THE MODERN MYTHMAKER OF COUTURE ZAIN HASHMI SPEAKS
Zain Hashmi’s work is a study in contrasts— delicate yet bold, timeless yet undeniably modern. Known for his meticulous attention to detail, he approaches couture as more than a craft, weaving layers of meaning into every design. In this interview, Hashmi reflects on his inspirations, his philosophy of balancing heritage with innovation, and the fine line between functionality and art in his creations. Honest, thoughtful, and always focused on pushing boundaries, he shares what it means to create fashion that resonates on a deeper level.
‘Fashion is more than aesthetics— it’s about crafting a narrative that empowers and resonates with the modern woman’
Your designs are known for telling stories. What story were you aiming to narrate through the cover ensemble for Sanam Saeed, and how does it reflect your design philosophy?
Thank you for this incredible feature and for celebrating my work in such a prestigious issue. For the cover ensemble created for Sanam Saeed, my goal was to craft something that not only showcases the artistry of couture but also resonates with a modern, confident woman—one who embodies both elegance and strength.
The designs tell a story of timeless sophistication, blending traditional techniques with a contemporary edge. I wanted to evoke a sense of depth and duality, much like the woman I envisioned wearing it. The pieces combine soft, intricate embroidery with sharp, structured lines to symbolize a balance between grace and power. The ethereal tones and delicate details speak to purity and refinement, while the architectural elements convey resilience and confidence.
Fashion, for me, is always about more than just aesthetics—it’s about capturing a narrative. This ensemble represents the evolving journey of the modern woman: strong, graceful, and everevolving. I wanted it to feel aspirational but deeply grounded in personal expression. It’s a piece that celebrates both who she is today and who she aspires to be tomorrow.
What elements do you believe make your work distinctive in the ever-evolving fashion industry?
I think what truly defines my work is the way I blend striking, bold silhouettes with an unparalleled attention to detail. Couture, to me, is an expression of both artistry and emotion, and I approach every design with that mindset. I love playing with structure, using strong, architectural lines that are meant to make a statement. But what really brings those designs to life is the meticulous attention to every single detail—from the textures to the proportions, to the hand-embroidered embellishments.
For me, it’s about creating a visual narrative that feels both modern and timeless. Every stitch, every seam is carefully considered, ensuring that the garment is not just beautiful to look at but also deeply meaningful. I aim to craft pieces that stand out, that feel powerful yet refined—something that not only makes a statement but also evokes a sense of confidence in the wearer. It’s this balance between b o l d n e s s t h a t s t r i k e s a n d sophistication that gives my creations their unique identity.
‘Each design I create is a balance between bold, architectural lines and the delicate precision of handembroidery’
How do you blend artistry with wearability in your couture, ensuring your pieces are as functional as they are visually stunning?
Every design begins with a vision, but functionality is always at the forefront of my creative process. For me, artistry and wearability go hand in hand. I strive to create pieces that feel empowering to wear while retaining their visual allure.
Sanam Saeed is known for her elegance and versatility. How did her persona inspire your approach for the December cover shoot?
Sanam Saeed’s elegance and versatility were central to my approach. Her timeless beauty and confidence inspired a design that feels both refined and bold.
The HOT 100 issue celebrates excellence across various fields. How does your design resonate with this theme of celebrating pioneers and trendsetters?
My design philosophy aligns seamlessly with the spirit of the HOT 100 issue—celebrating pioneers, trendsetters, and those who push the boundaries of their fields. For me, fashion is about more than just aesthetics; it’s about forging new paths while honoring craftsmanship. Each collection I create challenges traditional notions of beauty, blending bold, forward-thinking silhouettes with the meticulous artistry of couture. It’s about empowering the wearer, whether through innovative design or a timeless sense of sophistication. Like the trailblazers featured in this issue, my work seeks to elevate, inspire, and set new standards in fashion, creating pieces that resonate far beyond the runway.
December brings festive and celebratory vibes. How did this season influence the mood and tone of your creations for the shoot?
The mood was defined by opulence, with rich textures and luminous details that capture the essence of the season’s exuberance. Each piece was meticulously crafted to make a striking statement, exuding an air of refined luxury and everlasting celebration. The designs evoke a sense of grandeur, where timeless elegance meets the joy and vibrancy of the festive spirit.
How do you approach sustainability in your work, and what steps do you believe the fashion industry needs to take to make sustainable luxury a norm?
Sustainability in my work starts with a commitment to quality and longevity—creating pieces that transcend trends and are built to last. I prioritize using ethically sourced fabrics, working with artisans who uphold traditional craftsmanship, and focusing on custom-made designs to reduce waste. For the fashion industry, sustainability must become an integral part of the creative process, not just an afterthought. Luxury should no longer be defined by e x c e s s , b u t b y r e s p o n s i b l e innovation—where every step, from design to production, reflects a true commitment to the planet and future generations.
Your work often bridges modern a e s t h e t i c s w i t h t r a d i t i o n a l craftsmanship. How do you maintain this balance, and why is it significant to your brand?
As already mentioned, balancing modern aesthetics with traditional craftsmanship is at the heart of my design philosophy. I see it as a way to honor heritage while pushing creative boundaries. By blending innovative, bold silhouettes with timeless techniques, I create pieces that are both forward-thinking and enduring—reflecting the evolution of luxury and ensuring each garment tells a unique, lasting story. This fusion is essential to my brand, as it celebrates both the past and the future of couture.
What is the legacy you hope to leave behind as a designer in Pakistan’s fashion industry and beyond?
Curating fearless innovations that redefine luxury in ways others can only dream of.
It’s known that you are very selective about your work. How do you decide which projects align with your vision and brand ethos?
I choose projects that challenge conventions and inspire.
Where do you draw inspiration from—be it art, architecture, nature, or personal experiences—and how does this translate into your designs?
I find inspiration in the unconventional—whether it’s the hidden intricacies of nature, the fluidity of abstract art, or the raw beauty found in the unexpected. These elements ignite a sense of discovery, translating into designs that break traditional boundaries. I love exploring the unknown and infusing that sense of wonder into each piece, creating something both refined and daring, yet entirely original.
As a designer with high expectations from yourself, how do you handle creative blocks or external pressures to stay ahead in the industry?
I embrace creative blocks as opportunities for reinvention, taking time to step back, reflect, and draw inspiration from unexpected places. External pressures only fuel my determination, pushing me to evolve and continuously push boundaries, ensuring my work remains innovative and true to my vision.
What can we expect from Zain Hashmi in the coming year? Are there any exciting projects or collaborations in the pipeline that you’d like to share?
Next year? Expect a revolution— bold collections and unexpected collaborations that redefine couture. While others may continue to chase what we set, they’ll never match the originality. Zain Hashmi doesn’t follow; he sets the bar. Stay tuned!
With fashion constantly evolving, how do you plan to innovate and keep your brand relevant while staying true to your identity?
Fashion is ever-evolving, but my core remains rooted in artistry and authenticity. To stay relevant, I’ll continually fuse heritage with bold, avant-garde concepts—pushing boundaries while honoring my u n i q u e d e s i g n p h i l o s o p h y. Innovation will always come from staying true to my essence, ensuring my brand continues to lead!
RAPID FIRE
If your design aesthetic were a film genre, what would it be?
Romance with a hint of drama
What’s one fashion trend you wish would disappear forever?
Shalwars that look like pants
Three words that describe the Zain Hashmi brand.
Fearless, unparalleled, and iconic!
If you weren’t a fashion designer, what would you be?
Architect
A fashion faux pas you would never forgive?
Undershirts under see-through shirts