Accessories designer Mahin Hussain has always been experimental. Best known her for annual Independence Day bag collection, Hussain grips the patriot in all women around August 14 with her Pakistan themed accessories. Recently however, Hussain has trodden on a road rarely travelled by accessory designers. She has launched a collection of bridal box clutches this season, calling it An Ode to a Bride.
A launch exhibition of the clutches was held on Friday evening at her residence, which now houses her showroom from where she will be taking orders via appointments.
The embroidery on Hussein’s creations is truly beautiful. PHOTOS: AYESHA MIR/EXPRESS
Hussain says, “The colors all belong to the bridal season. Brides will be able to pick up not only clutches for their wedding days, but also for formal evening events.”
The collection, which consists of eight designs, primarily uses two fabrics in the construction of the clutches, velvet and jamawaar. Depending on the season, these small box clutches are available in various other colors, from a very formal black, to deep gold, and dull silver, “Brides can even pick out a clutch in bright red, shocking pink, or turquoise”, she adds.
Done up in hand embroidery with metallic gold or silver wire work, the collection includes dabka, crystals, as well as sequins.
For one customer, lawyer Sabeen Jatoi, present at the occasion, the workmanship of the collection is important. “I have seen people carrying her bags, but I have never bought one myself,” says Jatoi, “However I feel her work is stellar and its good to see the label Made in Pakistan fly high and around the world.”
Artist Fatima Amjad, who like Jatoi has never bought a Mahin Hussain bag, says that she is a fan of the collection despite the fact that it doesn’t fit her personal style. “I believe she is doing a fantastic job, it’s a novel idea. However, I have never bought a bag of hers myself, primarily because I believe these bags are very bold and I am not. I am a conservative dresser,” says Amjad.
The embroidery on Hussein’s creations is truly beautiful. PHOTOS: AYESHA MIR/EXPRESS
Hussain definitely believes these are bold bags, “I am offering something different from what people in the market have. These are meant for a daring bride who is willing to experiment.”
Is there an option for a customised clutch? “Yes,” says Hussain “I’m willing to branstorm with potential clients to see what we come up with.”
Where will these bags be available? Hussain is not stocking these anywhere except for her showroom and you may see them by taking an appointment at her residence, located in Defence.
Price tag
clutches ranging between Rs12,000 to Rs18,000
Published in The Express Tribune, December 3rd, 2013.
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