealing. Only cover the problem areas to avoid looking cakey.

How do you suggest people protect their natural skin and hair from makeup and styling?

I’m a strong advocate of being comfortable in your skin, I feel makeup should only be used to enhance not alter. Good skin care should always come first and foremost. The same goes for hair, you need to understand your skin and hair both while making a skin and hair care regime you strictly need to follow. When your skin and hair is healthy from within, you won’t even need much styling or makeup on a daily basis.

What is your go-to skincare routine?

I have a bedtime skincare regime that I always follow. I feel hydration is the key since my skin is a little dry. So my skincare consists of lots of serums and hydrating creams which I keep switching up. I believe having detox water first thing in the morning and keeping a check on your water intake through out the day does wonders. Using a sunblock also helps keep your skin healthy through out if you tend to encounter sun exposure.

What mistakes do most brides make in your opinion? If you could give the brides who come to you some advice, what would it be?

I feel most of the brides I get always want to go for glittery eyes with red lips which I in my opinion, is so cliché. I often find myself trying to convince them to go for something that is customized according to their features. I believe brides should also try to stick to the less is more policy and not go over board with makeup. It’s not essential to get heavy lashes, glittery eyes and red lips on your big day. A subtle smoked out matte eye makeup with muted lips can look so classy too.

What challenges have you faced as an MUA in Pakistan?

I think the constant obsession with looking fairer and expecting makeup artists to literally perform the job of a cosmetic surgeon is the number one struggle. People often tend to forget that makeup is not meant to alter but enhance. We can contour and give illusions but we can’t alter. Beauty makeup has its boundaries and people need to understand that.

What consists of your every day makeup kit?

My eyebrow kit, mascara and a lip tint.

What are your top 5 foundations?

I don’t have any top picks for foundations because I feel there’s just so much variety in skin types and foundations both. I always recommend people to pick the right shade and undertone according to their skin tone. Go for a foundation that suits your skin type/texture. My personal favourite that suits my skin is the Dior Forever Foundation.

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.

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.

Saira Shakira’s 22 luxury pret collection is a sight for sore eyes. Shot by the talented Alee Hassan featuring Ayesha Rajput the collection has something for everyone. Delia brings together modern and contemporary silhouettes, a wide range of colours and cuts. The collection is perfect for dressing it up (for weddings and qawallis) or dressing it down (for dinners and smaller events). We’re obsessed!

Brand: Saira Shakira
Collection: Delia Luxury Pret 2022
PR: Centaur One
Photography: Alee Hasan
Makeup: Fatima Nasir
Model: Ayesha Rajput

Zain Hashmi’s Collection encapsulates couture pieces that reflect each bride’s personality. There is a sea of dreamy tones and extensive handwork techniques spotted in his work that is sure to satisfy every bride’s vision. Their men’s formal line features an exclusive signature colour palette and rich textures.

Label/Designer: Zain Hashmi
Models: Kiran Ghazi & Munsif Ali Khan
Photography: Stopstyle
PR & Coordination: Shamail Butt
Hair & Make up: Saima Rashid Bargfrede

Fashion student and influencer Habiba Rahman takes us inside her closet

My personal style in three words

My personal style is comfy, girly and laidback

My favourite creation

I love each and everything I’ve ever made but I think my favourites have to be all the bucket hats I’ve made (just because I wear them so often); and the JW Anderson cardigan I made because it was a labour of love!

My top 5 wardrobe essentials

Sneakers with a platform because I’m tiny

A white chikankaari kurta; I can’t survive summer in Lahore without it. Plus, it can be dressed up or down in so many ways!

A pair of jeans that fit just the way you like it

A plain white tee

A plain white button down in a poplin cotton

My favourite vintage item

Everything I’ve inherited from my Dadi and Nani is so special to me. Recently my Nani gave me the most beautiful fully hand worked saree from her bridal trousseau. The best part is the kaam is all saccha so it looks brand new!

My top 5 shoe essentials

Definitely platform sneakers because they give me a sneaky bit of height!

A pair of Doc Martens; they go with everything ????

Some form of shiny high heels to survive shaadi season

High top Converse are another classic

And of course, a pair of khussas. All my favourites are from Khussa Mahal in Liberty, Lahore

My most prized possession

I don’t have a particular prized possession – it’s important not to get too attached to material things as they come and go.

Designer and socialite Aiza Alvi takes us inside her closet

My personal style in three words

Cool, relaxed, freestyle: I like to keep things comfy, but also fun. I don’t shy away from extending a day outfit to night- all that’s needed is the perfect amount of edge in a mostly relaxed fit. Maybe a pop of color or anything with shoulder pads, army print, chains!

My top 5 wardrobe essentials

Oversized button down, collared shirt, White t shirt, Black tights, Loose fit jeans, Chunky sneakers

My top 5 shoe essentials

Sneakers, black heels, white heels, Chunky black boots, Anything sparkly!

My favourite vintage item

Shawl

My most prized possession

Nomads don’t have prized possessions — they make it work with what they have in the moment!

Here are our favourite looks from the PISA Awards red carpet!

Sana Javed
We are obsessed with Sana’s minimal look. She chose to wear a traditional saree by Umar Sayeed Couture. She opted for barely there makeup and accessories. Her straight hair and bronze makeup tied the look together.

Iqra Aziz
Iqra Aziz chose a turquoise and pink sari for the occasion. Paired with traditional jewelry, smokey eyes and a tight bun her look was one of our favourites from the red carpet!

