Category: LifeStyle

The Global Spokesperson for Pakistani Fashion, HSY, Redefines Fashion Excellence Once Again with 30-Year Celebration.

Pakistan (Muhammad Yasir)

Esteemed fashion designer and cultural icon, Hassan Sheheryar Yasin, widely known as HSY, marked a significant milestone on Friday, April 26th, 2024, commemorating three decades of unparalleled contribution to the fashion industry. The grand celebration, held in Lahore, Pakistan, underscored HSY’s steadfast dedication to innovation and sartorial distinction.

The event, a first of its kind in Pakistan, witnessed the convergence of digital fashion and live show presentation, setting a new standard in the realm of couture. For three decades, HSY has been at the forefront of directing hundreds of shows and fashion weeks, and his latest endeavor highlighted his pioneering spirit by seamlessly integrating both live and digital experiences for a global audience, thus advancing the “Made in Pakistan” brand.

In recognition of his profound influence and eminence within the fashion fraternity, HSY extended invitations to an illustrious cadre of international fashion luminaries, each distinguished in their respective domains. Noteworthy attendees included Shoa Caan, Head of BURBERRY Middle East; Ayman Ahmed Fakoussa, Co-founder of The Qode, LVMH; Daniel Lee, a revered Creative Director who has done shows with mega icons like Beyonce, Nicki Minaj and Mariah Carey; Sufeena Khan, Vice President at IAM Entertainment representing the likes of AP Dillon and Mariah Carey; Kunwal Safdar, Celebrity Chef and founder of Moreish by K; Enrique Hormingo, Founder of MONTROI; UAE Celebrity Nina Zandnia; Haseeb Ahmed Shah and Khaled Sharan, Co-Founders of Creative Clinic; and Adhrita Nowrin, entrepreneur & investor with expertise spanning DeepTech, Fintech, Startups, Investments, Fashion, and Real Estate. Their esteemed presence underscored HSY’s pivotal role in elevating Pakistani fashion onto the global stage, solidifying its status as an epitome of creativity and refinement.

The event also featured prominent Pakistani luminaries, including Vaneeza Ahmed, Sunita Marshall, Hasnain Lehri, Fouzia Aman, and Mehreen Saeed, who graced the runway alongside their international counterparts, culminating in an unforgettable spectacle of grace and sophistication.

Reflecting on the significance of the occasion, HSY has expressed his profound gratitude for the unwavering support and camaraderie that have accompanied his illustrious journey over the past three decades. “I am deeply honored and truly grateful for everyone here and for the opportunity to transcend boundaries, exceed expectations, and showcase the best of Pakistani fashion to a global audience,” remarked HSY.

As the curtains descended on HSY’s 30-year commemoration, attendees were left awestruck by the magnificence of the spectacle they had witnessed. Through his visionary leadership and unyielding commitment to excellence, HSY continues to inspire generations, leaving an indelible imprint on the global fashion landscape.

Karachi (Muhammad Yasir)

LADIESFUND hosted a diverse and dynamic Eid Milan event, with over 100 esteemed guests from diplomatic circles, corporate sectors, ministries, press, women SMEs, celebrities, fashion designers, models, et al. Spotted at the event were Dmitry A Petrov, Stanislav Toporov, Amin Gulgee, Shamaeel Ansari, Rashid Hashmi, Atiya Khan, Farrukh Shahab, Kulsoom Aftab, transgender doctor Dr. Sara Gill, Majyd Aziz, Sana Pirzada, Aamir Butt, Faisal Lodhia, Dr. Sadaf Khan, Muneeza Labuschagne, Haseeb Khan, Mehreen Illahi, Raheela Baqai, Kiran Zubair, Naveen Balkhi, Aamir Butt, Zurain Imam, et al. All guests received Hashmi Group gift bags featuring kajol and rose water. Nighat Misbah Depilex was Beauty Partner for the event.

Dubai offers the perfect Eid getaway with luxury, culture, and diverse experiences. With top-notch hotels and enticing Eid deals, travelers enjoy lavish accommodations and exceptional hospitality. From iconic landmarks to stunning beaches, Dubai caters to every preference.

