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Lahore-based Momina Zaka is a gifted cook and culinary instructor. We just had a talk with her and asked about her experience in cooking as well as her future goals. She told us that she has always enjoyed spending time in the kitchen. She first recalls being in a kitchen when she was around 5 or 6 years old when her mother used to place her on the counter as she prepared meals. She has a deep passion for eating as well. As a child, she watched her mother make scrumptious dishes and that is how she started to cook. She was intrigued by the procedure as well and wanted to learn from the visiting chefs who frequently catered events at her home. 

Momina has always been a foodie, but her love of delicious cuisine didn’t end there. She also wanted to duplicate it, so she decided to make cooking her vocation. She desired to perfect the craft that had always been her love, as well as to advance her knowledge and abilities.

Le Cordon Bleu entered my life later, and as Momina recalled, “Everything became about it, getting in, learning, and then eventually practicing what I love. I can still clearly recall the day I reached there and every day that followed. It fulfilled every wish I had. Everything, from butchery to food presentation, was taught to me by LCB. Every part of the culinary arts was introduced to me throughout my stay there, and I graduated with refined abilities and ideal techniques.”

Momina continued, “After LCB, my plan was to work at a Michelin-star restaurant before opening my own setup. However, after returning to Pakistan and serving as a guest instructor at COHMCA, I realized that I had a wealth of knowledge that I wanted to share with all aspiring chefs, so I started offering cooking classes. I continue to do so at Cookery P4 Lahore, and my goal is to open my own culinary arts institution that is comparable to Le Cordon Bleu in terms of professionalism and quality of instruction.”

In addition to offering cooking classes, Momima also serves as a consultant and provider of restaurant solutions. She completed 6 projects in the last 2 years, one of which was in Turkey, and she is currently working on further projects. Through her consulting efforts, Zaka seeks to expand the palette already present in Pakistan. It is a tremendously satisfying experience for her to match cooks from their CV pool to jobs that best suit them.

Momina wants to continue working in the culinary industry and eventually open her own cooking school with a test kitchen.

As the temperatures begin to drop and the air turns crisp, fashion enthusiasts eagerly await the unveiling of the latest winter collections. GulAhmed, a renowned name in the fashion industry, has once again delighted its patrons with their new winter collection. The Winter Luxe Collection – Volume 1, available both in stores and online, features an array of exquisite fabrics and designs to cater to every style preference.

In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at the Khaddar collection, one of the standout segments of this splendid winter assortment.

Khaddar: A Winter Wardrobe Essential

GulAhmed’s Khaddar collection is a testament to the brand’s commitment to crafting high-quality winter attire. Khaddar, known for its warmth and durability, is an ideal choice for the chilly season. This fabric keeps you snug without compromising on style. As you browse through GulAhmed’s winter unstitched suits, you’ll find the perfect blend of comfort and elegance.

Versatility in Designs

The Khaddar collection boasts a wide range of designs to suit various tastes. Whether you prefer traditional motifs or contemporary patterns, there’s something for everyone in this best winter collection. GulAhmed has curated an exquisite selection of 3-piece suits, each with its unique charm.

This enchanting design combines traditional and modern elements, making it an excellent choice for any winter occasion. The intricate prints on the Khaddar fabric exude sophistication and charm.

For those who appreciate simplicity with a touch of elegance, this design is a perfect pick. The understated prints on the Khaddar fabric make it a versatile addition to your winter wardrobe.

If you’re looking to make a statement, this embroidered Khaddar suit will undoubtedly turn heads. The intricate embroidery adds a touch of opulence to the winter dresses, making it a go-to choice for special occasions.

With its vibrant prints and warm Khaddar fabric, this design is perfect for adding a pop of color to your winter wardrobe. It’s a great choice for those who want to stand out.

For a classic and timeless look, consider this Khaddar suit. The traditional prints exude an old-world charm that never goes out of style.

