At a prestigious wedding reception for Jordan’s Crown Prince Hussain and Princess Rajwa of Saudi Arabia, Queen Máxima of the Netherlands was given the rare opportunity to be dressed by Pakistani fashion designer Mahpara Khan.
Mahpara’s presentation of her extraordinary talent on a stage in front of a large audience was a significant moment for Pakistani fashion. Intricate handcrafted details of gota, naqshi, resham, and dapka work were combined with mesmerizing Mughal pattern design in this stunning gown.
Mahpara and her group of 20 artisans worked tirelessly and skillfully for nearly 100 days to finish the surface design, delicately adorning the gown with exquisite handiwork. The classy outfit served as a showcase for Pakistan’s rich cultural heritage and skilled craftsmanship.
The meticulous finishing was a labor of love that highlighted the age-old methods and customs passed down through the generations.
Mahpara struggled with finding the ideal fit for Queen Maxima despite being geographically far away. They painstakingly honed the gown’s measurements and silhouette over the course of more than 90 days of close collaboration with the Queen’s stylists, striving to achieve a universal aesthetic while retaining the essence of Pakistan’s traditional motifs and patterns.
Mahpara expressed her pride in showcasing Pakistani craftsmanship and creativity on a global scale as she reflected on the experience. She emphasized that each dress in Pakistani bridal and formal wear is truly handcrafted, requiring the skills of 50 different artisans.
During Her Majesty’s visit to Pakistan in 2019, Mahpara Khan and Queen Maxima began their unexpected partnership. After viewing samples of Mahpara’s work, the Queen noticed the meticulous craftsmanship and detailing, which sparked months of planning and design discussions.
Mahpara recalls the Queen’s visit to her studio with affection, praising her for being incredibly sincere, down-to-earth, and modest. The experience made clear how important it is to present Pakistani art alongside internationally renowned designers like Elie Saab, Jenny Packham, Prada, and others.
Mahpara Khan’s dress, which was worn by Queen Maxima, stood for the seamless fusion of historical tradition and contemporary sophistication and made a lasting impression on the world of fashion.
The partnership celebrated the enduring elegance and craftsmanship that appeals to audiences around the world in addition to raising the profile of Pakistani fashion.
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