Fashion has really hit it's high mark in Pakistan with the opening of fashion design institutions which are churning out more and more designers with each graduating class; each dreaming to make a name for themselves in the fashion industry.

Although there are just a few that have made it to the top of the fashion hierarchy, Kamiar Rokni is one such designer who needs no introduction.

Having made a huge name in the fashion industry under the label Karma, and winning countless awards; Kamiar is ready to rock the fashion scene once more, but with a new label.
In our exclusive interview with Kamiar, we got to know a little bit more about his latest endeavors.

 How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

I am Kamiar Rokni - not just a designer, but a fashion house that makes women’s wear. We do eastern, western, ready to wear and couture. I have been in the fashion business for nearly a decade and have had a very successful stint at Karma. Today I am running my own fashion house in partnership with my cousin Tia. We stand for bold innovative design and quality clothing with a very diverse price point. At Kamiar Rokni, the focus is on excellence and originality.

You are not an unfamiliar name in the fashion industry; tell us how you got there, what has motivated you to stay here, and what challenges you have faced on the way?

Fashion is my life, for as long as I can remember I have wanted to be a fashion designer. It has been my dream and I live it everyday. I have been very lucky in this business because I have been recognized and appreciated not only by the industry but also by the general clientele. I have three Lux Style Awards under my belt all before the ripe old age of thirty. I feel blessed and very confident in my field. This is an extremely competitive and cut throat industry; there is a lot of ego, attitude and playing off of each other. Sometimes this can be a positive thing because it propels you forward.  Other times it can be a hindrance because one can lose focus. However, I believe in having a really positive attitude and it has served me well.

You started a business with Maheen Kardar by the name of Karma; tell us why you left that, especially after Karma made a niche for itself in the fashion world.

 I left because it was a bad business deal, which was not good for me in the long run. It was not a personal issue at all - purely business.

How do you deal with copying of designs? In Pakistan it is very easy to pick up a magazine or a shirt and have it copied, how does that affect the design efforts of designers?

You can't get too heated up about people copying your work in Pakistan...it’s normal and it happens all the time. In a way it keeps you on your toes creatively. Imitation is the best form of flattery...n'est pas? Besides, we are a very creative design house with a team of very talented and diverse designers.

Do you have any plans to do any international fashion shows soon? If so when and where?

There are no plans as yet, but you never know when something might come up.  I was offered the Mobilink show in Cairo, but was unable to take up the offer due to prior commitments.