LUCKNOW: Fashion knows no boundaries and connects people globally through shared aesthetics and cultural expressions. Given the massive fan following of Pakistani TV dramas in Lucknow, the intricate thread work, delicate embellishments, and flowing silhouette characteristic of Pakistani fashion are influencing local clothing preferences.
The appeal of Pakistani fashion lies in its blend of tradition and contemporary style. The designs remain relevant across seasons
For a long time, the designs worn by actors in popular Pakistani serials like ‘Humsafar’, ‘Noor Jahan’, ‘Zindagi Gulzar Hai’ and ‘Shehr-e-Zaat’ have caught the viewers’ fancy till the trade got affected by political turmoil.
But now, boutiques, tailors, and embroiderers in Nakhas, Chowk, Gole Market, Aliganj and Aminabad are flooded with requests to replicate Pakistani designs in stunning ‘shararas’, ‘gharara’ fits and royal ‘Anarkalis’. The most soughtafter designs include straight-cut ‘kurtas’ with detailed necklines, palazzo trousers with subtle motifs, and dupattas featuring elaborate borders.
Many boutiques have adapted these styles to suit local tastes while maintaining the essence of Pakistani craftsmanship. Local craftsmen have mastered techniques like shadow work, mirror work, and ‘zari’ embroidery to meet the growing demand.
Fashion enthusiasts particularly appreciate the subtle colour combinations and sophisticated styling that Pakistani outfits offer. The emphasis on quality fabric and comfortable fits has made these designs popular for both casual wear and formal occasions.
As Rubaab alias Raabi battles a conflict of heart, eyes filled with tears, Shefali Tandon and Ankita Sharma who are watching the Pakistani TV drama ‘Diyar e Yaar’, in Lucknow can’t help but admire the salwar suit the actor is wearing in the scene.
The appeal of Pakistani fashion lies in blend of tradition & contemporary
“The muted elegance of the attires of these actresses is irresistible,” says Shefali, adding, be it the character of a rich girl or a middleclass or even less privileged one, all ac-tresses are seen in the most tasteful of attires. Talking to TOI, Mumtaz Bano, a boutique owner in Nakhas, says: “Despite limited direct imports, social media and television shows continue to showcase new Pakistani fashion trends. We study these trends carefully to create similar aesthetics to cater to the growing demand. In fact, we have developed our signature styles by blending Pakistani elements with regional preferences. The result is a unique fusion that appeals to fashion-conscious customers.”
Mohammad Shoeb, a tailor in Aminabad, says: “Customers often bring screenshots from Pakistani dramas, requesting similar outfits. The demand spans across age groups, with younger customers particularly drawn to contemporary interpretations of traditional designs. The popularity has led to specialised tailoring units focusing solely on Pakistani-inspired fashion.” He said suits worn by actors in recent series like ‘Ghair’, ‘Meem se Mohabbat’ and ‘Jafaa’ are a rage among followers.
These traditional ensembles are locally tailored rather than imported from Pakistan, making them costeffective. ‘Anarkali’ suits begin at Rs 1,500, while ‘shararas’ and ‘ghararas’ are priced at Rs 2,000 upwards. The final price tag largely depends on one’s ability to negotiate.
The enduring appeal of Pakistani fashion lies in its blend of tradition and contemporary style. The designs remain relevant across seasons and occasions, makingthem a practical choice for fashionconscious consumers.
“As cultural exchanges continue through media and entertainment, this influence on local fashion is likely to evolve further,” says Mihir Daswani, a showroom owner in Aliganj. Interestingly, the influence of Pakistani dramas extends beyond just clothing to accessories and styling as well. Matching footwear, jewellery, and bags completing the look are equally sought after. This has created opportunities for local artisans to experiment with new design elements while maintaining traditional craftsmanship.
The trend has also influenced wedding wear, with many brides choosing Pakistani-inspired ensembles for their trousseau. The elegant simplicity of these designs, combined with sophisticated embellishments, offers a refreshing alternative to traditional wedding wear. Boutiques often create customised collections incorporating these elements for wedding seasons.
Local weekly markets have also adapted to this demand by stocking suitable fabrics and embellishments. Textile merchants from Kanpur who set up makeshift shops in Gole Market’s Buddh Bazaar regularly include materials commonly used in Pakistani outfits in their inventory. This has made it easier for tailors and boutiques to create authentic-looking designs at
Design exchange keeps relations alive: Pak designer
What is it that goes into the design of these suits that have made them so popular? “It is primarily the choice of fabric as we give importance to the comfort it offers according to the season,” says fashion designer Yasmin Zaman, based in Karachi, Pakistan.
“The right fabric gives the attire the right look, fall and grace, and its comfort reflects on whoever wears it,” says the designer, whose ‘sasural’ is in Lucknow.
“We admire as much the Indian saris, ‘ghararas’ and the hand embroidery, particularly ‘chikankaari’ and ‘patti’ or ‘dubka’, though, ‘zari’ work is better, more neat and intricate on our side,” says Yasmin, who showcased her range in Delhi at an exhibition organised by FICCI in 2015. She is a regular at exhibitions in Dubai, where she gets to meet counterparts from India and Lucknow too. “Appreciation for each other’s work is what keeps relations alive and if the exchange of products is not easy, at least designs and ideas keep reaching one another,” she says.
Pak imprint in men’s designs
The men’s section is the ‘shalwar kameez’
The most popular in the men’s section is the ‘shalwar kameez’ ensemble, which is often complemented with a matching ‘dupatta’ or scarf.
Pakistani waistcoats worn by actors Fawad Khan, Shaan Shahid and Imran Abbas add a layer of sophistication when worn over ‘kurtas’ for formal occasions.
The ‘achkan’ and ‘sherwani’ are primarily being worn at weddings and ceremonial functions, featuring intricate embroidery and buttoned closures. These garments are typically crafted from rich fabrics like silk, brocade, and velvet. ‘Churidar’, known for its tight-fitting style around the calf area, is paired with both ‘kurtas’ and ‘sherwanis’.
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