Best Offers to spend Eid in Luxury

Banyan Tree Dubai, located in the serene Bluewaters Islands, offers a quiet retreat with up to 20 percent off on rates, including daily breakfasts and savings on dining and spa treatments, valid until January 2025. Extend your stay and unlock exceptional savings with Stay Longer, Save More offer. Experience the ultimate retreat, saving up to 25% on room rate inclusive of breakfast when you book a stay for four consecutive nights or more. Indulge in the comforts for an extended period and enjoy a substantial discount on the Best Available Rate. With a minimum stay of four nights, this offer promises an unforgettable getaway filled with relaxation and value. 

Bliss

Discover Jumeirah Dar Al Masyaf, nestled within the Madinat Jumeirah complex, offering 29 exquisite “summer houses” with luxurious amenities. The Jumeriah Escapes offers a world of comfort and tranquility with the definitive beachside escape. Choose between Gulf or Arabian summer houses, each boasting scenic views and opulent comforts. Indulge in complimentary daily breakfast and dining options at selected restaurants, complemented by evening sundowners for a touch of elegance. Enjoy personalized service with a private butler, along with unlimited access to Wild Wadi Waterpark™ and a private beach. Children can revel in KiDS at Jumeirah Al Qasr, while adults unwind at The J Club and Talise Spa facilities.

Experience modern luxury at Mandarin Oriental Jumeirah, boasting a breathtaking lobby and elegantly appointed rooms, offering a fusion of sophistication and top-tier amenities. The beachfront resort, with 250 rooms has sleek and spacious interior with private balconies with uninterrupted skyline or sea views. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the private beach or a workout at the Outrace-equipped fitness center. Unwind at the spa and savor dining at the Michelin-starred Tasca, led by chef José Avillez. Take advantage of the One More Night offer, granting a complimentary fourth night for every four nights booked, and save up to 25% off the Best Available Rate by booking 21 days in advance.

Budget-friendly Hotels

Plan your Eid getaway with unbeatable offers at Courtyard by Marriott Al Barsha. Enjoy a 20 percent discount for three-night stays, with flexible cancellation policies and no prepayment obligations. Opt for extended stays and unlock exclusive savings when booking a minimum of five or seven nights at resorts. Simply use the promotional code LTS when making reservation. This offer is valid for stays between February 29, 2024, and May 31, 2024. Don’t miss out on the chance to enjoy a longer getaway while saving big on your festive stay.

Indulge in relaxation with Klook’s festive deals. Enjoy tranquil days or adventurous escapes amidst nature. Stay in generously appointed guest rooms or suites, accommodating up to three adults or two adults and two children. Access 24-hour gym facilities and enjoy a complimentary breakfast. Explore nearby attractions like Gate Avenue at DIFC, Andakulova Gallery, and more for an exciting itinerary.

Family-Friendly Offers

Lapita Hotel at Dubai Parks and Resorts is the perfect choice for family Eid getaway in Dubai, offering easy access to iconic theme parks. With its Polynesian-style design, this resort provides a tropical escape. Enjoy amenities all designed for family comfort. Its proximity to Motiongate, LEGOLAND, LEGOLAND Water Park, Neon Galaxy, JumpX, Riverland, and other attractions ensures endless entertainment for the whole family.

Located right across the road from the city’s most happening neighbourhood, Rove Downtown Dubai hotel is a short stroll to the world’s largest shopping and entertainment destination, The Dubai Mall. With budget-friendly offers, the chain has many areas to choose from, from beach views to the iconic Burj Khalifa views. There is a plethora of attractions to explore ranging from Dubai Marina to the new Museum of the Future, and the vibrant offerings, ensuring that children will have a delightful time. Guests can avail up to 20% off the stay when booking three or more nights. Experience hotel rooms tailored for gamers, offering a unique opportunity to stay and play in specially designed accommodations.

