Mahlia S. Lon
With the social and wedding season upon us, who doesn’t want to know what the latest fashion is? Well, we have in this issue the newest trends as they appeared on the Fashion Pakistan Week runway in Karachi. Firstly, late ‘80s style tasseled dupattas seem to be back in vogue so if you have any lurking around in the back of your closets, do pull them out. Indian style skinny embellished belts holding up saris and dupattas have also appeared here after first inundating Mumbai runways (see last issue). Moorish cuts, embroideries and motifs are also in fashion, as are the universally flattering wrap around shirts. After appearing at NYFW, pink formed the theme of one collection, while quicksilver was the colour theme for another. It’s always good to know what’s going on in the fashion world!
We also have rising actors Arman Ali Khan, Komal Aziz Khan (not related to each other) and model Aneesa Sharif talk about how they are pursuing their ambitions. Musician Junaid Khan tells us why he got together with the Indian band Spunk and the Bangladeshi production house Glitch on the song Talaash. The Subcontinental rockers produced this alternative rock anthem with the laudable motive to promote peace between the neighbouring nations. Hair stylist and owner of the world’s largest Toni & Guy, which is incidentally in Karachi, Saeeda Mandviwalla advises on hair care, while Souchaj fashion designers, Mehek and Mehr, stress the importance of looking elegant and graceful. With this and a lot more, peruse this issue as you enjoy the temperate fall weather.
Who? Sara Zahid
Why? Monochrome magic! Keeping it simple always works
Who? Arslan Ihsan
Why? This trendster can hold his own in any urban jungle
Who? Anam Malik
Why? From her lob to her white trainers, she’s on-point
Who? Mansha Pasha
Why? Sexy yet covered
Who? Amir Adnan
Why? The fashion designer is refreshingly casual and not OTT like many male celebs
Who? Salima Ferasta
Why? We love her bright cotton-silk sari, which she hap paired with a basic black tee
Not just a pretty face but armed with a professional degree in cosmetology, British Asian model Aneesa was previously teaching Media Makeup at Amersham and Wycombe Colleges of the Bucks Group, U.K. Now a successful model who jets between London, Pakistan and Dubai to work with top Pakistani fashion designers, she was awarded the Best Female Model of 2016 at the Music and Media awards. Recently, the bombshell has also started the clothing brand Niya. Sana Zehra meets Aneesa Sharif for a fun rapid fire session
Nickname that really annoys you?
Pattisa
Weirdest habit you have is…
I sleep with an eye patch.
First thing that comes to your mind when I say…
Modelling in Pakistan?
Fashionable
Botox?
I agree with it.
Red carpet?
Fashion statement
Awards?
Ceremony
Favourite movie?
The Notebook
What would be a good theme song for your life?
My heart will go on…
Whose brain would you like to pick?
My mother’s
Whose brain would you like to have had?
No, I want to keep my own brain please.
If you could be successful in another profession, which would you choose?
Lawyer
If you could commit one crime without being caught?
Stealing
Greatest work of art?
Riding a horse while shooting when it’s hot. (Laughs)
If you could invent anything?
Invisiblity
Which colour describes you best?
White
Which object best represents your personality?
I am a Cancerian so my birthstone Ruby.
Which period of history most fascinates you?
80s.
Worst work experience?
Being lied to
Change one thing about your childhood?
Nothing
Do you believe in magic?
Yes
Are you superstitious?
Yes, very!
What would you like to be known for?
Being a nice person
If you could have witnessed one event in history?
To overcome any fears I have
If you could ask God one question?
Why He does the things that he does
Single most valuable thing you’ve learned?
Being honest gets you far
The three most important things in life?
Being kind hearted
Trustworthiness
Professional attitude
If you could be reincarnated as someone you know?
My Aunty because she is special.
The most difficult question you could be asked?
Why you are not married yet?
Last time you cried?
Only a week ago
Your backup plan?
