Fariha Bhanji

Fashion Loyalty Tabussum Mughal

Tell us about yourself?
I am a self trained fashion designer. I have used my esthetic sense more with the technical part of fashion. I always have had insatiable curiosity for art., but I perused my education in Business Management. I have done my BBA now currently enrolled in my MBA program. I had done a diploma in Fashion Design but I strongly feel without a high level of natural talent you can never be a fashion designer.

When did you decide to come into this field?
I have has carved a brilliant career out of adorning women. In 2006 I started to design clothes for fun for my friends and family, people loved my creations which helped me discover my talent I took up professionally since 2009 at the age of 22.

Obstacles faced during career?
Electricity issues & Rising costs and well trained disciplined labor was my initial obstacle. We are still struggling to find solutions to solve it.
Secondly the fashion industry is tough and competitive you need to be prepared to use your abilities to give yourself an edge over your rivals. This only comes through having the confidence to truly believe in what you're doing and the assertiveness to deliver.

How do you cope up with the challenges?
Without a high level of ambition and the necessary commitment to achieve that ambition you may struggle and face challenges. I have learnt that you need to keep motivating your team and recognize we only part of a bigger picture that draws from the input of many players. I have to be prepared to work hard yet remain open to learning. Displaying high levels of flexibility and using criticism from others in a positive way will allow you to adapt in what is an ever-changing environment.

Most cherished moment?
When I see a big smile on my clients face.

Biggest achievement?
Every client that goes satisfied is my biggest achievement

Who is performing well?
I see that Pakistani industry has evolved and made a mark internationally, I am very proud of what our seniors have done and achieved over the years. Some of the big names are Maheen Khan, Sana Safinaz, HSY, Rizwan Beig.

Is individual style important?
Yes ofcourse! This is the key for any designer to understand what an individual style is and what they can carry. I believe that you should not wear anything that’s just in fashion but wear something that matches your personality and compliment your figure. I give my clients what suits them rather than WHAT’S THE IN THING!

Qualities of a good designer?
A good deigner needs to be imaginative and creative to generate new ideas. Without visualization its hard to deliver innovation which is the energizing force of fashion design. The same can be said for color sense and the many practical skills .Effective communication skills are a must. If you can't explain, listen, negotiate or delegate you'll struggle. Likewise organizational skills, if you can't plan and co-ordinate you simply won't finish jobs on time. Part of this comes from being able to make quick decisions and accepting responsibility for those decisions.
The one personal quality that pulls all of this together is having a real passion for fashion - without this the other skills and personal qualities become undermined and you'll find it difficult to be a fashion designer.

Who is your personal favourite designer?
Alexander McQueen & Elie Saab are my inspirations.

Your idea for perfect happiness is?
When I see appreciation for my work.

Your greatest extravagance?
Shoes, handbags & vacation

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
I wish I could lie and tell someone how good they look.

How do you come up with new designs?
It depends, anywhere I feel it, it could be a trip I make, an era in time, a movie..really anything can inspire me to create.

What has been your favorite design?
I love a design that demands spectacularly rich fabric, excellent attention to detail, classically regal and always a touch of fantasy, cut that complement or even amplify the high points of a woman’s life. It can be vintage or traditional or mix of both.

Where do you want your business to be in ten years?
I have my eyes sights set on the runways of Paris. Having a few outlets in different countries.

How do you relieve the stress of being a designer?
Spending time at home or lazing at home doing nothing or hanging out with friends

What was your motivation to make your dreams come true?
My mom is the biggest motivation behind what I am today. She really helped me in every step and still helps me when I am lost.

Your most treasured possession?
My family

Favourite destination?
Rome

Advice to budding designers?
Never try to copy but create and be innovative. You should have real passion for fashion.

If not a designer, what would you choose to be?
Interior Designer

Message to our readers?
Only wear what fits you, don’t let the clothes wear you.

Current projects?
Fashion shoot with Ayaz & Raana & participation in bridal couture week.