Pakistan’s fashion goes global as celebrated designer Mohsin Naveed Ranjha is set to become the first Pakistani to open a standalone Design Studio in the heart of London’s prestigious Regent Street!

Pakistan (Muhammad Yasir) Coveted fashion label, Mohsin Naveed Ranjha, announces a major brand expansion, as the fashion house is set to launch a standalone design studio in the heart of London’s luxury district, just off Regent Street. Mohsin is the first Pakistani couture fashion designer to do so, taking the nations fashion footprint to new frontiers.

The MNR Studio will open its doors to London with a celebratory event on the 8^th of March, 2024.

Led by Creative Director Mohsin Naveed Ranjha, Managing Director Abubakar Naveed Ranjha and managed by Pakistan’s top digital ecosystem powerhouses Cresset Tech, the MNR London studio will feature regular Ready to Wear Collections, Luxury Capsule Collections as well as Bespoke Bridal services, across both Menswear and Womenswear.

“I feel an immense sense of pride with the launch of our studio in London. Being able to share the beauty of Pakistan through fashion, right in the heart of one of the worlds most coveted fashion capitals, is thrilling. I have both high and humble ambitions for the MNR brand and our arrival into the London fashion scene is an important step to the fulfillment of some of these aspirations” said Mohsin Naveed Ranjha.

MNR Design Studios sowed its roots in the city of Gujranwala with the opening of its first bridal boutique in 2014, the success of which led to an expansion into the major metropolises of Pakistan, Karachi and Lahore. MNR has amassed a significant international celebrity following and recognition, dressing multiple global stars including celebrity Tan France on multiple occasions, alongside Bollywood forces such as Ranveer Singh, Sara Ali Khan and Jhanvi Kapoor.

Speaking on their expanding global footprint, MNR’s Managing Director, Abubakar Naveed Ranjha remarked, “Launching in the European market is an exciting prospect for us. We have a consistently high demand for our clothes in London specifically, from a global clientele, and our opening in London is in cognizance of this.”

Indeed, the Mohsin Naveed Ranjha brand resonates across global cities of fashion, encapsulating the pace of the present while rooted in Eastern heritage of draped form and traditional artistry.

Mohsin Naveed Ranjha’s flagship stores are housed in Lahore, Karachi, Gujranwala, with presence in New York and online at www.mohsinnaveedranjha.com. The MNR London Studio will open on the 08^th of March 2024.

 

Pakistan (Muhammad Yasir)

SEED Ventures, through its What’s The Alternative (WTA) initiative, orchestrated the Alternative Lifestyle Festival in Karachi, Pakistan. The event served as a vibrant platform, uniting individuals in their pursuit of sustainable alternatives and mindful living.

WTA, an inventive platform conceived and run by SEED Ventures, endeavors to create dialogue around the power of conscious choices in our everyday lives and how they impact environment, wellness, and lifestyle. The platform’s objective is to encourage individuals, corporates and society as a whole to reassess what seem as easy choices, and to opt for better alternatives, transforming them into meaningful actions, prompting positive change.

Shaista Ayesha, CEO & Director of SEED Ventures, emphasized, “The Alternative Lifestyle Festival has not only showcased the vitality of sustainable living but has also ignited a collective passion for conscious choices that resonate with our daily lives. As we reflect on the event’s success, it’s clear that festivals like this are essential-they catalyze change, uniting individuals under the common goal of a future where we make conscious choices for a more sustainable lifestyle, and encouraging them to think about alternatives in the choices they make in their everyday lives. This gathering has proven that together, we have the power to inspire and drive meaningful impact in our communities and beyond.”

The panel, “Choices for Change” engaged leaders from across industries: from Hassan Sheheryar Yasin, Designer; to Sadia Dada, Chief Marketing & Communications Officer, K-Electric; Andleeb Uroos Ahmed, Head of Communications, Philip Morris Pakistan Limited; and Sarah Nasiruddin, Co-Founder, Karachi Farmer’s Market.