I think I have achieved everything so far; I have my degree in teaching; I have my two businesses; Alhamdulillah I just want to thrive now in my career.
Guilty pleasure?
Chocolate cake
Favourite toy growing up?
Barbie Doll
Morning or Night?
Oh, night
What’s on your iPod right now?
Depressing music
Aneesa loves the ’80s
Pop or Sufi?
Pop
Your career in one word?
Growing
What gives you meaning?
Being content
Have you ever forgotten a birthday?
My sister’s!
Who is a classic celebrity that dresses really well?
Bilal Ashraf
Virtue or sin?
Sin!
What does love feel like?
Painful, contentment and soul taking.
Weirdest rumour you ever heard?
You’ve had too much plastic surgery.
Lipstick or lip-gloss?
Lip-gloss
Favourite season?
Summer
Blow dry or air dry?
Blow dry
Diamonds or Pearls?
Diamonds
What does GT mean to you?
The most amazing magazine ever!
Photography
Arsalan Bilgrami of a.bilgrami studio
Outfits
Tabassum Mughal
Styling
Umer Mushtaq
Hair & makeup
Studio Z salon and Spa
Location courtesy
Airmen Golf Club
Idealistic, pacifist rock musicians, like John Lennon, have always appealed to the youth to choose love and peace over war and strife. Junaid Khan is one such peace-loving high achiever who believes in following up his words with action. After making his mark on television this year starring in the hit drama serials Silsilay, Ishq Tamasha and Khasara as well as creating a stellar rock track for PSL (Pakistan Super League) and an upbeat anthem for the Pakistan cricket team, this September, he collaborated with Indian band Spunk and Bangladeshi music production house Glitch on the brand new pop rock track titled Talaash. The song’s lead vocals have been rendered by Junaid. With this track, the group of talented young musicians seeks to heal the wounds and bring India, Pakistan and Bangladesh closer together in harmony
By Haider Rifaat
Your songs always seem to convey important social messages. What are you trying to send across to the listeners with your new collaboration titled Talaash?
The hashtag movement is #TalaashforPeace. The title of the track is Talaash and we have used this particular hashtag because we, as artists from the Subcontinent feel that there has to be unity between India and Pakistan. It is a collaboration with an Indian band named Spunk. Creative individuals and artists belonging to both these countries are very much united. We are always in search for opportunities to work with each other.
Indians want to collaborate with us and we want to work with them, be it in music, television or films. Unfortunately, the political scenario does not allow us to team up for creative peaceful pursuits. We need to have political integrity as well as cultural, artistic and business exchanges to create a healthy, communicative and peaceful environment in the Subcontinent that will be conducive to prosperity. That is the song’s main purpose.
Why is this song important to you?
As artists, we are the ambassadors of our country. It is our responsibility that we convey a positive message to the audiences and around world through our art, music and voice. Since our voices matter and reach out to people, we are able to inspire. Both countries, India and Pakistan, have conveyed similar messages in the past about peace and unity. I would say Talaash is important because everyone in the world should know that people from India and Pakistan love each other and want peace.
How were you approached for the song? What drew you to the collaboration?
The band Spunk approached me for the song. They had prepared the track’s demo and I really liked it. Spunk’s genre is entirely in sync with my kind of music and we are aligned creatively. We share the same sentiments about its message.
India loves our music and we love their songs and films. The song Talaash itself is a very happy, pop rock song. We took the track on another level and added the lyrics. The band and I co-wrote the song and recorded it together. The music video will be out soon. I love the track!
Having worked with an Indian band, do you think it will bridge differences between both countries?
Of course! The purpose of collaborations is to bridge the differences between individuals and artists. It is simply to overcome atrocities and strengthen the communication process for the benefit of both parties.
What response are you hoping from the listeners in and outside of Pakistan?
I am hopeful for a good response. It is a very sincere effort to do something creative and reduce the prejudice between India and Pakistan. As I said earlier, we, as artists love to collaborate with each other and bring people closer. Indians enjoy our creative output just as we fondly watch their films in Pakistan. I hope Pakistanis, Indians and those who keep a close eye on both will hear our collective voice.
