The relationship between music and fashion was more than evident at an event arranged by BodyBeat at the Marina Club with Anoushey Ashraf as the red carpet host. It attracted a large number of fashionistas and featured an interactive mix of games, foods and a performance by Zoe Viccaji.

On spotting the likes of fashion photographer Tapu Javeri, fashion designers Wardha Saleem and Nomi Ansari, Images on Sunday got hold of a few of them to ask them about how music and fashion complement each other and vice versa, and what corporate sponsorship does for the promotion of the arts and culture.

Ever since the shift of music from radio to television, fashion has been an integral part of the music industry

Tapu Javeri

“Each is unique yet has a symbiotic relationship,” said celebrity photographer Tapu Javeri, “No bands identity would be complete without the assistance of an amazing fashion designer creating their look. There are tons of examples: from Salman Ahmed of Junoon’s sherwani designed by Maheen Khan to Madonna’s controversial outfits designed by Gaultier.”

When asked whether corporate sponsorship benefit the arts or cull creativity by dictating terms, he said, “It all depends on the sponsors and their vision. Some sponsors stifle an artiste; others know when they are needed and when they are not. In Pakistan, ironically the artiste is dictated to too much which leads to mediocrity.” 

Is our fashion industry really progressing along the right track? He seems to think it is, “Now, that they are organised and have regular fashion weeks and have learned the value of retail (prêt).” What is needed to revive the music and arts scene in Karachi? “Exclusive events only do a small share for awareness,” said Tapu, “It is large free concerts in public spaces that will make the change. Unfortunately, sponsors have yet to realise that big fish do not count for much. We are a country of masses and that’s where our next voices will come from.”

“Exclusive events only do a small share for awareness. It is large free concerts in public spaces that will make the change. Unfortunately, sponsors have yet to realise that big fish do not count for much. We are a country of masses and that’s where our next voices will come from.” —Tapu Javeri

Wardah Saleem

“Music and fashion complement each other because it’s all about art satisfying your soul,” said the designer, “Fashion is pleasing to the eyes as music is nurturing for the ears. So, it’s a win-win. Good music is also soothing for the mind and soul.

“Corporate investment has a huge role in promoting the arts and culture. They have the funds to actually give the push and much-needed support.”

About the growth of the fashion industry she says, “If we go just five years back, we have come a long way by going international. The new mindset and awareness is that fashion is being looked at as a business venture and not just as a form of entertainment. And, that itself is has really taken fashion to new heights, and in turn, reflects positively at the economy.

Published in Dawn, Sunday Magazine, July 5th, 2015

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