Indian designer wear finds demand in Pakistan

Despite the sharp political divide between the two nations,

Pakistan is increasingly emerging as good market for Indian designer clothes like sherwanis and salwars. Renowned names from the Indian fashion design industry such as JJ Valaya, Rohit Bal, Rocky S and Rina Dhaka, among others, are witnessing a huge demand for their ensembles. And they along with luxury brands are venturing across the border as demand picks up.

On the other hand many Pakistani designers are looking for a foothold in India. Pakistan Fashion Design Council (PFDC) which gives a platform to Pakistani designers who recently showcased their exclusive bridal collection. Top designers from across the border like Fahad Hussayn, Sania Maskatiya, Elan by Khadijah Shah, HSY and Sana Safinaz were also there at the India Bridal Week 2013.

PFDC is now expanding into the Indian market with its own brand name and standalone multi-label retail store representing Pakistani designers franchised by Rubaaiyat by Mini Bindra of BV’s (Bindra Ventures). In fact, PFDC launched its first flagship, PFDC-The Boulevard, in India in collaboration with New Delhi’s Bindra family. Bindra is also planning to launch her label 'Rubaaiyat' in Pakistan this year.

Besides Indian designers looking for retail spread in Pakistan, multi-designer fashion store, Mumbai-based Kimaya Fashions, which has investments from private equity firm Franklin Templeton, has struck a master franchise deal with Lahore-based fashion retailer Arshadsons to open multi-brand stores in Pakistan. As a part of the deal, Arshadsons plans to open at least six 'Karmik' stores in cities such as Lahore, Karachi and Islamabad over the next three years, followed by smaller towns. The company also plans to open Kimaya stores in Pakistan.