Dior of Pakistani Couture –Nilofer Shahid by Ayesha Shahid
Uploaded by eddyslash on Mar 09, 2009
Dior of Pakistani Couture –Nilofer Shahid
by Ayesha Shahid
From her first display of clothing in 1995 of Islamic Calligraphy in New Delhi to her
present fashion show in Paris Couture Fashion Week 2007, Nilofer Shahid by far is the ambassadress of her country’s tradition. Meeras is one of the leading haute couture fashion house in Pakistan, it produces bridal, formal, causal and western wear for women along with accessories and its own exclusive men’s wear line.
Nilofer Shahid of this renowned fashion house belongs to a prestigious Pathan family of warriors, poets, writers and painters. Her progressive and culturally rich family has endowed her with a sensitive appreciation of the art and rich tradition of an ancient land. Meeras means heritage and her creation capture, in their richness, intricacy and attention to detail, the grandeur of the vast Islamic legacy .Her detailed research into each one of her themes ensures that her creations are true to their origins but also display her magic touch, whether it is her Central Asian line, her Mughal Recreations or her Moroccan inspired ensembles.
Equated Dior of Pakistan by ‘Le Figaro’ in Paris, Nilofer’s forte lies in the profound attention she pays to detail; every collection is preceded by intensive sessions of research so that every piece is a depiction of art as it is of history, of couture as it is of culture. All this contributes to her strong signature style, which has managed her to capture clients from all over the world.
What inspired you to become a fashion designer?
When I started there were no fashion designers in Pakistan. For me it was a series of evolution that aspired me to become a fashion designer. In late 70s this career was quite challenging, as there was no recognition of fashion designers. My interest in couture led to a little workshop in 1978. I started off with block prints and hand painting; to my credit I was the first one to start fashion designing in Lahore. It was my great interest in art related to our culture that inspired me to come into designing. I professionally launched my career in 1991 in the form of couture house known as Meeras. The depiction of the past into the present predominantly inspired me, as I’m passionate about our roots, culture and background.
What was personally important and appealing to you about this career?
To be very honest I had a...