In collaboration with the United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR) agencies in Pakistan, Huma Adnan unveiled a gorgeous fashion presentation at her home on the 4th of March, 2019. The collection called “Craft Stories” showcased the talents of refugee women in Karachi through their handcrafted bangles, earrings, and necklaces.
An advocate for representing Pakistan’s heritage and culture, Huma Adnan integrated these distinctive accessories with her latest FnkAsia collection.
Kicking off the fashion season, her solo show showcased the jewelry exclusively to UNHCR representatives in Pakistan, Ms Ruvendrini Menikdiwela, Mr. Muhammad Riaz, Ms. Karolin Elisabeth Eberle, Ms. Uzma Irum and Mr. Urooj Saifi, along with U.S Consulate members such as Darian Arky and members of the press and media.
The objective of the show was to create awareness of the work and talents of the refugee artisans with the hope that in the future, these women are able to sustain themselves financially. “We as fashion influencers are blessed to be given a platform and resources that can easily create awareness and provide long-term sustainability solutions for people,” shared Huma of her philosophy about working with the less-privileged.
To create this collection, Huma Adnan and her team provided training and imported high-quality materials to selected refugee women residing at refugee camps at Karachi’s Al-Asif Square in order for them to handcraft these unique and intricate pieces.
From choosing colors, designs, threads, and motifs to deciding on schemes and crafting techniques, Huma’s team would create a prototype for the artisans and after training them to make the first piece would hand over the task to them of completing the rest of the pieces themselves. Three of these women worked as supervisors at the camps after getting extensive training.
The entire showcase was inspired by the bustle and energy of the city’s old Manora Island. The handcrafted accessories by the refugees are an expression of their personal journey. The artisans share their story in the shape of each piece that resonates with the warmth and passion of its creator, fusing together a balance of quality and design.
Featured at the show was an installation of images that conveyed the overall feel of the night. Black and white images of the model, dressed in the statement jewelry, was also at the venue. The face of installation, Maha Tahiri, was photographed by Shahbaz Shazi, styled by Tabesh Khoja, with hair and make-up done by Nabila’s Salon.
The event was supported by influencers, bloggers and key media personalities. Guests that attended this show were among the top UN officials and foreign dignitaries. Actresses Hira Mani, Sara, and Noor Khan also graced the ramp, wearing stunning statement jewelry and FNKASIA attires.