Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Ayesha Hussain. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Ayesha, appreciate you joining us today. Learning the craft is often a unique journey from every creative – we’d love to hear about your journey and if knowing what you know now, you would have done anything differently to speed up the learning process.
Learning the ropes of my craft has been an exhilarating journey, deeply rooted in the colorful chaos of Pakistan’s bazaars and the cherished moments spent with my mom in Lahore’s bustling markets. It was during those bazaar trips, surrounded by a whirlwind of fabrics, colors, and textures, that I first felt the spark of creativity igniting within me. Those moments were pivotal, shaping my path and solidifying my dream of becoming a designer.
In hindsight, I believe I could have accelerated my learning by actively seeking out more mentorship and hands-on experiences earlier in my career. However, every step of the journey has been a learning opportunity, and I wouldn’t trade those experiences for anything.
As for the skills that have proven most essential, creativity, attention to detail, and adaptability to trends have been my guiding lights. They’ve allowed me to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of fashion with confidence and finesse.
Of course, the road to where I am today hasn’t been without its obstacles. Cultural differences and the fast-paced nature of the industry have posed challenges along the way. But through perseverance and a deep-rooted passion for my craft, I’ve overcome each hurdle, emerging stronger and more determined than ever to continue learning and growing as a designer.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
My name is Ayesha Hussain, and I am a designer and fashion marketer from Lahore, Pakistan. I embarked on my journey in the fashion industry at a young age, inspired by the vibrant bazaars of Lahore where I would accompany my mother to shop for fabrics, laces, and dyes. These early experiences not only sparked my love for fashion but also taught me to appreciate the textures, quality, and beauty of different fabrics.
I pursued my formal education from Pakistan Institute of Fashion and Design (PIFD) in Lahore. This foundational education gave me deep insights into the Eastern fashion aesthetic and design principles. Following my bachelor’s degree, I moved to New York City to study fashion at the prestigious Parsons School of Design. At Parsons, I was exposed to Western fashion dynamics, which broadened my perspective and honed my skills in fashion management.
Currently, I work as a textile designer for Zahra Shahjahan, a renowned fashion house known for its exquisite craftsmanship and innovative designs. In my role, I specialize in creating unique textile patterns that blend traditional and contemporary elements.
My products and services focus on high-quality, custom-made textile designs that cater to a sophisticated clientele looking for elegance and authenticity. I solve the problem of creating exclusive and personalized designs that stand out in the competitive fashion market. What sets me apart is my ability to merge the rich, intricate designs of Eastern fashion with the sleek, modern aesthetics. This fusion results in unique pieces that resonate with a diverse audience.
My education and experiences have equipped me with a comprehensive understanding of global fashion trends and business models. This unique perspective allows me to bring innovative ideas to my work and to the broader fashion industry.
For potential clients and followers, I want you to know that my work is driven by a deep passion for fashion and a commitment to excellence. I strive to create designs that not only look beautiful but also tell a story of cultural fusion and craftsmanship.
What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?
My mission is to start my own brand that honour and preserve traditional craftsmanship and techniques. I want the concept of handicraft, which is the backbone of my culture, to live on forever, showcasing the skills and artistry that can never be replicated by machines.
Looking back, are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?
In hindsight, I wish I had known about certain resources earlier in my creative journey. These could have included online platforms or communities dedicated to connecting artisans with opportunities, workshops, or mentorship programs focused on honing specific skills, and resources for navigating the business side of the fashion industry such as financial management tools or marketing strategies tailored to artisans and small businesses. Access to these resources could have helped me further develop my craft and navigate the industry more effectively.
