Aijaaz as a model and actor was constantly in the spotlight. Carrying the clothes of other designers he developed a flair for fashion with a sense of his own, which led to the label.
The fashion philosophy of Aijazz changes with the growing trends of the season. Colors, cuts and collections, season after seasons vary.
Inspirations from the mughul Era, jewellery with semi-precious stones, traditional motifs like paisleys and derived into cultural wedding collections.
The philosophies of cuts at Aijazz have come to be known and recognized as simple, classy and well defined with exquisite embroideries.
From the hip youth to the executive business class, the designs at Aijazz cater to different clientele. Sober and simplistic ensembles led to designing outfits for the head of state as well.
Each season range for sherwani’s, Achkans and kurtas, be it time inspired or jewellery inspired with heavy embellishments, a strong emphasis is always given to cuts.
Cutting down on tradition a very subtle range of suitings which include a series from executive suits to casual linen jackets, presented in a refined way. Remarkable detailing on finishes to bring out a ‘casual chich attitude.
A colorful line of casual kurti’s to blend with each season, with a funky touch and trendy casual shirts, tailored to make up ones personality to present a casual aura of style.
Other than costumes, major preference is also given to designing accessories, which make up the whole attire.
On the whole Aijazz focuses on designing and reinventing classic cuts to cater to customers from the hyped up youth to customers from the hyped up youth to the business class and even to high profiled leaders, sportsmen and politicians.
‘I like playing characters which give me the scope to develop them. I was a model and erasing that image from people’s minds was tough and took a long time. Now, I am finally out of that mould and considered a serious actor,’ says Aijazz Aslam
‘From his role of an underworld don in the drama serial Kismet to the recently concluded serial Na Tum Jano Na Hum in which he played a writer, and the on-air sitcom Mein Aur Tum, Aijazz Aslam has proved his mettle as a diverse actor. “As an actor, my priority now is to choose challenging roles where there is room for performance. I have the confidence and know that I can do any character that comes my way,” he says.
His portrayal of bootlegger, Zahid (prodigy and confidante of one of the main characters, Shahid, played by Shahzad Nawaz) in Botal Gali received raving reviews in the press. “The overall experience of working in Botal Gali has been wonderful. At the premiere and afterwards, the appreciation that I received from the media, friends and the audience was absolutely wonderful. My phone has not stopped ringing since.”
His achievements in acting aside, Aijazz has actively been involved in fashion for the better part of a decade now. As a professional in the field, he has steadily climbed the ladder of success, first as a model and then a designer. But having evolved significantly in both genres, he is perhaps at his superlative best as an actor, playing a variety of roles and shunning the image of a single dimension performer.
Coming back to Botal Gali, I ask him how he prepared himself to don the character of a bootlegger? “It was certainly a different and difficult character to work on. The advantage of working with Shahzad Nawaz is that he is so involved in his work and exudes so much positive energy that one is bound to work hard. There were many points where Shahzad guided me as he had thoroughly researched the subject.”
Aijazz says that together ,they came up with the exact look they wanted for Zahid in order to create a convincing character. “I wanted the long hair and paan-chewing tapori look; we devised the walk and the way that he would talk. I even had my complexion changed to a darker shade. Irrespective of the fact that taking off the make-up used to take about an hour each time, I must say Zahid came out really well,” he says.
The bootlegger is a far cry from Aijazz’s glamourous avatar, but he says it doesn’t matter to him at this stage in his career as his initial days of acting were full of glamourous lead roles with little scope for performance. “To tell you the truth, I don’t enjoy doing lead roles anymore. Initially it was fine, but today, I like playing characters which give me the scope to develop them. I was a model and erasing that image from people’s minds was tough and took a long time. Now, I am finally out of that mould and considered a serious actor. When you land compliments, it actually encourages you to do better. At this point, I am fortunate that I am working with good directors to the effect that I have decided that I will only work with the best of the lot.”
A performance-oriented character involved in an interesting storyline with skillful camera angles, there are two hitches in Botal Gali — the film is too long and Aijazz’s character is cut short and ends rather abruptly. Why? “If you watch the film, the central character is that of Babu Bhai (Akther Qayum) and the rest of us are the supporting cast. But still, my character is present in the story for quite a long time, even though it ends abruptly.” He says that had his character been unfolded further, the film duration would have lengthened even further. “But whatever frames I got were all performance-based and I have tried to give it my best shot.”
