Renowned Pakistani designer Faraz Manan has made history as the first from Pakistan to be included in the prestigious Business of Fashion (BoF) 500 list, solidifying his influence across the global fashion landscape.
His timeless designs, celebrated for merging South Asian heritage with modern elegance, have earned him a spot among the world’s most influential figures shaping the fashion industry.
The announcement came via Manan’s Instagram, where the celebrated designer shared his excitement with his followers.
“Honoured and delighted to be a part of The BoF 500: people shaping the global fashion industry,” Manan posted, marking a new milestone in his illustrious career.
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Manan, the founder and creative director of the luxury brand that bears his name, has become synonymous with high fashion in Pakistan and beyond.
His signature designs combine intricate embellishments and rich fabrics, a style that has captivated fashion enthusiasts and celebrities alike.
Over the years, Manan has become a leading name in couture bridal and formal wear, not just in Pakistan but throughout South Asia.
A Global Recognition
The BoF 500, curated by Business of Fashion magazine, celebrates the top movers and shakers in the fashion world across various sectors, including luxury, streetwear, media, technology, and sustainability.
Being named in this exclusive list is a testament to Manan’s growing influence, not only in Pakistan but across South Asia and beyond.
Manan’s creations have long been a favorite among Bollywood’s elite, with celebrities such as Kareena Kapoor, Deepika Padukone, Alia Bhatt, and Kiara Advani gracing red carpets and events in his opulent designs.
The BoF 500 emphasized his influence in the wider South Asian region, noting his expertise in couture bridal and formal wear and his ability to fuse traditional craftsmanship with modern aesthetics.
A Journey Rooted in Cultural Heritage
Born and raised in Lahore, Manan credits his diverse upbringing—splitting his time between Pakistan and London—with shaping his unique approach to design.
“Growing up between two cultural hubs exposed me to a wealth of textile and design traditions,” Manan has said in interviews, reflecting on how his early experiences contributed to his vision.
Despite beginning his career with a degree in business, Manan’s passion for fashion soon took over, leading him to launch his eponymous label in 2003.
His early success was marked by his ability to translate the rich cultural heritage of South Asia into modern, wearable art, a trait that has made him a household name in couture bridal markets.
Expanding Horizons: Dubai and Beyond
In 2015, Faraz Manan took his brand to new heights by becoming one of the first South Asian designers to open a boutique in Dubai, catering to the Middle Eastern market.
His boutique quickly became a favorite among both local clients and the South Asian diaspora, further solidifying his status as a global designer.
By 2024, Manan’s global influence had only grown, as his Instagram following crossed the million mark—a feat celebrated by his team and fans as a reflection of his ever-expanding impact on fashion.
An Industry Game Changer
Manan’s inclusion in the BoF 500 has been hailed as a significant achievement for the South Asian fashion industry.
As the BoF 500 noted, his contributions to bridal couture and formal wear are not only pushing the boundaries of traditional fashion but are also blending heritage with contemporary design, appealing to a global audience.
His work symbolizes the merging of past and present, creating timeless pieces that resonate with buyers from various cultural backgrounds.
