Crimes of fashion, literally

Today, it is somewhat uplifting to see Pakistan in the news for reasons unassociated with violence. Nov. 4, 2009 marked the beginning of Pakistan’s first ever fashion week in Karachi. Brave models strutted their stuff down runways displaying the creations of 32 Pakistani designers.

In a conservative Islamic country with a growing number of extremists, it is almost outrageous to see models bearing so much skin. The couture fashions included vibrant flowing Islamic robes, shorts, funky bracelets, spiked necklaces and sequins. Bare shoulders, legs, backs and even tattoos were on display for a full crowd of willing spectators.

Strangely, Kirachi fashion week was a way for designers and fashionistas to send a message to the world. “Pakistan has a different side to it. It’s not just about bombs and Taliban. It’s also about beautiful clothes, beautiful people, and it’s about promoting our country and our culture to the most glamorous profession, which is fashion,” said Rizwan Beyg, Designer.

Madrassas have been popping up all across Pakistan’s countryside for the past two decades. It should not have come as a surprise to anyone when the presence of the Taliban insurgence blew-up in Pakistan this year. Against a backdrop of terrorism and violence, pulling off Karachi fashion week was a huge feat. Fashion week was originally scheduled for October, but was put on hold after a series of deadly militant attacks. When the event finally commenced, beefed-up security was definitely present.

As expected, backlash against Pakistan’s fashion week ensued. Most women in the country sport hijabs or full-blown burqas, so the couture pieces are clearly not accessible to everyday women. Men do not want their wives, daughters and sisters walking around the markets, looking like they just stepped off the catwalk. Admittedly however, a large part of the response on Facebook and Twitter has been rather positive. Urban women in the country are embracing an attitudinal shift towards a more liberal independent Pakistani woman. The success of Pakistan’s first fashion week gives supporters a sense of national pride and a glimpse at a brighter, more fashionable future.