Hareem Farooq X @hooriasaeedmakeupstudio
Outfit @suffusebysanayasir
Jewellery @hanifjewellers
Photographer @opmshoots
Styling/coordination @stylebyhassan @hassanabdullahofficial
Decor @zealandzesteventss
Sangeet/Engagement look for
Areesha Kamran X @hooriasaeedmakeupstudio
Photographer @opmshoots
Outfit @farahandfatima
Jewellery @hanifjewellers
Decor @zealandzesteventss
Styling @stylebyhassan
Asma you have been a part of this beauty industry for so long, what inspired you to become a makeup artist & from where did you receive your training?
I began learning the art of makeup when I opened my salon in 2009. At that time I took a number of courses locally to help improve my technique. I’ve always been a creative person and enjoyed working with my hands. Makeup was just another avenue to express that creativity. The more I practiced, the more I loved doing it. Over the years I’ve continued to undertake certifications and short courses abroad to hone my skills and keep up to date with trends and techniques.
Explain how you’d advise a young girl going for a look that’s both trendy and parent-approved.
This is a difficult question but I do think what is trendy would be parent approved. The trend has shifted to a slightly more minimalistic look with lighter makeup in line with the trend. To me as a parent, that is elegant and beautiful in its own way. The perception that either of these things are mutually exclusive is incorrect and you can have both on your big day!
What do you think is the biggest challenge for makeup artists?
Satisfying your customers. As an artist we guide our clients on what will look good based on their face shape, hair style, clothes and jewelry. The hardest thing is getting your client to trust in you and go with what you’re saying rather than their strongly held preconceived beliefs or those of others around them.
Tell me about three makeup trends you’re a fan of.
l the no makeup makeup look
l the inverted cat eye liner
l blush contouring
What are the three best services offered at Asma T Salon?
Despite offering makeup services, I think we are biased in favor of our hair department.
Our favourite services currently are:
– Kerastase Fusio Scrub ritual
– Hair Matters Oiling ritual
– Our classic Blowdry!
Three must have makeup products in your bag?
l Charlotte Tillbury Airbrush Flawless Setting Spray
l Mac Cosmetics Squirt Plumping Gloss Stick
l Anastasia Beverly Hill Stick Blush
Any advice for the brides of fall/winter season?
Do a consultation before your big day! Meeting up with your makeup artist and hair stylist for trials and consultations can help take the pressure off of everybody and ensure that you get the look of your dreams!
Asma T Salon is known for its glamorous hair transformations and in this issue we asked her pick a hair dye trend for us and our readers!
Low-maintenance and subtle tonal changes are trendy hair color options for 2023. These tonal changes include bronze, cinnamon spice, and ash-brown hues. Enhance your natural hair color with nuanced baby highlights that are finely blended.
2023 is going to be all about subtle but statement-making color that doesn’t require constant upkeep. That means low-maintenance color in extra eye-catching shades.
Founder of community organization, AliPur, where women from rural areas are trained in embroidery, pottery and sewing.
Amina, you are an inspiration for all the women, tell us a bit about yourself and your educational background.
Thankyou!
It’s been three years I have been residing in my village, Alipur Kanju in lodhran working towards the welfare of rural women in Pakistan for their economic empowerment in a way to secure their livelihoods and rights.
After graduating from Convent of Jesus and Mary I went to Lahore Grammar for my A’levels. And Later I went abroad to St Gallen University for my Bachelors in International Relations and History. During my time abroad I have been a part of various volunteer programs with United Nations, which I am very grateful for. I love to read and write.I have a written a book, Little Khan and The lucky bugs. Ferozsons published it this year. A children’s series about characters based in Pakistan. When I had my children I always had to hunt for good books based on Pakistan’s culture and values. I am very happy and proud to have written it. I love spending time with my family and travel. I would spend all my money on travelling. Its the best way of learning about so much. Besides that I love Alipur,it’s my favorite home. I always thought I am a city girl and could never live in the country but it has my heart.
What is the whole idea behind Ali Pur and what inspired you to create a safe space for these amazingly talented women.
Innever really got to spend a lot of time in Alipur before it was actually during the pandemic in 2020 I moved here.
I found severe poverty in my village people were distress specially women who most of the times had no money to put food on their tables and their husbands would be away in search of work. The Poor education system, devastating health and living conditions, no well sanitation facilities,these all made me realize of my privileges and I somehow I felt responsible to bring the change. Over the past years I have worked to improve the livelihoods of people. I have held medical camps, has initiated health programs, creating awareness among women of various vitamins deficiency common among the women and thus providing them with free aid. Installed water motors and water filters as women had to travel distances on foot to obtain clean water.
Creating a safe platform for underprivileged women from the rural areas is not easy, tell us how has the journey been so far and what are the challenges that you have faced in the process?
To break the stereotypes and change mindset, it is not easy. It has been very challenging.However I had the support of the best people; my family. My husband Amin Khan Kanju.Who has always encouraged me to do good.What I have achieved today for the people of Alipur is all because of him. He has been my rock. My Mama (mother) and my Amma (Mother in law). I am blessed. My brother. My sisters Rasanat, Fatima and Maryam. And Of course my loveliest BAE Alizeh Kanju. She has been such a big Support and the best work partner! They gave me the strength and courage to give every obstacle. Most of the Villagers didn’t want to send their daughters to school. Girls attendance in school drops to a low during harvest season. They contribute to care work at home, looking after the young and the ill, and stepping in for the mother if she is pregnant, nursing or sick. When there is much unpaid labour to be done, education is a luxury for a young daughter. This is not to say that social norms or parental reluctance are the reasons for low enrolment and high dropouts of girls. Equally, and more responsible is the State. The quality of education is poor, even for rural households, and may appear to rural parents as being not related to their lives. To convince them to believe that basic education is a necessity was a big challenge. Women comprise approximately half of the total population of Pakistan and most of them live in the rural areas. They are mainly engaged in farming and other agricultural activities. They do most of their labour as unpaid family workers. Its very important to educate them and support them for equal rights if we want to prosper as a successful nation. Along comes skill training. I saw this as a way out for women to success. Made in Alipur is a community organization, under which comes skill training centers where women are taught various skills such as embroidery sewing, stitching, pottery. Introducing them with modern technology, which I always believed is very important and had to be done soon.
