FPW trend spotting: Velvet is hot and the shalwar makes a comeback to the ramp

In the context of Pakistan’s social circuit 'winter' means balls, parties and of course weddings galore. Fashion Pakistan Week 2015 Winter/Festive covered all angles with a mixed bag of bridal and luxury pret collections.

Trend spotting promised to be something of a challenge but it turns out that the hottest trends transcend genres: the coolest wedding wear keeps pace with the zeitgeist.

This winter keep your look super-chic with these top ten trends from FPW 2015

1) Velvet

Well of course, it’s winter. It may be a quintessential winter fabric but velvet has never been more fashionable. It was all over the ramp in a myriad of forms including dhoti shalwars, capes, skirts and even as the lining to dupattas. Keep the colours rich and deep and pair with gold accents for maximum impact.

2) Shalwars

In the ascendant all year, the shalwar is firmly on the fashion radar for the time being. From westernized harem pants to northern-style shalwars with a wide paincha, fashion week saw multiple incarnations of the humble shalloo.

3) Dhoti shalwars

More than just a variation of the shalwar, the dhoti shalwar is the hippest new kid on the block, with the likes of Shehla Chatoor and Nida Azwer using it for avant-garde bridal looks.

Clearly, it's not for the faint-hearted.

4) Capes

These are becoming so ubiquitous that they’re probably nearing the end of their moment in the sun, but still chic for the time being. FPW saw a variety of avatars including extravagant baroque ones from Nilofer Shahid and elaborate fauna-embroidered creations by Elan. Stick to skinny or boot-cut lowers for a flattering effect.

5) Off the shoulder tops

An international trend that had a major imprint at FPW, particularly for bridals. Bare shoulders gave a fashion-forward edge to wedding wear by Nida Azwer, Shehla Chatoor and Tena Durrani among others. Brave cold shoulders this winter for ultimate, cutting-edge style.

6) Lined dupattas

This bridal trend adds drama and colour to wedding ensembles. FPW saw dupattas lined with contrasting velvet or brocade in contrasting hues, adding the additional element of texture.

Be sure to hit the gym beforehand – lining adds even more weight to embroidered dupattas and carrying them becomes both an art and a workout!

7) Can-cans

Whether you’re in a gown or a lengha, this season is all about channeling your inner princess. You may end up needing a coach to get to the wedding or ball but no more wilting lenghas or shapeless dresses. Unless your outfit is sleek and fitted, nothing beats the fall and movement of a can-can.

8) Statement belts

Belt up your formals with a bejewelled band or broad waist cincher. Elan, Faraz Manan, Ayesha Farook Hashwani and Nilofer Shahid spearheaded the trend in diverse ways.

Style tip: Belting your dupatta close to your body is the quickest way to add a chic twist to traditional wedding wear.

9) Culottes

We've seen the future and it's cropped. Not the easiest silhouette to carry off but definitely a rising trend. Spotted in collections by Maheen Karim, Wardha Saleem, Gulabo and others, the key seems to be to pair culottes with short, structured tops.

10) Bootcut pants

Back in a big way, bootcut pants are sexy and flattering. Seen in predominantly western lines like Maheen Karim's and in fusion ensembles, bootcuts elongate those pins and are the perfect counterpoint to short tunics and jackets.