Fashion is not limited to just clothes – it is an element of culture, a marker of identity, and a celebration of individuality. Pakistans fashion industry has its roots in its local cultural diversity and grown up with latha fabric modernity. From culturally rich hand-woven fabrics to globally appreciated cuts and designs, fashion in Pakistan has a lot to offer along the timelines and timelines.
In this blog, you will find a journey into the amazing world of Pakistan fashion starting from its tradition, popular current styles, and growth patters around the globe.
Traditional Pakistani Fashion: An Overview
Pakistan’s tropical background informs and is responsible for the variety of traditional clothing styles followed. Pakistanis from different egyptian cotton regions wear various types of clothing styles that are in line with their ethnic identities.
Shalwar Kameez – The National Dress
The shalwar kameez is the most popular traditional outfit among Pakistanis at both formal and social occasions. The outfit consists of a long tunic and trousers that is specifically designed to be loose-fitted. It used to be a simple garment but with time designers have thrown in hefty embroidery, expensive cloth, and new fancy cuts to spice this outfit up.
For Women: The designer used to decorate kameez (tunic) with threadwork sequins and beads, which resulted in wonderful decorations suitable for the kameez for weddings and exciting events.
For Men: The kameez shalwar for men is a classic outfit that never goes out of style, as it is often worn with waistcoats to make a more ceremonial outfit.
Lehenga and Gharara – Wedded Perfection
Without the expensive lehenga and gharara, Pakistani marriages are insufficient. These are the embellished and stylish pieces of classic brider gowns which boasts of expensive fabric like silk and velvet and intricate golden decorated pieces.
The lehnga is a long skirt worn with a fitted top ribbed blouse and a long scarf or dupatta which flatters the woman’s waist.
Many countries in Asia have a variation of the cover garment which is the gharara which consists of flared trousers and shari.
These two are the very bearings of inn culture and ostentation which every bride’s wedding will include.
Ajrak and Sindhi Caps – A Culture Definer.
A shawl worn during big events that is block-printed is called Ajrak while a cap denotes being a Sindhi. Ajrak is seen as a piece of clothing but it has significant meaning including patriotism and identity, thus it is worn while celebrating cultural events or given as a sign of respect.
The Growth of Fashion in Pakistan
There are many new developments that can be seen in the Pakistan fashion industry as a result of merging historical craftsmanship with modern trends. The aim now for more fashion designers is to appeal to the contemporary society, albeit while staying true to the culture.
Ready to Wear:
The Pret-a-porter or in other words ready to wear collections have become very popular in the fashion markets of Pakistan. Some of the largest Pakistani brands like Sana Safinaz, Khaadi and Gul Ahmed now have brand lines that offer stylish casual wear at affordable prices.
These collections use the relatively modern cut and simple designs and so they have found a following among working class women and university students.
Hipster:
Fusion fashion is how you can best descrie the mix of eastern and western fashion styles. This is the best fusion where a plain embroidered kurta with a pair of skinny jeans or a shalwar with a cropped top is used. This modern style appeals to the new generations who want something that is to the trend with comfort.
Summer:
Throughout the summer, lawn fabric is light and cool so it has been a staple for Pakistani summer outfits. Every so often, countless brands release their luxury lawn collections which are breathtaking. Most ladies throughout the summer get un-stitched suits in preparation.
You should watch out for lawn suit launches as they are sometimes in high demand especially luxury ones.
Pakistani Couture in the International Market
The aware repetitive is elevating the International Marketing in Pakistan’s fashion designers and fashion brands . Inclusion of Pakistani collections in international shows like Paris or New York Fashion Week is norm now.”
Facilitators such as Faraz Manan, Deepak Perwani and Hassan Sheheryar Yasin (HSY) have managed to gain international fashion appeal but are able to accept acclaim because they carry themselves as true Pakistani.
Why is it hard for other countries to get accustomed to Pakistani fashion?
Creation: The biggest issue are the patterns of the fabrics as Pakistani fashion is created by intricate handwork.
Contextualization: The creation of every piece has a context behind it: explores the centuries’ old foundations but embraces a more contemporary approach.
Eco-friendly: A number of the designers have begun creating eco-friendly products and with the use of ethical fabrications.
How to Add A Pakistani Touch to Your Wardrobe
If you love fashion and are from a country other than Pakistan or are a local, then there is a way for you to add a shake of Pakistani fashion to your wearables. Here’s how:
Add some Fusion to it
Try pairing a heavy shawl or a colorful dupatta with your western wear.
Or tighten a kurta around your waist and wear it as a dress.
Wear out Bold Jewelry
Never underestimate the power of Pakistani jhumkas or matha pattis; they will make any fitting look fabulous. Such pieces go along with every attire, whether it is ethnic or cultural.
Stock Items that are Multifunctional
Have a wardrobe that contains items that can be worn any day, any occasion; for instance, a shalwar kameez having light embroidery can be paired with simple sandals for the casual look or with high heels along with a red lipstick for a more formal outing.
Social Media’s Contribution
Pakistan’s attire being modernized would not have been possible if it were not for social media becoming famous everywhere. Instagram and TikTok turned clothing styles from traditional to modern into brands that can now be sold on an international platform. Social media influencers also contribute to this development by posting fashion advice on their profiles.
If you are looking for such influencers, you can follow Hira Attique, Sarah Sarfraz or Momina Sibtain. They will definitely help you dress better.
Conclusion: Appreciate the Attire, Appreciate the Culture.
Outfit is self-expression, it includes art and history amalgamated with the unique perspective of the nation. Pakistan has exquisite clothing like shalwar kameez, but more importantly, culture extends beyond clothing, artwork, and history. It is about clothing that shapes one’s identity which has almost no boundaries.
For all those wanting to step out of their comfort zone and try something new or those looking forward to enhance their fashion game in style and authenticity, this is the moment. There are plenty of ways of how you can appreciate the unique history by wearing iconic garments made out of different fabrics and have vintage designs infused with modern ones.