Derived from the words Mehr and Nisa which mean the sun and women respectively, Mehrunnisa has multiple meanings in Urdu. Some of them include loving, faithful and a beautiful woman. A connotation of beauty, strength and grace, Mehrunnisa is also the name of the first bridal collection by designer Mehr Azam Kardar of Pakistan. Mehr, whose label WANIYA has been making waves ever since its launch in 2021, is an alumnus of the Pakistan Institute of Fashion Design. A passionate designer, Mehr has also completed a few courses from Central Saint Martins, London.
Mehrunnisa: For the bride of today
An exquisite collection that is a unique blend of the traditional and the contemporary, ‘Mehrunnisa’ is all about combining cultural heritage with new-age hybrid silhouettes. Perfect for the today’s woman who is innocent yet resilient, Mehrunnisa resonates with the virtues of the modern woman; assertive, strong and willing to experiment. A magnificent play of craft, colour and character, each ensemble is characterized by rich embellishments, intricate workmanship and impeccable attention to detail. “The collection which is a modern restatement of antique styles is extremely close to my heart. My vision for this collection was to compel the audience to stop and admire the captivating designs that I have created, adding little pieces of my soul to every garment. It was also to give brides an opportunity to curate a diverse wardrobe” says designer Mehr Azam.
Just like its parent label WANIYA, there is a visionary approach to proportions, hue, and delineation. Craftsman techniques and detailed couture embroideries are used to concoct the finesse of each design. The colour palette is classic and stays true to the roots of inspiration – infusing modern, luxurious clothing with a unique sense of style and understated elegance.
Here is a look at some ensembles under the Mehrunnisa collection.
Inaara
A vision of not just royalty but also art, this outfit is about the celebration of the festive colour narrative. The fuchsia pink ensemble is heavily embellished with dabka, kiran, tila, kat dana, mukesh, resham, and fine crystals. Draped with a sky turquoise organza dupatta replete with intricate borders, this one is makes for a gorgeous bride.
Ruhi
A blend of the modern and the traditional, this artistic ensemble is nothing less than a royal dream. A vision that thrives on entwining the old-world charm with modern-day choices! The peach palette lends an alluring vivacity to the attire and a charm that is almost surreal. The piece is gracefully adorned with dabka, peals, bethki, kat dana, and gota.
Maahru
This one is poetic, opulent, and luxuriant in every way! Perfect for the modern maharani, this duo layered pink-toned ensemble is draped in themes of the bygone era and speaks for itself. It is richly embellished with nakshi, dabla, resham threads, sequins, kat dana, kiran, gota, and enriched with three-dimensional petals.
Nuri
The combination of lilac and dull gold is one of sweeping elegance and charm! Pastels have always been a bride’s choice when it comes to adding subtle and understated sophistication at the wedding. Nuri is exquisitely handcrafted with a variety of pearls, dabka, dori and tilla which is a variety of sequin. Three-dimensional colourful fabric petals have been added for an intricate touch and it is paired with a sheer organza dupatta adorned with scallop edges.