“As artists, we are the ambassadors of our country. It is our responsibility that we convey a positive message to the audiences and around world through our art, music and voiceâ€
How is Talaash different from your past musical ventures?
In terms of genre, it is the same from what I have done before. It is mainly alternative rock but the ideology is different. The concept is unique for sure. I believe every song I have written in the past has a story linked to it. There is a thought process behind every track. Talaash is a concept we not only needed to express as artists but also collectively as nations.
What is the genre of the song? What theme(s) are you tackling?
We have created an alternative, progressive rock track. The theme is to live for the moment and forget about the past. It is all about bringing people together.
Can we expect a new studio album from you or the band Call anytime soon?
Yes, Call has been working aggressively on creating new tracks. If you check out our recent singles such as Zalmi for PSL (Pakistan Super League) and Pakistan Zindabad, the official 2018 anthem for the Pakistan cricket team, they are great tracks. There are a few others in the pipeline. As a band, we are passionate when it comes to making quality music. We are performing in and outside of Pakistan and the overall pro\cess of making tracks is quite fulfilling. Like before, we are planning to release four to five tracks and later working towards compiling an album.
Will you plan to experiment with genres other than rock in the future?
Yes – we, as a band love experimenting with different genres. What we did with the track Zalmi, was unique direction wise. It was still under the rock banner but it was a fusion of traditional Pashto music and rock instruments. As a solo artist, I have worked on many OSTs (original sound track) for my drama serials. They are quite different from what I usually do as a rock artist. They are more mellow tracks. Experimentation is always something to look into. There are basic lines you have to work within but we love to experiment and stretch as much boundaries as we can, keeping our integrity intact.
Apart from singing, you are acting in several drama sertials. How do you simultaneously manage so many things?
It is a tough job but I am very passionate about my work. My creative outlet is music and acting is something I love doing too. I keep myself busy with the things I love because that is my work. That drive motivates me to manage everything simultaneously. It boils down to drive and passion in the end. If you are not driven, you could probably not manage multi-tasking to this level, but since I’m highly motivated, it works out for me. I am at a point in my life and career where I feel extremely motivated to progress and work towards improving myself in both fields.
Photography:
Nebarun Sengupta
Arman Ali Pasha branched out from modeling into acting in the drama serial Aadhi Gawahi. His role, albeit small, helped him garner fame and popularity instantaneously, making him one of Pakistan’s hottest young actors. After making waves in Rashk, the talented young actor is currently shooting three drama serials simultaneously. Arman talks to Ally Adnan about the world of show business, his love for acting, the benefits of being a celebrity, the importance of education, and a lot else
“The greatest actors work as team members, bringing out the best in each otherâ€
The world of show business is known for fame, fortune and glory. What attracted you to the field?
It was none of the three that you mentioned. I joined the world of show business because I wanted to become an actor and believed that it was the best vocation for me. My goal has always been to get recognized as an actor of merit; fame, fortune and glory, if they come my way, will be incidental benefits of being a competent actor.
You were studying to be a lawyer when you started working as a model and an actor. Do you plan to go back to school and complete your education?
Yes, I do. I am taking a break from studies to work as a model and actor but will complete my education. I may do it on a part-time basis but will definitely get my degree. Education is important. It opens new horizons and doors for a person, gives him/her confidence, class and sophistication, and helps realize his/her full intellectual potential.
How did you get your first break as a model?Â
I started by walking the ramp for local designers and was noticed by fashion designers and talent scouts at the events. They offered me the opportunity to participate in bigger and more prestigious shows, like the ones organized by PFDC. I did well in the shows and found myself working in advertisements and commercials shortly thereafter. The world of modeling has treated me well.
Do you enjoy modeling?
