Pakistan’s crafts are a beloved part of our artistic heritage. Very few households across the country will be untouched by a quintessential ajrak or a hand tie-dyed chunri.
Hence it is no surprise that unique brands Popinjay, Cut the Posh and Meraki Design House have all taken aspects of Pakistan’s heritage and blended them with an international appeal. What this has translated to is three refreshing brands that work with Pakistani artisans and place local crafts on a fashionable and global pedestal.
Popinjay
Inspired by founder Saba Gul’s Pakistani roots, Popinjay offers its customers a wide array of stunning luxury handbags. But what sets their bags apart from the crowd? The fact that all of their products are handcrafted by artisans!
Many of their designs showcase traditional techniques such as silk embroidery and needlework, adorned with traditional motifs. The designs also keep up with international trends, like box-clutches that are essentially very Pakistani at heart. The melding of Eastern and Western elements in these designs is as effortless as it is elegant.
Meraki Design House
Who doesn’t love a shoe that can take you from the boardroom to the dining room, all while being one-of-a-kind! If you raised your hand then you are the ideal Meraki client!
Another passion project, this Canadian e-boutique has its roots in Pakistan. Founder Eman Bachani aimed to create a brand that would work with Pakistani artisans, but appeal to a global audience. What this translated into is a line of shoes that is divided into ‘basic’ and ‘festive’.
The ‘basic’ range is a collection that focuses on simplicity, like a smart pair of ajrak espadrilles! The ‘festive’ option showcases Pakistani craft at its most uninhibited, as the shoes are ornamented with everything from zardozi and gota to phulkari and kutch. This range also has ajrak options; but they come with beaded embroidery.
Cut the Posh
The boho-chic look has been a fashion staple for generations, but every so often, it needs a bit of a face-lift. Enters here: Cut the Posh!
The America based label has a decidedly easy-breezy vibe, with an undeniably creative ethos. The ancient art of block printing has expertly been used to create so many unique patterns. Offering their customers a collection of balmy skirts, quirky trousers and playful cloth totes, the brand melds a beloved traditional art with a longstanding style aesthetic to perfection.