As the force behind the Sublime Design House, Sara Shahid is the minimalist style icon among fashion designers in Pakistan. A four time LUX Style Award nominee Sublime believes in capturing the quintessence of feminism and natural beauty of a woman, with style. The central focus is the being of a woman. An advocate of simplicity and minimalism, Sara particularly emphasizes on the colour, tailored cut, comfort, drape and intricate embellishment of her outfits. www.sublimebysara.com

PIC

Please introduce yourself to our readers:
Sara Shahid, designer of Sublime. A mother of two.

Tell us where you grew up, your education and family?

I grew up in both Switzerland and Pakistan. Thus, my education was between the two countries. My father was in the United Nations, and as a result, my upbringing was very international and we were continuously exposed to different cultures.

Did you receive any formal education to become a fashion designer?
I have a formal degree in Fashion Design and Marketing from London.

When did you become interested in launching your own label Sublime?

Sublime launched 5 years ago in Lahore, before which I had been designing with a partner under the 'Sub Culture' label. When I branched out into Sublime, I started very small and then expanded. I am now proud to be available in Lahore, Karachi and Islamabad.

What kind of clothes do you design? Who are your clients?

I design classic and elegant outfits. Sublime represents understated glamour and the belief that ‘less is more’. It’s about versatile clothing with emphasis on cut.

Tell us about the various Sublime lines?

Sublime does couture and prêt. Sublime Divine is my made-to-order line, Sublime by Sara my ready-to-wear, SWEP special project is to empower women and Fab Sublime introduces special printed silks and chiffons exclusive to Sublime.

It seems that everyone in Pakistan is into designing clothes, is there really such a big demand for designer clothes?

Fashion is still new in Pakistan, and there is still a need for professionals in this business. I believe there is room for every kind of aesthetic to flourish.

What is a typical bridal budget one needs to keep in mind when ordering from a designer?

It really depends on the line you buy. Ready to wear is more affordable while couture is usually more expensive. One is looking at anything between 5,000 to 15,000 for a prêt outfit.

Your winter collection, Live Life Live Sublime is heavily inspired by the insecure environment in the sub continent – tell us how and why.


Live life, live sublime is a reflection of the mood of Pakistan; the insecurity, vulnerability and financial instability. I have always believed that fashion is a reflection of the times; a reflection of the society. Keeping the situation in our country in mind, the collection is based around cuts and color. The mood is sober but very stylish. The embroidery is minimal but of high impact. It is a collection that moves away from unnecessary opulence to a more high elegance that is chic and affordable, and that celebrates life.