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Remaluxe taps into Karachi's accessories obsession with statement pieces from Lahore

Swanky mid-rings, ear cuffs, neckpieces were sold out within hours of the exhibit, but hot-sellers were the palm bands.
04 Oct, 2015

It is evident that Karachi can't get enough of statement jewellery. As fashionistas stock their drawers with eclectic pieces from Indian brands Outhouse and Prerto, RemaLuxe from Lahore arrived in the city loaded with beautiful accessories set in gold .

Multi-brand boutique Ensemble remained crowded throughout the day on Saturday as women flocked to get their hands on Rema Taseer's diverse collection of jewellery, handbags and outfits which were an amalgamation of eastern and western cuts.

The lady herself, Rema Taseer. — Photo by author
The lady herself, Rema Taseer. — Photo by author

The swanky mid-rings, ear cuffs and neckpieces were sold out within hours of the opening but the hot-sellers were definitely the palm bands, offering an alternative from traditional designs.

“A lot of people associated edginess, artistry, statement pieces with Remaluxe so I tried to maintain the ethos of the brand,” said Rema Taseer, CEO of Remaluxe, while talking about her latest collection.

All the 50 ornate pieces on display were handcrafted and used a diverse number of metals ranging from silver, brass, crystals and even Swarovski.

A pair of earrings at display. — Photo by author
A pair of earrings at display. — Photo by author

The brand is based in Lahore but brings latest collections to Karachi. Rema says the different in client tastes between the two cities is palpable.

“I feel that in Lahore people enjoy something that is more embellished; here people have a more subtle orientation. Lahoris might want to wear two things of each whereas Karachiites would just wear a single piece.”

An exquisite piece from Remaluxe. — Photo by author
An exquisite piece from Remaluxe. — Photo by author

The designs are striking but also heavy on the pocket, with price range from Rs 6,500 to Rs 25,000. But Rema seems unperturbed as her pieces are far more affordable than real gold accessories.

“Gold is still very expensive; I don’t think it has affected my market at all. Majority can still not regularly invest in it. I think people have become so aware and fashion forward that they want something different constantly. They are so exposed these days that they want to look different every time they go out, so having an option in artificial jewellery is ideal.”

These statement rings were quite popular at the exhibit. — Photo by author
These statement rings were quite popular at the exhibit. — Photo by author

Trying on one of Rema’s ear cuffs was Alizeh Shayan, one of Remaluxe’s regular customer. “Rema comes up with the most distinctive designs. Although I am based in Karachi, whenever I go to Lahore I makesure I buy something from her.”

Along with Rema’s exhibition, some racks were devoted to designer Farida Hasan from Lahore. She too, was seen buying one of Rema’s intricate pieces. “It’s my daughter’s birthday tomorrow so I thought I’d buy something for her. I am from Lahore but never got a chance to visit Rema’s store until now.”

This piece goes well with a choli. — Photo by author
This piece goes well with a choli. — Photo by author

This was Rema’s third visit to Karachi this year but first exhibition with her sister-in-law, Shehrbano Taseer. The duo worked together on the clothing line.

Evening clutches and bags on display. — Photo by author
Evening clutches and bags on display. — Photo by author

“We have done an amalgamation of western cuts with eastern wear. I have incorporated my logo in the cigarette pants to keep the essence of the brand because I don’t market myself as a completely desi brand,” said Rema.

Capes were a major hit with customers, with a long line of women placing orders for formal wear.

Visitors look at the collection. — Photo by author
Visitors look at the collection. — Photo by author

“People are very happy with the price points for clothes. We were known for our jewellery but the response for clothes has been overwhelming. At times, we feel there is so much saturation in the market since everybody is doing clothes but I have realised that as long as the cuts and design stand out, people do want to buy it.”

Remaluxe will also be holding an exhibition in Dubai on October 4 (today).

Comments

Muhammed Oct 04, 2015 03:08pm
excellent work - keep it up...
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Fiz Oct 04, 2015 05:25pm
Beautiful! So proud to see stunning pieces of our own.
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Amy Oct 10, 2015 10:06am
These pieces are blatant copies of vintage wear jewelry. The bag is a rip off design too. Why charge people through the nose for copied designs? Get creative and make your own designs.
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