February Issue 2011

Despite her subdued, almost mysterious persona, Sonya Battla is a media magnet. With more than two decades of experience under her belt, the fashion designer has been crowned the queen of cuts — a renegade designer who pushes the boundaries of conventional cuts and colour. With a prêt-a-porter boutique in Zamzama, Karachi, Battla has gained recognition internationally. Having already dabbled with block prints, Battla launched a collection of lawn prints last year, another testament to the attention she pays to the demands of the modern woman. The ‘Birds’ theme was a spectacular hit as women thronged to the exhibitions nationwide. Today, Battla is the brand ambassador for Kiran Aman — a jeweller and co-founder of Still Waters Publishing.

Battla says the inspiration for her collection comes from organic fabric and her form is sculpted around the human body. In her latest Autumn/Winter collection, published in Newsline, Battla focuses on just that — rich hues with dramatic cuts on pure karandi fabric. Battla feels the Pakistani market is growing steadily and buyers are more accepting of the cutting edge.