Tell us about your collaborations with the brands and which campaign is close to your heart and why?
This is not a fair question!
Each and every campaign holds a very special place in my heart. Lama was the first Collaboration. I am so grateful to Amal Khan CEO Lama for entrusting the women of Made in Alipur. It was such a proud moment for me to see the women put their learning in practice and to be able to provide them with a platform to promote their work well. These women do some great work which needs recognition and appreciation. Above all giving the opportunity for them to earn well. Really It’s a pleasure to see them work with so much commitment and love. These collaborations with the renowned brands has got them the confidence and happiness they truly deserve.
What is a typical day at Ali Pur like?
It’s Work,lots of work but is Epic!
It’s fun and happy with lots of chat. As I said earlier, Alipur has my heart. I can’t be away from it for long. The country side, is exceptionally beautiful. Its far from the madding crowd. I love watching over the women encouraging more to learn. Helping them with their problems. Guiding them. Enlightening their minds with positivity and knowledge. At Made in Alipur we teach our women basic education and general ethics for their well being along with skill training. Introduce them with innovative ideas. Target their strength. To help me I have a team who I have prepared over the years.
Where do you see your organisation in the coming five years and what changes you would like to bring
InshAllah we’ll sore higher!
I want to encourage more women to be a part of this community organization. Its very important to empower rural women. They need to be supported in every way specially with the economic recession things have become quite difficult for the rural villagers. The economy grows and employment rate rises when women own businesses. Get more attention of the state in improving their policies for rural women. Giving them the rights and needs they deserve. I want the women to collaborate with international brands in the coming years and have their work appreciated world wide. I am very patriotic and I would work very hard for this aim to be achieved.
Pakistani Artisans their work to be known and desired around the globe.
Tell us a bit about yourself and what inspired you to become a makeup artist?
I’ve been running a salon by the name Rukash Salon in lahore since the past 10 years now and what makes me keep going is my passion for what I do. Prior to coming into the beauty industry I was studying journalism in Dubai & being in such a multi cultured place where fashion and beauty was very diversified I had the opotunetey to explore many trends from around the world but my interest in becoming a makeup artist did not start from there, it was way before that. I remember ever since I became a teenager I discovered the power of makeup. Being someone who hardly recieved compliments I remember the first Time I went to a wedding wearing makeup the amount of compliments I received really made me more inclined and keen about learning the artistry even more. Makeup when done right has the power to change people’s perception of how they look at you and that alone gives you a lot of confidence. That is what makeup means to me; confidence.
Where did you receive your training as a makeup artist?
So like I mentioned I went for my higher studies in dubai and though my major was journalism in university I got to do a few internships while my time there and I always opted for fashion and beauty industries so that is where my professional journey towards makeup began. From there on I went to New York, Las Angeles and London. The style that I developed was a fusion of East keeping in mind the pakistani style and that of the west but I would say my signature style is all about neatness even when I have to go heavy with makeup it’s never to heavy like you’ve been painted. While in dubai I was very fascinated by the Lebanese style which was always a little extra but nonetheless supremely neat. I’ve been trained all over the world but to be honest you can get all the training in the world but you won’t stand out unless you have your own unique style. I feel blessed to have the opportunity to learn from so many versatile artist and what I bring to my clients is not just style but a fusion East and West.
What’s your favorite makeup products and what’s a must have for every girl?
Since the past decade a lot of bands have emerged and it gets confusing to choose the right because there’s so much marketing in every brand that comes about but when it comes to skin I make no compromises. For me traditionally the makeup brands that been around for longer still work for me and I don’t like to experiment too much when it comes to my clients skin nor mine. A must have is a foundation for every girl with spf not only does it protect your skin from sun exposure but also blocks from dirt getting into pores having said that foundation is the closest product your skin gets to so it has to be one that isn’t damaging instead refines it and for my clients and myself I love the finish and coverage of Estee lauder double wear. Another must have for every girl is a tint but when they aren’t the right consistency they tend to stain only on the dry patches and that could look off instead of making you look good. My recommendation for tints is actually a Korean brand called Holka, the texture of their tints is velvety which looks and feels luxurious on the skin.
Tell me about three makeup trends you’re a fan of?
1. Smokey eyes
2. Glossy lips
3. A very Subtle contour.
With the upcoming winter wedding season, what colours and makeup looks you think will trend?
Everything glossy will keep shining all through this year and rightly so, highlighted faces are here to stay as well. The only way to pull of a highlighter though is to have good skin hence people should be focusing to keeping a healthy skin by following a healthy diet and skincare once that box is ticked you can’t look more Glamorous than having a glowy face and glossy lips. Going into winters there wont be specific trending colors but we’d be seeing more nude. For hair a tight neat bun, centre partings and half tight ponies will be all the rave.
What do you think is the biggest challenge for makeup artists?
I think there too many off them, anyone who has some makeup and an interest in makeup can make a instgram page and call them a makeup artist. And I’m not saying it’s wrong but they aren’t professionals so I guess it’s challenging for both customers and makeup artists both to differentiate between professionals and amateurs.
Tell us about the three best services your salon offers
I wouldn’t want to brag about our top services but we do whatever we offer with passion. Be it a manicure, makeup or a simple threading we take our time to give a client who has trusted us with the desired look they want. Being a salon owner and a makeup artist it’s my motto to provide my customers hygiene, quality and a standard that I would approve for myself as well.
