Fashion show Reflects Islamic History

Islamic history was represented in a fashion show in Punjab University this week. The unique fashion show also demonstrated an insight into the art of calligraphy and how it intertwines with the history of Islamic Clothing.

 The fashion show was devised to draw more attention to the world of calligraphy. The art form is perceived to be dying out in the Islamic world. Once a proud trade and tradition, modern technology is now overtaking the ancient, prized tradition in Pakistan.

 The fashion show entitled -Sarir-e-Kahma: Art of Pen' hopes to inspire a new generation of Pakistanis to take up the art form and continue the proud tradition of calligraphy. All of the models performing are students of the college.

 The show was devised and designed by the Punja University College of Art and Design's Textile Department. Many of the Muslim Dresses that were designed for the show were based upon a letter of the alphabet or a particular calligraphy pattern. Writing styles such as Naskh, Nasta'liq and Thulth were represented amongst others.

 The students then displayed Muslim Dresses of the royal Muslim Courts including Persian and Arabic attires. International delegates from as far as the United Kingdom, Turkey and Iran attended the show and shared their support. The dazzling show was also attended by Fine Art's personalities, Pakistani Calligraphers and a large number of students.

 As well as demonstrating the beauty and spectacle of calligraphy in Islamic Fashion, the show's addresser, Dr Rahat Naveed described such events as a must for the mental health of the students. She went on to praise all of those who were involved in the show for completing it in such a professional way with a palpable link to Muslim history. She enthused as the student's opportunity to hone their creative skills and collective craft. Calligraphy is an art form which has been revered in the Muslim community for many, many centuries. The ability to mould sentiments into beautiful crafted works of art elegantly combines the worlds of wisdom and art effortlessly.

 Earlier this year, 20 master calligraphers of Islamic faith were brought together in the Pakistani Embassy to demonstrate their work and their talents. Prince Sultan bin Salman is known to be a keen fan of the art and enthused about the work displayed earlier this year: -In my humble assessment, I can tell you that the calligraphic pieces displayed in the exhibition today rank with the best works of art from Saudi Arabia, Turkey, other parts of the Middle East and Islamic world at large in terms of style and content.

Espadrille Shoes - A New Fashion Frontier

What do most celebrities have in common? Well, those who are up to date with current trends can be seen wearing the hottest footwear on the block - espadrille shoes. If you are a person who has large feet or whose size is larger than a 10, then buying a stylish designer shoe can be a problem at times. Earlier if you wanted to buy a shoes of size 10 than you had to have them specially ordered and they were not particularly fashionable. But with the advent of espadrilles shoes the choice is no longer limited.

 Espadrille footwear is available everywhere and if you want to buy good quality shoes then you should surely check online as these retailers offer a selection of stylish shoes which I am sure your local shoe store will be unable to provide.

 Espadrille shoes are basically casual, high heel or flat fashion sandals which have originated from the Pyrenees. They are made of canvas or cotton fabric and their distinguishing feature is the sole which are made up of rope and rubber material and are made to look like a rope. These shoes vary widely in style and these uppers are very popular in Estonia in France where they are basically used as running shoes.

 You must be wondering where the term espadrille has come from? It is a French word and has originated from the esperdaniya which in turn, derives from the word esparto. The Catalan name for esparto is a type of Mediterranean grass which is tough and wiry and is used to make ropes. Since 14th century espadrille shoes have been made in Catalonia and there are some traditional shops in Catalonia who manufacture these shoes even today. Traditional espadrille shoes can be distinguished from the contemporary ones as they used to have a canvas upper with toes and vamps cut in one piece and seamed to the sole made of rope at the side. Usually they have laces at the throat which are wrapped around the ankles to hold the shoes in place when you wear them. In ancient times espadrilles were popularly worn by both men and women.

 Modern espadrille footwear is designed basically for both men and women by top designers including Donna Karan and Pare Gabia. So if you are interested in purchasing a new pair of espadrille shoes go for it now as time and tide wait for none.