Yes, I do. I love the energy and excitement of the ramp. I enjoy seeing myself on billboards. And, I am very happy when acting in commercials. That being said, I should add that acting is more important to me than modeling. I may work as a model, from time to time, but my primary profession will always be acting.
What makes a successful model?
A successful model has good looks and physique; more importantly, he has a unique, towering personality that is likable. He is confident, composed and dignified. He knows his good and bad angles, his strengths and weaknesses, and his likes and dislikes. He knows how to pose and work with cameras. Acting is also an important skill in the field of modeling, especially when working in commercials. Professionalism, dedication and seriousness are vital. And, intelligence is very crucial; otherwise, one is unable to make good career decisions.
A lot of models move to acting after a few years of modeling. You seem to have done the same. Why?
In my case, the move to acting was not happenstance. It was a part of the plan. Acting was my ultimate goal and modeling a stepping-stone in my show business career.
Acting is very near and dear to my heart. I love modeling but have a strong preference for acting.
How did you learn to act?
I have wanted to be an actor for as long as I can remember and grew up watching actors perform on television and in cinema. I used to pay more attention to the craft of acting while watching films and television programs than to anything else. My favourite actors ended up being my teachers. Watching them act was a veritable education and the best one a budding actor can have.
“I used to pay more attention to the craft of acting while watching films and television programs”
Who are your favourite actors?
It is a long list that includes Nauman Ijaz, Faysal Qureshi and Humayun Saeed. I think Om Puri and Naseeruddin Shah are great actors. I believe that Marlon Brando, Daniel Day-Lewis, Robert De Niro, Jack Nicholson, and Al Pacino are amongst the best actors of all time. I absolutely adore them. They are my heroes.
What are the qualities and attributes of a successful actor?
A successful actor is sincere towards his profession and has genuine passion and love for the craft of acting. He is tenacious, hardworking and serious. He may be good looking and have a great body but does not rely exclusively on those attributes. He can deliver a complete, believable character on screen, in all its depth, complexity and nuance. He becomes an intrinsic part of the story that he is a part of and does not try to outshine other actors. The greatest actors work as team members, bringing out the best in each other. They do not care for individual triumphs and work to make the entire projects successful.
What progress have you made as an actor from your first drama serial Aadhi Gawahi to the next Rashk?
I believe that I have become more skilled as an actor over time and carry myself with more confidence and poise than I used to as a rookie. My dialog delivery has improved considerably, and I have learnt how to react to the lines of other actors properly. There is, of course, a long road of learning ahead of me but I am happy – and satisfied – that I am on the right track and improving with time.
What projects do you have in the pipeline currently?
I am working in three television serials currently: Ek Aashiyan Banaya Tha, A Plus’s Hoor Pari, and Jaltay Khwaab. I play important roles, which have a lot of substance, complexity and nuance, in each one of the serials. I believe that I will have arrived and established myself as an actor if I deliver well in these serials.
You moved from Lahore to Karachi to pursue your acting career. How are the two cities different?
The pace of life is faster in Karachi. The city has a lot of energy and verve, whereas Lahore is more languid and relaxed. People in Karachi take their time to open up. Lahoris, on the other hand, are friendlier and warmer. Karachi offers significantly more opportunities to show business professionals than Lahore. I love Lahore, but enjoy living in Karachi.
“Gossip stems from jealousy, envy and resentmentâ€
Did you find it difficult to settle down in Karachi?
Not at all! The city welcomed me with open arms. I have made some very good friends in Karachi and am enjoying life in the city.
Do you attribute your success in the world of show business to your talent or to your looks?
I believe that it is a combination of both but hope that, in the long run, it will be more my talent than my looks.
How much effort, energy and time do you put into looking good?
I pay attention to my grooming and spend a few hours each month in a salon. I make sure that I get eight full hours of sleep each night. I do not smoke and stay away from drugs and alcohol. I eat well and drink a lot of water. I make sure to stay abreast of fashion trends and spend a bit of money on clothes and shoes. That is about all I do for my looks.
