You

Beauty talk

By Sadaf Jabeen

01 May, 2018

From time to time in our ‘beauty talk’ section, we feature different celebrities who share their experiences, achievements and beauty secrets with us. This week, You! talks to Lahore-based designer, Misbah Haider...

interview

Misbah Haider has been designing clothes since 8 years; however, she formally launched her label ‘Mirusah’ a year ago. For Misbah, designing is something which has been always close to her heart. “What started off as a hobby soon blossomed into passion and my husband and family encouraged me to pursue it as a full-time career. Now, I have a by-appointment only studio in Gulberg, Lahore,” says Misbah. Her design philosophy is very simple. “I think a woman should wear clothes that enhance her confidence. An outfit should be aesthetically well balanced. The finer details are the most important.” This week, Misbah shares her experiences and beauty secrets with our readers....

You! What was the first outfit that you designed?

Misbah Haider: I believe it was a bridal for a friend’s friend. I can still remember the rush of adrenaline I experienced when I saw her dressed as a bride.

You! What type of clothes you design for women?

M.H: Feminine but making a statement at the same time. I love playing with silks and jacquard. The richness of pure silk and the depth of jacquard is mesmerizing. I especially love hand embroidery, the various techniques coupled with zardozi.

You! Why do you think women should wear designer clothes?

M.H: I think women should wear whatever makes them feel beautiful. I always advise my clients to invest in one tasteful piece rather than getting five unflattering ones.

You! What do you like best about designing clothes?

M.H: The entire process of an idea or an inspiration coming together and making a statement is what I enjoy the most. Watching your creations being worn by women on their special days is a very satisfying feeling

You! Do you prefer sketching designs or actually constructing them?

M.H: Both. Sometimes an outfit goes through the meticulous process of developing a mood board, sketching, contemplating fabric options, embellishment techniques etc .and sometimes it just comes to you like an epiphany and everything just glides into place.

You! What seasonal looks and colours are you expecting this summer?

M.H: I am looking at fresh vibrant summer colours, neons and whites. Clear, crisp and refreshing. We have also used watermelon pinks, fresh aquas and lovely tangerines in our upcoming collections. It’s going to be a fun season!

You! What are the difficulties faced by designers in getting their work done?

M.H: The erratic and unstable conditions in the country and an even more unreliable labour force.

You! What are the highs and lows of being a designer?

M.H: I think every profession has its share of highs and lows. The sense of satisfaction of creating something, being part of people’s lives on a daily basis and being able create a livelihood for so many talented craftsmen have to be worth mentioning. Lows would include not having any fixed work hours, needing a constant caffeine fix and not being able to relax at Eid (crazyyy times).

You! In your opinion what is the biggest mistake a person can make while dressing here?

M.H: To blindly follow ‘fashion trends’. One must consider their personality type, body type and overall persona while choosing an outfit.

You! What is the inspiration behind your latest collection?

M.H: Our latest Eid collection which is due to launch this month is for women who want to wear something exclusive and luxurious. We have a total of 9 different designs with digitally printed pure silk dupatas paired exclusively designed outfits in pure fabrics. Women who want to stand out and break the clutter will love it.

You! How would you define your own sense of style?

M.H: Minimalistic. I think when you are surrounded day in and out with luxurious fabrics, embellishments etc. you just want to wear a smartly tailored solid coloured kurta with comfortable bottoms.

You! What is the one piece of clothing that you shy away from wearing and why?

M.H: I always stay away from bat sleeves... just not my thing.

You! How long does it usually take for you to design an outfit?

M.H: Depends on the outfit, sometimes it takes minutes and sometimes days... even months!

You! Your biggest accomplishment so far:

M.H: Conceived, designed and executed a bridal outfit with a 6 ft long trail in 10 days!