Photography: @asadbinjavedphoto
Muse: @sauban.umais @sulemanhussainofficial_
Styling: @abdullah_sidiki
Jewellery: @zevargram
Grooming: @paragonsalonlhr
How did your background as a surgeon influence your approach to running a business like Ron Jewelry and diamond direct?
After doing my graduation in medicine and surgery I went to US and opened six high end luxury diamond stores. After being successful in the US I came back here in Pakistan and opened Diamond Direct a beautiful store on a beautiful location in Lahore, where we are offering Diamond Rolex. Having said that besides that we also have a lot of varieties of beautiful engagement rings and I have also introduced my own line of engagement rings called the Dazzlers by Dr Imran.
Could you share some insights into the unique qualities and features that set Diamond Direct apart from other diamond retailers in the market?
We have diamonds ranging from PKR 20 Thousand to PKR 20 Million, diamond and gold always has a value having said that the value actually keeps increasing. Therefore whoever wants to invest their money this is indeed the best investment to make.
All my merchandise is imported from USA, all the diamonds that we have are from the US, all our brands are affiliated and certified and not even a one single ring is from any other country. The bottom line is, all the merchandise that I carry are from USA.
As a prominent supporter of charitable institutions and a cancer survivor yourself, how does your jewellery business contribute to philanthropic causes and support cancer patients through its operations or initiatives?
Being a member of the American Cancer Association I always believe in charity and also in giving energy to those who are fighting with cancer. We don’t need to call them a warrior what they actually need is hope, a real hope to live and go through to face the challenge as it comes to them. I being a cancer survivor myself understand how it goes, you need faith and hope and that’s what we need to create for those who are going through this difficult time.
How do you ensure that your customers receive excellent customer service and a personalized experience when purchasing engagement rings or making special orders?
Another specialty that we have are customized diamond engagement rings, every bride needs to look different because that’s the most beautiful moment of their life. So what happens is that we are specialist in that our slogan is, you dream it we create! We are the first one in Pakistan who can customize a diamond engagement ring according to your ideas.
What are your future plans in terms of expanding the business?
Talking about the next 5 years, I have planned to open a new location in Islamabad and then another one in Karachi. We are also working on expanding towards cities like Faisalabad and Sialkot, whereas we also have our offices in Dubai and HongKong.
Mushq opened their grand flagship store on M M Alam road with a star studded event.
We have picked some of the most refreshing prints and easy to carry cuts that will elevate your look and provide maximum comfort this summer season.
Khoobsurat hona aik ehsas hai, malmal sey ley kar resham tak. You could be draped in malmal or the finest of silks that Pakistan has to offer but it is every woman’s right to look and feel unapologetically glamorous and to transcend boundaries like our leading star for the campaign, the absolutely beautiful and talented, Sanam Saeed, who is fearless and represents the modern Pakistani woman! As we embark towards our 30th anniversary in fashion next year, we bring to you “Khoobsurat”, a bridal couture collection which is classic, yet intricately ingrained in the art of couture.
Andaaz
Reflecting the grace of the traditional khandaani bride, @sanammody wears a royal bridal ensemble, meticulously crafted in the hues of French beige blended with sepia. Embellished with intricate rose gold handwork, with a hint of silver, the ensemble consists of a farshi gharara, made in organza, paired with a beautifully tailored straight organza shirt and a dupatta with wide borders, featuring elaborate patterns and shimmering details that exude regality.
Khuwaab
An exquisite bridal gown, featuring a regal silhouette fully embroidered with intricate hand embellishments of golds and silvers, creating a mesmerizing play of light that casts a magical aura all around. Flowing gracefully from the waistline, the voluminous silhouette is crafted in organza with delicate lacing details on the sleeves. Paired with a net veil which adds an enchanting touch, the ensemble is sure to be a favorite this wedding season.
Aarzu
Mark your royalty with our timeless saree;
a graceful charm of antique golden tones, hand-crafted with a textured skirt made in silk, layered with two different drapes, one in organza with wide borders and the other in net with heavily embellished handwork. Worn over a sequinned and beaded statement corset, this ensemble is perfect for those who want to make a statement.
Aaina
Shine bright like a diamond; shine like the whole universe is yours! Flaunting a fusion of classic and contemporary style, diva @sanammody wears a pearl white ensemble sparkling with sequins, threadwork and crystals. Handcrafted in delicate organza, the shirt and dupatta are paired with silk pants with twinkling cutdana details, adding an ethereal touch to the entire look.
Uraan
Wrapped in delicate drapes, @sanammody looks exquisite representing the woman who is fierce and unstoppable, who is strong and resilient, who knows what she wants and makes sure she gets it. Made in a subtle hue of creamy beige, this ensemble consists of a gown worn over a bustier and a skirt, all made
in a breathable hand-woven fabric.
Brand: @theworldofhsy
Muse: @sanammody
Photography & Videography: @nusairrahman.photography
Hair & Makeup: @theshoaibkhan.official
Jewellery: @hanifjewellers
Creative Director: @hassanhsy
Styled by Team HSY
#HSY #TheWorldofHSY #KhoobsuratbyHSY #HSYCouture #HSYBridals #StarsWearHSY #ShineinHSY #outfitinspiration #SanamSaeed #SANAMxHSY
Ambassador Of Pakistan in the United States, H.E. Mr Masood Khan, invited a LADIESFUND delegation of dynamic women leaders across fields to the Embassy Of Pakistan in Washington D.C. for a roundtable discussion and dialogue.
Embrace the opulence of Hamna Amir’s jewelry, adorned with captivating designs and stunning gemstones
Sarosh is the most versatile artist, who started her journey as as a chemist in the USA and discovered her love for painting and calligraphy about ten years ago. She is now running her own mesmerising art gallery in Lahore.