What are the perks of being a celebrity and in show business?
I make a decent living. I get to wear a lot of good clothes, some of which I receive as gifts. I am known and recognized all over the country. And, I feel that I bring happiness, joy and entertainment to the lives of a very large number of people. That feels very good.
What is the downside of having a career in show business?
A certain loss of privacy comes with fame. That can be a little disconcerting. Work hours and schedules can be grueling, but I am a hardworking person and deal with that well. There is a lot of chatter and gossip in the business. That bothers me, at times.
“I love Lahore, but enjoy living in Karachiâ€
How do you deal with chatter and gossip?
I try to ignore it. I will admit that it gets to me, every now and then, but I am generally able to rise above it and do not let it bother me. A lot of gossip stems from jealousy, envy and resentment. These are very negative and corrosive emotions. I feel sorry for people who harbor them.
Does being a popular model and actor make it easy for you to hook up with ladies?
I wish it did but, contrary to popular belief, it does not. Modeling and acting take up a lot of time, leaving almost none for relationships.
Are you romantically involved with someone at this stage?
Yes, I am, with my acting and modeling projects.
What do you do when you are not acting and modeling?
I watch films, listen to music, read books, hang out with friends, and, most importantly, travel.
Why do you like to travel?
Travelling affords me a lot of peace. It gives me time to relax, think and plan. It helps me learn about new cultures and people. It broadens my horizons. It boosts my confidence. It creates lifelong memories for me. It allows me an opportunity to shop. It is a lot of fun.
What are you reading these days?
I am reading Sharp Objects which is the latest novel by Gillian Schieber Flynn, the writer of Dark Places and Gone Girl. I like Flynn’s style of writing. Her novels are fast-paced, engaging and fascinating, and her characters are real, complex and intricate. All three of her novels read like movies. Sharp Objects is a psychological thriller that tells the story of a reporter who returns to work after a stay at a psychiatric hospital and is tasked with covering the murder of two pre-teen girls in her hometown. It’s not just an effective thriller, but an excellent character study as well. I think that, like Dark Places and Gone Girl, Sharp Objects would make a great film.
Would you like to star in a movie based on one of Gillian Flynn’s books?
Oh, yes, absolutely! That would be a dream come true.
Photographs by Daud Malik
Souchaj has created waves in recent years for their brilliant photoshoots featuring eminent personalities from diverse fields wearing their ensembles. With a powerful and bold aesthetic, using regal and gorgeously traditional embellishments, this brand is here to stay! Afshan Shafi catches up with Mehek and Mehr, the designers behind the brand on all things fashionÂ
How would you describe your design journey?
We have know each other for almost a decade before we partnered. Our husbands supported and encouraged us to bring out our ideas into sketches and create works of art.
Do you have a muse?
Our brand is embodied by a woman who is independent, classic and confident. She is not only beautiful but simply outstanding in terms of intelligence and individuality; she is someone who doesn’t bother about trends or follow fashion blindly but has her own eccentric sense of style.
In life, who would you say is your muse?
Meryl Streep is elegance personified; she has carried herself with grace over the years and I think she is a role model for the younger women who aspire to character more than visual beauty.
What inspires you when you’re designing?
As a designer, you never know when inspiration will strike. It can literally come from anything and everything around us. We have no restraints as to what can be drawn from to turn a mere thought into a reality. Creativity is limitless.
How would you describe Souchaj in three words?
Classic
Timeless
Detailed
What was the starting point for your latest collection?
It is our underlying desire to promote our culture and traditions through our creations.Our recent collection is a true reflection of the philosophy of the brand. It integrates a colourful and innovative blend of Pakistani culturesand consists of chic motifs derived from folk art on luxurious fabrics.
What are your plans for expanding Souchaj in the future?
For now, we’re mainly focusing on couture and would want to see the brand being associated with originality and spoken of in the upper echelons of not only the Pakistani fashion industry but also the global fashion arena.
Rapid Fire
Favourite international designers?