Another embodiment of elegance and grace, this embroidered Khaddar suit is perfect for those who appreciate intricate detailing. It’s a true masterpiece that showcases GulAhmed’s commitment to craftsmanship.

Elevate Your Winter Wardrobe

GulAhmed’s Winter Luxe Collection – Volume 1 is a testament to their dedication to providing the best winter collection year after year. The Khaddar collection, in particular, offers an array of options for ladies looking to update their winter wardrobe. From casual outings to formal gatherings, these winter unstitched suits cater to all occasions.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to explore GulAhmed’s unstitched winter collection, which seamlessly combines warmth, style, and tradition. Visit their online winter collection or head to their stores to experience the cozy elegance of Khaddar and embrace the winter season in style!

Laathi- A student-led project working to enhance financial literacy in Pakistan’s population

A student-led initiative called Laathi Pakistan aims to increase financial awareness among Pakistan’s citizens. Team Laathi is expanding its reach beyond the senior population of Pakistan in an effort to ensure that every Pakistani citizen is educated in economics, as they believe that one cannot make important financial decisions if one lacks financial literacy. 

People who pay taxes but are unaware of the system or the justification for doing so make up Pakistan’s unstable economy, as do those who shop on the black market without realizing how their purchases would affect the country’s overall economy. They inform people about strategies to protect their financial resources, warn them about fraud, and alert them to investment opportunities when they arise.

Laathi’s slogan is: Save, Invest, and Prosper with the aim to uplift Pakistan. 

Laathi has now started a series of podcasts with different influential people including journalists, financial analysts, and people from the governmental body who are able to provide unbiased opinions and approaches.

Suhail Warraich, a Pakistani journalist, television broadcaster, analyst, and media personality, participated in Laathis first podcast. He provided information about the budget deficit and how it is impacted by the political narrative that has resulted in significant economic losses.

He also offered the opportunity to vote for a “stricter” budget and a wider tax base. In addition, he suggested that the current cabinet should create a strategic strategy for boosting the Pakistani economy. He gave young people an emotive message of hope to close the podcast.

Listen to the full podcast here:

https://www.instagram.com/reel/CujmA7cIW4g/?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

Laathi had Mr. Adnan Khalid Butt, the vice president of the Lahore Chamber of Commerce, on his second podcast. He explained the kind of reinforcement the market requires while also pointing out the recent paucity of resources. He explained to us how firms in Pakistan struggle to remain viable as well as a possible course of action.

He went on to discuss overseas remittances as an alternative to IMF agreements while providing further details on those agreements. He ended the show by making some observations about the new transitional administration and Caretaker Prime Minister Anwar-Ul-Kakkar.

Listen to the full podcast here:

https://www.instagram.com/reel/CxTMpO2tTQK/?igshid=MTc4MmM1YmI2Ng=

 In Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, Nathia Gali is home to St. Matthew’s Church. For three generations, a Muslim family has taken care of the church.

 It includes a specially constructed rectory, lodgings, a stairway, and an antique piano. It was built entirely of cedar wood in 1914 and was designed by Colonel Hope Waddell Kelsall.

Most of these churches, especially those in Dungagali, Ayubia, and Murree, were constructed in the Gothic style. Most people agree that the church in Nathiagali is the mountainous location of worship that is photographed the most. It provides a panoramic perspective and various photo opportunities to the tourists looking for entertainment nearby with its wooden building, which is perpetually painted in black and has a towering spire. The watchman currently resides in the modest rectory that is located behind the main hall. The kind guard usually allows the visitors into the church.

The place is still well-known among domestic Christians who travel there for picnics. The majestic ancient church in Ayubia, which has a purpose-built rectory, a few accommodation spaces, an antique iron stairway leading to an attic, and even an old piano, must have operated as a comprehensive administrative setup during its glory days.

Netflix:

One Piece season 2 is officially coming to Netflix, meaning we’re 100% heading on another voyage with Luffy, Nami, and the rest of the Straw Hats.

