he second edition of the Shaan-E-Pakistan (SEP) Fashion Summit concluded in Karachi, bringing together industry leaders to discuss the powerful synergy between fashion and music. SEP’s founder, Huma Nasr, envisioned a future where these two creative forces propel each other onto the international stage. She expressed her desire to host another event in October to further this vision.

Nasr’s mission in establishing SEP House is to foster synergy between fashion and music, nurturing local talent and providing a platform for artistic expression. This blend of insightful discussions, captivating performances, and a vibrant showcase of Pakistani fashion perfectly exemplified Nasr’s vision.

The summit attracted a prestigious lineup of fashion experts, including Rizwan Beyg, Shamaeel Ansari, Sonya Batla, Shehnaz Ismail, Irfan Pardesi, Seema Taher, Zahir Rahimtoola, Zhalay Sarhadi, Parishae Adnan, Tabesh Khoja, Sidra Iqbal, Maliha Rehman, Amina Khan, Neha Mashooqullah, Bismillah Pervez, Shanze Subzwari, Shaha Tariq, Humaira Ali, Somayeh Bardai, Samiya Asim, Tara Uzra Dawood and Zarmeena Ikram. These renowned experts graced the red carpet and participated in thought-provoking discussions, offering valuable insights and practical advice for navigating the ever-evolving fashion landscape.

Irfan Pardesi ignited the conversation with a captivating keynote address on Fashion and Technology. Supported by data-driven insights, his speech challenged attendees to embrace innovative solutions. Next, Sidra Iqbal and Irfan Pardesi co-moderated a panel on Fashion and Textile Giants. Esteemed panelists Rizwan Beyg, Shamaeel Ansari, Sonya Batla, Shehnaz Ismail and Zahir Rahimtoola shared valuable insights and suggestions.

Ahmed Chinoy (H.I., S.I.), an elected Director on the board of Pakistan Stock Exchange Limited (PSX), acknowledged Huma Nasr’s dedication to the industry by presenting her with a Shield of Appreciation. He lauded the initiative’s impact on economic growth and promoting cultural exchange.

Seema Taher, another keynote speaker, implored both established and emerging designers to contribute to the industry’s sustainability.

Diverse aspects of fashion, focusing on the various industries influenced by fashion, were discussed next. This session was moderated by Maliha Rehman and featured panelists Amina Khan, Neha Mashooqullah, Bismillah Pervez and Zhalay Sarhadi. The engaging conversation explored the diverse influences shaping fashion and the fashionistas who drive trends.

The evening culminated in a mesmerizing Sufi Bling performance. Zarmeena Ikram and Inaya Kamal donned stunning Eastern and Western designs from the House of Braahti, respectively.

Zaryab Sultan’s captivating rendition of a cross-border collaboration between Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan and Rekha Bhardwaj provided a beautiful backdrop, expertly conceptualized by show director Huma Nasr.

Nina Kashif, the final keynote speaker, offered a balance perspective on the impact of brands in the fashion world.

Tabesh Khoja moderated a special panel on Karachi Bling, featuring panelists Shanze Sabzwari, Tara Uzra Dawood, and Parishae Adnan. The session concluded with Tabesh receiving a special bling gift box from Oman.

The summit’s closing discussion centered on Digital Fashion, moderated by Shaha Tariq, with panelists Humaira Ali, Somayeh Bardai and Irfan Pardesi. The discussion explored the transformative power of online platforms and reaching a global audience.

The Shaan-E-Pakistan Fashion Summit concluded on a high note, brimming with optimism for the future of Pakistani fashion. The collaborative spirit fostered by the summit promised exciting possibilities for cross-pollination between established and emerging voices within the industry. The insightful dialogue set the stage for a future of significant growth and innovation within the industry.