Naeem Khan and Ellie Saab
Favourite local designers?
Misha Lakhani, Zara Shahjahan and Elan
Favourite piece of jewellery
Mehek: My recent gift, it’s a ring.
Mehr: A gift of a bangle from my husband
A celebrity you would love to dress
Amal Clooney
Non-celebrity you would love to dress?
Queen Rania of Jordan
Favourite fashion show that you attended in person?
We have attended a few and they were okay.
Favourite high street brand?
Zara
Having started her career as an ingénue in the evening soap Ishq e Benaam, the young, talented, pretty actress has quickly made a name for herself bagging big TV projects. Sana Zehra sits down with Komal Aziz Khan for a candid heart to heart
What is your stance when women are shown as the weaker sex in drama serials?
I’m so glad you asked me this question. Yes, I am a pro feminist and, yes, this is a conflict of interest for me as the scripts can sometimes be regressive. But it’s my job. I use my influence to make whatever change I can. As far as reasoning with the directors is concerned, in my last drama Gumrah I pleaded with the director to please show that I’ve taken over my father’s business and now I am a working woman. As my career progresses, hopefully I’d be able to influence the scripts and make these small but important changes.
One thing you are excited about that is coming up in 2018…
I’m super excited about my upcoming drama Bisaat e Dil. For the first time I am doing a character that is best defined as gray. The character I am playing is hard headed but at the same time empathetic. The role I play is that of a high end escort, a very challenging role indeed for me!
Why do you think Pakistani movies flop even when big names are attached to them?
I think we are slowly and gradually learning the art of film making and some of us haven’t gotten it right yet, while some of us have figured it all out. Perhaps it’s because some have a solid background in drama serials, whereas others don’t. Honestly, sometimes it’s just sheer bad luck.
Have you ever been offered a movie role?
Yes!
Why didn’t you take it?
I was offered two films and am so glad I did not take them. One of them flopped badly and one was so notorious that…(errr) I am glad I did not sign up for them.
One law you would like to change in Pakistan?
Women’s rights! There are tons of loopholes in our system right now but I think we are on the right path.
Which movie do you relate yourself the most and why?
That would be the Indian dramedy Queen (starring Kangana Ranaut). I was studying in the U.S. when my sister told me about to watch this movie. It’s about a girl I can totally relate to. I come from a middle class family and the only reason I went to the U.S. was because I got a full tuition scholarship. All my experiences have been similar to that character’s, so the movie is really close to my heart.
A compliment you think you don’t deserve?
When people only talk about looks, that’s something I feel like I don’t deserve because that is something I am just born with and it seems futile.
How do you think social media impacts your overall mental well-being?
I like social media. It’s extremely liberating to have a platform where I can be myself and post whatever I like. I know a lot of people who have used social media as a stepping stone and took charge of their own destiny and now they are huge. At the same time, yes, people can be mean and cruel so that really does hurt and sting really badly.
Ultimate love advice?
I recently read this and it clearly resonated with me, love is about feeling secure and stable with the other person and not feeling giddy, jealous and insecure. I think that’s so true. Love is about feeling safe and having complete trust with each other, having butterflies is just the initial phase.
If you get a chance to be in someone’s shoes who’d it be and why?
Emma Watson for sure! I am a huge fan of hers. Would be interesting to see who she meets and who she talks to. She is an activist and I love her work.
What would you do if there is an awkward silence between two people?
I try to make small talk. (Laughs)
If you get to remake any of your dramas, which one would it be?
My first one! Please don’t watch it. I was just starting out and I was horrible at acting. Wish I could erase the first one and replace it with the new one. Please don’t watch it, please please!
Which co-actor is the most professional?
Shahroze Sabzwari is the most professional. To be honest all of them are.
What is the claim of fame of the following?
Nawaz Sharif: Corruption
Syed Noor: (Laughs) Films! Amazing films!!!
