Had anyone asked the same question two decades ago, the instant response to it would have been a cynic “No”. Fashion shows were previously considered demeaning according to the local traditions. The origination of native fashion shows took place from informal clothing display by rare boutiques on college functions. For instance, “Generation” was one of the first ones to launch their seasonal clothing line through a fashion display at Kinnaird College Annual Dinner in 1980’s.
Through the course of time, the fashion scene in Pakistan has evolved – so did the fashion awareness. Previously, the theme of fashionable clothes and accessories was confined to the privileged class only. Fashion was considered a luxury of elite. Thankfully, this perception has been largely modified as fashion shows brought the sense of style to masses.
The designers of Pakistan, who relied on the wigged mannequins in the shops, have now extended their services worldwide. Renowned fashion icons like HSY, Nilofer, Sobia Nazir, B.G., Rizwan Beyg, Karma, and Maria B. etc. enjoy celebrity status everywhere due to their panache and creativity. Events like Bridal Asia, Dubai Fashion Week, etc. headline our designers’ collections proudly. Also, similar shows organized in the world fashion hubs of Milan, Paris, New York, and London includes our local beauties for their vogue and sultry catwalks!
It’s undisputed that fashion shows did take us far in this field. The widespread recognition of South Asian fashion is attributed to our models and designers’ hard work. Moreover, the success of fashion shows can be gauged by the media coverage to such star-studded events. There are exclusive channels and segments/shows that report the latest happenings of the “ramp life”. The eastern femininity of our models makes them versatile to carry any type of outfit gracefully.
There is always more to a beauty stomping down the runway in juicy couture. When fashion shows are covered by mass media, they visualizations of any clothing line reaches to a large number of audience. These people are not always well-off to afford the original items, but they do get a fresh benchmark as to what they would prefer for their wedding, party, or casual wear. So, fashion is able to reach to a wider population.
Also, the people overseas are able to view the walking display of clothes by a designer. Hence, they can order any piece they prefer for themselves. Apart from this micro-level success, the fashion events generate sufficient revenue for the related parties. Furthermore, the aesthetic representation of our country is done through our famous designers and fashion models. So, fashion shows will surely take our budding talent and creativity forward for the world to appreciate!