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 Lahore-based designer Raazia Shoukat...
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 Lahore-based designer Raazia Shoukat...
While she was ‘bitten by the design bug’ long before she got married; Raazia Shoukat completed her master’s degree from Beaconhouse National University (BNU) before doing a short stint of fashion designing from USA. “There were 101 dresses in my dowry and I designed all of them,” says Raazia. From bold designs to artful silhouettes, she’s providing the style inspiration your closet needs to make a statement this season. After settling down with two kids, this upcoming designer decided to launch her own line with some prodding from high profile friends. Sophisticated draping and artistic detailing make her designs ultra feminine. Her collection is aimed to provide a whiff of fresh air in the form of graceful and stylish ensembles. She manages to perfectly tow that line between preppy and pretty. Here’s a tete a tete with Raazia...
You! How did it all begin?
Raazia Shoukat: I always wanted to pursue designing clothes but never paid any serious attention till the time people actually started appreciating my designs and a proper clientele was formed. It has been few years that I seriously got into the field.
You! What are the latest trends to look forward to?
R.S: I strongly believe that long shirts are making a comeback teamed with tapered pants. The embellished dupattas and chaadars will also become in.
You! What are you currently working on?
R.S: There is a complex mix of traditional and modern cuts with a preferred reverence for experimental luxury. The market for preferring hand embroidery is diminishing. People are not willing to pay for it. But I have developed intricate machine embroidery which is making its presence felt. These days I am working on fabrics like raw silk, organza and age old chiffons for the upcoming season and creating unusual knots in embroidery, peculiar colour combos and fabric merging with colour. I like to work both on western and eastern silhouettes.
You! What is the one factor that comes to your mind while designing an outfit?
R.S: The only thing that comes to my mind is that my outfit should have a wow factor and everyone should sit up and take notice. It should be the focal point and an object of admiration.
You! Known for your intricate details and modern silhouettes, what is your forte?
R.S: I am more into cuts and placement of embellishments. I can’t do straight shirts with light work. My clientele belongs to a varied age group, hence, I have to act and create pieces that are timeless yet have a youthful appeal. I am proud to say that my work cannot be copied.
You! You are known for your formal line. How does it signify your label?
R.S: It is a little edgier and slightly more expensive but has the essence of the brand: effortless and modern fashion for women of any age. The collection features signature cuts that are classic and minimal with a variety of lengths and layers that are embodied into decadent bridal looks.
You! Who are your most favourite designers?
R.S: Ellie Saab, Bunto Kazmi and Elan.
You! How do you design an outfit for a bride?
R.S: I like to do traditional brides. I don’t like pastel colours for my brides. A bride only stands out in bright colours while the ‘baraat’ bride should always be in red yet one can play with colours for a valima outfit. A valima bride can even do without a dupatta - she can carry a gown or a trailing dress.
You! As Hilary Alexander says: “When we get up in the morning and decide what to wear, we’re making a conscious fashion decision, whether we realize it or not.” Do you think that we have become slaves of trend forecasts?
R.S: This statement is true to an extent. In recent years we have started to dress ourselves inspired by the social media onslaught that has trickled down from the ramp to the High Street.
You! Where are you stocking at?
R.S: I am stocking at FPL (Fashion Pakistan Lounge) and only cater to appointments in my studio at home.
You! What are your future plans?
R.S: I am planning to introduce my bridals on a fashion platform this year. Because I don’t want to restrict myself to bridal wear only, so I am also designing a collection based on ready to wear fashion. I am launching a line on Eid for girls between 5-15 years.
BEAUTY CORNER
You! What is one cosmetic you cannot do without?
R.S: Sunscreen - more of a necessity than a cosmetic
You! When stepping out, do you wear make up all the time?
R.S: No
You! When it comes to cosmetics, which brand do you usually use?
R.S: MAC
You! Do you go to salon regularly for your facials?
R.S: Not for facials
You! Your preferred spa or salon:
R.S: Ruby’s Splitends
You! Your favourite perfume:
R.S: Amouage
You! Your beauty regimen:
R.S: Take off makeup with Pond’s cold cream and wash face with Neutrogena Soap
You! Do you use anti-ageing creams?
R.S: Yes
You! Do you believe in treatments like Botox?
R.S: Only time will tell!