With confidence in his acting abilities, Aijazz has also ventured on to hosting events, something which he considers virgin territory. “I have gained more confidence in myself as a host. My best experiences so far have been The Musik Awards and live transmissions over the past two years. I also hosted the Botal Gali premiere which was an interesting experience. In short, I am enjoying and loving every aspect of my professional life as a host, actor and fashion designer.”
Having worked in the field of designing for over a decade now, specialising in grooms’ wear and western suitings, Aijazz’s design philosophy is simple: “A flattering cut with flawless finishing and above all, good quality.”
With his label recognised overseas as well, it was surprising to find his name again missing from the Sony Ericsson Lux Style Awards 2006, despite being nominated in the designer category in the first LSA. “With the passing of time LSA has become bigger and better, but this year there were many people who have been closely associated with the event since its inception and many who have won an award but were conspicuous by their absence. The way I see the situation is that the judges involved are the same from day one. Hence, they inevitably tend to favour their own choice of people and are biased.”
According to Aijazz, there is a dire need for the judges involved to be neutral and observant of a fashion designer’s work throughout the year, with regular input from the market. The award should then be given based on these judgments.
Aijazz says that he is now working towards the expansion of his label. “I am targetting the international market by opening outlets. When and where, only time will tell, but I must say that when going international, you should project a positive name for yourself as well as your country. All successful people have spread their knowledge and their name has gone forward and lived forever. I have reached a level where I want to give back something to my country and the younger generation,” says Aijazz, bringing an end to our conversation on a positive note.
“Fashion for me is not making bold statements. It’s all about passing the product to the consumer and being practical,” says Aijazz Aslam, the radiant multi-faceted personality. From a career which shot him to fame as a model to an actor and finally now a well-established part of the designer bandwagon the lad possesses an attitude and will, strong enough to force things his way. Conventional - he may be, but a strong belief in his hard work and abilities have earned him a favorable reputation in the cut-throat field of fashion. ‘It all started eight years back when I modeled for Men’s Club magazine. Then I got this offer to do a commercial for ‘Gillette’. More offers started pouring in and with that I started taking modeling seriously. After a few years I was offered to play the main lead in a TV serial ‘Kashkol’ and since them there has been no looking back’, informs Aijazz in his soft toned voice. Hasn’t life been a transition from one field to another for him?
‘It has been but its not that I’m moving from one field to another. These are all just little parts of the chain which I’ve been encircling into’. As a model Aijazz can rightly claim that there is not a single name in the fashion industry he hasn’t worked with. However he is quick to proclaim that he finds Amir Adnan and Khalid Saeed (Alter Ego) to be the best in the men’s designing arena. “With all due respect,’ he says. ‘People talking about and conceiving fashion, as a bold statement is all crap. It’s not about doing a few shoots and a couple of shows and projecting a radical image alone. Selling your clothes is what’s more important”. So could we blame him for being overly commercial and being commanded by the markets dictates? “You have to care about the market. After all it is the people who finally pay for the clothes”, he says. I touch the subject of Pakistani cinema and Aijaz is apprehensive. ‘As soon as Kashkol ended I got many offers from some of the leading filmmakers like Masood Butt and Nazarul Islam. I even went to Lahore to see whether I could fit into the atmosphere there but it was all so repulsive that it turned me off completely. The filthy language they use and that loud atmosphere was something I couldn’t see myself fit into’. But would he ever design for a Pakistani movie if he’s offered some good project? ‘No’-Aijaz replies. ‘Until and unless I’m really satisfied with the team I wouldn’t venture into such a proposition at all. People like Samina Peerzada have made a difference but I cannot see myself designing for someone until I’m given the reins of the dress designing department completely’. And who would be the personality he’d really like to design for?
Aijaz pauses for a while and his answer almost shocks me out of my beat. ‘The President of USA,’ he says with a straight face. ‘With all the glamour and attention its an almost inevitable proposition’. I ask him who his favorite models are and he names Bilal and Tahir Ali as his personal favorites. He however adds that he does not hesitate in introducing new talent into the field.
