By Iqra Ahmed

The Winter Fashion Gala (WFG) hype created on social media channels culminated in a runway presentation at the Russian Centre for Science and Culture aka Friendship House in Karachi. It ranged from smart formal menswear to gym gear and sportswear, to bridals and finally cultural collections denoting the rich heritage and treasure trove of vibrant colours and embellishments that Pakistan has to offer.

With show direction and choreography under the watchful eye of supermodel and international fitness instructor and judge Aasif Rehmaan, the show got off to a rocking start with a formal suits collection by menswear designer Zubair Shah who was also the organizer of WFG. He showed a brown-toned collection titled Chocolat inspired by dark, milk and white chocolate. Followed by a jumpsuits line with edgy styling, and finally a jazzy jacket collection in bold prints with feather-padded shoulders. YouTube channel iPlus News HD host Syeda Nazia and supermodel Aasif Rehmaan were the showstoppers in this segment.

The National Textile University students’ final thesis collection was presented under the designer brand Culturista. The sportswear brand IBEX energized the presentation with fitted gym wear in attractive designs and shades, catering to the needs of a growing number of gym-conscious younger generation.

Seema Shah Bridals presented a young brand and did not disappoint with her take on festive wear.

Another young brand, Aamir Jee presented both women’s and menswear, showcasing the traditional shalwar kameeze silhouette.

The Grand Finale played with customs and traditions wherein Zubair Shah chose to play with rilli prints.

The Director of the Russian Centre, Mr Ruslan Mikhailovich Prokhorov, presented a bouquet to organizer and designer Zubair Shah, who, in turn, presented Mr Ruslan with an ajrak long coat to denote regional cultural and traditional hospitality.