Tell us a bit about your journey and what influenced you to become an artist/painter?
Art has been a part of me since childhood, my mother was a multitalented artist, she created an environment that nurtured art . I am a science graduate, discovered about ten years ago that God has gifted me with this talent sketching and painting, and now it’s my biggest passion!
Your art room is full of paintings of same famous celebrities and singers, it also seems to be inspired by the Mughal era, what is your inspiration and how would you describe your art room?
My art gallery covers life, representing my thoughts in painted colours!
My love for humanity and history has opened areas of Mughal and other historical art besides making portraits of famous people who touched my heart through their hard work and dedication for their amazing work. I researched on them before starting their projects and I have done research work on Baba bull shah and my paintings illustrating his poetry and life is been showcased in my own art gallery in Gulberg Lahore.
Describe your dream project.
Any painting that I start is my dream painting at that time, and takes my full attention!
Describe the best piece of art you’ve created.
I love my latest calligraphy (.Blessings)
How did you discover calligraphy and How would you describe your calligraphy style?
Life is a discovery and through calligraphy we deliver messages of Allah, I call my style just my style, it’s simple straight and clear.
Do you have any favorite tools, types of brushes and pens, or papers you prefer to work with?
I use normal brushes. It’s all about how you display your thoughts through your strokes.
Any suggestions for aspiring artists in this era of digital world?
One can achieve anything through hard work ,dedication and prayers to Almighty Allah
Highlights from the Super Successful Multi Designer Exhibition THE FASHION STREET (@thefashionstreetofficial) Hosted by @mishalmirzaofficial at the Dha Event Halls PR by @rubiamoghees
With having such massive hits on your credit, how has the journey been so far in the industry?!
It has been hell of a rollercoaster. sometimes it was high, and sometimes it was low but I enjoyed every single bit of it.
Sar-e-Rah gained immense amount of love and appreciation, which story among all was your favorite and how was your experience working with all the other actors?
First of all i’m really thankful to all my fans for all the love and appreciation they have given me for Sar-e-Rah and making this project a huge hit. My personal favourite character was the one played by Muneeb and I feel he has done justice to this character. As far as the experience is concerned, I loved working with the entire team of Sat-e-Rah they have been great. we had so much fun on the sets.
Magic is always created when you and Sarmad Khoosat work together, tell us a bit about your upcoming mini-series, Gunah.
No wonder I agreed on doing this project because for the very first time Sarmad and I were planning opposite each other and it is always a pleasure working with my Manto Jee, unfortunately I won’t be able to reveal the character so you would have to watch it all by yourself 🙂
Film, television or web? What do you prefer and why?
I guess I’m in a relationship with the camera. I love being in front of the camera be it TV, Film digital platform, whatsoever.
I personally think now it’s the time for a little change. I might be stepping into the shoes of direction very soon so stay put.
Fans are always eagerly waiting to see you on the screen. Any new project that you would like share details about?!
Currently I have a few options that I’m considering these days, let’s see what catches my attention the most but I’ll definitely be back for my fans real soon that’s a promise 😉
What would you like to say to your fans and followers?
Always be yourself, everything falls into a place at the right time—you’re all my family and I love you from the core of my heart even I’m socially not that active but I’m always thankful for a family like you—lots of positivity your way.
Hair & makeup by ETHEREAL
In conversation with Zunaira Ovais of Picture Perfect; A licensed and certified semi-permanent makeup and micro-blading artist. Zunaira runs a medical spa, first of its kind, in the heart of Lahore!
So Semi-Permanent makeup, that means we have to put less makeup on in the morning, right? What inspired you to become a semi-permanent makeup artist?
“Thank you for asking. While semi-permanent makeup does provide the benefit of waking up with a natural-looking enhancement, it is important to clarify that it is not intended to replace daily makeup entirely. Semi-permanent makeup involves the application of pigments beneath the skin’s surface to enhance features such as eyebrows, eyeliner, or lips. It helps to create a long-lasting effect, saving time and effort in daily makeup routines.
What inspired me to become a semi-permanent makeup artist is my passion for helping people enhance their natural beauty. I have always been fascinated by the transformative power of makeup and how it can boost someone’s confidence. However, I also understand that not everyone has the time or skill to apply makeup daily. This realization led me to explore the world of semi-permanent makeup, where I can provide a solution for individuals seeking long-lasting enhancements.
Being able to create subtle, natural-looking results that enhance a person’s features and help them feel more confident is incredibly rewarding. I enjoy the artistic aspect of the work and the opportunity to bring out the unique beauty in each individual. It’s truly fulfilling to see the positive impact it can have on my clients’ lives.
Additionally, the ever-evolving nature of the beauty industry and the constant advancements in techniques and products motivated me to specialize in semi-permanent makeup. I am dedicated to staying updated on the latest trends, attending workshops, and continuously improving my skills to offer the best possible service to my clients.
Overall, my passion for enhancing natural beauty and the desire to provide a convenient solution for individuals seeking long-lasting makeup led me to pursue a career as a semi-permanent makeup artist.”
Tell us a bit about your journey from learning, practicing and then introducing a medical spa in Pakistan.
Well, it has been a roller coaster ride. Like many of our women folk in the makeup industry today, I started a very humble home-based setup after learning few basic SPMU skills. God blessed me with a decent repute and client trust. That lead me to invest more into enhancing my skills and qualifications, so I pursued SPMU & aesthetics courses abroad.
During my travels, I came across the incredible advancements in the field of aesthetics abroad which we were not having access to in our country. So I decided to introduce the same and by the Grace of Allah I have been able to convert this dream into a reality.
I have a team of professionally trained staff with me having access to latest cutting-edge research in the field. I must say that, for me, the journey has just started as I am always enthusiastic and motivated about my profession since it gains me so much customer admiration and support.
