How would you describe your personal style?

Comfort first! In terms of my clothing, it’s relatively classic and simple for the most part. My thing is cool jackets and accessorizing, I splurge on these two. My style does change according to my environment: if I’m on vacation I’ll tend to put more “outfits” together. In my daily life I have to be comfortable and not worry about creasing or something being too tight or too short. I’m more of a jeans and trousers kind of girl as opposed to dresses and skirts. I don’t keep up with trends, but if there’s something that catches my eye that I like then I’ll definitely go for it. For example the fringe trend in fashion — I bought some fringe jackets, and although they’re “trending” it’s sort of a classic trend, the kind of thing that I’ll hold on to and will always look great to me.

My go-to outfit is a pair of skinny jeans or leather trousers (also love a good boyfriend jean) and t-shirt with a cool jacket, paired with either sneakers or heels and some great arm candy and a shoulder-strap bag. I always say, as long as my hair and shoes are on point I can work with everything else.

Your favourite fashion designer?

It’s hard to say, I don’t have one particular favourite; I like different designers for different things. I love Ginavito Rossi and Manolo Blahnik shoes, I love Alaia, Chanel, Saint Laurent, Acne, Balenciaga, Alexander Wang, Celine, The Row for just about everything! I love Maxmara for their coats, Balmain for their blazers and jackets.

“Fashion everywhere right now is about comfort”

Where in Pakistan do you love to shop?

To be honest, I don’t really shop in Pakistan, but I do love going to Al Fatah’s makeup section and looking at the local lipsticks brands. I always find a shade that I haven’t seen anywhere else, and I’ll buy a pack of Hashmi Kajol, and sometimes I’ll go to Liberty and walk around with my mum. I might pick up some cute costume jewelry, or hair clips but that’s really it.

What is the oldest item in your closet?

I have some very old jewellery given to me by mother which was given to her by her mother. Besides that, I have a few vintage Chanel bags and jewelry, and an Escada fur from the 70s.

What do you think are must-have items that are essential to a great closet?

A chic black blazer, a solid leather jacket (for those of you who like wearing them) black/white/grey T shirts, and jeans (my favorites are skinny and boyfriend from J Brand and Paige), a pair of leather trousers (I have an amazing pair from J Brand and Saint Laurent), Nike sneakers, Manolo Blahnik classic pointy pumps and some ballet flats or Tods.

What is the most prized possession in your closet?

It changes every now and then but I have a collection of rare Chanel belts I barely even wear because they’re so delicate and special, and obviously my fine jewelry and engagement ring are some of my most prized possessions!

Your favourite accessory?

My collection of Collier de Chein Hermés cuffs, I have them in different colors and wear them all the time.

“the red sole on my Louboutins makes me cringe, but I own too many pairs — I’m talking around 50”

What item in your closet makes your cringe?

My Louboutins, the red sole makes me cringe, but I own too many pairs — I’m talking around 50 — and this was a lesson learnt. Still, some of them really work for Pakistani clothes. I think about selling some but it kills me to think how much I’ve spent on them and how much someone would be willing to pay.

I’m hoping my future daughter or niece is my shoe size! Oh, the only ones I still like the look of are the Pigalle’s but they’re too uncomfortable, and that to me is not luxury!

Any fashion regrets?

Not really; it must have looked great at the time.

How does style differ in the two big cosmopolitan cities you have lived in, London and L.A.?

Immensely! L.A. is sporty and more relaxed, London fashion is more refined, of course, more classy. But fashion everywhere right now is all about comfort so I see that in both places, which I love! The designers that are favoured in London are not necessary the same in L.A and vise versa. I love a combination of both of these cities in my style. Add some Parisian chic and you’ve got it!

4. Deepak Perwani 

‘Everything but the Girl’

Deepak showcased a sharp and trendy menswear collection for FPW A/W 2014. The designs were chic, with edgy silhouettes boasting immaculate tailoring. An infusion of silk, chiffon, digital prints, wool, leather, suede and velvet, using a rich color palette, accentuated the jackets and waistcoats. The slim fit suits and sherwanis with fitted trousers had the makings of a novel and fresh collection. Sikander Rizvi & Adnan Malik made a celebrity appearance for Deepak and both men received a loud cheer from the crowd, as they rocked the ramp with their dashing looks glamorised by Deepak’s ensembles.

3. Maheen Karim 

‘Ravissant’

An exquisite luxury pret collection, ‘Ravissant’ is a blend of chic evening wear with a splash of sparkle for the festive winter season. The collection adds elegance to the wardrobe of the confident modern woman. The silhouettes, constructed with plush fabrics and a hint of dazzle, convey sophistication. Maheen used black velvet, infused sheer netting, and the subtle use of gleaming bead-lets enhanced the ensembles. Bold lamés accentuated the lean feminine form. The ‘Ravissant’ experience was further glamorised by Sherezad’s breathtaking jewellery.

2. Shehla Chatoor 

‘MISAKI’

Shehla’s creativity always lights up the catwalk. Her play on leather rendered a truly luxurious and stunning collection. Inspired by the autumnal landscapes on both Byobu — the Japanese tradition of artisanal hand-painted folding paper screens and Fusuma panels — Shehla incorporated intricate Japanese basket weaving techniques and the quilting redolent of Samurai warriors.

A wintry palette of black, beige, nude and gold together with leather detailing on luxe cape jackets, peek-a-boo cropped tops and mini-to-midi cocktail dresses, was juxtaposed with trendy voluminous ball skirts and floor skimming gowns. Sheer lace and printed sarees with edgy blouses, accented with leather fur accents added an eastern flair to the collection. Sporty T-shirts and  jackets worn with leather track pants which gave a very modern Tokyo vibe. The long skirts have already left a notable mark and are a must-have for this season.

1. Ayesha Farook Hashwani

‘Baroque’

Ayesha Farook Hashwani certainly knows how to raise the bar. Her latest collection at the FPW represented the dream wardrobe for winter. Opulent blacks and maroons, golds and silver, textured fabrics and the interpretation of the kimono took the runway collection to another league. The ‘Baroque’ collection exuded elegance and sophistication. Capes, jackets and boots befitting winter, with waists made slimmer using leather belts, Ayesha gave a refreshing look to the catwalk and stole the show!