Hassan touched upon sustainable fashion and its impact on style and the environment; Sadia stressed the adoption of alternative energy for a better future; Uroos shed light on the importance of scientific & technological advancements leading to alternatives that reduce tobacco harm, and Sarah enlightened the audience about the significance of organic food choices.

There was also a fireside chat with Tofiq Pasha Mooraj, Horticulture expert, and Dr Ayesha Mian, CEO & Founder Synapse and a mental well-being expert with extensive experience in academia and capacity building.

The event also featured a composting workshop by Trashit and a healing drum circle for the attendees.

Karachi (Muhammad Yasir)

In the heart of uptown Karachi, Maison Sonraj – an opulent three-storey experience dedicated to niche fragrances and high-end skincare situated in Zamzama, opened its doors to the city this weekend on the evening of 17th of December 2023 in a grand affair, which was graced by Mr. Alexis Chahtahtinsky, Consul General of France and Mr. Martin Dawson from British High Commission to represent their respective countries’ brands.

Spearheaded by Arbaaz Sattar, the third generation of the Sonraj family, Maison Sonraj’s opening is a culmination of his endeavor to introduce Karachi to a whole new luxury fragrance experience with a design philosophy which showcases the very best and is sure to be the perfect one-stop shop for niche fragrance aficionados.

The grand launch of Maison Sonraj brings an air of niche fragrances to Karachi. Hosting a collection of the finest fragrances from Britain, France, Italy, and beyond, Maison Sonraj embodies global luxury in a local setting. Bringing an unparalleled experience, each scent, each carefully crafted space, invokes a nostalgic ‘I’ve been here before’ feeling, transporting you to a realm of sensory excellence.

The Maison Sonraj grand launch was attended by the who’s who of Karachi, the socialites, the businessmen and the fashionistas. In attendance were, philanthropist Ronak Lakhani, the powerhouse actors Anwar Maqsood, Behroze Sabzwari, Javed Sheikh, Faysal Quraishi, Shahroz Sabzwari, Sadaf Kanwal, Hasnain Lehri and several other luminaries. The Russian and Malaysian Consulate Generals also graced the occasion.

“This new initiative is fundamental to our overarching strategy of being a multi-category player within the luxury sector. Maison Sonraj allows us to deploy our experience and reputation into new categories while we still maintain a strong focus on horology. Building strong customer relationships and pulling in new customers through non-watch activity into our extensive, laddered watch experience”, stated Arbaaz Sattar about his brainchild Maison Sonraj.

Maison Sonraj is not just a fantastic new addition to Karachi’s thriving retail landscape but a one of its kind fragrance and skincare boutique, offering an impeccable experience, redefining luxury in Pakistan. Currently, Maison Sonraj houses niche luxury fragrance brands; Xerjoff and The House of Oud from Italy, Parfums de Marly, INITIO Parfums Privés, and Liquides Imaginaires from France, Clive Christian and Thameen London from the UK, as well as high-end skincare brands including Dr. Barbara Sturm from Germany, Bellefontaine and Niance from Switzerland.

Pakistan (Muhammad Yasir)

The 15th edition of ArtBeat – National Child Art Competition and Exhibitions witnessed an inspiring gathering of esteemed artists in Lahore as they formed the jury to curate the finest artistic expressions from across Pakistan.

This year, the panel of accomplished artists, representing diverse regions and artistic disciplines, included Abdul Jabbar Gull (sculptor and artist, Karachi), Irfan Gul Dahri (artist, art otaq/numaish gah, Lahore), Shireen Bano Rizvi (department of visual arts, national college of arts, Lahore), Ali Azmat (artist, college of art and design, university of the Punjab), Sajjad Akram (director, nukta studio, Islamabad; NCA Rawalpindi), Kiran Saleem (visual artist, Lahore; department of fine arts, NCA Lahore), and Najia Azmat (visual artist, Lahore). This year’s competition saw an incredible response, with 234 schools and 45 community organizations passionately submitting artworks.

The jury with their extensive expertise, selected 234 artworks that captured the essence of creativity and imagination. A curated display of over 234 artworks will be showcased at the Zahoor Ul Akhlaq Gallery in NCA.