What are the four most in demand treatments at your salon?
Botox & Fillers, Laser hair removal, Lash & Brow procedures & Carbon Facial.
With the wedding season just around the corner, tell us about two most important facials that brides and bridesmaids must get from your salon?
I would recommend everyone to try our Carbon facial and chemical peels for their big day.
What are your future plans and do you plan to introduce some more services at your salon?
I have plans to increase my clinic network throughout the country which I will be doing very soon. With that, I plan to introduce the latest and greatest in aesthetic procedures at my clinics and expand the services portfolio in collaboration with foreign experts and industry icons.
Paragon Salon & Studio launches their new branch in Defence, Phase 5. The star-studded event was attended
by some famous celebrities and prominent personalities from the fashion industry.
Which artist inspired you the most growing up?
Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan – may seem a tad strange because I didnt grow up to be a singer or a composer but I really felt his music and thats where I learnt the most important thing about doing life, feel it or leave it.
What’s something you learned early on in your career that made you a better artist?
Every dog has its day 🙂 everything you do is not the best just because its YOUR best effort. Sometimes you ll bomb sometimes you ll get a standing ovation. Neither defines you, these are just passing reactions to what you did on a certain day, the only thing that defines you is how consistently you get up, dress up, show up, and give it all you got till your number is up.
What’s an important cause or issue you support?
Education, specially for women. I firmly believe that educating a woman is equivalent to educating an entire generation. I try to fund atleast a couple of female students individually at any given time to do my bit but I would definitely want to expand this initiative to an organizational level in the futute.
After the success of “Churails” being a director is another feather in your cap. Please share some details about your two new projects as a director.
I found out I am expecting my first child a month after the launch of Churails and while I was quickly wrapping up my prior acting commitments one of which was Dil Naumeed tou nahi directed by Kashif Nisaar and wondering what do I do next that he spoke to me about a new channel in the making and suggested I should work with him as a director since he ll be producing multiple serials for them. With all due respect I wasn’t looking to do regular tv narrative but then he explained to me the philosophy of Green and it resonated with me, it seemed like the only chance to experiment or breathe for that matter and rightly so because who else was going to let me make Working Women .. lol .. its ridiculous that we have been making female centric narrative ‘apparently’ for over two decades now and we have never made a serial called Working Women, we have hardly explored the very complex work lives of women in multiple professions specially recently since romantic love is the only prominent theme on tv regardless of the plot/genre. And the way Bee Gul has dived into it and navigatives us through a chapter in the lives of 6 different women trying to make it in a man’s world with so much sensitivity and detail will definitely be an experience and a half to watch if I have done justice to the direction bit 🙂
As I got a handle on life with a baby the script for Shanaas found me which is an emotional thriller and required an altogether different aesthetic and sensibility yet again a mostly outdoor shoot during Karachi summers but I am not complaining 🙂 its been a lot of fun and I ll happily do it again as long as I keep finding good stories to tell.
We all know that Yasra also loves to write and you wrote your first drama 2018 and also acted in it. How was your experience?
I love to express, to voice ideas and I am blessed that I can do it in multiple ways, writing is definitely a favorite because it involves zero people and when its just you and the pen everything is raw and pure, nothing beats that. Ustani jee was a series I wrote for Hum and played the titular character aswell. It was very liberating because this was your regular college lecturer, single woman, very rooted in our culture, out there in the world saving other women. I thought if we must cater to the damsel in distress narrative then lets just also simultaneously explore that heroic strong female character we often come across in our communities and families who has the courage to stand up to injustice as well. If a woman can be a victim she can also be the savior.
Describe your acting style.
Method, method and only method.
Of all the roles you have played in the past, which is your favorite? And why?
I had most fun playing Baji Irshaad which was also my directorial debut for television. I played a punjabi christian housemaid. It was hilarious and very cute since punjabi is my mother tongue I had a ball with improvization. Simply loved the character itself and how free I felt with it.
Have you progressed in your acting career as you have expected?
I have progressed as Yasra Rizvi beyond my expectations and in spite of always swimming against the current the rest is just detail 🙂
With you having a deep interest in poetry, please share some of your favourite lines with us.
Samjha raha tha jab .. aap ko main kon hoon .. Tabhi aap ko samajh gaya tha main 🙂
Label: AMK Libaas
Artist: Yasra Rizvi
Creative Head: Aysha Mohsin
Photographs: Mohsin Khawar
Hair & Makeup: Maham Gull
PR & Coordination: Alchemists
What inspired you to become an artist and tell us about your favorite medium?
I think it is something you are born with even as a kid my favorite thing to do was paint and colour. And since my mom is an artist access to art materials was very convenient.
I love to paint from watercolor miniatures to big wall murals. Favorite medium depends on my mood.
Describe how art is important to society
Art is something that portrays feelings and at the same time influences feelings too. There so much you can bring in a society with art, it creates the mood in society, the trends, the environment around us all depend on artists.
What factors influence the price of your work?
The biggest factor that influences any work is cost of production.
How do you go about creating a collection?
It starts with inspiration leading to the thematic design of a collection. Then the production process starts. Everything in my collection is handmade and sustainable so it’s takes time and patience.
How do fashion designers keep up with the latest trends?
I mostly follow latest cuts and colors of the year rest is our own aesthetic that is ages old and evergreen.
Who are some famous architects that you admire?
Ludwig Mies Van de Rohe and Tadao Ando
Can you walk me through your design process of your label, AMK Libaas from concept to execution?
Sustainability plays the most important part in all the process. Everything should be environment friendly and ethical, pure fabrics are chosen, hand dyed and then embellished by block printing, hand embroideries etc. depicting our traditional fashion reviving theory. Lastly they are cut and stitched according to the collection genre.
How would you describe your design aesthetic & philosophy?
