Her client list includes the biggest Pakistani celebrities, from actresses Mahira Khan to Mawra Hocane and top model Sadaf Kanwal. The photos you spot on their Instagram feeds with the highest likes are probably styled by her, from head to toe. San Francisco-based stylist Ania Fawad knows exactly how she wants a star to look and she’s ready to traverse boundaries to get it, which is why she loves turning to Indian designers to dress Pakistan’s biggest stars.
Tell us a little bit about yourself? How did you become one of the most sought after stylists in Pakistan?
I’m a celebrity stylist based out of San Francisco. Although I primarily work with Pakistani celebrities, most of my clients have also worked in Bollywood. As a stylist, I believe fashion has no borders and I’m always promoting designers from around the world in Pakistan. This in turn helps promote Pakistani stars globally.
Who are some of the celebrities you worked/currently work with?
So far I have worked with Mahira Khan, Mawra Hocane, Sajal Aly, Urwa Hocane, Momal Sheikh, Sana Javed, Sadaf Kanwal, Ayesha Omar and now I am working with Maya Ali for her upcoming film, Teefa in Trouble.
Why do you like dressing them in Indian designers?
I love Indian fashion designers just as much as Pakistani designers. We all grew up watching Bollywood films and follow Indian fashion closely. India and Pakistan share a similar sense of style with both our aesthetics deeply rooted in tradition. My clients can relate to their fashion, and so when I’m sourcing looks internationally, India is usually top on my list.
Who are some of your favourite Indian designers to work with? Are there certain designers you turn to for specific looks or occasions?
It is so difficult to choose a favourite, but I do love working with Monisha Jaising and Gaurav Gupta when it comes to gowns for formal events. Shahin Mannan is amazing for fun, quirky looks. And for semi-formal and casual events, I love working with Ridhi Mehra, Ohaila Khan, Vidhi Wadhwani and Eshaani Jayaswal.
Who are some stylists you draw inspiration from?
There are so many, but currently I am loving Mimi Cuttrell’s work on the Hadid sisters and Priyanka Chopra.
Do your celebrity clients have personal preferences in terms of Indian designers?
Celebrities in Pakistan are a bit more conservative in their style, so they do prefer the more traditional looks. A lot of them request Manish Malhotra and Sabyasachi. I’m slowly introducing them to all the other names.
Which celebrity is your personal favourite when it comes to having fun with fashion?
I love styling model Sadaf Kanwal, she’s definitely one of my favourite people to work with because she’s always open to experimentation and really trusts my professional opinion.
What is a big no-no for many Hollywood stars?
I think a major no-no would be wearing a look that has already been worn before by another star.
Favourite outfit of all time styled by you?
Sadaf Kanwal in Republic.
Favourite outfit of all time not styled by you?
Sonam Kapoor at Cannes 2016, in Ralph and Russo and Kalyan Jewellers.
Trends you’re digging these days?
Right now, I’m all about the PVC trend… PVC belts, bags and shoes. I’ve been mixing and matching the pieces with floral prints and pastels, which are also heavily trending this year.
