Pakistan is in news these days for staging the first-ever fashion show in its history, in Karachi. In a country where hardly any woman steps out of the house without burqa and hijab, this fashion show was truly an audacious moment. Models strutted down the catwalk exposing their midriffs, bare shoulders and backs, self-effacing cleavage and legs, which was so unlike Pakistanis.

Ace Pakistani designers presented a blend of outfit in the show; some exhibited traditional Pakistani outfits and tribal motifs, and others exhibited clothes that had little or no sign of traditional aesthetics. The show displayed the fusing of the West with the East. Evening dresses merged with Eastern design, rich embroidery, silk tunics, feathery hats, and lacy tops, along with radical interpretations of the traditional salwar kameez, baggy shirt and trousers were the theme of this fashion show. Designer Fahad Hussayn presented his models with their faces covered by veils but their shoulders bare. Not only him, most of the designers who participated in the show, viz, Zarmina Khan, Athar Hafeez, Arshad Tareen, etc. also adhered to the traditional attire but again with a touch of western frills to it.

I think, this echoes the self-set boundaries that designers and models observe in this very conservative society. Anyway, at least the first step is taken.

Bravo Pakistan! We hope to see more of such fashion shows from you!