Hot couple:

Dua Lipa and her new boyfriend Romain Gavras are on our hot couple list this week!

Food:

The “Undercutpk’’ truly wowed us with their creation, the “Black Sesame Easter Egg Forest.” A delectable chocolate shell, filled with a luxurious blend of rich dark chocolate sponge, roasted black sesame crunch, and creamy vanilla ice cream, must-try for every chocolate enthusiast out there!

Autumn Staples:

Elevate your autumn wardrobe with Gianvito Rossi’s ‘Borneo’ flats. Crafted from supple snake-effect leather, they feature square toes and dainty Mary Jane straps, offering a perfect complement to skirts or stylish straight-leg jeans!

 

The new Maroon ‘Sardine Mini’ shoulder bag from Bottega Veneta is our lust bag!

 

News:

At PKR 330 per litre, fuel prices in Pakistan smash records.

On the playlist:

Paint the Town Red by Doja Cat is on our playlist this week!

Paperazzi picks:

Our love for ceramics knows no bounds, and this RAAKH deep dish tray is a testament to that passion. It’s ideal for serving up sandwiches, fritters, comforting soupy noodles, or practically any culinary delight you can imagine.

Style Star:

Our style star of the week is Justin Bieber, who is wearing our very own Pakistani label, Rastah.

It’s likely that you’ve heard of method acting, the process where actors try to completely inhabit their roles. But what about method dressing? The act of telling a story through clothing is known as method dressing. The film industry is being completely overtaken by this new trend, and we have already seen many actors attend movie promotional events dressed as their respective characters in statement-making attire, accessories, and footwear.

Jenna Ortega

Without a doubt, “method dressing” was made popular by actress Jenna Ortega. She has been giving off soft goth vibes ever since her appearance in the Netflix most popular show “Wednesday”, and it’s hard to tell where the character ends and Ortega begins.

Halle Bailey

Halle Bailey served some major mermaidcore vibes with her phenomenal outfits during her promotional tour for The Little Mermaid, and her looks were a true fashion treat.

Alia Bhatt

Last year, when promoting her film ‘’Gangubai Kathiawadi,’’ she wore white sarees with red roses in her hair to represent her character.

Alia Bhatt wore chiffon saris with statement blouses and earrings to symbolise her character Rani Chatterji and to revive the old Bollywood glam while promoting her movie “Rocky aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani.”

Margot Robbie

The Barbiecore is elevated by Margot Robbie. During Barbie’s promotional tour, she dressed in outfits inspired by Barbie dolls. She looked fantastic thanks to her stylist Andrew Mukamal.

Ryan Gosling

Ryan Gosling’s portrayal of Ken during the promotional tour was delightful, and he ups the ante in terms of style.

Zendaya

During the Spiderman press tour, Zendaya, the queen of fashion, wore several outfits inspired by her film.

Blake Lively

By sporting a variety of chic tailored suits while promoting her 2018 film A Simple Favour, Blake Lively proved that method dressing can be a winning strategy.

Since actors must do so many promotions for films these days, method dressing has developed into a popular marketing and storytelling technique. This gives actors the opportunity to show off their fashion sense while also helping the audience understand the movie. Even though everyone is doing it at once, method dressing has been popular for quite some time.

To put it simply, method dressing entails using clothing to create wearable stories that help the wearer bring fictional characters to life.

Winter is not just a season; it’s a feeling of warmth, comfort, and style. And GulAhmed, a name synonymous with timeless fashion, has once again cast its enchanting spell with the all-new Winter Luxe Collection – Volume 1. This collection is not just a winter collection; it’s a symphony of elegance, and it’s available both in-stores and online. Let’s dive into the exquisite world of GulAhmed’s winter unstitched suits.

Velvet: A Touch of Opulence

When it comes to winter, nothing spells luxury quite like velvet. The Velvet catalogue within this new winter collection is a true showstopper. Imagine wrapping yourself in the soft caress of velvet, feeling like a star at every winter soirée. GulAhmed’s Velvet range is the epitome of opulence, making it a must-have in every lady’s winter wardrobe.

