Fashion never sleeps. We live in an era where fast fashion has permeated the global fashion landscape. Is it a good idea? No. Is it a reality? Yes. However, there are always forces within the industry pushing for sustainability. A case in point: the Winter Fashion Gala, held last month in collaboration with Goethe-Institut Pakistan and Alliance Française de Karachi.
Sustainable fashion is more than just lip service—it is about elevating not just fashion but also all those connected to it, including various partners and collaborators who contribute to the economy. During the gala, this concept was highlighted to our delight.
Nine Figures announced the launch of its Winter/Spring collection. With a mission to redefine modern fashion and ensure broad appeal, the carefully curated collection showcased a diverse range of trends—a fusion of streetwear, casual attire, and cosy knitwear.
The event featured leading brands, a brilliant film screening, and a series of collaborations that made the occasion unique.
Among them was Diners, a renowned formal menswear brand for all seasons. Each piece in ‘Sohaye by Diners’ floral collection was a celebration of nature’s grace, crafted to reflect the beauty of a thousand blooms.
Veteran stylist extraordinaire Saraphine Andrew and her team at The Trio Salon infused the WFG ramp with their signature zany energy and technical prowess, presenting a one-of-a-kind hair and make-up show. The looks were complemented by outfits from promising designer Parishae Adnan for the House of Amir Adnan, working in seamless synergy.
Director and actor Angeline Malik also made a substantial contribution by providing intricate jewellery pieces from her newly launched collection for a dedicated segment. Fashion students from Indus University added a unique flair to the show with a segment showcasing their graduating thesis designs. Their highly stylised, innovative costume pieces reflected a unique perspective on fashion, bursting with creativity, vivid imagination, and conceptual depth. Their playful use of colour techniques, intricate craftsmanship, and complementary accessories brought their vision forward. This showcase was not about the past but what future would look like in the hands of the next generation of talent.
Another highlight was Edge Republic’s presentation of Regalia – A Celebration of Timeless Elegance, a luxurious collection designed for the modern man. The exclusive line featured tuxedos and suits that exuded sophistication, craftsmanship, and regal charm. Each piece was meticulously crafted, featuring rich fabrics, intricate hand embroidery, and a flawless fusion of classic and contemporary aesthetics.
Seema Shah Bridals, a relatively young bridal fashion enterprise, was launched with the aim of reviving traditional trends while maintaining a strong focus on sustainability. Featuring indigenous artistry and craftsmanship, the collection featured zari, gota, tilla, and dabka weaving techniques, along with classic Eastern silhouettes in formal wear.
Zubair Shah, a unisex, primarily Western wear brand founded shortly after the coronavirus pandemic in 2021, presented a formal collection themed Black & Gold.
Amidst the fashion segments, the evening also included a conversation with the team behind Indus Echoes (Sindhu Ji Goonj). Director Rahul Aijaz, executive producer Mohammad Kamran Jawaid, and the cast of the indie art film featuring Vajdan Shah, Absaar Mahar, and Samina Sahar briefly discussed the unique project. As a gesture of goodwill, they presented exclusive handcrafted ajraks—a symbol of Sindhi hospitality and culture—to the honourable Goethe-Institut Director, Mr. Andreas Schiekofer, the honourable Alliance Française de Karachi Director, Mr. Gregoire Brault, and WFG organizer Zubair Shah.
Apart from its premiere in Pakistan, the film also had its international premiere at the Jaipur International Film Festival.