If this pandemic has taught us anything it is that we must realign our priorities, do better, and be better. Fashion Pakistan Week 21 took place over Saturday and Sunday, the 20th and 21st of February.

However, this addition of FPW was unlike any other, it was an exclusive event that resonated an air of carefulness, social consciousness, and compassion. Sarwat Gilani started the evening off with a heartfelt speech about Special Olympics Pakistan. As their brand ambassador, she highlighted the organization’s mission statement and notable milestones.

FPW Day 1 began with Umsha by Uzma Babar. The collection called "Silhouette" featured a mix of formal and bridal couture. The stunning Amar Khan walked as the showstopper for this collection in a long-sleeve baby pink ghagra choli, with white and silver accents, donning a whimsical floral headset. While FPW 21 had renowned designers like Maheen Khan showcasing their work, there was also a fair share of upcoming designers. Diners made their FPW debut with an interesting line of fusion menswear, with classy 3 piece suits, jackets, and waistcoats. Sadaf Malaterre channelled her passion for animal rights advocacy into her debut men’s line. She curated a line of sleek white button-downs and stylish pants with the words “#nodogculling” printed along the back. It was inspired of Sadaf to use a platform like FPW to raise awareness against animal cruelty.

Our personal favourite collections were Maheen’s, Color me Daphni by Nida Tapal, and Umsha by Uzma Babar. Maheen Khan collaborated with Hilal silk to create a beautiful collection highlighting hand-woven silk in elegant neutral tones, complemented by separates in gold beehive prints. Umsha by Uzma Babar’s line "Silhouette" combined modern cuts with timeless pearl and stonework detailing, her colour choice of pastel hues is perfect for intimate weddings. And Nida Tapal’s showcase was the ideal finale for FPW’21, she combined hand-worked crochet with metallic, iridescent colours and embellishments.

Team Edition spoke to Digital Creator Ayla Adnan, popularly known as Aylasworld on Instagram, who complimented Adnan Ansari and team Riwayat's choreography of the event and the Fashion Council’s implementation of punctuality and Covid-19 SOPs. She said, “as a very frequent fashion week goer, I was impressed by how the Fashion Council pulled off such a show during such times, it was done so well! From the arrangement of the seating to the theme “Secret Garden” to keeping versatility in the designers and clothes.”