Showcase 2012 became the first fashion week to kick off a series of such events in fashion centers Karachi and Lahore after what has been a back-to-back season of designer lawn launch events in both cities.
But it is not the only laurel that it has working for it. With the commencement of the calendar event that is Showcase 2012, the internationally acclaimed magazine Hello! launches its operations in Pakistan and features collections off the ramp within its editorial spreads with a supplement magazine that will cover the full four-day event. Live streaming of the fashion event is also available on its website.
The platform of Showcase 2012 is a collaboration between fashion designer Rizwan Beyg and Sky Productions (Pvt) Ltd to establish a creative platform for young designers, models, musicians, photographers, event planners and for all those professionals working in fashion.
It features 29 Pakistani and seven foreign designers.
Socialites and buyers were in large attendance on the opening day of the event. They included Zahir Rahimtoola (Labels), Zeba Hussain (Ensemble), Zeenat Saeed (Taneez), Shobha Ispahani, Freiha Altaf, Rehana Saigol, Huma Amir Adnan and Fareshteh Gaiti-Aslam.
Highlights of Day 1
Sania Maskatiya
The designer’s pret-a-porter collection, ‘Matyala’ rocked the ramp. With multiple hemlines using different fabrics on the back, her geometric zig-zaggy collection was truly artistic. The colour palette remained in shades of red and black with a touch of beige on silk and chiffon.
Trends to remember: Off the shoulder kameezes, short hemlines upfront with longer hemlines at the back and metal details using gold buttons
The feel: Urban and cosmopolitan
The look: For urban girls or desis residing in NewYork City
Zaheer Abbas
The designer’s ‘Revenge’ collection, remained true to his signature style and focused primarily on femininity and timeless elegance. With silks and chiffons in dark hues of brown, olive green and yellow, this was a truly awe-inspiring western collection.
Trends to remember: Cat-ears sleeves and metal-stud detailing.
The feel: With metal jewellery on the faces of the female models, it seemed that Cleopatra had reincarnated on the ramp.
The look: Old Roman Gothic appeal
Nida Azwar
Azwer’s ‘Parinda’ collection was a peculiar mix of all that she does and is known for — from angarkhas and bridal wear to embroidered coat and saris — nature remained in focus with peacock motifs highlighting some of the garments.
Trends to remember: Peacock-motif saris
The feel: A touch of Persian relics and tapestries
The look: Semi-formal line meant for young brides.
