Category

GT Inside

Category
In Cover shoot

HUSSAN ARA MANSION! BY MOHSIN NAVEED RANJHA

HUSSAN ARA MANSION

Step into a reverie of timeless elegance with the enchanting bridal collection b y Mohsin Naveed Ranjha. In the hear t of Karachi ‘s ancient colonial stone buildings, where time seems to stand still, discover a treasury of untold tales with our la test Gold Series bridal collection titled ‘Hussan Ara Mansion! Each delicate stitch in these ensembles serves as a tribute to the narratives of love , joy, and yearning whispered by these age-old walls. From the noble elites to the ordinary souls who once inhabited these halls, their stories are woven into the very essence of our heritage. Inspired by the exquisite tradition of Sola Singhar, acherished beauty grooming ritual of yore , each ensemble is a masterpiece of hand embroidery, reminiscent of the opulent craftsmanship that adorned Pakistani fashion during this golden era. Prepare to be transported to a bygone era of sophistication and splendour.

Muse: @sadafkanwal
Photographer: @rizwan.haq
Stylist: @khojiiii

HUSSAN ARA MANSION

DESIGNER’S NOTE
Born f rom my journe ys to Karachi , the Hussan Ara Collection is inspired by the weathered colonial buildings
that I encountered. Each time I came across these structures, I found myself immersed in a world of stories. These di lapidated edifices, with their faded grandeur, inspired me deeply. Through this collection, my aim is to honor not just the lavishness of past eras, but also the indomitable spirit of those who dwelled within these historic spaces. The collection is centred on the use of finest textiles and elaborate embellishments. Join us as
we journey back in time, honouring the elegance and resilience of those who came before us, and celebrating the enduring allure of tradition

MOHSIN NAVEED RANJHA (Creative Director)

ABUBAKAR NAVEED RANJHA (Managing Director)

Continue Reading
By
In GT Inside

Inside My Closet Feat. Alina Shahid

Influencer and socialite Alina Shahid takes us inside her closet

How would you describe your personal style?

I would define my personal style as minimal, feminine and sophisticated.

Your favourite fashion designer?

Internationally there are many but to name a few, Max Mara, Self Portrait and Carolina Herrera. Locally, I adore Sania Maskatiya’s elegant & whimsical aesthetic.

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

I’ve certainly made very conscious purchases in the recent years and not only because of the inflationary pressure. As a mother, I feel it’s important to instill ethical fashion values in our children as their choices will have a huge impact on the environment in future as adults. Basic lessons like, choosing quality over quantity, encourage them to rewear, restyle and recycle outfits and pass down clothes to a family member when they don’t fit you – is a great approach to sustainability.

Where is Pakistan do you love to shop?

For western and particularly for my daughter, I like to shop at Outfitters and Ethnic. For eastern, my go-to brand is Suffuse.

What is the oldest item in your closet?

Shawls, which btw, are still in mint condition.

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

A crisp white button-up shirt, a classic pair of denim, a versatile black blazer, sleek black trousers, beige/nude color heels and black stilettos. Also, I think one should invest in a good every-day accessory like a pair of gold/diamond stud earrings or a watch.

Your most prized possession?

Heirloom jewellery that has been passed down from my (maternal) grandmother.

Your favourite accessory?

One of my favourite fragrances depending on my mood and the occasion.

What item in your closet makes you cringe?

I don’t buy anything that I would regret later but I do have certain unused PR giveaways that I want to toss away.

Continue Reading
By
In GT Inside

INSIDE MY CLOSET Feat. Sara Zahid

Influencer and socialite Sara Zahid takes us inside her closet

How would you describe your personal style?

My personal style has two extremes, I’m either dressed to the nines or in sweats and most times it’s the latter. I’d say it’s comfy glam…if that’s a thing?

Your favourite fashion designer?

Definitely Karl Lagerfeld, such a legend. I love what he has done for Chanel and actually love buying from his own label as well.

