As torrential rains give way to the crisp air of winter, Pakistan’s social calendar explodes with the excitement of weddings. The season is a symphony of vibrant colors, intricate designs, and dazzling celebrations. With every wedding comes a showcase of exquisite fashion, and this year, Pakistan’s leading couturiers are exceeding expectations with their Autumn/Winter 2024 wedding wear collections.
Iqbal Hussain:
The maestro of understated elegance, Iqbal Hussain lets his designs speak for themselves. His new collection, “Amer,” inspired by the majestic Amer Fort in Jaipur, radiates luxury and laid-back glamour. Earthy hues like mint green, mustard, rusty red, and ivory form the foundation for regal silhouettes. Crushed silk izaars are paired with intricately embroidered column shirts, while the royal Dhaka pajama finds a modern twist with a bustier and beaded jacket. Hussain masterfully blends heritage and contemporary trends, creating ensembles that are both timeless and captivating.
Rano:
Known for her intricate detailing, Rano’s Heirlooms collection is a testament to the power of traditional craftsmanship. Traditional silhouettes are reimagined with exquisite precision, showcasing ancient techniques with pride. Scallops, handmade cutwork, beaten tilla, baadla, and classic patta patti, given a contemporary twist with free-flowing jaals, are just some of the intricate details that adorn her designs. The collection’s pièce de résistance, the Hazaar Gul ensemble, features a dupatta embroidered with a thousand hand-crafted flowers, evoking the beauty of a royal garden.
Nomi Ansari:
Nomi Ansari’s designs are a kaleidoscope of color and whimsy, transporting you to an amusement park in the heart of an Amazonian rainforest. His creations are a vibrant fusion of unexpected colors, often incorporating up to 70 shades in a single outfit. Whimsical ornamentation, ranging from botanicals to animals and geometrics, adds a layer of playful energy. Ansari’s signature eclecticism is evident in the intricate details of each piece, handcrafted to perfection. He embraces unconventional elements while remaining grounded in traditional techniques, creating outfits that are as bold as they are beautiful.
Mohsin Naveed Ranjha:
With a deep connection to his Punjabi roots, Mohsin Naveed Ranjha brings the heart and soul of the region to his designs. His Autumn/Winter 2024 collection celebrates vibrant hues, eschewing color grading in favor of striking contrasts between rich velvets in plum, aubergine, and tangerine, adorned with silver and gold embellishments. Floral patterns are brought to life with hammered tinsel, vasli, sucha gota, and marori work, highlighting timeless, regal crafts. The chatta patti farshi gharara is a standout piece, making a bold statement in Ranjha’s collection.
Hussain Rehar:
Considered a rising star in the world of Pakistani fashion, Hussain Rehar is unapologetically old school, yet fearless in his approach to modernizing traditional designs. Rehar embraces the grandeur of the shahana jora, using luxurious fabrics like organza, chiffon, and silk to create versatile and dimensional silhouettes. While showcasing classic lehngas and ghararas, he also introduces unexpected elements like a brocade cigarette trouser paired with a handcrafted, voluminous jacket. His meticulously crafted tunics and izaars adhere to tradition, while his intricately beaded dresses cater to the bride seeking a touch of retro chic.Pakistan’s wedding season is a time for celebration, and these five designers are setting the stage for a season of exquisite fashion, where tradition meets modernity and creativity knows no bounds. Their creations are a testament to the rich heritage of Pakistani design and the exciting future of bridal fashion in the country.