‘There are a few new male models I plan to introduce in my future shoots’. Aijaz is also pioneering a relatively new concept of introducing new designers under his own label. ‘All designers have their limitations’, he states. In order to bring out more creative influences Aijaz will soon be hiring new fashion graduates. And then, the next step is ‘branded footwear’. This is for the first time a Pakistani designer is coming out with his own footwear range. “The shoes will be imported from Italy and launched under the brand name of ‘Aijazz”, he adds. Eastern clothes have also had a significant importance in Aijazz’s collection. His Kurta’s, Shalwar/Kameez and groom’s wear are a big hit with the younger lot. Aijaz is excited about the fact that Shabana Azmi visited his shop a couple of days back and appreciated his work.” She really liked my Kurta designs and even bought a few”. He brags. The future holds much promise for the young designer. “I plan to introduce my label in the international market”, he says. On a personal front he plans on going to England to do some courses in designing. Basic education in his particular field, he believes is necessary and is the only prerequisite which can distinguish and help him in creating a niche for himself among his contemporaries.
You can’t send exquisite jewellery down the ramp and then team it with outfits without a theme.
A fashion show needs attitude and writes Irum Noor, cool ensembles to match.
It is the industry’s best tried open secret that to get sales moving, one must be sufficiently savvy to display it on a stunning model and watch the buyers scrambling all over their Bally shod feet; fishing out their Gucci wallets to make a purchase. The All-Pakistan Jewellers Association apparently had the same idea when they put together a hastily planned show to announce to the buyers the availability of their Gems and Jewels. Imran Qureishi was asked to assemble the models, Depilex agreed to do the make up and the top models were miraculously free to take on the assignments. The show was on. It should have been a straightforward trade show. But then this being entertainment starved Karachi, the populace heard of the congregation of beautiful outfits, expensive gems and stunning women and thus began the pilgrimage one Sunday evening to the Regent’s Plaza. Nothing orderly about this get together. Reminiscent more of the veritable fish market, the ever present gate crashers created the usual mayhem. Inevitably the start was delayed by an hour and humour was only restored when top models Iraj, Zeolla, Sadaf, Aaminah and Vaneeza trooped out each one looking calm, cool and very composed. And yes stunning could also be used to portray a more accurate description. The country’s leading jewellers like Ruby Jewellers, A.K. Motiwala and others presented their choicest and most exquisite fare. The show was divided into different slots and in each section the models flaunted the exquisitely crafted jewellery. A women’s affinity with jewellery, is accepted as a matter of course but man’s clandestine romance with gems and jewels is now a secret revealed. Male hunks donning Aijazz’s ensembles strutted the ramp-flaunting men’s jewellery with panache. As far as rings and simple neckpieces were concerned it was not such a diversion, but the idea of men wearing a ‘tika’ was unconventional enough to send a fissure of excitement - and inevitably resentment - through the gawping audience. Fashion shows have now become such familiar fare that everyone connected with the business back stage is by now quite over the novelty of it and therefore willing to experiment. The highlight of the event was the spectacular make-up done by Talat (Taani to the industry) and her team at Depilex. Her shimmery make-up, with gold dust showing off their dimpled backs, gave all the models a spectacular radiance. The golden glow set off their high cheekbones, dark eyes and lissome arms. As with almost any instance attempting t attain perfection something inevitably crops up to spoil a near perfect presentation. Here the spanner in the works was not the make-up, generally deemed flawless, not the delicate and precious pieces of jewellery, nor the smart men’s wear by Aijazz.
The clutch of models were all high born and well trained and Imran Kureishi is, by now, a dab hand at these events. The jarring note resulted from Tanweer Ali’s sloppy clothes. Generally accepted by the industry at being rather clever with his clothes the collection The opening of Aijaz Aslam’s third outlet was a cheerful and colorful event with almost all fashionwallas in attendance. There was Junaid Jamshed wearing a skintight shirt and Ali Salman as usual in somebody’s maangi hui shocking orange shirt. He sent down the ramp was badly tailored. More carelessness was evident in the un-ironed dresses, which was unpardonable sloppiness. As if that wasn’t crass enough, the audience had to put up with the same clothes again and again, for two consecutive hours. Which proved too trying for the audience and for the wilting models who did not seem too happy about their predicament. If there was a concept to the jagged mix of east and west it was not immediately clear. Worse still his dare-bare western line was a definite put off. When we asked Imran Qureishi about the heedless repetition, he said, “The Jewellers Association took ages in deciding whether they wanted to conduct the show or not. And then we were left with nearly no time for the preparation. The whole event was organised within three days and it was very difficult for the designer to prepare so many clothes on such a short notice. Hence the repetition.”