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

I definitely believe in sustainable fashion since I’m such a hoarder, I need my clothes to last me a long time (even if I’ll only wear them once lol). To be honest, I was into fast fashion since I didn’t want to ever repeat outfits on my insta feed but now that has completely changed. I invest into classic pieces and always change at least one aspect of the outfit when I re-wear it to make it look different and fun. I’ve also tried to shift my focus from branded bags/shoes to buying jewelry because it retains value and there’s no wear and tear.

Where is Pakistan do you love to shop?

Sana Safinaz, Elan and Zaha.

What is the oldest item in your closet?

Probably the saris from my mother’s bridal trousseau.

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

Having staples that fit you well in neutral colours and some statement items for that pop of colour. A black pant that goes with almost everything, a structured blazer, a nice pair of straight jeans, under garments that fit (SO IMPORTANT). Also, having a comfy yet glam pair of black heels will change your life.

Your most prized possession?

My first diamond ring gifted by my mom.

Your favourite accessory?

Definitely earrings. I think they also help in framing your face.

What item in your closet makes you cringe?

Chanel heels that I desperately want to love but they give me granny vibes sadly. Will keep them till I’m 60 and then maybe I can wear them.

Continue Reading
By
In GT Inside

INSIDE MY CLOSET Feat. Areesha Kamran

Influencer and socialite Areesha Kamran takes us inside her closet

How would you describe your personal style?

My personal style is modern/glam. I definitely lean towards contemporary pieces more, yet I would much rather be the most over-dressed person in the room than under-dressed.

Your favourite fashion designer?

I would have to say that my favorite fashion designer is Coco Chanel. The class and grace that exudes from Coco is unmatched. Truly a style icon.

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

I do believe in sustainable fashion, however, I do believe our Pakistani market makes it a bit harder to implement in our daily lives. I love how brands abroad have  clothing made from sustainable recycled fabrics, and I would love to see that trend come forward here as well.

Where in Pakistan do you love to shop?

Sania Maskatiya, Elan, & Zaha are my go-tos.

What is the oldest item in your closet?

Probably my mom’s fur scarf. Vintage, ya know?

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

A well fitted blazer, black leather pants, a good pair of denim jeans in whatever style you find most comfortable, simple black strappy heels, and a good quality white tee.

Your most prized possession?

My diamond pendant gifted to me by my late grandfather.

Your favourite accessory?

Definitely a statement bag or earrings.

What item in your closet makes you cringe?

My old Quiz clothes, haha.

Continue Reading
By
In GT Inside

INSIDE MY CLOSET Feat. Sophiya Salim Khan

Influencer Sophiya Salim Khan of Keeping Up With Khan takes us inside her closet

How would you describe your personal style?

In the moment! So one thing I learnt from my grandmother is just to wear whatever you feel like wearing on a particular day. Be it clothes, shoes or accessories. Mostly I dress in the same outfit everyday, which is a black T-shirt and black pants. I let the day and my mood decide how much I’m going to dress up or down.

Your favourite fashion designer?

This is a tough one! I really can not pick one as they all shine bright for their own genre & what they bring into the fashion scene. Currently drooling over Ansab Jahangir – their cuts, colours and prices are just on point.

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

Definitely a recent awareness came about, and it’s here to stay. Once you start learning about true sustainability, it’s hard to unlearn some facts about the fashion industry. Sustainable fashion begins with sustainable choices. The transition from buying cheaper to buying sustainable is a habit that doesn’t reflect in price points as much as it does in the amount we buy. Also what we do with how much we already have. Rather than buying and donating, I’ve started to buy less & to upcycle my wardrobe more.

Where is Pakistan do you love to shop?

Instagram!! I absolutely love how Instagram has helped me discover & be able to shop from so many local brands. No matter where they may be located in Pakistan, through great logistic services & social media, I feel unique brands have never been more accessible.

What is the oldest item in your closet?

That would be my great grandmothers shawl collection, which I was lucky enough to inherit & shall be cherished for generations to come.

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

The basic everyday shalwar kameez, jeans, simple T-shirts, a good pair of black joggers & you are good to go!

Your most prize possession?

My great grandmothers Shahtoosh shawl

Your favourite accessory?

Rings

What item in your closet makes you cringe?

The items I bought when I was in college on sale thinking I’ll fit into them later, totally unnecessary.