Sustainable, traditional and comfortable. Our mission is to revive handmade traditional artistic clothes that are comfortable yet luxurious.
Philosophy behind are the artisans that do marvelous hand block printing and embroideries but are struggling due to the invasion of digital and mechanical solutions. Sustaining them in all our collections is a vital part of our studio.
How do you think personal style should be expressed?
By being comfortable in your own style.
From chic
silhouettes to meticulously crafted attires, we have picked up some of the most exquisite pieces from different designers to make you stand out on weddings and all your
formal events!
Ethnic Clothing brand RONAK By SYEDA ROMAYA ALI
@ronakbyromayaali
London – Dubai – Pakistan
Shipping worldwide
Featuring SAIM ALI & MAHAM MIRZA
@saimali_official
@mahammirza60
Photographer @hassandawoodofficial
Videographer @umarbutt_films
Hair&makeup female @khawarriazofficial
Male grooming @toniandguypk
What Should Be More Important To A Man: Style or Fashion?
He shouldn’t go out of his way to dress to impress , one should only wear what he can easily carry well.
Which styles of acting do you think you’re most suited for?
Romantic and sad.
What do you believe is the most challenging aspect of being an actor?
I think to play different characters and fit in to the character like a glove.
What’s your styling philosophy?
My styling philosophy is to slay with style & class and never go over board.
Which current trends would you incorporate in your clothing selections?
Add more linen for the summers which I already have but I never get enough of that particular fabric , also more pastel colours, more whites more pastels, long flowing trousers. Easy & breezy.
What is your favourite part of being in the fashion industry?
To be acknowledged, and loved by so many also being inspirational is I always have worked hard for.
What is your greatest professional accomplishment?
Mostly now when I am getting recognition on international platform, building the softer image for my country , also it’s a beautiful feeling to be loved internationally. I could only gather that by living in Dubai being the Golden resident.
What do you think are the most critical aspects of the fashion industry?
Well any industry in the world is very uncertain one should not be so sure of it, sometimes they open a lot of doors for you sometimes you make a door for yourself as no one opens a single door for you , saying it out of my experience as I have gone though both the aspects of the industry.
Would you like to tell us about Any new project that you are working on?!
I have been recently awarded by the social media super star UAE awards as the most loved Fashion Influencer of uae and now over the moon by nominated by the one and only Filmfare Middle East awards in the male fashion category. I am overwhelmed by the response here in the uae and soon will be coming with a big show. Keeping my fingers crossed!
Models: Sadaf Kanwal & Mahnoor Cheema
Photography by Mehlum Sadri Wala
Makeup by Rhyan Thomas
How do you think the role of a fashion designer has changed since you started your career?
Replication is one of the biggest challenge for any fashion designer I mean It’s hard to sell original high-value garment when everyone wants cheap knock-offs.
What according to you is a favorite part of being a fashion designer?
The constant reinvention and willingness to try new ideas.
What are your favorite fashion trends?
Shackets and coord sets.
Tell us a bit about your new collection
Our new collection Inspired by the age-old architectural charm that the ancient world has to offer, Ruya Wedding Couture ’23 is an ode to the rendition of heritage and tradition. The arches of the architecture are related to the soulfully crafted scalloped finishing while the classic handwork and embellishments are perfectly representing the craftsmanship that has been practiced behind the artful and historic structure.
Who are your style icons and why?
Personally for me I don’t really have any style icons because I love anyone who is fierce and fashionable.
Tell us a bit about educational background and how you’ve developed your art career so far?
I am a Fellow of the Society of Actuaries and of the Canadian Institute of Actuaries and completed my B.Sc. Honors in Actuarial Science and Statistics from the University of Western Ontario. I am a self-taught oil painter and my only formal education in fine art was in high school.
I did my first oil painting three and a half years ago; each subsequent painting was a leap in technique, but my voice has always been unique and has led me to produce original never done before work. Via social media and word of mouth, the paintings started getting collected by art enthusiasts around the world, followed up by publications in lifestyle magazines, professional actuarial journals and podcasts. We recently presented a solo booth exhibit of 9 large scale paintings in New York City and have been showered with interest from Chelsea art galleries, fashion houses and private collectors.
Oil on gallery-wrapped canvas
72 x 60 x 2 in.
Describe your dream project?
My dreams are way too big to summarize in this interview, and I do use dreamlike surrealistic visuals to compose my works. However, to answer your question, a dream project would be one in which my stance on secular oneness of humanity without the divide of culture, religion, and prejudices, allyship towards women’s empowerment and de-stigmatization of mental health illnesses is most amplified. All while using a portion of proceeds from the art career to donate to charitable causes close to my heart.
You know, I want to change the world, by literally painting a picture of a born tolerant Muslim boy’s immigration to North America and to show my peers in the West that people of my skin colour are not closed-minded terrorists. On the other hand, I also want to breakdown the preconceived ideology and resentment against the West that exists in the East.
Oil on gallery-wrapped canvas
72 x 60 x 1.5 in.
Do your other interests influence your art?
Absolutely! Dance, fashion, film, horticulture, gastronomy. They all play an important role in the imagery used in the works.
Describe the best piece of art you’ve created?
To me all my works are special, and I go through a grieving process to let any one of them go. I think my top favourites, in no particular order, are the Boxed Golden Temple, Boxed Sagrada Familia, Muskokan Dream, the Lotus Temple, Mohatta, Bordeaux, Milan, Mardi Gras Sax Fantasy, Flowerin’ Audrey and Flowerin’ Riri – 2015 Met Gala. The collection can be viewed on our website www.1haris1.com.
Oil on gallery-wrapped canvas
36 x 60 x 2 in.
Oil on gallery-wrapped canvas
40 x 30 x 1.5 in.
Tell us about your techniques for overcoming creative blocks?
