Beauty talk

beauty

From time to time in our ‘beauty talk’ section we feature different designers who share their

experiences, achievements and beauty secrets with us. This month You! talks to Erum Khan, who creates beautiful outfits...

Erum Khan is a Lahore-based designer who started off her career some five years ago. She has been showcasing her collections quite frequently at various fashion shows. Erum Khan is known for her out of the box designs and is bold enough to experiment with different cuts, silhouettes and exquisite craftsmanship. She brings an array of designs on the runway and last year she presented an all-white collection with elaborate gowns at the bridal fashion week. And recently, she designed a gorgeous wedding attire for renowned TV personality Sanam Jung. Erum Khan has two outlets - one in Lahore and other one in Islamabad - and very soon she will be stocking at select outlets in Karachi as well.

You! Tell us a bit about your inspiration? Tell us about how you developed your aesthetic?

Erum Khan: Basically, I have done MBA in marketing but I have always been naturally inclined towards beauty and arts. I think that creativity and aesthetics are God’s gift and a creative person can actually get inspiration from anything - it can be a beautiful painting or nature’s bounties.

You! What is your design philosophy?

E.K: My design philosophy is very simple, even though I am into bridals; I try to keep my designs very minimal, intricate and classy. I am into couture therefore I keep my design elements very elegant and within the parameters of modern styling and traditional cuts.

You! What are top five winter trends?

E.K: 1. Fur is in vogue this time.  2. Also, velvets are back with a bang. 3. Coats take on longer dimensions.  4. Leather appears to be stylish this fall. 5. Fringes and feathers.

You! What new trends did you introduce in your latest collection showed at BCW?

E.K: I personally loved the collection that I showcased at the BCW. ‘Dastoor-e-Ishq’ was all about the fusion of modern cuts, intricate designs and traditional artwork. Each piece was telling a story of its own. We did thorough research on each motif that had been embroidered on the outfits. Basically with this collection I tried to introduce a new tinge of modernism yet sustaining the traditional essence of our brand.

You! What makes a successful designer?

E.K: For a designer each day should be a new learning experience for him/her. I totally believe that designers are born artists and it is a passion that comes from within. I started designing because I love to create beautiful pieces. I don’t take this as a money minting business and simply love what I am doing. Aesthetics are God gifted but a good designer only evolves with training.

 You! What kind of women do you like to dress?

E.K: Everyone appreciates a groomed woman who knows how to carry herself elegantly. I would love to dress women who have good taste.

You! What are the difficulties faced by designers over here?

E.K: It’s a constant process in which you have to meet the expectations of your clients. In order to satisfy their needs you have to be creative and unique about your idea and keep yourself updated with the market and latest techniques. Then there is constant chaos at the kaarigar’s end where you are fighting till the end to execute your ideas in a refined manner. Yes, it is an alluring world but it requires a lot of hard work and patience.

You! Do you think that there is potential for new designers in our fashion industry?

E.K: Of course there is a lot of potential. New designers are like a breath of fresh air and they definitely have new ideas and glamorous designs to offer.

You! What is your most satisfying moment?

E.K: We have developed a great reputation with our clients and have managed to establish a niche clientele in a short span of time which is my biggest strength.

 

Beauty corner

You! What is one cosmetic you cannot do without?

E.K: These days I cannot live without Pro Long Wear Mac Eyeliner

You! When it comes to cosmetics, which brand do you usually use?

E.K: My entire cosmetic line consists of NARS, MAC, Too Faced, Benefit and Naked Cosmetics

You! Do you go to salon regularly for your facials?

E.K: I visit the salon regularly but I go for blow dries not for facials

You! Do you prefer going to a spa or salon?

E.K: If I want to relax then definitely spa

You! Your favourite perfumes?

E.K: Daisy Dreams by Marc Jacobs

You! Your beauty regimen?

E.K: I take extra care of my skin and drink a lot of water, juices and eat lots of fruits

You! Do you use anti-ageing creams?

E.K: I don’t need anti-ageing creams right now (laughs)

You! Do you believe in treatments like Botox?

E.K: Oh, that is a big NO.