How does style differ in the two big cosmopolitan cities that you live in, Lahore and Islamabad?

Having lived in Karachi, Lahore & Islamabad, I can see how totally different each city’s fashion expression is.

Islamabad kind of reminds me of Karachi, very chilled out & relaxed fashion sense, putting comfort first. As compared to lahore which is such a fun cosmopolitan for fashion, as you will see all forms of fashionable expression wherever you go together & no one is bothered by being over or underdressed.

Continue Reading
By
In GT Inside

What’s INSIDE MY CLOSET

Influencer and socialite Mahnoor Arshad Mahmood takes us inside her closet

My personal style in three words:

I’d say my sense of style is super feminine and very trend driven. Also, sophisticated — very mindful of intricate details.

My top 5 wardrobe essentials:

Oh well that’s surely my favourite question but 5 is a tricky number so excuse me if I exaggerate a bit too much. I’ve always been a pants girl; I love me a good pair of pants! You’ll find my wardrobe flooded with black, beige and white culottes and bootleg pants. Super easy to style anything and everything with them. Second, a white button down shirt. You can pair it with some colourful accessories to add that extra oomph. Third, an oversized chunky sweatshirt with black leggings or basic jeans depending on if it’s a casual day or if I’m feeling a little extra. Lastly, bodysuits are my latest obsession — they give such a good fit and can be paired easily with almost everything.

My favourite vintage item:

My dad’s sweatshirt from Boston University — a go-everywhere, do-anything essential. It’s oversized, super comfy and so close to my heart.

My top 5 shoe essentials:

1. An affordable pair of black patent leather pumps for everyday use
2. A pair of nude loafers making everyday outfits chic
3. My mama’s white Hermes Oran sandals to pair up with all my colourful lawn outfits.
4. A minimalist pair of sneakers
5. A class pair of gold Louboutins to make all my boring outfits a tad bit extra. They are so worth the splurge.

My most prized possession:

A hyperbolic gold anklet given by my late grandfather to celebrate my birth, since I was their first grandchild it meant a lot to them.

Continue Reading
By
In GT Fashion

INSIDE MY CLOSET Feat. Alizeh Rabbani

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.

Continue Reading
By
In GT Fashion

INSIDE MY CLOSET Feat. Alyzeh Rahim Shirazi

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.

Continue Reading
By
In GT Inside

What’s inside my closet

Influencer Zainab AKA Baekartoot takes us inside her closet

My personal style in three words

Edgy, chic, ethnic.

My top 5 wardrobe essentials

  1. A basic black/white top is a must for your wardrobe. You can style it every season and in so many different ways. I’ve styled this top with some ethnic jewelry for a chic look.
  2. A leather jacket: My leather jacket is 6 years old and I still love it! It instantly gives my outfit a very edgy vibe.
  3. A colourful koti: I love wearing kotis over plain bodysuits and jeans. Especially on days when I don’t feel like putting in any effort. The ethnic kotis oomph up any outfit.
  4. A velvet jora: perfect for winter weddings!
  5. Ethnic jewelry: I love styling ethnic jewelry with all sorts of outfits.

 

My top 5 shoe essentials

  1. Chunky Ankle Boots
  2. A pair of nude heels
  3. Nike Airfoces
  4. A chic pair of slides for the summer
  5. My most favourite — khussas! I style khussas in the summer and spring with desi and western outfits.

My favourite vintage item

To be honest, I dont think I own anything vintage right now. But my mom is holding on to her 25 year old wedding lengha for my big day and I’m pretty sure it’s going to be my favourite when I wear it!

My most prized possession

This has to be the denim jacket my dad got for me from New York. It’s an ordinary denim jacket but what makes it so special is that my Dad chose it for me. The jacket reflects his style and I absolutely love it. He got it for me almost 6 years ago!

Continue Reading
By
In GT Inside

What’s Inside My Closet

Influencer Mishael Arif takes us inside her closet

My personal style in three words

I would say my personal style described in three words is definitely fusion, colorful and traditional.