Yoga, strength training and my day career as an actuary. Trust me, the problem is not creative blocks on the contrary it is choosing between the countless ideas that I have written and sent to myself via email to serve as a repository. I just fear that I will not have enough days in this lifetime to execute all the dreamy compositions in my mind and the ones sitting in the inbox.
Oil on gallery-wrapped canvas
60 x 48 x 1.5 in.
What are you working on at the moment?
Right at this moment answering your questions ha ha. Jokes aside, post the New York show, with the help of my Colombian art advisor, spouse and sister managers, we are evaluating the best gallery and commission offers to advance the art career. We are also working on producing our giclées for charity.
Oil on gallery-wrapped canvas
48 x 60 x 1.5 in.
I have a very hectic travelling schedule, visiting 14 cities in the next two months, so I will pick up the paintbrush again in June. I am toiling with either to produce my Flowerin’ Princess Diana – Revenge Dress, Flowerin’ Jackie Kennedy, or starting a new series which, I have been meaning to do for a while, titled Cappadocia Giverny Lotus Ponds. In this new series I would compare, contrast and make political statements on the Muslim cultures in Turkiye with more “liberal” or should I say bigoted ones of France. The imagery would be of the Cappadocia mountains set in Monet’s Giverny ponds with hot air balloons floating about.
Oil on gallery-wrapped canvas
40 x 40 x 2 in.
How do you stay connected and up to date with the art world?
By attending major art fairs such as Basel, Scope, Context, Untitled, Nada in Miami, Frieze and the Armory show in NYC, and wanting to add Venice Biennale and Foire Internationale d’Art Contemporain in Paris to the list.
I also have well-established art advisors, curators, collectors and board members of the financial world art committees in my personal network who all keep me informed. Lastly, social media and attending local art shows and museum exhibits also add to keeping up with the Art-dashians.
Oil on gallery-wrapped canvas
60 x 84 x 2 in.
What is the biggest challenge of being an artist?
I am very lucky that I have a day career that allows me complete financial freedom to express myself on my terms and be selective with gallerists and other opportunities. The truth of the matter is that art is a business and the middle men/women/them, the career makers/breakers, have a huge financial interest in an artist’s trajectory. Thus, I think for me the biggest challenge is that I am very aware of the financial implication of contracts, and to be able to reason out the different compensation structures the career makers offer.
I guess that it is much better than being financially manipulated/restricted by all the noise that exists out there in the art world. What I am trying to say, is that the biggest challenge for any artist is to ensure the bills are paid and the work is not influenced by compromise.
What Do You Want Your Artwork to Stand for?
I described that in my dream project above!
Any advice for all the aspiring artists?
Keep on going. Find your voice by what motivates you, what makes you angry, what you want to change about the world and then paint about that.
Never compare your work to anyone else’s because art is so subjective that even a painting with one stroke can mean so much more to a collector than a work with 500 hrs spent in production.
A higher proportion of disappointments will come than with any other career, but always remember, when bridges fall, stock markets plunge and medicines stop working, art is the only healer.
Muse @janiraider
Hair & Makeup @hifsa.khan.salon
Dress by @aisha_imran_official
Photography by @opmshoots
Jewellery by @_kundan_jeweller
Stylist @styledbymurradrahimkhan
Muse @nimrakhan_official
Hair & Makeup @hifsa.khan.salon
Dress by @aisha_imran_official
Photography by @azeemsaniofficial
Jewellery by @farhatalijewellers
Stylist @styledbymurradrahimkhan
PR & Coordination by @murradrahimkhan
Muse @janiraider
Hair & Makeup @hifsa.khan.salon
Dress by @aisha_imran_official
Photography by @opmshoots
Jewellery by @_kundan_jeweller
Stylist @styledbymurradrahimkhan
Muse @janiraider
Hair & Makeup @hifsa.khan.salon
Dress by @aisha_imran_official
Photography by @opmshoots
Jewellery by @_kundan_jeweller
Stylist @styledbymurradrahimkhan
Tell us about your incredible journey from Shashlik for PTV to Joyland?
Its been a remarkable journey of self-exploration and learning. Following the footsteps of my grandfather and parents , there was no obligation or supposition that I would join the same line and I think there was no active encouragement as well. So, I chose it by choice, very consciously, that I would get into the performing arts.
My debut, Shashlik, broke the ice in exploring my acting skills which helped me secure a place among the masses and never had i known that it was just the beginning. I experimented with Commercials, hosting, writing and even teaching as these all mediums of learning and exploring taught me how to sustain myself through failures and made me as strong as my inspirations. The show has to go on!
Realisation comes with time and experience, and that my actual calling was direction or storytelling primarily, staying behind the camera. I like to act, but should focus more on direction.”
Direction speaks volumes about aesthetics and execution of the plot, and Zindagi Tamasha was a self Realization and side by side cultivated the firm faith in me, that my directoral qualifications allow me to prove my abilities. As it leaves a lot of responsibility towards the audience who dedicate their time and attention to watching something that you’ve made.
Around 2019, after the inception of Khoosat films, I feel that I earned the freedom to finally make my own films,
“All the way to Joy Land, I would say, the turbulent episodes of your life, no matter within your academic performance or practical worldly wisdom,actually guarantee your growth and determine your graph as to what limits can you touch the sky. Surviving the test of time is the essence of actualization.”
Your father Sir Irfan Khoosat, being the legend of our industry and the one who marked his name in the industry as one of the finest actor and director, gave any pressure to you when you started off your career?!
Of course that’s natural and people do compare. My father has directed stuff for television, theatre and cinema but his primary focus has always been acting.
“Initially when I was more into acting there was a lot of comparison, assumptions and some undue pressure on me as I also started with comedy and my father is very famous and known for some of his iconic comic serials.”
I was very young and not much professional and lacked that kind of talent my father had. Soon I realised that even in acting, I didn’t want to limit myself to comedy and made that conscious shift.