Though all the models looked pretty in Taani’s make-up, the one who surpassed others was stunning Aaminah Haq. Her grand appearance as the bride in red and gold left many breathless for she looked a stunner. Although in a proper fashion show the models ought not to be the focus of attention, with all emphasis laid on the clothes and the hair and make up that complements the collection, here you could not help but comment on the energy and forcefulness of the models that lifted the show from the mundane to an event where an evening was not completely wasted.
Recently an interesting fashion show was arranged in one of Karachi’s leading hotels. The nylon originators along with a local denim company brought out the very latest in denim wear. Lycra was the attraction on display in last week’s fashion fanfare. The roughs and toughs were hooked up with the soft and stretchable material giving the blue trousers amore graceful touch. And did it look awkward? Those denims, when displayed by the models, looked more comfortable than the models themselves. Imran Kureshi, the choreographer, was the man responsible that evening for the steps. “Twenty years down the road and I was still nervous on the outcome of this show. Choreographing for Faiz Agaria, Ejaz Aslam and Saadia Mirza was a challenge since two of them were making their debut. But nevertheless it is the point-blank moment that makes the ultimate impact.” Punctuality was never the problem because even if the show started on time it was the speeches that flew away with the initial (extra) hour.
The designers were fabulous as their simple patterns swayed immense emotions through the coarse lot. Faiz Agaria was the first one to have his designs presented which consisted of tight low cut shirts, trough suitable for a more bold society, were beautifully displayed by the models. Eraj, Amna Haq, Sonia Minhas, Sadaf and others walked the aplomb, in their Afro hairdos. The guys were not far behind, with Nomi, Bilal, Saaquib, Faraz and Mehmood strode the cat with their hair deliciously combed to match the reflex of the designer outfits that they wore. Agaria and his creations, though bounteous ravaged the hall with their simple and yet elegant touch. The surroundings got hotter when the, already, earth shattering stereo music got louder (much to the paranoia of the close-seaters) and that is when local boy Ejaz Aslam and the same band of models carried a more social touch to the event. However, denim being the local hero it was Ejaz’s designs that tantalized the evening with a warmer touch. Cotton jackets and coats covered the models while the denims inflicted shock waves through the ever-inspiring bunch of professional fashion critics. Saadia Mirza was next, and though this was her first show her designs truly eclipsed the entire evening with her embroidered dresses. Her ghararas, skirts and trousers made the gals ravishing. A thrilled crowd gave the young smart lady a standing ovation when she took the stage for the final walk. An intelligent female and a pretty one too it wasn’t surprising when Ms Mirza looked emotional after the show.
With only days remaining to the turn of the next century, anticipation is running high among people. The portrayal of those times is unique and intriguing at the same. Folks associated with the gift to garb too are making a trendy prediction of the approaching times. One such peek into the future was arranged at Cafe Blue recently. The socialites along with people from the fashion fraternity witnessed a well organized fashion gala, presenting a line of funky and off beat millennial ensembles created by two innovative designers namely Aijazz Aslam and Nadya Mistry. Imran Kureshi rendered his services for the choreography while known models like Iraj, Zoella, Zoya looked ravishing, and chic, adorning Nadya’s unconventional yet trendy creations. Tani’s styling added to the overall millennial ambience as she concentrated on contoured styling in metallic tones, accessorized hairdos, and glossy, neutral lip shades. The male models got an opportunity to expose their worked-on brawn in Aijazz’s see-through plastic shirts. His lively colored formal wear also caught the audience’s attention, for it bore a distinctive element - smaller, rounded collars, smooth edges and sleeker dresser pants. With emphasis on cut and shape, Nadya succeeded in bringing about a pleasant change from those loose embroidered kurtas to short-length, figure-hugging kameezs with interesting necklines. All those present appreciated her tapered and slender cuts embellished with thread and beadwork.
