Mohsin Naveed Ranjha’s debut show at the iconic Museum of Islamic Art in Doha was a game-changer for South Asian fashion. Hosted in one of the most prestigious cultural landmarks in the world, the event highlighted Pakistan’s craftsmanship and its ability to shine on a global stage.
The setting? Pure magic. The runway was decked with lush floral arrangements in vibrant shades of pink and maroon, complementing the grandeur of the museum’s stunning Islamic architecture. The atmosphere felt like stepping into a Mughal court—a perfect stage for Ranjha’s “Naqsh-e-Punjab” collection. Also they had the legend Abida Parveen perform. It was truly the Best of Pakistan’ showcase if you ask us.
Maya Ali, MNR’s muse, was the undisputed star of the night. Draped in a gold and maroon lehenga shimmering with intricate embroidery, she embodied the collection’s regal spirit. Even though it’s been a while since we have seen her on screen, her graceful smile brought the collection to life.
One of the most fascinating aspects of the show was its diverse cast of models. For the first time, we saw both Pakistani and foreign faces wearing traditional South Asian attire—and it worked beautifully. Seeing MNR’s designs on an international lineup felt refreshing, adding depth and universality to his vision.
Menswear also took the spotlight, with male models walking the runway in jamas and turbans. And white bridal looks. Novel right. These looks, inspired by traditional South Asian heritage, added richness and authenticity to the collection. It was a bold move that showed how historical pieces can feel relevant on a contemporary runway.
What stood out most was the styling. Every look was paired with statement jewelry—heavy necklaces, intricate matha pattis, and tiered earrings. It wasn’t just about clothes; it was about presenting a complete vision. We feel designers need to embrace offering full looks rather than focusing solely on garments. We would certainly love to get the whole thing.
With this show, Mohsin Naveed Ranjha proved that South Asian fashion belongs on the global stage. From the stunning presentation to the meticulous attention to detail, it wasn’t just a showcase—it was a moment of pride.