The exhibition will open exclusively for award winners on 8th December and will be accessible to the public on 9th December 2023. Child artists selected to present their works at the gallery exhibitions in Lahore will receive certificates and prizes from the esteemed guests.

The 15th ArtBeat once again stands as a testament to The Little Art’s commitment to empowering the youth through creative expression and providing them a platform to voice their perspectives.

Pakistan (Muhammad Yasir)

Habitt, your one-stop destination for home essentials has been a pioneer in redefining the landscape of home and interior décor in Pakistan, boasting a diverse collection spanning furniture, decor, serving, textiles, and kitchen, a comprehensive array all under one roof.

Embracing innovation and design, Habitt has been committed to delivering exceptional quality and style for every home. With the launch of Habitt’s newest store in DHA, Y-Block, Lahore.

The store’s design philosophy revolves around the appreciation of minor details, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal. This meticulous approach brings Habitt closer to the DHA audience.

The strategic location within DHA minimizes travel for customers, making Habitt a convenient choice for the discerning local audience.

Habitt takes pride in locally made products and are committed to supporting and promoting Pakistani craftsmanship. Their range reflects the rich heritage and artistry of Pakistan, with a commitment to excellence and authenticity. Beyond their commitment to quality, Habitt is dedicated to making a positive impact. They are partnering with Baitussalam Welfare Trust to extend support to those affected in Gaza, Palestine.

For every purchase made, Habitt is donating a percentage of its sales to Baitussalam for this noble cause. Furthermore, Habitt actively collects donations for Batul Salam, demonstrating a dedication to making a positive impact on a local scale aswell.

Karachi (Muhammad Yasir)

Renowned Pakistani fashion designer Asim Jofa’s exemplary business resilience and crisis management recently earned him a unique distinction. His adaptive strategies, honed through years of experience, have become a vital case study at LUISS Guido Carli University, an esteemed university based in Rome, Italy. The integration of Jofa’s case study into the curriculum stands as a testament to the invaluable insights it provides for future global business leaders, particularly in the fields of business and fashion.

The invitation to incorporate Asim Jofa’s case study into the academic curriculum came from Prem S. Menghwar, a distinguished faculty member of LUISS Guido Carli’s Business and Management department. Recognizing the exceptional nature of Jofa’s business journey, Menghwar sought to impart the entrepreneur’s adaptive strategies and crisis management techniques to students, aiming to prepare them for the dynamic challenges of the global business landscape.

Asim Jofa then took center stage at LUISS Guido Carli University, captivating students and faculty with his insightful discourse on business resilience and crisis management. Jofa shared his transformative journey, weaving a narrative of adaptability and success. His compelling talk left an indelible mark, inspiring the next generation of global business leaders and fashion enthusiasts at the prestigious university.

Asim Jofa’s foray into the fashion industry began as a breath of fresh air, diverging from the family’s established jewelry business. Twelve years ago, he embarked on his journey by establishing the highly exclusive and one-of-a-kind diamond boutique, ‘The Diamond Gallery.’ Armed with a design certification from the prestigious Central Saint Martins, Jofa rapidly made waves in the fashion industry, garnering acclaim for his collections showcased on runways in fashion capitals worldwide.

Jofa’s accolades include the IAFA International Asian Fashion Awards for the Best Designer Brand in 2012. The same year, he secured the Collection of the Year award at the Pakistan Fashion Awards. Jofa’s commitment to improving on perfection is evident, and he envisions a future where he continues to captivate and adorn Pakistani women, all while breaking fashion stereotypes.

The integration of Asim Jofa’s case study into the LUISS Guido Carli curriculum signifies the university’s commitment to providing students with real-world insights and practical knowledge. Jofa’s experiences navigating the complexities of the business and fashion realms during times of crisis offer a rich tapestry of lessons for aspiring business leaders.

Jofa’s integration into LUISS Guido Carli’s curriculum underscores the global impact of his business strategies and positions him as a beacon for aspiring entrepreneurs and future leaders in the realms of business and fashion.