“I stopped doing comedy because I feared that people will brand me just as a comic actor because people here can’t differentiate between a comedian and a comic actor.”
“Being a comedian, is a very rare gift that some people have and it is a very specialised kind of performance.”
“I am not a comedian, I am an actor who can try to do different kind of roles and the same goes for my father.”
My father, his name and my surname will always be my identity. I stopped taking this comparison and pressure too negatively, but being honest, initially I was bothered. I realised it later that this identity is my pride and will always own it as my motivation and life long inspiration.
What do you think are the most important things for a director to have?
Direction is a broad field and it is quite obscure in so many Ways with Strong technical knowledge and aesthetic control being the foremost. I have learnt over the years that as a director your job is to steer the whole ship or to create an environment where you facilitate collaboration helping others bring out their best.
“Direction is an artistic endeavour but strangely it requires alot of people to bring their creative and technical skills. So for me it’s all about the environment and the energy that one creates for the collaborators.”
If you could be any actor, who would it be?
Though I would just like to be a good/decent actor but if I had to pick one actor that I could be it is the one and only, Munawar Zarif.
What is your favorite genre of film?
My go to genre as a viewer is psychological thrillers, intense drama and mysteries.
Tell us about your first television appearance?
My first television appearance was in a sitcom called, wrong numbers. It was written by Dr. Younus Butt and directed by Jawad Bashir in 1999.
I played the role of a nerd medical college student and I looked quite unbelievably bizarre. It was interesting and I remember that I had no idea what acting for camera is all about. There were two rounds of auditions but Jawad created an environment where one would not feel daunted or intimidated.
How do you develop a story and How do you choose which projects to work on?
The keyword for this is patience, observation and some research. If a story sits somewhere in you, where it really makes a place for itself then it will just grow on its own. If you believe in the basic idea, (which could come from anywhere as the whole chemistry is a mystery) and give it the right amount of time then expect some beautiful metamorphosis to happen.
“Not all stories or ideas bloom into something good. At times maybe you just have to sit for long or at times maybe drop the idea. All we need to make is a connection with what we are developing and let it just slow-cook as then stories find you instead of you finding them.”
What is your favorite scene in your film? Why?
That’s a tough one 🙂
I have a theory/practice of detaching myself from my work as soon as it’s done and delivered because it causes some weird obsession sometimes and pulls you down rather than nurturing you or helping you to grow so I’m not very obsessed with my work.
“Yes, I do have fond memories of my work and I think Kamli is studded with brilliant performances and the memories attached to them are very close my to heart. The brilliance of my brilliant actors, when I look at it are just magic.”
As in actor I remember a scene in Manto between Nimra and me where Manto is hallucinating looking deep into the mirror and then Nimra appears. The memory of it and how we shot it is still so fresh and clear in my mind. I was so close to the mirror in that scene that I could not even see myself and simultaneously I had to be aware of the camera and Nimra’s magical appearance; in short it was all just spellbinding.
What inspired you to make Kamli and be a part of Joyland?
I think life usually inspires you, your own exsistence at that point in time and the emotional space you are in. Kamli grew very organically from a short film that I saw and then it developed with a lot of my own personal experiences and my screenwriters own take on themes. The story stayed with me and I gave it time to grow and breathe and it blossomed into the blockbuster, Kamli!
As a producer, I have a supporting role in Joyland and I love Saim as a friend and as a filmmaker and I knew that he was developing Joyland and when he asked me to be a part of it I was more than happy to help him make this dream of a film come true.
What was the most challenging aspect of directing a film?
Just making the film with some sense of freedom and keeping your vision intact without being a dictator or having unnecessary control and having everybody collaborate is the most challenging aspect I think. You can’t be aggressive or too angry while directing any project.
“Being a director is like having a great amount of responsibility where you need to find a middle ground with all the collaborators and still not letting go off your style, integrity and the creative approach that you have.”
What was the last movie you saw?
The last movie I saw was, Cate Blanchett’s Tár.
Would you like to share some details about your upcoming project with us?
A Tv serial is coming on Green Tv called Goum. I have directed this and also acted in it. There is also a limited series coming up on Express Tv with Saba Qamar , Juggun and Rabia Butt.
I’m also doing a lot of exciting stuff for my YouTube channel, Khoosat Films. We have three shows as I’m exploring the landscape of digital world.
“I am in the process of writing a feature film.”
Tell us about how “Khoosat in the Kitchen” started and the whole idea behind it.
I have done a cooking show a few years ago too it was called, ‘Star Iftar with Sarmad Khoosat’. I am not a chef but I am actually a very passionate cook and I come from a family where everyone is a foodie.
“We are family that’s a mix of kashmiris, Chaudhrys and Jutts so we have a variety of food. My Dadi was from Delhi so we have a taste of that as well with some great cooks in the family.”
I find cooking very therapeutic and particularly talking about ‘Khoosat in the Kitchen’ I’m trying to explore the digital landscape and trying to see what kind of content or interaction with the fans can be done. More of a fusion of two things that I love the most, food and films.
Any advice for aspiring filmmakers?
Dreams do come true depending on how much conviction and belief you have, so belief in your dreams and originality and don’t ever look for shortcuts. Enjoy the process!
Photography & Edit: @waqar_ahmed_butt @paragonstudioofficial
Celebrity: @sarmadkhoosat
Make up & hair: @paragonsalonlhr
Salon style director: @alikhalid_26
Wardrobe: @jermynst
Stylist: @humzahmaliks
Set design & Art direction: @ayproductions.pk
Shoes: @hushpuppiespakistan
Highlights from the Grand Launch of Chief Apparel (@chiefapparel.pk) in Gujranwala. Decor by @bandbajabaraatofficial & the amazing iftar by @rabyaaofficial
