The inimitable Shazah Ayub is a Karachi based fashionista who is known for her eclectic but elegant styling abilities. She initially made her mark on the fashion scene when she appeared in Vogue’s style features while still in college in Toronto. Elle India named Shazah as one of the best dressed women in Pakistan, “She does street style (arguably) like no one else in Pakistan.”
“Elle India named Shazah as one of the best dressed women in Pakistan, “She does street style (arguably) like no one else in Pakistan.””
Formerly the Marketing Head at Pakistani couture label Umaima Mustafa, Shazah has a wealth of knowledge about Pakistan’s luxury designers and has been muse to several couturiers including Farah Talib Aziz, who even named an outfit after her. She is often seen at fashion weeks, red carpets or gracing the best dressed lists of fashion magazines around the world.
“...known for her eclectic but elegant styling abilities. She initially made her mark on the fashion scene when she appeared in Vogue’s style features”
Shazah is one of my favourite sources of fashion inspiration, I love her polished and glamorous style – she always looks effortlessly chic whether in traditional Pakistani attire or western outfits. We had a zoom call to discuss her personal style and sartorial inspiration.
“Shazah has a wealth of knowledge about Pakistan’s luxury designers and has been muse to several couturiers including Farah Talib Aziz, who even named an outfit after her.”
Please can you describe your personal style?
When it comes to my wardrobe, I have multiple personalities. I’m like a fashion chameleon, forever evolving and experimenting with my style. My aesthetic is eclectic but there is always a polished element to it.
Who are some of your favourite Pakistani designers and why?
Rizwan Bayg, Umaima Mustafa, Shehla Chatoor, Faraz Manan, Misha Lakhani to name a few – my list is endless. It’s really tough to pick a favourite as they are all fabulous in their own right.
Can you talk us through some of your favourite formal looks?
My list is too long, so I will just name my top three:
1) A mint green ‘lehnga choli’ with a draped ruffled ‘duputta’ by Sehrish Rehan is one of my favourite formal looks to date.
2) A black Umaima Mustafa jacket with an oversized ruffled collar paired with crushed ‘gharara’ pants is another look I loved.
3) I wore a stunning midnight blue Ayesha Hashwani dress, covered in pearl and crystal work to my cousin’s wedding party back in 2015 and it’s still one of my most memorable looks.
“My aesthetic is eclectic but there is always a polished element to it.”
What are your favourite outfits for relaxing in?
I swear by well fitting joggers or yoga pants paired with an oversized tee or hoodie.
I also love matching my separate sets, they are the perfect attire for lounging around in at home, a coffee run or a casual dinner.
When in Pakistan I live in my ‘chikankaari’ kurtas, they are super comfortable and perfect for Karachi’s tropical weather.
Who are your favourite fashion inspirations/icons and why?
Olivia Palermo, Victoria Beckham and Tamuna Tsiklauri, all three are the epitome of elegance, style and grace.
You have an incredible shoe closet, what are some of your favourite pairs?
The Loro Piana Summer Charms Moccasins are currently my favourite shoes. They are incredibly comfortable and compliment every attire.
Are there any up-and-coming designers from Pakistan we should know about?
No one has caught my eye recently however I am eagerly waiting for some fresh talent to take the Pakistani fashion industry by storm.
“There is nothing more elegant and beautiful than wearing a traditional Pakistani outfit if styled the right way.”
I always admire how chic you look, even in casual jeans. Do you have any style rules you follow?
I don’t follow fashion trends blindly and strongly feel people should dress according to their age and body type. I am also a firm believer that less is more, sometimes if I am in the mood I will break that rule, but not at the cost of looking overdressed.
Please can you share a few of your favourite beauty products?
As far as skincare is concerned, organic is the way to go. Regular facials and sunscreen are my skin’s best friend.
What are your tips for styling a traditional Pakistani outfit?
There is nothing more elegant and beautiful than wearing a traditional Pakistani outfit if styled the right way. I think people should wear the outfit and not let the outfit wear them, do not be tempted to go overboard with the jewellery and make-up and avoid bee hive styled hairdos.
Photographs courtesy of Shazah Ayub