LAHORE-Kanwal Ilyas is a prominent name in the fashion industry of Pakistan and a source of inspiration for the upcoming models. After graduation she entered the fashion industry as a model. In a very short span of time she has carved a niche for herself in the fashion industry. She has made it to the cover of many fashion magazines and has walked the ramp in many shows and done a lot of shoots. In an exclusive interview with The Nation she talks about her career in fashion industry. Following are excerpts of the interview:
At what age did you start taking interest in fashion industry? What inspired you to choose this profession?
I started my modeling career when I was about 21 years old. I never planned to become a model. I was offered a fashion show and then things started to work out.
What were your ambitions as a growing up child?
As a child I didn’t know what I want to be because I was living my life perfectly the way my parents brought me up. I always got what I desired for. After my graduation in painting I decided to be a painter because I was really good at it. But fate had something else for me so I became a model.
What are your favorite trends for this season?
My favorite trend this season is off shoulder shirts and loose pajamas. You can wear short tops with jeans or can make a long shirt with trousers.
What message would you like to give to aspiring models?
My message to young talent is to work hard till you accomplish your goals. Modeling is not an easy job. In this career you fail you rise you see ups and downs but your job is to stay there and fight with circumstances.
Do you eat nutritiously? How often do you exercise or go to the gym?
I don’t really follow diet as other models do. I’m foodie and love to eat. I do proper exercise on daily basis just to maintain my body figure.
If you could only use one social media platform, which would you choose?
Facebook.
What is your most memorable fashion show or commercial to-date?
The first fashion show that kick started my modeling career that was the most memorable fashion show. I was a quick learner and picked up how to walk it was a good experience. In my first ramp walk people liked me and appreciated me that appreciation made me a successful model.
What do you do in your leisure time?
In free time I prefer to stay at home and spend time on social media or with friends.
What is your favorite place to travel?
I prefer to spend time anywhere near nature, away from city’s busy life.
Is it difficult to become a model in this patriarchal society?
To start as a model is not tough. Any good looking guy or girl can pursue this career. But to make your name in fashion industry you need to work really hard because it is a full time job. It’s just like you have to look good all the time even in your worst.
How do you face criticism?
I take it very positively. Infect I love criticism because only then I realize in which areas I lack and should improve myself.
How would you define fashion?
Fashion defines you actually. Everyone has sense of wearing clothes according to their personality. You can improve it by following latest trends.
What do you usually wear in daily life?
At home I’m in pajamas and tees. When I go out I’m more comfortable wearing jeans and tops.
Anything new in pipeline that Kanwal Ilyas fans should be looking forward to?
Soon I’ll be working for silver screen.