Emraan Rajput
Fashion Designer & Entrepreneur
- What inspired you to pursue fashion design, and how did your journey begin?
It began early on actually. I was always someone who paid close attention to how people carried themselves and their style, and I found myself giving advise to people close to me who wanted to look different. That was when I realized that I wanted to go into menswear. My journey began in 2011 and it’s truly been one of the most fulfilling and learned experience. To start a brand and raise it from scratch is never going to be simple. But it’s always fun when it’s your passion.
- How does Pakistani culture influence your designs, and what elements do you incorporate?
Given the fact that our menswear pieces are sherwani’s and kurta shalwaar’s amongst other things, we always try to inculcate various elements of our enriching culture into our collections. From borrowing from my Rajput heritage to looking at our era’s of fashion that has passed throughout the centuries, I believe our culture will always serve as the most vital element of inspiration.
- You’ve showcased at various international fashion events. What’s been your most memorable experience?
Each experience has been memorable but if I had to pick I’d say it was the times I showcased in Oslo and Scotland. Oslo’s show was filled with a lot of interesting memories from hairspray bottles bursting and its remnants landing on the clothes to getting them ready in time for the show! Scotland was always on my list to travel and it went well despite the lost baggage! International shows come with their own set of memories and surprises and I’ve been quite fortunate to have had a handful of them!
- Describe your design aesthetic and philosophy.
My philosophy is simple – I want the Emraan Rajput man to look and feel his best and I would want nothing more than for him to realize that his style can go beyond what he feels comfortable with. Ultimately it’s about recognizing a style you never thought you could own and accentuating one’s confidence in their appearance.
- How do you balance traditional and modern elements in your designs?
It’s about finding certain elements that can easily be bridged together and making sure that it still keeps the appearance of the classic look.
- What advice would you give to emerging Pakistani fashion designers?
I would say to never ever give up on your dream. I remember when I started and how trying it was and how the struggle of beginning can be overwhelmingly persuasive to the voice in your head telling you to give up. But please don’t. Fashion needs you.
- What’s next for your brand, and are there any upcoming collaborations or projects?
Well we recently debuted our fast fashion sub brand called Era so we’re working on adding a few more pieces for the Autumn and Winter as well as our festive collection. You’ll have something quite eye catchy to scroll through quite soon!
Social Media Handles
https://www.instagram.com/emraanrajputlive
https://www.instagram.com/erabyemraanrajput
https://www.instagram.com/emraanrajput