A lavish dinner followed the grand showing
Doing away with all false pretences of modesty, Aijazz says, I’m at my peak now! But I want to become a legend needs to have a will of steel and die-hard sincerity to his work. I think I have all that’
He’s seated in the loft of his designer outlet. The muffled sound of traffic on Zamzama Boulevard below is lost amidst the sound of Aijazz Aalam cracking his knuckles. His Kashmiri features-broad shoulders and lanky frame-are clearly a manifestation of vigorous daily workouts, dominating the small space we’re seated in. Aijazz has climbed the rope of fame steadily, first by establishing himself as a model, then an actor and now a designer. His first commercial was an obscure venture way back in 1988 which went unnoticed. “After a struggling period in 1992, an opportunity arose with a shaving cream ad. Luckily, some hotshot model who was supposed to do it was unavailable.” Aijazz stepped in and got his break. It was in 1994 that he received a call from Kazim Pasha for his now memorable role in Kashkol.
“My mother wasn’t too pleased about my acting ambition. I initially turned down the offer.” Needless to say, Aijazz was finally able to convince his mother and, lo and behold, Kashkol went on air.
“I couldn’t comprehend the enormity of the fame I received at the time,” he beams, reminiscing. “I mean, I was flooded with interviews and offers of every kind. It was overwhelming to say the least!” Aijazz has come a very long way from being the shy, overweight teenager that he was.
“Even though I have matured, in every phase of life a special friend has always been by my side. Even today, when I find myself enveloped in the glitz and glamour of showbiz, there is no one who can hold a candle to my friends of yesteryear.”
“I trust people very easily,” he says with a frown. “That makes me vulnerable. But I’ve learnt over the years.” A large part of the interview focused on Aijazz’s obsession for the past. “Even when I pass by places associated with my childhood or youth, a wave of nostalgia over-whelms me.” He reveals that as a child he was thoroughly pampered-the result of being the youngest sibling shepherded by three elder sisters. However, the one person who has always been a stalwart support and a perpetual source of inspiration is his father.
“My most vivid childhood memory is when my dad slapped me for the first time when I could not learn my two times table,” he says, grinning sheepishly. Recalling his academic life and college days he’s quick to say, “No romances as such.” When I goad him about his teen years, “well,” he says warming up, “I remember in a mela in our college a friend of mine sent a rose to a girl and I also sent one to her. The girl ended up with roses from quite a few of us,” he says sporting a grin.
“It was in college that my father bought me my first bike after a lot of pleading.” Aijazz’s love for bikes and mean, lean machines was not just a passing phase. Even today he’s the proud owner of a bike. “I only ride it on the track, not on the roads,” he drawls. He’s quizzed whether he had a hoard of girlfriends whom he would take for a spin on his two-wheeler.
“No, no,” he exclaims, brushing off the comment. “Seriously,” he laughs at the look of mocking disbelief this writer shoots his way. “I’m very health conscious. I’ve never smoked,” he declares proudly. That’s just part of the mantra Aslam follows to keep fit. “Actually,” he says slowly as if gearing him self up to confide a deep, dark secret, “I was really fat when I started college. My waistline was 38. Once I started getting into shape, I loved it! There was no looking back.” Even today his day doesn’t start without a trip to the gym every morning. “Look, physical appearance matters, especially in the profession I’m in. Only those people can survive who have made a conscious effort to maintain themselves.” As far as appearances go, everyone has noticed the new ‘look’ Aijazz has been sporting these days. “I kept a French beard and cropped my hair for my role in Thori Khushi Thora Ghum. The next things you know I became a trendsetter and people were copying that look.” He also relishes his recent inclination to do negative roles. “It gives me more of a performance margin.” Talking about Mehndi, he dispels any rumors of revelry on a set with such a star-studded cast.
