HSY’s incredible journey exhausted him, disappointed him and angered him, but ultimately rose him to such a gradeur of greatness that none can deny his success and contribution towards the revival of Pakistan’s fashion industry. The multi-taleed star choreographes his shows and that of other designers, he hosts and models. He is well spoken and always portrays a postive image of Pakistan across the globe.The success of Pakistan’s fashion industry and Hassan Shehryar Yasin goes side by side. Both have passed through hardships and refused to bend before tiring times. As far as local business are concerned, the remarkable HSY has challenged many fashion stereotypes and gave a new recognition to Pakistani couture. It is for his contributions that whenever and wherever you hear about Pakistan’s fashion industry, you will hear about HSY. In this exclusive interview, the fashion wonderkind discusses his legacy with us.

1.     You have completed more than two decades in fashion and have created your very own legacy in Pakistani fashion. When you started off, did you ever think you would come so far?

My role model, my mother, always told me hard work and dedication pays off. I’ve had several bumps during my career, but with my families constant support and faith in hard work has got me this far.

2.     When it comes to making clothes that be commercially successful, what’s your motto?

As a designer I feel creating the right balance between being creative and practicality is key. We try constantly to produce beautiful ensemble’s that are creative yet practical for our clients.

3.     Over the period of years, you have managed to maintain a strong signature while presenting collections that still offer something with a twist season after season. How do you do it?

I believe this is something that you learn over time working with different clients and markets. I also think that as a designer the key is to discover your signature style and then not be afraid to experiment and fuse different styles in it.

4.     Your creations exude luxury and timelessness. What is your largest source of inspiration?

My greatest source of inspiration for the brand comes from my travels around the world, different people I meet from various cultures and the books I read.

5.     What do you believe makes you successful as a designer?

I think its hard work, passion and the desire to do new things constantly.

6.     Since you started out, how do you think your aesthetic as a designer has evolved?

As I have mentioned above, I have learned my signature style and preference with time through working with different clients and market. Now, a HSY outfit is easily distinguishable among other designers. I consider this as one of my greatest achievements as a designer.

7.     What do you believe recently has been the biggest break in your career nationally and internationally?

There have been quite a few, I think the one’s I can remember recently is HSY featured in Condé Nast’s Schön! Magazine and being in the top 20 fashion icons in the world in IQ magazine.

8.     For a designer who is just starting out, what do you think is the most important element?

I think one must have self-belief and patience to be successful. Success only come’s with hard work and dedication.

9.     In the fashion industry, which of your contemporaries’ work do you find interesting?

I look up to Nilofer Shahid and Bunto Kazmi, they are amazing women and true institutions.

10.You have almost done it all in the fashion, lifestyle and entertainment industry. What’s next?

HSY is a lifestyle brand, we are constantly trying to take up new projects and never shy away from stepping out of our comfort zone.

11.You have just launched #CastMeHSY, tell us more about it?

We have launched a brand new all Pakistan interactive campaign, #CastMeHSY:  A nationwide call to action, The campaign gives all aspiring male and female models the opportunity to be part of the World of HSY with a campaign that includes a chance to be featured in a HSY photo shoot and to walk the ramp for HSY in Lahore.

12.Who are few of your favourite people in the fashion industry currently?

I have been lucky enough to make several friends in this journey from the fashion industry, it wouldn’t be unfair to few names here.

13.How do you think the Pakistani fashion industry has evolved and where do you see it going in the next few years?

The Pakistani fashion industry has come a long way since I started, there is immense amount of talent in this country. I feel the mind set of designers and customers have transformed in the past few year for the better. With so much recent international recognition and local competition, we are being pushed to do better work year by year.

Rapid Fire

International designers that always inspire you?

Dolce Gabbana, Valentino and Giorgio Armani.

One word you would use to describe:

Oscar de la Renta: Timeless

Elie Saab:  Mesmerising

John Galliano: Revolutionary

Tom Ford: Rockstar

Alexander Wang: Edgy

Giorgio Armani: Classic

Umar Sayeed: Elegant

Maheen Kardar Ali: Chic

Kamiar Rokni: Traditional

Your dream client (s) – international and local?

Internationally I would love to dress Kate Moss and locally I would have loved to dress Nazia Hassan.

Best advice you ever got?

Persevere in the face of hardship.

From items you’ve created, do you have a favourite?

Every piece is special to me; I put my heart and soul into every design.

Places you visit for inspiration?

I love travelling all over the world; Paris, New York etc.

Your favourite movie?

The Godfather Trilogy.

Favourite guest you’ve had on your show so far?

All my friends have appeared on my show, so no favourites.

Someone you would love to have on your show?

I would have loved to have Madam Noor Jehan on my show.

3 items you would take to a deserted island?

My I phone, Ray Ban glasses and My Toy Watch.