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KARCHI, April 23: The bridal market is probably the most successful in generating interest and revenues in the Pakistani fashion industry. Keeping that in mind, it comes as no surprise that a local fashion channel, Style 360, would choose to host a Bridal Couture Week for the second time. The current instalment of the Bridal Couture Week opened its evening with a show by renown Indian designer J. J. Valaya, whose collection was, in the words of one of the attendees, “very typically Indian.” His collection had applique work, embroidered using semi-precious stones, had hints of vibrant colours with muted embroideries. He was the only designer that day to feature a menswear collection with his womenswear.
Valaya also introduced a range of jackets with bridal lehngas and his collection showed an essence of a Mughal rendition of angras and chogas.
Pakistani actress Meera walked the ramp for him decked in his bridal wear.
Veteran Pakistani designer Maheen Khan showed a pristine white bridal collection in her show, which was a refreshing change from the multi- coloured layered outfits shown by all of the other designers that evening. The collection contained her signature use of lace and chiffon.
The silhouettes of the outfits had been considerably slimmed down in comparison to other designers. She showed a total of 12 outfits and had Khizar Dewan and Mishal Naek walk the finale for her show as the bride and groom in white.
Rehana Saigol also showed her bridal wear collection that evening. Bright, colourful and containing embroidered diamontes, her collection contained bridal saris with box-pleated hemlines as well. The other designers who showcased their collections that evening included Ayesha Somaya and Neelo Allawala.
There were several dance performances on the ramp during the breaks in between the collections. Hasan Rizvi of the Bodybeat Dance Studio showcased his skills in one choreography, and model-turned-actress Rubya Chaudhry showcased her talent in another. There were problems with the management of the event as it began around two hours later than scheduled and there were large gaps in between the shows.
The show was held in two instalments, from which the first section which was to begin at 6pm actually began at 8pm — further delaying the second part which was to begin at 9pm. Guests were not told what collections to expect as there were no lists handed out beforehand.
The Bridal Couture Week is expected to go on till Sunday.
