Despite an environment of recession and unrest, marred by militancy in the recent past, the Peshawariites were treated to a colourful fashion show in University Town organised by Peshawar’s multi-designer outlet Guzel. It attracted a large crowd that gathered to watch super model Natasha’s cat walk, along with other top models from the rest of the country.

Ali Ozgen and Temur Ozgen, Islamabad-based entrepreneurs felt that the idea of expanding the potential of a fashion industry to a market where terrorism has prompted the investors to flee, would send a positive message to the foreign investors that the environment is conducive for them. Besides bringing top models to the city, it would also bring fashion from throughout the world to Peshawar’s households.

Ali is a graduate from IBA, Karachi and the London School of Economics. He quit his lucrative job in the Middle East and the UK to move back to Pakistan. Temur, a graduate from New York, is a banker by profession and also left his job in New York to come back to Pakistan.

Ali speaking to Dawn.com said that he wanted to provide everything to the fashion lovers. Guzel, he said, wanted to embody the philosophy to make women not only look stunning but also feel spectacular.

Temur is of view that the globe-trotting Peshawariites take their dressing very seriously and the fashionistas are demanding designer wear at home. “Now, their wish has come true as they don’t need to go any where, they can come to Guzel.”

Irum Khan, one of the country’s top designers whose designs are making headway in Peshawar, said that she is from the Frontier and it was time to pay back to the people of KPK. Her designs would continue making headway in other areas as well, despite the fragile security environment.

Super model Nastasha said that all the models as well as the visitors enjoyed the show and the hospitality of the people of Peshawar. “We are not afraid at all, all is well and there is nothing to worry about,” she replied when asked about the security concerns.

The show pulled in a crowd of elites and was also enjoyed by families and the youth alike, besides businesswomen, politicians and bureaucrats.