The flair of Faraz Manan

aised in Lahore, Faraz Manan was steeped in the nation’s premier textile traditions in Pakistan but had pragmatically opted to study business early on in life. It was only much later, after considerable internal debate, that he finally joined the field of design.

By 2024, Faraz had crossed the thin line between fashion identity and embodying how tradition can coexist with the modern world, understanding his heritage and this fluid world that leads to transformative approach.

The designer was selected by Business of Fashion (BoF) as one of its top 500 designers of the year in 2024. BoF is not just a list—it highlights the most exciting names in fashion, the game-changers and innovators.

Faraz Manan, who made the 2024 list, was described as the Pakistani designer whose work “resonates with celebrities across the South Asia region and with clients from the global diaspora.”

The Business of Fashion further expanded on his profile, noting, “Faraz Manan is the founder and creative director of his namesake luxury fashion brand, known for its opulent designs blending traditional craftsmanship with timeless silhouettes. Manan is one of the leading figures in Pakistan’s fashion industry and a go-to designer for couture bridal and formal wear in the wider South Asia region. His work has attracted the attention of Bollywood celebrities, making him a popular choice among them and fostering cultural exchange between Pakistan and India. In 2015, he became one of the first South Asian designers to open a boutique in Dubai, catering to both diasporic and local clients in the Middle East. By 2024, his brand had amassed over a million followers on Instagram.”

Social media has amplified his work, allowing it to echo among millions across the globe, appreciated by international stars and influencers worldwide. It has not only expanded the business but remaining also kept him relevant in an era when culture boundaries are blurring.

For Faraz, 2024 was not about a collection but about a statement: the seamless blend of tradition and innovation.

The year of Mahira Khan

024 has been the year of Mahira Khan. Her impact goes beyond fashion and cinema. She recently became the first actress from Pakistan to be recognized with a Lifetime Achievement Award by the UK Parliament, marking a significant milestone. During the ceremony at the House of Commons, Mahira reflected on her journey as a female artist, emphasizing the collective support of family, mentors, and colleagues who empowered her. In her heartfelt speech, she championed the importance of mentorship, allyship, and solidarity among women, underscoring how these values have shaped her path.

Her recognition is not only an appreciation of her individual successes but also a reaffirmation of her stature as a cultural ambassador of Pakistan, promoting arts and women’s empowerment.

Mahira has also been entrepreneurial, promoting local talent and community through Mashion Bazaar. This annual, colorful affair features Pakistani artisans, fashion brands, and delectable treats, making it an energetic amalgamation of creativity and culture. This year’s event in Karachi included handwoven textiles, fashion pop-ups, and gourmet delicacies that attracted a varied audience.

Although Mahira did not directly venture into fashion this year, 2024 still feels like her brand’s (M for Mahira) coming-out party because it has put out a fantastic new collection.

The luxury label, which was first unveiled at Karachi’s Frere Hall with an exhibition, signifies luxury, authenticity, and minimalism. The designs expertly juxtapose comfort with cultural subtleties. The label ranges across tastes and price points - from fragrances and luxe pret to everyday essentials. Every single piece, from the printed saris to kaftans with mirror embroidery, evokes a sense of comfort and nostalgia, reflecting Mahira’s personal philosophy of subtle beauty. In a saturated market filled with over-embellished clothing for both professional and casual needs, M for Mahira is what the market needs, and no one knows this better than Mahira Khan, who has worked with major designers throughout her soaring career.

The upcoming year will see Mahira Khan’s return to the big screen with two major films.

The first, Neelofar, which will reunite her with Fawad Khan and promises a moving story enhanced by their enthralling chemistry. The second film will bring her back together with her Bin Roye co-star Humayun Saeed, along with Ramsha Khan and Ahmad Ali Butt. Titled Love Guru, this romantic comedy directed by Nadeem Baig has been filmed across Karachi and London and will release worldwide on Eid-ul-Azha 2025. We can hardly wait.

She is also slated to appear in a Netflix project alongside Fawad Khan, Sanam Saeed, and Ahad Raza Mir.

Mahira Khan continues to pave new roads with her creative interests and unrelenting advocacy, serving as a beacon of hope, courage, and artistry for future generations.

Sana Anver is the stylist of the year

ana Anver has been a stylist, a dedicated one, for the last eight years. When she first entered the local industry, she worked without pay because she was certain this was her true calling and she was paying her dues. Over time, as her work gained recognition, she went from working for free to being justly compensated. Though an introvert by nature, Sana has let her work speak for itself while staying out of the limelight.

Currently, Sana Anver is making waves, having worked with the likes of Sonam Kapoor, Rhea Kapoor, and more recently, Kareena Kapoor Khan. This marks just over a year since she began collaborating with these prominent names.

As a result, her profile in Pakistan has also soared. Fashion industry insiders, journalists, and fellow stylists want to know how it all happened. However, being a private person, Sana Anver is not someone who will ride on the coattails of these big Hindi film stars. Let’s just call it hard work and serendipity.

“I’ve been fortunate to work with incredible celebrities, including Sonia Hussain (who has become like family), and Mansha Pasha. Mansha gives me creative freedom while also sharing her thoughts. Of course, the final say should always belong to the client. They’re the ones wearing the outfit, so they should feel comfortable and have input. But I’ve had great experiences where our visions align perfectly. This has also been true with Bollywood celebrities.”

At the opening ceremony of the 4th Red See Film Festival, one of the Middle East’s fastest-growing events (held from December 5th to 14th), Sana was part of the styling team for Kareena Kapoor Khan, who wore an Oscar de la Renta gown and looked absolutely stunning.

For all her work with both Pakistani and Bollywood stars, while maintaining her humility and kindness, Sana Anver is our Stylist of the Year.