March issue 2011

A young debutant has got the fashion world buzzing with the launch of her label, Sania Maskatiya. The opening of her flagship outlet on Khayaban-e-Bukhari on February 17 was a roaring success. Going solo, Sania had hundreds of her creations ranging from her prêt-à-porter line with block prints, embroideries and kurtas to her evening couture and formal wear. Flanked by friends, family and, more importantly, her brother and partner Umair, the classically chic designer flitted across the room meeting her guests.

A former Grammarian, Sania graduated from the prestigious Indus Valley School of Art and Architecture with a degree in textile design and after a brief stint under the label Chamak, she decided to venture out on her own. “This store is the fulfilment of a dream that I have had for many years,” says Sania. Her collection is “comfortable and funky,” remarked a customer at the opening. Sania’s emphasis is on cut and silhouettes. “My design philosophy is based on the beauty of cuts and the harmony of measured embellishment. I believe in change, in transforming the conventional to the contemporary.” Her much admired creation — a peach ensemble with gold appliqués of Karachi’s iconic landmarks — caused quite a stir.

“Indeed, I have always sought to create fashion which compliments the diversity of women, and to cater to a wider variety of tastes. I hope that our store is successful in addressing this broader spectrum of taste, while at the same time retaining our signature emphasis on cuts,” says the young designer.

Showcasing her collection in Dubai at a multi-brand boutique, Soirée, and locally at Ensemble, Sania Maskatiya is the name to watch out for this summer.