“It’s simple. You just need to concentrate on your part of the work and not be bothered with anyone else. This jealousy business certainly doesn’t happen with the male actors,” he retorts. The upcoming ventures he’s excited about are Zulfiqar Sheikh’s Maa, shot in Scotland and another play for which he’ll be flying to the UK. His career as a designer seems to be thriving with two outlets in top-notch areas of the city. “I was dong a lot of fashion shows in the early 90s and had become well versed in what was ‘in’.” As fate would have it, at about the same time Aijazz’s brother-in-law started his own garment venture and floated the idea of him getting involved. After a stint of whipping up a batch of unbranded shirts, in 1995 Aijazz bought his very first outlet in Zamzama, which sported his jazzed up name, ‘AIJAZZ.’ “Again, it was my father who was willing to risk his finances in this enterprise.” Channeling all his energy towards his nascent career he disappeared from the showbiz arena for a while. “My Kashkol fame was such that it kept me in the public eye and initially even helped me become known as a designer,” he admits. “I wouldn’t say that designer wear is just for the elite, though it is a ‘limited’ affair. It’s true that only a few people know the worth of a label but even college going boys who can hardly afford designer-wear wait for new designs.” In 2000, Aijazz flew to London to do a few courses in designing. “Before that, things were happening as a fluke but I became so much more organized and professional after these courses.” He’s planning to pursue further courses. “I refuse to demean anything I do by labeling it as a ‘hobby.’ Acting is not a hobby; neither is designing. I take both things very seriously,” he states flatly. Aijazz confesses comfortably to not being a very religious person. When questioned about the latest tendency of singers and actors leaning towards religion, he comments doggedly, “One should certainly not use religion to justify things.” Moving on to the subject of his better half, “It was an arranged marriage. I was a good boy,” he declares with a grin. “My wife...,” he ponders, “I love the fact that she’s not a typical wife. She doesn’t nag. She’s brilliant with my kids-Misha and Mohammed and manages time beautifully,” he raves. “But she is touchy about the lack of time I spend with the family,” he admits. Sabeen Aijazz was very young when she tied the knot with Aijazz but was armed with ambition. Her husband has been behind her all the way when she started pursuing her career as a photographer. Doing away with all false pretenses of modesty, Aijazz admits, “I’m at my peak now!” But he still vies to reach for more. “I want to become a legend. A legend needs to have a will of steel and die-hard sincerity to his work.” Well, does he have these million dollar ingredients? Let’s wait for time to tell!
Funky and futuristic, the fashion show recently held at a cafe down with the blues and now under a new, dynamic management, was the first in the series of events planned to herald the new millennium. With a price tag of Rs. 800 per ticket, over 150 people still assembled at the double storied cafe to witness the fashion extravaganza of designers Aijazz Aslam and Nadia Mistry. Choreographed by Imran Kureishi, the theme lent a peep into the new century. To make a statement the show began with male models attired in transparent plastic jackets designed by model/actor/designer Aijazz. To add shock value in the opening sequence, they were entwined with vibrant, colored plastic tubes as they walked down the stairs in pitch darkness, reflecting light with torches on the audience, which made quite an impact. Later, the male models exhibited the casual and formal range of Aijazz’s clothing.
The glamour bit was provided by leading female models Zoella, Iraj, Nadia Jamola and Zoya made up by Tani. Swaying to the modern techno music chosen by Tapu Javeri, the models were styled in chic ensembles by Nadia Mistry who had basically crafted straight pants complementing fitted sleeveless shirts. Embroidery was used to highlight the stark colors of the shirts with emphasis on the waistline.
Although the invitation card clearly read 8:30 p.m. sharp, some habitual latecomers were seen strolling in till after 10. Those who were on time were quite irked by the fact that although the models were ready; the show did not start till 9:40 as the organizers were waiting for everyone to arrive and the venue to be filled. So much for punctuality!
With more crowds than the cafe could possibly accommodate, many people had to stand throughout the show. The new management of Kashif and Junaid at Cafe Blue had arranged a wide display of mouthwatering European cuisine after the show with live music and dancing which carried on till the early hours of the morning.
He’s tall, skip dark-dedefinitely handsome. He’s got what it takes - to be out there on the ramp - strutting his stuff with panache. Oozing confidence, striking, and attitude of cool indifference as he walks in time to the beat of pulsating music. And now, in his stride, he takes time out to create ripples in the world of fashion with his cuts and styles that result in smart and trendy ensembles. He’s hip - He’s jazzy! Guess who? Bingo! He is Aijazz Aslam of Aijazz!
