A fresh take

culture

Culture, personality, and shifting trends often shape how we present ourselves to the world. Every season sparks fresh ideas and creativity, influencing new ways of self-expression. At Runway 2024: Summer Edition, this concept truly came to life. Held at the Russian Cultural Centre, Karachi, the event brought together some of Pakistan’s emerging designers to showcase a wide range of collections, from bridal to ethnic wear, formal attire, and even resort-wear.

Fashion is often subjective, with personal style being a key factor in choosing what we wear. Yet, there are some collections that manage to stand out, appealing to a broader audience. Festive formal wear, ethnic outfits, and bridal brands have always been popular in Pakistan. Each of these categories has its own design philosophy, often influenced by cultural and traditional elements. However, new trends are always emerging, and resort-wear is one such trend with growing potential.

Opening the event, Zubair Shah made an impression with his resort-wear collection, which was a fresh take on beach and summer fashion. The collection included sarongs, sun hats, and lightweight, breezy outfits in cool tones, perfect for a tropical getaway. The fabrics were chosen for their comfort, while the prints gave each piece a unique touch. His showstopper, TV actress Sarah Omair, walked in a mint-green, lapel-free suit, combining both elegance and a modern, chic vibe.

Seema Shah followed with a collection that honoured the tradition of Multani hand embroidery. Seema’s work is deeply connected to Pakistan’s cottage industry, where women craft intricate designs. Her collection highlighted this craftsmanship, with hand-embroidered shalwars paired with chikankari shirts. The attention to detail was clear, especially in the trimmed edges of the long dupattas, which gave a polished look to each outfit. Alongside this, she introduced a line of embroidered suits in soft pastel shades, designed for urban working women. This blend of traditional handwork and modern practicality made her collection stand out, offering a fresh take on everyday wear while still staying true to cultural roots.

Next, Uzee Brothers presented their collection of groom’s wear. Known for their classic yet contemporary designs, Uzee Brothers have showcased their work on various platforms, including Fashion Pakistan Week. Their collection showcased sherwanis that were both timeless and innovative. The outfits were well-suited for grooms looking for something traditional yet distinctive for their big day.

Bridal couture is always a major feature at fashion events. K Yousuf featured a collection with heavily embellished shirts paired with lehengas and long kameez, all topped off with dramatic dupattas. The collection had a pastel colour palette, which balanced the ornate embellishments with a softer, more elegant tone.

The grand finale came with the Jan Bibi Collection, which highlighted ethnic Baloch wear with a modern twist. The collection featured hand-embroidered dresses that showcased the skilled craftsmanship of Baloch artisans. As the models walked down the runway, it became clear how traditional cuts has been adapted to modern styles, creating a fusion of old and new. The menswear in the collection also stood out, with classic, customary designs tailored for the modern man.

Adding to the fashion showcase, a ‘hair trends show’ was presented by Ilyas Salon, the official grooming partner for Runway 2024: Summer Edition. This segment highlighted the latest in hair and makeup trends, adding another layer of style to the evening. The event ended with a high-energy musical performance by Lahore-based artist, Ayaan Rockstar. His solo act got the crowd on their feet, providing an energetic conclusion to the night. Choreographer Asif Rehman ensured that the flow of the show, from the runway models to the performers, was seamless and well-executed.

The show was a celebration of the creativity and diversity within Pakistan’s fashion industry, showing how it continues to evolve while staying connected to its cultural roots.