My top 5 wardrobe essentials

1. A black crop top. If you find one with a low back and neck it can double up as the perfect sari blouse!

2. A casual cotton saree. A saree is my favorite thing to wear to any event. Lunches, dinners, weddings, birthdays. They flatter literally every body type and you just can’t go wrong.

3. Jeans. My favorites are high-waisted, mom jeans in a dark blue wash.

4. A white cotton gharara. In the summer, pair this with literally any shirt you have and watch your outfit go from casual to smart casual in minutes!

5. A cool denim jacket. It’s the perfect accessory for autumn or winter. An oversized vintage one will work with any outfit — even shalwar kameez!

My top 5 shoe essentials

1. Comfortable white trainers are my number one essential. I love my Nike Cortezs. They go with everything. I also have my eye on some Air Force 1’s which I might get next.

2. A comfortable pair of block heels. Trust me, these will be the ones you reach for the most during shaadi season.

3. A pair of fun khussas. My faves are the handmade Sindhi ones from Chauhan Jutti House. They are made by local artists. I have them in almost every color!

4. Pointed flats or loafers smarten up any outfit whether it’s desi or western.

5. Colorful stilettos. They’re not the most comfortable but they make great statement accessories for dinners and nights out.

My favourite vintage item

I’m not sure if it classifies as vintage as I’m not entirely sure how old it is BUT it has to be my oversized denim jacket. I love it because of the fit but also because of the story behind how I got it. I was in Istanbul for an exchange program at university and I went out with a bunch of friends wearing my Zara denim jacket. When it was time to leave I went to the side to get my jacket and turned out some other girl had taken it! She left me hers (by accident or on purpose, we will never know) but I love the vintage cut of it and it’s much more me!

My most prized possession

This has to be my Grandma’s heirloom jewelry. Since I have a sister I don’t know which pieces I will get to keep but wearing it has been an absolute joy and it will always hold a special place in my heart.

Continue Reading
By
In GT Inside

WHAT’S INSIDE MY CLOSET

Hong Kong based fashionista Batool Chisty takes us inside her closet

My personal style

I feel my personal style is related so closely to my personality. I would describe it as playful, feminine and bold. I love colors and I am not afraid to use them in my style. I make sure I feel confident in whatever I wear.

My top 5 wardrobe essentials

I am obsessed with blazers. It’s a current staple in my wardrobe and they can make any outfit look effortlessly chic.

Long cotton shirts that can be styled in so many fun ways. Even during winter time, they look super chic with a sweater or under a jacket. Its all about layering!

Leather pants or jackets are a must have. I love a chic leather on leather look. Louis Vuitton Spring Summer 2020 runway was so much fun to watch with bright and colorful leather looks. I love how designers reinvented this trend because its such a blast to style!

White cotton dresses or kurtas look so elegant and they’re comfortable too. They are my staple to get through the hot summer.

Floral dresses during spring/summer are a must have in my wardrobe. I guess that’s not really groundbreaking (LOL). Pair it with cute sandals and you’ve got yourself a perfect outfit.

My favourite vintage item

Living in Pakistan, it had to be the beautifully hand embroidered shawls passed on by my grandmother. But living abroad in Hong Kong I love my pre-owned Chanel Vintage skirt from the 90’s that I bought from Farfetch while I was working there. Recently, I have become more conscious with my fashion choices. I really urge everyone to look towards sustainable fashion.

My top 4 shoe essentials

Leather boots are a must have for me. I especially love high-heeled boots. Recently, I have been obsessed with colored boots that I feel can make any look stand out.

For the past few years I have loved the open-toe, block heeled sandal trend that Bottega Veneta started. However, I was able to find really cute, budget friendly sandals at Zara that looked similar!

Recently woven shoes caught my eye and I absolutely love them! They’re so comfortable yet chic.

Sparkly heels are a must have for the festive season. I have been obsessed with Mach & Mach sparkly heels and are currently on my wish list.

My most prized possession

That has to be my Rana Noman dress that I wore for one of my Qawalli event for my wedding. It was an iconic piece and it paved the way for him to make so many stunning creations in the future for other brides who wanted something similar. It’s something that will definitely be passed on to my daughter.

Continue Reading
By
Pin It