Pashmina: Elegance Redefined

For those who seek elegance in every stitch, the Pashmina collection is a masterpiece. Pashmina wool, known for its exquisite softness and warmth, takes center stage in this segment of the winter collection. These winter dresses redefine elegance and sophistication, making them perfect for both formal gatherings and cozy evenings by the fireplace.

Khaddar: Tradition Meets Trend

GulAhmed’s Khaddar catalogue is a tribute to timeless traditions. Khaddar fabric is celebrated for its durability and ability to keep you snug in chilly weather. This segment of the collection offers a wide array of designs and patterns that seamlessly blend tradition with contemporary fashion. It’s no wonder it’s considered one of the best winter collections around.

Linen: Versatile Chic

If versatility is your style mantra, then the Linen collection is your winter muse. Linen fabric is renowned for its breathability and adaptability, making it suitable for various occasions and weather conditions. From daytime casual to evening chic, GulAhmed’s Linen winter dresses allow you to effortlessly transition from one look to another.

This winter collection isn’t just about fabrics and designs; it’s about crafting a wardrobe that resonates with your style and comfort. GulAhmed’s unwavering commitment to offering the best winter collection for ladies is evident in every aspect of this collection.

And the best part? You can explore and purchase these winter unstitched suits both in-stores and online. Whether you prefer the tactile experience of shopping in a brick-and-mortar store or the convenience of browsing the online winter collection from the comfort of your home, GulAhmed has you covered.

As we step into the enchanting world of winter, GulAhmed’s Winter Luxe Collection – Volume 1 serves as a beacon of style and warmth. Whether you’re drawn to the luxurious allure of velvet, the timeless charm of Pashmina, the tradition-meets-trend vibe of Khaddar, or the versatile chic of Linen, this collection promises to cater to your unique fashion needs.

In conclusion, if you’re in search of the perfect winter dresses that seamlessly blend elegance, comfort, and style, GulAhmed’s Winter Luxe Collection – Volume 1 is your ultimate destination. It’s more than just a winter collection; it’s a reflection of your exquisite taste. Don’t miss the opportunity to embrace the magic of winter with GulAhmed. Visit their stores or explore the online winter collection today and redefine your winter style with unmatched elegance.

In a thrilling déjà vu, less than a year after an unforgettable night in Lahore, last Sunday, Red Bull Pakistan descended upon Karachi with the electrifying Red Bull Off The Roof concert-on-wheels, setting the Arts Council of Pakistan Karachi ablaze. This was no ordinary show; it was a musical spectacle of epic proportions, an unforgettable night for those who got to witness Karachi’s coolest concert till date!

Noori, Young Stunners, and the dynamic duo Hassan and Roshaan didn’t just deliver remarkable performances – they did it perched atop a bus! Yes, you read that right, a bus! Talk about an epic and unparalleled setup that added a whole new dimension to their music.

The young and energetic duo of Hassan and Roshaan lit the stage with their melodic tunes and soulful voices. Their performance was a harmonious journey that resonated with every heart in the audience.

Following their act, the iconic Pakistani rock band, Noori, set the stage ablaze with their timeless classics and infectious energy. Their much-anticipated reunion was a testament to their legendary status in the music scene. As the first chords of their iconic hits echoed through the venue, it became crystal clear why Noori holds a special place in our hearts

The Young Stunners, known for their catchy hip-hop beats and razor-sharp lyrics, had the crowd grooving and rapping along to their chart-toppers. Their stage presence was nothing short of magnetic. The moment they set foot on stage, the crowd was in for a wild ride.

With their infectious hip-hop beats and razor-sharp lyrics, the Young Stunners had everyone in the audience grooving and rapping along to their chart-topping hits.