Asad Siddiqui: Zara Noor! Sorry Asad! (Laughs)
One culture shock you got when you visited the United States for the first time?
One thing that I was told that parents kick their children out the minute they turn 18. So I checked in my dorm and I see all these old parents picking their children’s stuff, carrying it up stairs, setting it up and crying when saying good byes just like any normal parents would. That was a huge eye-opener.
Name one word that comes to your mind when you think of
Competition: Rivalry
Marriage: So far away…
Money: Good for happiness
Living in Pakistan: Not so bad!
Item Song: Spicy
Rain dance number: Romantic
Love: Warmth
Die single or being married with problems: Die single any day
A rumour about yourself that makes you laugh?
Some creep said after the infamous landlord incident that I was dating that crazy man and had asked him to gift me the house, which is why that incident occurred. (Rolls her eyes)
Drama queen or beauty queen?
Both
Describe yourself in three word?
Critical
Ambitious
Hard working.
Who do you think needs a stylist in our industry: Mawra, Mahira or Saba Qamar?
Mawra
Who do you think needs a dietician in our industry?
Gohar Rasheed, because he is a friend and I know he won’t care it if I say it.
Who do you think needs a therapist in our industry?
Everyone should go see a therapist please. It’s good for you!
Celebrated stylist, beautician and entrepreneur, Saeeda Mandviwalla launched the first Toni & Guy in Pakistan. Having worked in the hair and skincare industry for more than 15 years, she commands trust and respect, and her goals have always been to push boundaries and take the hair and the skincare industry to the highest level of creativity in the country. Sana Zehra catches up with Saeeda to get the latest scoop on how to keep our locks healthy
What made you come into the field of hairdressing and makeup artistry?
As a teenager growing up in London in the late ‘70s, fashion, music and art would make the most glamorous impression and influence on me. I was always good with art at school, but was confused as to what to choose as a career. “I actually picked this profession through a career guidance book…I opened it, closed my eyes and put my finger on it, that really is the story.â€
What kind of shampoo and conditioner should one use?
It really depends on your hair type, texture and colour. You must use a sulphate and paraben free shampoo that has been pre mixed and blended into the product protecting against external environmental factors. Choose a shampoo and a conditioner from the same range as the colour dye because it has a similar formulation. These are made for a specific hair type and a specific purpose. At Toni & Guy salons, we recommend the our range of professional label.m products to cleanse, condition, create and complete.
How often should one wash hair?
Wash your hair three or four times a week. Give your hair a break in between washings to restore its balance. If your roots become oily then I recommend you use label.m Dry Shampoo for a quick pick me up as it eliminates the oiliness from the roots and gives soft-touch, velvet finish to the hair. Rinse out your conditioner with cold water. Hot water is hard on your hair and can lead to split ends and frizz. Rinsing out your conditioner with cold water seals the cuticle, resulting in shiny, bouncy hair. Your hair will soon look more healthy and vibrant than ever.
Women have the tendency of oiling their hair and leaving it one for days. What do you think about that?
Oiling the hair to restore its softness and shine is great; however, there is no need to keep the oil on for days, a couple of hours is good enough. You can apply oil to your hair roots, shaft and especially tips a couple of times a week. Once every few weeks, give yourself a deep oil conditioning treatment as follows:
Massage Argan or Almond Oil into your hair. Cover your hair and give it a bit of steam with a hot towel. Let the oil sit in your hair for 2 hours. Rinse it out with cool water until the water runs clear, then shampoo and condition. How can we maintain our hair colour at home?
Using a good shampoo will help your colour last longer and help maintain the health of your processed hair. Avoid sulfates on colour-treated hair. Use label.m colour shampoo for dark to brunette shade and brightening blonde shampoo for medium blonde to light blonde and cool blonde shampoo for light blonde to ash tones.
