June issue 2009

Nishat Linen announced the opening of their new outlet on Tariq Road with a flourish, through hard-to-miss print and outdoor advertising. But the opening-day crowd appeared thin in comparison to the hordes of finicky and feisty aunties who swarm such events. And it was only for the better because the sales staff could barely manage the number of visitors who had arrived. The lure of free gifts on the first day was, of course, another disappointing hoax — you got freebies only after a purchase.

This aside, the grand glass-and-wood doors open into an inviting shop, which would almost be cosy when not over-crowded. There is a small collection of three-piece lawn suit fabrics which instantly draw your attention. The rich colours and pleasant floral prints, teamed with voile dupattas, are the most refreshing prints and designs seen this summer. Tasteful and not overdone, the lawn suits are priced between Rs 1,700 and Rs 2,300, approximately.

The linen stock is equally impressive. Offering everything from bed linen and decorative cushions to bathroom and kitchen comforts, tea cosy sets, placemats for the dining table, table-runners, tea towels and bath towels and bathrobes, Nishat Linen focuses on providing a complete home experience. The bed sets are varied and unique in design, ranging from block print, embroidery, banarsi on cotton and even cheery cartoon prints, such as Winnie the Pooh and Spiderman, for the kids.

With its home textile range and limited edition lawn fabrics, Nishat Linen, with its relatively lower prices, could pose stiff competition to other local home stores.