Fashion design in Pakistan is a captivating blend of tradition, modernity, and culture. There’s no denying that the fashion industry out here is creative and skilled in producing anything from exquisite thread-worked heavy bridal pieces to seasonal prêt-à-porter lines.
In case you have ever wished to be part of a renaissance in fashion, this will be the ultimate guide for you on how to become a fashion designer in Pakistan, why the Pakistani fashion industry is important, and what it has to offer.
What is Fashion Designing?
According to experts practising fashion design in Pakistan, the process transcends the mere making of garments and delves into a deeper narrative. Designers conceive their creations as a synthesis between their cultural and modern contemporary elements that exist today and are true to society.
These include but are not limited to bridal, casual, luxury pret and festive collections as the clientele is always becoming more demanding and more sophisticated.
Is Fashion Designing a Good Career in Pakistan?
According to recent reports, fashion designing is now a lucrative profession in Pakistan, thanks to the rapid expansion of the fashion design industry. Here’s why:
Cultural Appeal:
Ethnic garments such as shararas, lehengas, and shalwar kameez are constantly in demand during the wedding season and the festive season.
Growing Middle Class:
The growing class of possessors gives room for an increase in demand for designer garments.
Great Variety as per requirement:
Pakistan’s fashion industry incorporates all areas of design, including bridal fashion, streetwear, and textile design.
Global Recognition:
Designers like Sana Safinaz, Maria B, and HSY have placed Pakistani fashion on the global stage and are helping the new generation of talent.
However, great talents may be lost if one does not have consistency, out-of-the-box thinking, and the ability to adjust to new trends.
Fashion Design in Pakistan, How to Become One?
First Step: Be Educated
Even if you have the talent, go to a school where you can nurture that talent. Some of the leading schools in Pakistan include:
- Pakistan Institute of Fashion and Design (PIFD), Lahore
- Asian Institute of Fashion Design (AIFD), Karachi
- Iqra University, Karachi
The Next Step: Master the Skills
Key skills include sketching, pattern-making, sewing, and selecting fabrics. Pakistani designs usually feature rich fabrics decorated with embroidery, beadwork, and hand finishing, all of which must be mastered.
Then: Work in the Industry
Work as an intern for some of the leading brands like Khaadi, Nishat Linen or Elan, and check the market and clients’ requirements.
Fourth Step: Create a Portfolio
Photographs in a portfolio must be able to sell your perspective, creativity, and intuition. As such, a designer brand should propose a traditional, modern and fusion range of products.
Last Step: Use the Breakthrough Model
For a start, create a capsule collection or open a boutique that is small in size.
Designs can be shared on social media networks, e.g., Instagram and Facebook, and bring in clients quickly and very directly.
Fashion Designer Qualifications in Pakistan
Education and experience are held in high regard in Pakistan’s fashion fraternity, although others exist as self-taught designers. Here’s what you will need:
Degree/Diploma:
Accreditation in fashion design from a reputable course.
Creative Skills:
Styles include embroidery done using *gota*, *zardozi* and *tilla* work.
Technical Skills:
Ability to sew, make patterns, and use design programs.
Business Skills:
Ability to comprehend the requirements of clients and budgets.
Importance of Fashion Designing in Pakistan
Largely the impact of fashion design on the economy and culture of Pakistan is quite immense:
To Safeguard the Craft:
Designers integrate old crafts into new designs so that the craft does not die.
Wage Bill:
The fashion industry is a source of income for the artisans, craftsmen and people engaged in the textile industry.
Raising the position of Women:
There are a number of women designers and businesswomen who are paving the way in this industry.
Cultural Affiliation:
Fashion in Pakistan is rooted in local culture and goes hand in hand with today’s world.
Categories of Fashion Design in Pakistan
The industry offers different products aimed at different market segments, including:
1. Bridal Couture:
Outfits with traditional heavy work are mainly for this type of clothes.
2. Pret-à-Porter:
Assorted collections ready for sale to the market, making everyday fashion convenient and stylish.
3. Luxury Pret:
These are extravagant designs that are designed with a limited clientele in mind.
4. Festive Wear:
Worn a lot during Eid, weddings, and similar occasions.
5. Sustainable Fashion:
Such designs made with eco-friendly materials are not very common in Pakistan, but they are making their way into the market slowly but surely.
Fashion Designer Salary in Pakistan
Their payments differ with the level of experience and the location:
Beginner Designers: PKR 25,000-50,000 per month.
Intermediate Professionals: PKR 70,000-150,000 per month.
Professional Designers: Leading designers can make millions a year from bridal ranges, endorsements, and overseas sales.
Freelance designers have fluctuating earnings depending on the projects that they take on to help diversify the income stream.
Conclusion
For fashion enthusiasts in Pakistan, fashion design has an interesting and creative aspect. The variety in design is also immense, be it adorning the brides with beautiful lehengas or designing fitted light wear in Western fashion collections.
Now, all you have to do is take that leap of faith. Polish your talents, embrace the culture of Pakistan’s fashion and let your creativity be showcased up and down the catwalk and in the markets. Your adventure in this ever-changing landscape has only just begun!
##
