Islamabad Fashion Week (IFW) is a premier fashion event in Pakistan organized by Triple-E, an event management company. The event took place annually in Islamabad from 2007 to 2012, showcasing a blend of traditional and contemporary fashion trends. The fashion week featured established and emerging designers from Pakistan alongside international participants. With the return of Triple-E's events shortly, IFW aims to rekindle its legacy and impact on Pakistan's fashion industry.
History
The inaugural Islamabad Fashion Week was launched in 2010 at the Serena Hotel, to promote Pakistan's textile industry, designers, and craftsmanship. The event was founded by Arshad Siddiqui, the CEO of Triple-E, in collaboration with local and international fashion councils. The organizers aimed to provide a platform for the country's designers to engage with both local and global audiences, with a particular emphasis on showcasing traditional designs alongside modern aesthetics.
Objectives
Islamabad Fashion Week aimed to:
Promote Pakistan's traditional and modern fashion industry.
Offer a platform for emerging designers, fashion students, and established names.
Facilitate trade by attracting international buyers and fostering partnerships.
Improve the global perception of Pakistan through fashion diplomacy.
Event Highlights (2007–2012)
Islamabad Fashion Week gained popularity due to its innovative approach to showcasing diverse styles, including:
Local and International Designers: Renowned designers like Shaiyanne Malik, Mohsin Naveed Ranjha, and Ammar Belal presented their collections, with influences ranging from Greek mythology to South Asian heritage. The event also featured international designers from Bangladesh, India, and the UK. Collaboration with Fashion Institutions: The event encouraged participation from prestigious fashion institutions like Iqra University, Fashion Era, and the Institute of Art and Design Lahore, providing a space for students to exhibit their work on a large scale.
Fashion for Trade: Organized in association with global fashion bodies such as the World Fashion Organization (WFO) and the International Pakistan Fashion Council (IPFC), the event aimed to promote exports and generate international interest in Pakistan's textiles and fashion products.
Impact
Islamabad Fashion Week helped establish Islamabad as a center for fashion diplomacy, attracting international media attention and elevating Pakistan's fashion industry on the global stage. The event contributed to finished fashion product exports and strengthened the country's cottage industries, including textiles, accessories, and footwear.
Future Plans
Triple-E has announced plans to relaunch Islamabad Fashion Week in the coming years, promising a fresh wave of creativity, trade, and international partnerships. The upcoming editions are expected to emphasize innovation, digital fashion presentations, and sustainable fashion trends.
Website
For more information about upcoming events and Triple-E's other initiatives, visit their official website: Triple-E Official Website
Islamabad Fashion Week (IFW), organized by Triple-E, became a flagship event for Pakistan's fashion industry from 2007 to 2012. It aimed to promote both traditional and contemporary fashion, offering a platform for emerging designers, students, and established fashion houses. Here's a breakdown of each year's event:
1. Islamabad Fashion Week 2007
The debut event focused on introducing Islamabad as a fashion hub. It featured traditional designs, including bridal couture and ethnic wear, from top local designers. The event set the tone for a blend of local craftsmanship and modern aesthetics.
2. Islamabad Fashion Week 2008
The second edition expanded with the participation of international designers, showcasing a fusion of Eastern and Western styles. Highlights included collaborations with local fashion schools, emphasizing the promotion of new talent.
3. Islamabad Fashion Week 2009
This year introduced avant-garde designs, with a focus on sustainable fashion. The event featured innovative textiles, bold accessories, and participation from various international fashion councils, making it a significant trade event.
4. Islamabad Fashion Week 2010
The event was held at the Serena Hotel, Islamabad, marking a milestone with broader international coverage. It featured collections inspired by mythology, ethnic motifs, and contemporary cuts, alongside local and global designers like Mohsin Naveed Ranjha, Shaiyanne Malik, and Bangladeshi designers.
5. Islamabad Fashion Week 2011
This edition was notable for its increased focus on prêt-à-porter collections and luxury prêt lines. The participation of prestigious institutions, including Iqra University, Fashion Era, and GIFT University, marked its dedication to fostering new talent.
6. Islamabad Fashion Week 2012
The final event in the series was the most diverse, featuring haute couture collections, multimedia presentations, and renowned brands like Lakhany Silk Mills, Jazib Qamar, and Danish Wakeel. It concluded with positive international reviews, further establishing Islamabad as a key fashion destination.
Link to Official Website
For more details on each event and upcoming plans for Islamabad Fashion Week's revival, visit the Triple-E Official Website.