Water, sun exposure and frequent styling with hot tools can make hair colour fade faster. Keep it on lockdown with a pigmented treatment that revitalizes your shade in-between applications. For colour that gets brassy, use a neutralizer that counteracts unwanted warmth. To kick up neutral or warm shades, like reds, you can use a colour enhancing treatment that adds vibrancy, especially on the ends where colour fades most. We, as colour professionals, recommend visiting us for refreshing the colour as often as needed.
Whose hair would you love to work on?
I love to work on all my clients and on all hair textures. However, if I had to challenge myself I would work on Afro-Caribbean hair.
Can you tell us about a memorable experience while working in this field?
My salon in Karachi was recognised as the world’s largest Toni & Guy salon and showcased in London as such. That made me very proud. I was also runner up for the Best International Franchise of the Year award in 2015 at the Toni & Guy Awards Show.
You have worked with so many famous celebrities, is there anyone that stands out as your favourite from a hairstylist’s stand point?
All of the celebrities and famous faces have been amazing to work with. The younger ones are ready to try anything and that’s really great for me as a creative person.
Dos and don’ts of hair care
Do invest in a good haircut.
Caring for your locks becomes so much easier when you are sporting a fabulous ‘wash and wear’ style.
Do wash your hair with the correct products.
Dry hair requires a moisturising shampoo, while oily hair benefits from frequent shampooing with a purifying, oil-regulating shampoo.
Don’t use a brush on wet hair.
Use a wide-toothed comb instead. Start at the ends, gently working your way up towards the roots.
Don’t forget to clean your brushes and combs.
Let them soak in warm, soapy water once a week.
Don’t expose your hair to the sun during the hottest time of the day.
Wear a hat, dupatta or use a hair product containing SPF.
Revitalising hair treatments
Our salons offers Hair Spa Treatments to revive and rejuvenate your hair. There are many treatments available on the menu. These treatments have unique formulations with ingredients, like label.m Therapy Rejuvenating Complex and Anti-frizz range created to hydrate and nourish with targeted solutions for all hair types.
At Toni & Guy and Essensuals Hairdressing Karachi we offer Hair Spa Treatment’s such as:
- Honey and Oat Hair Mask Treatment for dry and dehydrated hair
- Therapy Rejuvenating Hair Treatments for moisture and shine
- Intensive Hair Mask treatment for very dry hair
- Anti Frizz Hair Treatment to remove the frizz from all hair types.
- Lab Remedy for Dry & Damaged, Coloured and for itchy scalp.
- Gold mask hair treatment with 24 Kt pure gold properties to make the hair shiny strong and healthy.
All of these treatments are very beneficial and give you healthy hair so try them out.
“My salon in Karachi was recognised as the world’s largest Toni & Guy salon and showcased in London as suchâ€
Rapid fire
Three products a woman should never leave her home without?
Dry shampoo
Protein Spray to protect your hair from UV rays
Lipstick of course
If you weren’t in this business you’d be
An artist as I love to paint
Three qualities that got you where you are today
Creativity
Perseverance
Hard work
One thing you’re really good at?
My work
Craziest thing you did for love?
You do crazy things for love so I’ve done many.
Best hairstyle according to face shape
Confidence is really all you need to pull off literally any haircut. And while we all think we can get whatever haircut we want, whenever you want, there’s nothing wrong with taking your face shape into cosideration before deciding on the most flattering look cut. This approach will draw attention to your best facial features. It will also give you peace of mind as you sit in front of the mirror and wait for the finished result.
These are the 6 different face shapes that we have:
Oval: Forehead may be slightly wider than the chin, and the length of the face is about one and a half times the width.
Round: Prominent, rounded cheeks with equal width and length of the face.
Square: Prominent jaw and square chin, with forehead and jawline roughly the same width.
Oblong: Often confused for the oval face, though an oblong face will have a longer shape that is not as wide as oval — often with a narrow chin.
Heart: Wider forehead and cheekbones with a narrow jawline and chin.
Diamond: Narrow forehead and jawline with cheekbones at the widest point of the face.
There are cuts designed to suit each. Talk to your stylist before the cut.