For those who missed out on this one-of-a-kind experience, fear not! Keep your eyes peeled for the next Red Bull Off the Roof event because, trust us, it’s an event you absolutely won’t want to miss!

As the sun (kind of) sets on another scorching summer, LAMA is back to sneak a little excitement into your wardrobe with its much-anticipated End of Season Sale for summer. For a brand that almost never goes on sale, its season-end discounts are always huge with up to 60% off on the entire collection of clothes and shoes. The best part is, since its a western basics brand, a lot of their summer stock is technically year-round stock! So, you don’t even have to pack anything away to wear next spring.

LAMA, known for its commitment to easy, functional clothing, has become a mecca for pre-holiday shopping in the country. You’re not breaking the bank, but you get the international high street feel. And there’s still a ton of summer left, so we’re not complaining. Some of us still have vacationing to do, and the focus on comfort fashion, from shoes to apparel, is a Godsent for travel.

The only thing that needs to be faulted here… is how quickly stock and sizes run out! Especially during their sale period, it becomes really hard to find what you want in your size.

Hey, LAMA: We want to be strolling down a boardwalk (real or imaginary, does it matter?) in a pleated skirt from your summer collection, go to a barbecue in that super comfortable oversized organic cotton T-shirt, get on a plane in our LAMA MAMA sandals and lounge at home in those sweet, sweet linen matching separates… so make more stuff we can buy on sale!

For this season-end sale, we’ll be closely eyeing their made in Pakistan range of leather shoes and organic t-shirts (both of which we can wear in the winter), their button-down shirts because when do those ever go out of style, and their maxi dresses some of which are made in slightly thicker fabrics and will work quite superbly for the fall season. Especially for those of us living in the south of the country, where winter is an unpredictable visitor, we can stretch out the summer living for a few more months.

Sales at LAMA don’t last for a very long time, as we’ve learnt from experience, and this one probably won’t be any different. A couple of weeks and bang, before you know it, they’re all wiped out of stock and they’re dropping their fall/ winter collection. We’re quite curious to see what winter will bring at LAMA this year, considering their fantastic basics collection last year. Whether they stay true to their reputation will remain to be seen.


For now, get shopping online because they’ve still got a lot of stock– or if you’re lucky enough to live in the same city as a LAMA store… why aren’t you in the car already? Pro tip: Keep the trunk empty, you’re gonna need it for the way home.

Mahnoor Latif is a digital creator, based in Lahore. She shares outfit ideas on her blog “thatedgymassi”. In this article, she shares how to build an outfit from scratch.

With myriad retail shops now offering ready-made outfits why should we even bother with the hassle of making our own clothes – that’s what most of us say to ourselves, right? But there are two reasons why you would want to design your own outfit: (i) fast fashion clothes are not durable and long-lasting; and (ii) you want to wear something that only you own, no one else has that same exact outfit – it’s unique to you.

So, how would we go about designing our own outfit? Well, it is pretty straightforward (and a process our mothers know at the back of their hand) as follows:

Step 1: Sourcing the Material

You can purchase the material from any of your preferred shops in your cities. In Lahore, there is Raja Sahib, Liberty, Lahore Center, Azam Market, etc. Bargain your way through the shops and buy solid colors or prints, whatever is your preference.

Step 2: Finalising the Design

I draw inspiration from social media when it comes to designing my outfits. At times I’ll either like a cut or outfit I saw from a Pakistani or Indian brand and try to replicate that to fit my own aesthetic, or I’ll make a design from a culmination of different styles and cuts I have saved on Pinterest.

Step 3: Buying the Accessories

This step ties in with Step 2 above, so once your design is finalized, you go out and buy the laces, buttons, and any extra accessories that you need to bring together your outfit.

Step 4: Getting it Stitched

This step is pretty standard but can involve a lot of debate with your tailor depending on the design you want to be executed.

Step 5: Styling the Outfit

The final and best part of the whole process, getting to style and wear the outfit you designed!

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