The Libran guy had been submerged in business studies, had done courses in management from IBA and tampered a bit with computers - only to be lured into the glitzy world where Grecian looks, beauty and attitude reign supreme. This soft-spoken macho model first did a commercial in ‘89 that never saw the mellow light of day. However, my Shaving Cream commercial that became a major hit the Touch. “It clicked in ‘92 and was what launched me,” (we could call it the ship that launched his face) says Aijazz, softly smiling to himself, reminiscing about the early days. Ever since, it has been chemistry at first sight for our photographers. Arshad Tareen - known for providing the required foothold towards boosting the image of the newcomers - has also been a good luck charm for them. He took the lead and did a shoot for his Men’s Club magazine. “At a time when male models were paid a meager amount, Imran Qureshi took me on for a fashion show.” From there, there was no looking back.
Offers for commercials continued coming our jazzy boy’s way. Along the way he did a stint with TV. “Though the role itself was not glamorous yet the fame I got from Kashkol was simply unbelievable,” he reveals surprise still evident in his demeanor. “At the time I became a model, I was print designing for advertising agencies. Once on the catwalk I fell in love with it, as that is the best mix I find of modeling and acting.” Animatedly he continues, “Even now the minute the music serenades my senses, I feel like going right out there on the catwalk.” And belong there he rightfully does. Having taken a plunge into designing he has withdrawn - though not completely - from the flaunting scene. “It was five years ago, when after having modeled for every designer, I got interested in it myself and wanted to experiment,” he says letting us in on the designs he had. Being careful and cautious he started work on a small scale to assess the feasibility of his project. “I exhibited my wares at various outlets for a year but was extremely disappointed due to the fact that although there was off-take from the shelves and my designs would all be gone yet the return was not good. People operating the outlets were all out to devour my share of the sales as well,” says Aijazz bitterly. “It was then I decided to have my own outlet, the first one at Zamzama.”
Once at it, he really plunged in deep. Two years of struggle, sheer hard work and an absence from the modeling scenario saw the realization of his dream and the establishing of a second outlet at Clifton, Park Towers. What had started out four years ago as his sole mission is now a family affair. As he fondly says, “When I’m not around at the Zamzama outlet, then my father supervises the place.” A convenient setting and sound planning on our models part ensures smooth running of the operation. But why bid farewell to modeling? “The reason being that firstly the models do not take you seriously if you’re one of them. Secondly, it gets quite tough to be back stage and on the stage simultaneously. However, I still model for other designers from time to time.” He justifies himself. “Recently I did a show for Deepak Perwani so it’s not like I’m totally out of the scene.” A model of yesteryears, a designer of today for sure there must have been jealousies from certain quarters. “Not that I’m aware of, but nobody knew it would grow this big,” says Aijazz preening with satisfaction. He further adds, “Everybody has their own style and individuality. My cutting edge is I provide good quality stuff and that too varying in style each time. I believe in experimenting with fabrics and color, so there is always something new for my customers to chose from,” reveals the mastermind behind all the creations. The price range too is nothing out of this world. Aijazz caters to the male clients basically - providing a complete range to choose from. Very soon, he plans to offer leather accessories and leather footwear for the gents. For women his range in clothes is still limited, although he plans to expand later. Presently he is really looking forward to a show in Dubai, tentatively in February 2000 - a sort of India versus Pakistan - with J.J. Valaya from India, himself and maybe Farida Qureishi from Pakistan. He has all pumped up and geared for that. Lastly, Aijazz in an unassuming manner reveals, “I have an offer for franchises all over the world. I will not go into it right now, however, after some time I might.”
He exudes confidence that speaks volumes about his ability to take on any challenge.
