Fashion Industry heading in the right direction

Global Fashion industry has become a multibillion dollar industry; it mainly consists of clothing, footwear and accessories. Textile sector is one of the most important sectors for Pakistan as it is the largest export group. Fashion shows serve as markets for designers and brands, where they show their upcoming designs to buyers (large multi label stores, international brands, etc) and generate business. Pakistans fashion councils have been carrying fashion shows for some time; they have created good name for designers in domestic market, but have failed to bring in international clients in the past. Unlike fashion shows conducted in the past where almost no international buyers were present, Karachi Fashion Week (KFW) was able to attract buyers from Australia, Ireland, United States and other countries. Big names like Margaret Rushe from Rushe Farrell consultancy were present amongst other European and Australian buyers. These firms have clients throughout the world and are connected to the leading brands. KFW not only brought in international clients but was also successful in bringing the spotlight on to renowned Pakistani brands like Bonanza, Fifth Avenue, element jeans, etc. The week-long fashion show focused on fresh designers and brands which, unlike designers, have their own production facilities and can cater to clients with large orders. A prominent figure from Pakistan fashion industry told BR that even though Indian designers are promoted by the Bollywood stars (that have global recognition) they still haven achieved what Pakistani designers have. "However from a commercial perspective, Pakistan is lagging behind since Pakistan has almost no brand with global recognition" lamented the expert. The turbulent security situation in the country has acted as a deterrent for foreign investors considering increased involvement with the countrys textile players. Government support has also been wanting. "Many international models and other prospective participants from the fashion industry were not issued visas in time for the event" revealed an informed source. One model and one designer from KFW have been invited to take part in the New York fashion week while five designers will show their designs in the upcoming Australian fashion week. Clearly, local designers and firms are gearing up to take the international fashion scene by storm with their merchandise. The show had some loopholes but was able to attract international buyers. In affiliation with World Fashion Organisation (WFO), Pakistan fashion council and the organisers of Karachi fashion week have plans to do more shows, if government extends some support to Pakistans fashion industry and textile sector; perhaps their businesses can turn heads just as their designs did, on the ramp.