Anti-Terrorist Fashion



With the Taliban hovering in the background and located just two hours from al- Qaida headquarters, Pakistan hosted its first fashion week in the cosmopolitan city of Karachi last week. It might seem like a frivolous choice at a time when violence and religious oppression affects most of the country but I think its a signal of bravery and hope to Pakistan's women. "This is our gesture of defiance to the Taliban," said CEO of Fashion Week Pakistan, Ayesha Tammy Haq. Although the fashion show displayed traditional Pakistani tunics and veils, bared shoulders, legs and midriffs were also on view. The event had been re-scheduled twice because of violence and security concerns and some models admitted that they were afraid of Islamic militant attacks but they strutted down the runways nonetheless.



Showcasing a mix of traditional Pakistani influences and contemporary style, Pakistan's top designers demonstrated the vibrant culture that's too often overshadowed by political upheaval. Most of the designs, like the fashions in Western shows, were too outrageous for Pakistani women to actually wear but they represented a broad spectrum of freedom and choice for the future.

Comments

I liked a lot of the clothing from the collections.
Catherine said…
what a great way to show resistance and build up a culture of female activism in a very different context..great post. My very first flight was to Karachiin 1982 not that long after Bhutto's assassination- the country has changed and suffered enormously since then too
Fly Girl said…
Tiffany, I did too, especially considering what they represent.

Catherine, Wow, I'm sure Pakistan was a different experience back then. I'm glad small steps like fashion week point to some hope.
Very brave, indeed. Especially the last photo. Many thanks.

Greetings from London.
Jean-Luc Picard said…
This hasn't been publicised at all. It ought to be.
Kirsten said…
That is seriously interesting! I am fascinated by Pakistan, and pleased to hear they have done this!
Fly Girl said…
Cubano, yes, the last dress wouldn't even be practical in the West.

Jean-Luc, there was some coverage in the fashion press but little beyond that.

Kirsten,It is interesting how aspects of Pakistani culture has endured through the turmoil. Thanks for dropping by.
r4 dsi said…
Hi.
Fashion had bigger name in all over world and i am fashion crazy..
so this article will really helpful for me...
Fly Girl said…
R4, I'm so glad you find it helpful! Thanks for dropping by.
Mary and Sean said…
How interesting... it's also important to consider that clothing and personal appearance is so tied up with self-esteem and confidence. It's great that these fashions can help foster that.
Fly Girl said…
Mary, so much of self esteem is connected to body image and clothing, which is why fashion is more important than many realize.
Edirin said…
i liek this collection, that dress at the end. fab!
Fly Girl said…
Fresh & Fab, thanks for dropping by!

Popular posts from this blog

Traveling Through A Liberian Childhood

Puerto Rico's Taino Culture

Switzerland's Fete Des Vignerons