Menahel and Mehreen’s Karachi store has some lovely new arrivals. A store that has disappointed at times with low stock and insufficient choice is looking good this season. Take notice though – Menahel and Mehreen’s understated, luxe style is not for everyone. They use only pure fabrics and very subtle detailing so you don’t necessarily get much bling for your bucks. What you do get is exquisitely finished, elegant ensembles that can be dressed up or down according to the occasion.
Menahel and Mehreen tend to use silk net or voile, lined with pure silk or lace. Their detailing is beautiful – from immaculate pleating to hand-embroidered buttons, no expense is spared. With beading, pearls and subtle bling, the outfits are understated, yet formal. Where the store has disappointed in the recent past is by not having enough new designs or because of limited colours and sizes. Karachi’s style lovers have come to expect innovation from Menahel and Mehreen and at times the stock has disappointed. In a sense, the designers have been victims of their own success, with new designs flying off the shelves.
Currently, however, the store is full of lovely outfits. One that caught my eye is a cape-sleeved voile tunic with a lace chemise. The tunic is embellished with 3D embroidered dragonflies and is quintessential Menahel and Mehreen – stylish, subtle and beautiful. At Rs20,000, it is firmly in the luxury pret strata but worth it when compared to similarly priced designer pret available in Karachi.
Another stunning piece is this one modelled by the designers’ friend Samira Dada. With tone-on-tone cutwork, organza pleating and delicate braiding on the neckline, it’s another piece that has flown off the shelves. Previously available in lime, the tunic is now in stock in a gorgeous dusky pink, priced at Rs22,000.
Also in stock are their trademark beaded shrugs and deceptively simple kurtas with blingy buttons. From embroidered jackets to pleated camisoles, the store is full of interesting pieces. Definitely worth a look.
While you’re in store, sign up for their periodic viewings of formals. Their way of producing formal wear is quite possibly unique. They embroider a selection of outfits and then hold a viewing, where customers pre-book the outfits. These are then finished according to the customer’s requirements. It’s a frustrating process for a customer looking to lock-in an outfit for a family wedding but if you manage to get your hands on one of their outfits, you’re sure to standout. You do have to be persistent though – I’ve asked about viewings many times and have only managed to get to one, though their regular customers seem to have no problems.
Menahel and Mehreen Store Location and contact details:
Address: F39/2, Block 4 Clifton – in the lane opposite Koel Cafe
Tel: 021-35820041
021-35820042
Email: [email protected]