Aijazz Aslam has been an active part of the fashion scene for the last six years, designing clothes. His trademark being experimentation and use of flamboyant and unusual colors. Since the past couple of years, many male models have sashayed down the catwalk in, Aijazz’s jazzy creations. He exudes confidence that speaks volumes about his ability to take on any challenge. And what could be a bigger challenge than to lure our grooms into dressing from the traditional shadi wear and opting for the designer’s latest collection. It is a blend of East and West following the traditional pattern. This line is very tactfully offered, something off beat, yet not so drastic that it would be difficult for them to digest. “This new range was specially designed for a shoot which was such a hit with my clients that I made it part of my collection. Traditional sherwanis had become stagnant. People needed something different and also what was appropriate for our weather. Hence the emphasis on front open sherwanis. We have mainly used the basic hues white, blue and black, with hand embroidered patterns. However, if the client wants to be a bit adventurous ha can always opt for somewhat bright colors,” says Aijazz. He maintains that he has always tried to be different in his designs, in forever experimenting. Depending on the customers response, he them forms an entire collection. Uptil now, Aijazz has catered to entire families. “The ultimate aim is to make the groom dramatic and different.” Gradually, he plans to specialize in groom wear and western suiting. The response has been very encouraging so far. It is specially the younger lot - between 25 and 35 years - who are thrilled by something different for their wedding. That is exactly what Aijazz has tried to portray through his collection, which also includes the smartly fitting turbans. “The turbans, too, are not typically traditional. They are textured as well as in bright and bold colors.” In addition, of course, not without the embroidered shoes to go with the princely ensemble. Thus, the outfit is complete within a reasonable range. “The ultimate aim is to make the groom dramatic and different,” says the designer.
With only days remaining to the turn of the next century, anticipation is running high among people. The portrayal of those times is unique and intriguing at the same. Folks associated with the gift to garb too are making a trendy prediction of the approaching times. One such peek into the future was arranged at Cafe Blue recently. The socialites along with people from the fashion fraternity witnessed a well organized fashion gala, presenting a line of funky and off beat millennial ensembles created by two innovative designers namely Aijazz Aslam and Nadya Mistry. Imran Kureshi rendered his services for the choreography while known models like Iraj, Zoella, Zoya looked ravishing, and chic, adorning Nadya’s unconventional yet trendy creations. Tani’s styling added to the overall millennial ambience as she concentrated on contoured styling in metallic tones, accessorized hairdos, and glossy, neutral lip shades. The male models got an opportunity to expose their worked-on brawn in Aijazz’s see-through plastic shirts. His lively colored formal wear also caught the audience’s attention, for it bore a distinctive element - smaller, rounded collars, smooth edges and sleeker dresser pants. With emphasis on cut and shape, Nadya succeeded in bringing about a pleasant change from those loose embroidered kurtas to short-length, figure-hugging kameezs with interesting necklines. All those present appreciated her tapered and slender cuts embellished with thread and beadwork.
A lavish dinner followed the grand showing.
When the best Jewellers in town get together for a gems and Jewellery catwalk display, one would expect to be dazzled by the shimmer and shine of gold and jewels, not by the body sculptures of parading models. This is exactly what happened at a Jewellery show held at Regent Plaza, where Jewellers Tessori, Almas Gems and Jewellery, Almas Collection, Debera, Ruby Jewellers, Nauratan Exports, A.K. Motiwala Jewellers and U.K. Chottani Jewellers had presented sets worth millions. The bold, strapless, backless, low front dresses created by new designer Tanveer, did take the attention of the audience away from the jewels! The men sat starry-eyed while the women gazed in fascination! In contrast were the completely covered male outfits designed by Aijazz Aslam who, keeping in mind the need for projection of jewellery kept his creations low key yet in accordance with Imran Kureishi’s choreographic theme.
Exports, A.K Motiwala and U.K Chottani Jewellers. Sadly, the show was nothing to write home about, with the necklines plunging and not doing justice to the overly gawdy jewellery. The makeup by Tani of Depilex was too loud making the models look more like ornaments than the jewellery itself. The Male models looked rather silly wearing Rajput style jewellery, including a tikka. Overall, the show was indeed a sad reminder of tasteless indulgence and a mixed up showcase of East and West, with both poles apart and desperately trying to blend in.
From Zamzama to Clifton. Aijaz Aslam sure in one a roll. The latest on the fashion circuit to switch loyalties and hop over informal fashion show with Zoella, Nadya Hussain, Tahir, Bilal from the fast becoming-redundant Zamzama to the happening Park Towers and set up shop, Aijaz part three two open its doors earlier this week. The outlet was inaugurated with a mini, and others. From shirts to shoes, this one-time model has also branched out into blouses, tops and blazers as part of his women’s wear collection for the winter. So if you are in the mood to splurge, Aiijaz is the place to go.