Sania Maskatiya’s brand is known for pushing boundaries and reaching new heights of success which has not only rewarded the brand but also Pakistan. This year, the perennial designer was chosen to showcase her Western pieces from her extension brand, Sania’s Studio, in one of the world’s most fashion focused runways – NYFW. Not only was it a huge accomplishment, but it was a chance to represent her country as well as her talent. From how it all fell into place to her clothes meeting the Western gaze to being in New York City, superstar Sania Maskatiya shares it all!

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Tell us about the process leading up to NYFW? How did it all happen? 

The Council of Aspiring American Fashion Designers approached us for our brand, Sania Studio. CAAFD is an organization in the fashion industry with the ambitious goal of backing designers who aspire to do business in the United States. There was an exchange of ideas and everything just fell into place from there.

How did it feel when you found out you were heading to NYFW?

We were excited when we found out we would be part of this platform. It was a wonderful experience.

Is Sania’s Studio an extension of your brand Sania Maskatiya?

Yes Sania Studio is an extension, however Sania Studio is completely western wear whereas Sania Maskatiya is predominantly eastern.

 sania_maskatiya_blog_october_2018_540_02What pieces did you choose to show at NYFW? 
We showcased our western wear line Sania Studio’s Spring/Summer 2019 Collection. The prevailing theme for the SS19 Collection was reflective of Sania Studio’s vanguard for combining modern minimalism with antique fantasy. Rhythmic patterns, featuring forms from nature, borrowed from ancient cultures that create a playful pulsating effect, draped with futuristic playfulness and poise, were its signature elements.
Being the first Pakistani designer to showcase her work on a prestigious platform such as NYFW is a huge accomplishment – can you describe how it felt?
I was very excited about the opportunity, however it also meant that we had the huge responsibility of representing our country in the best possible way.
Though you were in New York for a short while, did you manage to take in some of the city? If so, what did you do? 
I had the pleasure to meet diplomat and ambassador Dr. Maleeha Lodhi and we had a tour of the United Nations headquarters, which was a unique experience.

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Now that you have this huge accomplishment as a feather in your artistic hat, can you tell us what you see for Sania’s studio as well as Sania Maskatiya in the near future?

Sania Maskatiya and Sania Studio are geared towards expansion, continually exploring new ideas.

What advise would you give to aspiring designers?

Keep working hard, stay focused and committed in your work ethic.

What are some of the qualities you saw at NYFW that were different from Pakistani Fashion Week’s? Would you like to see any of these qualities implemented in our country?

It was an exciting experience. Everything was extremely organized and done in a timely manner.

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