Bridging the fashion divide

The different techniques of embroidery, colour combinations and stitching methods have embellished the creative attires adorned by fashion aficionados since time immemorial. Creative trends in fashion today have managed to reach a much wider audience through various mediums such as films, TV and the internet. Between India and Pakistan, the proximity had enabled the transfer of various techniques of embroidery since the pre-partition era, a time when people knew about Chikankari or Multani Tanka. Later, as political complications restricted it, the need for another way of accessing the latest trends, arose.

Initially films were used to showcase various fashion trends, cuisines and talents in the two neighbouring countries but soon it became more one-sided with only Indian films and fashion trends making their way to the other side. 

It was only after the introduction of Pakistani TV serials (through the TV Channel Zindagi) that the affection for Pakistani artists and their fashion trends reached its zenith in India, which has further prompted events, combining and showcasing the efforts of both the nations.

The launch of Shaan-e-Pakistan is the latest event in line for these collaborations. Here, the latest fashion trends of both the countries will be showcased. Huma Nassr, the curator of Shaan-e-Pakistan revealed, “The different kinds of embroidery such as Chikankari, Kundan, <g data-gr-id="33">Mukaish</g> work, Zardozi and Multani Tanka will be showcased through the bridal collections along with the works focusing on the high-street fashion by the Indian and Pakistani designers.” 

When asked if the Pakistani TV serials have contributed in any way to popularise the event, Nassr said, “Yes, Pakistani serials have helped to promote Pakistani fashion to Indian audience with some of the Pakistani and Indian celebrities even supporting 

this event.”

 Supported by Pakistan High Commission, New Delhi and Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO), the three-day event which will be starting from September 10, will showcase the works of Indian designers such as Anju Modi, <g data-gr-id="35">Vinky</g> Singh, Sadan Pandey, Poonam Bhagat along with their Pakistani counterparts like Huma Nassr, HSY, Mona Imran, Nadia Hussain among others. 

<g data-gr-id="36">Vinky</g> Singh, who will be showcasing her Fulkari collection said, “I am looking forward to the fashion show and I hope that it brings the two nations closer.”