Most Pakistani politicians are well-known for making headlines and sparking internet debate after saying something shocking or controversial. While most world leaders don’t make the 9 o’clock news for their dress sense, a select few consistently do.
These politicians have learned over the course of their careers just how crucial their outward appearance is, especially their wardrobe choices. Here is a look at the five politicians that have used their sense of style to stand out from the crowd.
Sharif Shehbaz
The PM and head of the Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N) has been often seen in sharp business suits during the last year. The fact that he is the Premier is responsible for this. But before that, Sharif favoured a more casual appearance.
Everyone who has ever watched the news or glanced at a newspaper is familiar with his trademark khaki utilitarian attire, consisting of loose-fitting pants and a collared button-down shirt with four neighbouring pockets. The suit, which he seems to own in many colours, is incredibly functional and conveys the idea of a “man on a mission.” He seems to be very busy with important responsibilities and so cannot afford the time to think about what to wear.
Hina Rabbani K.
Hina, as the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and a recognised representative of the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP), has always presented herself with poise and dignity in public and in political settings. Khar has discovered her distinctive style in the simplicity of a shalwar kameez in a single colour, topped with a sheer chiffon dupatta.
The Khan, Imran
The public’s perception of Imran Khan, a politician whose brand and campaign approach is based on the restoration of religious and cultural norms in public life, has been heavily influenced by his wardrobe choices. He has solidified his reputation as a leader who wears the national clothing with pride by consistently donning a white shalwar kameez, a black waistcoat, and a pair of Peshawari sandals. The public sees him as a leader of the people who is not afraid to dress like any other typical Pakistani guy thanks to his go-to style for all public engagements, official or casual.
Maryam Nawaz,
the senior vice president of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz, is one of the most prominent politicians in Pakistan today. As often as her press conferences and rally speeches are scrutinised on television, so too are the details of her daily wardrobe reported throughout social media channels. When she is sighted in public, followers of dedicated fan and fashion accounts on Instagram immediately begin publishing outfit analysis, complete with details like the designer and retail price. Nawaz is recognised for dabbling with more feminine patterns and motifs, despite her preference for a simple but professional look.
Maryam wisely decided to change her wardrobe as she started receiving more and more criticism for wearing pricey designer Sania Maskatiya pret. She is now often seen in coordinated outfits by high-street favourites like Khaadi and EGO. While her extensive collection of satin Manolo Blahnik Hangisi pumps and mules remain staples in her everyday outfits for public appearances, there is no denying that her move towards incorporating non-designer and relatively inexpensive items of clothing into her daily wardrobe sends a message of humility, relatability, and approachability.
Sharmila Faruqui
Faruqui, a two-term member of the Sindh Provincial Assembly and current PPP MP, has an active web presence that gives an insight into her life outside of politics. In spite of the fact that her “News Personality” Instagram bio describes her as a journalist, she regularly shows her influencer side on her many social media platforms. She wears amazing luxury clothes, and she has endless posts and reels chronicling them.
Faruqui has spoiled herself with exquisitely embroidered and embellished pret and couture pieces by many of the best designers in Pakistan, from seasoned veterans like Rizwan Beyg and Maheen Karim and Farah Talib Aziz to up-and-coming names like Annus Abrar and Hussain Rehar and Mohsin Naveed Ranjha.
Despite the fact that she does not have a distinctive style or a strong preference for a certain fashion sense, she is nonetheless one of the most stylish people in her social group.