Interview With Fatima Salamat: Pushing The Boundaries Of Pakistani Fashion

Luxury fashion is generally valued for its timelessness and brand appeal. Only a handful of luxury brands can rightfully set prices that align with their consistently high quality and ageless style that transcends not only collections but also generations. Mashion had the privilege of being in conversation with Fatima Salamat, the creative force behind her namesake brand. Riding on her fashion accolades that include the prestigious Best Collection and Pattern Making Jury Award at her college, French Fashion Institute ESMOD Dubai, Fatima Salamat launched her label in 2022 with a primary focus on pret and luxury lawn
collections. Before long, she uncovered a deep passion for couture and luxury formals, which led her designs to feature on notable runways at events like Pakistan Fashion Week and Hum Bridal Couture Week.

It’s no wonder that despite being a recent entrant to the luxury fashion scene, Fatima Salamat has successfully positioned itself as a premium couture label with its  beautiful collections in bridal wear, luxury formals, and ready-to-wear pret. Learn more about her indomitable drive and inspiring journey.

When did you realize you wanted to become a fashion designer?

Fatima Salamat: I knew I wanted to be a fashion designer from a very young age. I was always drawn to colors, textures, and the world of clothing.

Your collections have made appearances at ESMOD Dubai, Pakistan Fashion Week in London, and HUM Bridal Couture Week. Could you share your experience with our readers?

Fatima Salamat: Certainly! I showcased a few of my collections at fashion events such as ESMOD Dubai Fashion Show, Pakistan Fashion Week in London, and HUM Bridal Couture Week. These platforms have allowed me to connect with a global audience and gain invaluable feedback on how to experiment with different styles and fabrics. These events also helped me network with industry professionals and learn about the business side of fashion.

We understand that you studied at ESMOD Dubai. Could you tell us about your time there and how it helped shape your career?

Fatima Salamat: ESMOD Dubai was a crucial part of my education in fashion. It provided a structured platform to learn and hone my design skills. The exposure to different cultures and perspectives in a diverse and cosmopolitan city like Dubai was very inspiring. It was a great place to develop my unique design aesthetic and gain the knowledge and experience I needed to start my own brand.

Speaking of your unique design aesthetic, can you describe your fashion philosophy in three words?

Fatima Salamat: Timeless, elegant, and empowering.

Other than being an ESMOD Dubai graduate and participating in prestigious fashion events, what would you say are the high points of your journey so far?

Fatima Salamat: More recently, our collection shoot in Istanbul, Türkiye, was an absolute highlight. The city’s rich cultural diversity and breathtaking landscapes provided the perfect backdrop to breathe life into our designs. We were able to capture the essence of our collection in a way that resonates with the modern yet timeless aesthetic of our brand.

How would you like women to feel when they wear your clothes?

Fatima Salamat: Personally, for me, clothing is a form of self-expression and a way to showcase one’s individuality. So, when women wear my design, I want them to experience a sense of beauty, confidence, and a deep connection with their personal strengths.

What role do you think social media and digital content play in the world of fashion today?

Fatima Salamat: Social media and digital content have revolutionized the fashion industry. They provide a global platform to showcase your work, connect with a broader audience, and stay in touch with your customers. They’ve made fashion more accessible, and it’s a powerful tool for brand visibility and engagement with fashion enthusiasts.

You create various types of fashion, but do you have a particular type that you enjoy working with the most?

Fatima Salamat: While I enjoy designing all types of fashion, I must admit that bridal couture holds a special place in my heart. The process of creating a bridal gown, with its intricate details and the emotional significance for the bride, is incredibly rewarding. It allows me to push my creative boundaries and make someone’s special day even more memorable.

Where do you look for inspiration when working on a new bridal design, and is it different from designing every day lifestyle clothing?

Fatima Salamat: For bridal designs, I often draw inspiration from nature, art, and different cultures. The design process is more emotional and personal, as it’s essential to capture the essence of the bride’s personality and the vision she has for her special day. When designing lifestyle clothing, I tend to be more influenced by the current fashion trends and the practicality of daily wear.

How do you think bridal dresses have evolved since you began your own label?

Fatima Salamat: Bridal dresses have certainly evolved over the years. They’ve become more diverse in terms of styles and silhouettes, reflecting the evolving tastes of brides. Modern brides are more open to experimenting with unconventional colors and designs and breaking away from traditional norms. There’s also a growing emphasis on sustainability and using ethically sourced materials in bridal wear, which is a positive shift.

How do you stay up-to-date on the latest fashion trends and incorporate them into your designs?

Fatima Salamat: Staying updated on trends is a constant process. I follow fashion publications, attend fashion weeks, and engage with fashion communities both online and offline. However, I also believe in maintaining a balance between staying current with trends and preserving the timeless elements of my designs. It’s important to create pieces that will last beyond the season.

Are there any new and exciting trends for weddings this year that you think will totally blow people’s minds?

Fatima Salamat: Well, because many brides today want a mix of modern and traditional, lighter and softer colors like emerald green, midnight blue, deep marsala, champagne gold, platinum, dark grays, blush pink, and refreshing mint are becoming more popular in wedding fashion. This is interesting and good because these colors can help create a special theme for the wedding and show the bride’s unique style. Plus, these colors can easily be worn in everyday life, which is something today’s brides want from their wedding clothes.

One final question, where can our readers buy your designs?

Fatima Salamat: Our designs are available for purchase on our website! We accept international orders and offer worldwide shipping. Plus, you can follow us on social media for updates on our latest collections and events.