Streetstyle: Rastah’s Hand Detailed Garments at NYFW
New York Fashion Week saw designers embrace the upcoming trends for Spring/Summer 2024. From streetstyle to the runway, all the fashion enthusiasts could not wait to play dress up in their favorite warmer weather essentials, including BELLA’s fashion and lifestyle editor Jonathan Calixto.
Every season is an opportunity to showcase new designers, and for Jonathan it was important to not only support local and international designers but also wear some brands that are paving their own path in the industry. That’s where Rastah comes in, a fashion house created by Zain Ahmad and made in Pakistan. With a focus on the South Asian artisanship and legacy, you can see how the culture is embedded into every design. As Creative Director, Zain Ahmad shares, “our crafts are more than garments; they are messages, statements, and artistic chronicles.” Along with the design, each item can also be worn by men and women - something that was important for Jonathan to see represented by international designers. Another way the brand stands out is through the hand details found in each piece, including two of Jonathan’s favorites the Hand Embroidered Pink Button Down and the Handwoven Flared Dobby Trousers.
The Handwoven Button Down in pink exemplifies Rastah's appreciation for artisanal craftsmanship. This oversized piece boasts hand-embroidered floral details, adding a unique and elegant dimension to the ensemble.
The Handwoven Cotton Trousers in pastel yellow breathe a fresh sense of style into the Rastah collection. Created with a dobby weave, these trousers showcase the brand's dedication to craftsmanship. Their flared, oversized fit brings a trendy yet comfortable silhouette.
More about Rastah
In urdu, the word ‘rastah’ means path or journey. Rastah was founded in 2018 and is led under the creative direction of Zain Ahmad who grew up in London, Toronto, Vancouver and Lahore. He designs from a deeply personal perspective, often sharing his experiences across the cities he grew up as a vantage point for his design ethos.
Rastah is not just a fashion house; it's a movement. Rooted in the rich tapestry of South Asian artisanship and legacy, we endeavor to reshape perceptions through the intimate lens of fashion. Under the visionary guidance of Creative Director Zain Ahmad, each piece narrates a story — tales of experiences, reflections, and resilience in a world that at times underestimates the prowess of a Pakistani designer. Our crafts are more than garments; they are messages, statements, and artistic chronicles. Challenging stereotypes and redefining what it means to be "Made in Pakistan," Rastah is on a relentless journey to alter global narratives and transcend boundaries. Join us as we celebrate a new era of South Asian fashion and storytelling.