Sonya Hussayn
It seemed like sarees were a hot favourite this time around. Sonya Hussayn donned a rust silk saree. The bold colour made her stand out from the others on the red carpet. She kept her hair straight and accessorized with a funky ear cuff.

Hania Aamir
This was Hania’s first red carpet appearance in a saree this year and she absolutely slayed it. Everything about her look from the silky ivory fabric to the red lip and middle part was just perfect.

Humaima Malick
Styled by Ehtasham Ansari in Sanafsha, Humaima Malick turned heads at the red carpet in this stunning tulle gown. She paired the look with wavy hair, bronze eyes and a nude lip.

the sensational kiran Malik is hsy’s lady in red for the brand’s latest collection, ‘red’. WIth a mix of traditional wear and western designs, the collection is an ode to craftsmanship and beauty

Photography: Alee Hassan
Hair & Makeup: Fatima Nasir
Styling: Zahra Sarfraz
Art Direction: Saad Amjed
Jewellery: Neemar

With so many ways to approach maternity wear, dressing up when pregnant can get complicated. For anyone struggling, we bring you some inspiration via Stylist, Mehek Saeed and Digital Creator, Huma Mobin — two fashionable ladies who’ve celebrated their changing body with aplomb.

Outfits: Lulusar and A Pea’s Pod

Razia Sultana’s ‘Mehnaz’ is a resplendent pret collection that pays homage to feminine beauty by drawing poetic inspiration from the beauty of the moon. With ensembles consisting of pure fabrics, hand work, appliques and adda work, this classic collection showcases the passion of the artisans behind it. Here a team of creatives presents ‘Mehnaz’ in all its radiance

Wardrobe: Razia Sultana
Models: Abeer Asad Khan, Atikah Gardezi, Aqsa Shah
Coordination: Centaur One
Photography: Tuba Afzal
Styling: Arbaqan Changezi
MUA: Usman Style Artist
Jewels: Mahvish Naeem, Kundan Co

ft. Maryam Mahmood

Maryam Mahmood’s playful take on sarees will inspire you to create more space for them in your wardrobe. Making a solid case for the versatility of this timeless outfit, Maryam’s poise and effortlessness add to our list of reasons to love sarees more than any other ethnic wear.

It’s that time of the year again when we longingly look towards the skies, waiting to be drenched. A spell is cast all around, as the heat lifts and joy settles in. This fortnight Mohsin Khawar captures the magic of the monsoon season with AMK Libaas

 

Label: AMK Libaas
Photography: Mohsin Khawar
Art Direction & Styling: Aysha Mohsin
Talent: Mehrunnisa & Shahnam
Makeup: Sunny Zohaib
Location: The S Studios by Sophie

‘Aphrodite’ by HSY is a celebration of art, culture and classic elements. Showcasing exceptional crafstmanship through elaborate embroidery and and classic silhouettes, the collection embodies the quintessential couture spirit that is central to HSY. Inside our pages, HSY collaborated with glam icon Resham and masters of beauty Ather Shahzad for a resplendent shoot. This spread is an ode to the incomparable contributions of these three powerhouses; each one one a trendsetter in their own right

Wardrobe: HSY
Hair & Makeup: Ather Shahzad
Photography: Ather Shahzad
Jewellery: Hamna Amir Jewelry

Spotlighting new talent has always been at the forefront of GT’s mission and this fortnight we bring you Natalia Castillo—a rising star in the fashion industry. Styled in Lajwanti by Zahra Sarfraz and captured by the lens of Asad Bin Javed, she proves in this editorial why she is here to stay.

What inspired you to take up modelling professionally?

I’ve always loved being in front of the camera, but modelling wasn’t something I had ever planned on taking on professionally. Friends would always ask me to model for things in the past, because I’m quite tall and then when I came back to Lahore six months ago, things surprisingly took off quite quickly. I realised I could make a serious career out of it. Honestly, days on set barely feel like work, so I figured I found my calling.

What do you feel are your strengths and weaknesses as a model?

I would say my strengths are definitely with editorial style posing; I love contorting myself into new shapes and seeing the results on camera. Weaknesses would probably be my 41 shoe size, because I never fit into sample size shoes.

Biggest career high so far?

This right here, right now-my very first magazine cover!

Do you have a fitness and beauty regimen?

I box fairly regularly, but sometimes it’s hard to find time if I’m shooting back to back. However, I’ve boxed for years and just really enjoy hitting things. As for a beauty regimen, not really. I’ll take my makeup off with coconut oil at the end of a day and then just use face wash and call it a night. I’ve been blessed with skin that doesn’t give me any issues. Oh and I always use sunscreen in the day!

How would you describe your personal style?

That’s a difficult one, as some days I feel very colourful and feminine; on other days I’ll just be in all black or sweats. But one thing is for sure, I love crop tops. I don’t even think I own a shirt that covers my midriff all the way.

What do you consider the toughest aspect of your job and how do you overcome it?

5am call times and shoots that go on for 15-16 hours. Waking up is hard for me, even if I’ve gotten a full 8 hours, so I’d say that’s definitely the toughest part. Not letting how exhausted you are show up on camera can be very challenging at times.

Where do you hope to see yourself in the next five years?

On the cover of Vogue.

Describe your dream project.

My dream project would be working for a brand that flies me out to somewhere tropical and also gives me some creative freedom with my posing.

Photography: Asad Bin Javed
Muse: Natalia Castillo
MUA: Imran
Styling: Zahra Sarfraz
Wardrobe: Lajwanti

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