- By Shafiya Zahrah
FROM HERITAGE TO HAUTE COUTURE
The Thrilling Evolution of Fashion
By Shafiya Zahrah
Have you ever wondered how fashion has evolved from traditional attire to the modern, modest wear we see today? Fashion’s journey is nothing short of fascinating, evolving rapidly while still leading the way in the contemporary fashion scene. Let’s dive into this captivating narrative that showcases the evolution of fashion and the timeless appeal of traditional styles.
Who said men’s kurta collections are boring? Far from it! Men’s kurta shalwar is not just a piece of clothing; it’s a symbol of Pakistan’s rich cultural heritage. With a variety of styles featuring delicate hand embroidery and mirror work, these kurtas are a must-have. Think about vibrant colors and endless versatility—update your wardrobe to stay on-trend. When you style them right, you’ll undoubtedly stand out in the crowd. These days, kurta pajamas are all the rage among youngsters. Perfect for traditional festivals and special events, classic mirror-work kurtas are truly splendid. Here are a few you should check out:
Pakistani designers like Amir Adnan are mixing mirror work with other techniques like zardozi (metal embroidery) and aari (chain stitch) to create unique runway pieces. Talk about blending tradition with modernity!
From Lucknow to Mumbai, and now making waves in Lahore’s Anarkali and Karachi’s Zainab Market, everyone is in love with chikankari kurti. These kurtis, ranging from white to beige, are incredibly versatile. Pair them with shalwar or jeans, and wear them to a wedding or university—they’re sure to give you those authentic Brown Kuri vibes. You can check Image Est.1993 for:
And if none of that suits your style, how about wearing a chikankari kurti with bell sleeves and feeling like a princess?!
Gharara fashion is like a beautiful time capsule, taking us back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Once a daily attire for women in Bangladesh and Pakistan, Ghararas have a timeless grace, blending traditional elements with a unique charm. Icons like Fatima Jinnah and Begum Rana Liaquat Ali Khan styled ghararas so exquisitely that they inspired an entire nation.
Today, the gharara is making a stylish comeback, especially among young girls. They love pairing breathable, traditional ghararas with a touch of desi lawn fabric for a perfect summer or casual look, with brands like Generation and Ethnic leading the way.
Did you know that before 1947, sarees were everyday wear for women in India? After the partition, this beautiful fashion traveled with Bihari migrants to Pakistan. Despite facing various taboos and stigmas in some communities, the saree has endured and evolved.
In the 1970s, both Hindu and Muslim women wore cotton, chiffon, and silk sarees. The 1971 separation from Bangladesh brought significant changes to clothing styles, but sarees remained popular.
Interestingly, General Zia ul Haq even allowed military women to march in sarees in 1971!
The 1980s saw a shift towards head coverings under Islamic guidelines, but sarees still found their way into fashion.
Bollywood and cross-border marriages have also kept the saree trend alive. Fast-forward to 2024, and the saree is making a grand revival in Pakistan. Its rich cultural legacy, passed through generations, embodies grace and craftsmanship.
Pakistani designers like Khaadi, Generation, and Ethnic are now blending traditional techniques with modern elegance, creating casual sarees with stunning embroidery, beadwork, and intricate patterns.
Teenage girls love wearing sarees for casual events like farewells and birthdays. Their love for sarees is never-ending. Trendy solid colors provide a sleek and slim look, while traditional elements make them interesting, eye-catching, and always a topic of conversation.
Fashion isn’t just about clothing; it’s a beautiful blend of history, culture, and innovation. From kurtas to ghararas and sarees, each piece tells a story of tradition meeting modernity, creating a timeless tapestry of style. So why not explore these timeless pieces and add a touch of tradition to your wardrobe? Dive into the rich heritage of fashion and find the perfect piece that speaks to you.
Happy Styling!
