Bollywood stars Jacqueline Fernandez and Rashmika Mandanna were recently spotted donning stunning outfits by renowned Pakistani designer Iqbal Hussain, once again highlighting the growing popularity of Pakistani designers across borders, particularly in India.
Indian actress Jacqueline Fernandez was seen wearing a fiery, fully embroidered red saree by Iqbal Hussain at a Diwali gala. The saree featured heavily embroidered tilla and zardozi work borders on three sides, with intricate detailing on the pallu. The actress looked effortlessly gorgeous, carrying the ensemble gracefully. Her hair was side-parted and pulled back into a sleek high ponytail. Fans were quick to dub her a “laal pari [red fairy]”. She completed the look with a golden purse adorned with cut-dana embroidery, a gold and green Kundan necklace and traditional gold karras.
Meanwhile, Animal fame actress Rashmika Mandanna was seen wearing a black pishwas designed by Iqbal Hussain at a reality show to promote her upcoming film. The outfit, crafted from pure katan silk, was adorned with dense, diamond-shaped booti embroidery throughout and featured a V-neckline with hand-embroidered marrori and sequins along the borders. The actress chose to wear her hair open and paired the look with classic jhumkas.
This is not the first time Indian celebrities have opted for outfits by Pakistani designers, or Iqbal Hussain in particular. Bollywood’s celebrated Malaika Arora was previously featured in a saree by Iqbal Hussain in late September 2025. Images and reels of Arora in the designer’s creation quickly went viral on social media platforms.
In 2024, Kareena Kapoor Khan was also seen wearing an Iqbal Hussain dress during the 100th birth anniversary celebration of her grandfather, the legendary Raj Kapoor.
Pakistani designers are not only making waves in South Asia but are also leaving a significant mark internationally. Recently, designer Hussain Rehar showcased his Spring/Summer 2026 collection, Jeevan, at Paris Fashion Week. The collection was praised for blending Pakistani aesthetics with Western influences, incorporating rich embroidery, sequins and a striking color palette, including white, black and crimson.
Veteran designer Maheen Khan has made international headlines multiple times, notably dressing the Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton, during her official visit to Pakistan. She also made history by presenting her collection at Milan Fashion Week in 2010.
Designer Deepak Perwani was another Pakistani talent who took center stage at Milan Fashion Week in 2010. His collection, titled ‘From Rural to the Runway’, aimed to elevate local crafts to high fashion, showcasing traditional elements in a modern context.
The contemporary brand Rastah has also earned international acclaim, with its pieces being worn at major global events, establishing itself as a powerful name in cross-cultural fashion.
In 2016, Lahore-based designer Ali Xeeshan, known for his avant-garde aesthetic, presented a show at Fashion Parade London. His collection featured signature Xeeshan elements — bold silhouettes, heavy embellishments and dramatic headpieces — all handmade by his atelier in Lahore.
Other prominent Pakistani designers such as Omar Mansoor, Sania Maskatiya and many others have also enjoyed significant international exposure, further establishing Pakistan as a powerhouse in the global fashion landscape.