Describe your persona.
Fatima Butt: Quintessentially a normal human being, in pursuit of understanding life, taking on each challenge to the best of my ability. In the process, getting to know strength, bravery, humility and self-awareness. My persona, you can say, is of a woman who believes there is much more in us than we know; hence the energy, positivity and the amazement at how life unfolds.
Tell us about the journey so far. How did it all start?
FB: Well, this journey started a long time ago when I was a school girl and my love for music and the performing arts emerged as my primary fuel, which geared and equipped me for my exhilarating journey. I got into designing 15 years ago, and have exhibited my work at various multi-brand stores in Lahore, Islamabad, and Dubai – The Designers’ Lounge, Soiree, Collage in Dubai, FPL, and L’atelier in Pakistan, to name a few. I got into make-up as a trajectory to my yearning to understand and learn the impact our style can have on our daily lives, but what I really loved was creating looks for my clients. I officially started when I was offered to style the upcoming movie Zarrar by our super-talented actor and director Shaan, and it was at this point that I realised this was my dream job. This was where I could utilise all the experience that I had gained over the years.
Have you received professional training in this field?
FB: After my graduation I did professional fashion courses from the London College of Fashion and took make-up courses. However, I believe styling is an innate skill set, a product of my own personal formation, coupled with the sense of developing signature styles for my clients.
As a stylist, what exactly does your job entail?
FB: Post discussion with the director and relevant team members, I create a style board for each character, including hair and make-up options. Once the look is approved, my team and I work on the final wardrobe. When filming is in process, clothes and accessories are available on set and are professionally handled. Make-up and hair are done under my supervision, in line with how I perceive the character to be.
How do you plan for a styling project?
FB: It depends on the time given. Usually for commercials we are given two to three days; movies are different. In TV commercials, my team and I are expected to get all the wardrobe and accessories together in the shortest possible time – which is challenging, but also a driving factor for me as I love taking up challenges. I take a few hours to plan where and what to buy for each character, and then it’s hunting time. Things are bought according to the talent’s measurements and perfectly set with ironing and tailoring facilities on the set in case of any alteration or emergency. We usually keep options as the mood of the director can change on the set and I don’t like disappointing my director.
You have worked on several high-profile styling projects. Would you like to tell us about them?
FB: Alhamdulillah I have had a chance to work with great directors in Pakistan and abroad in a very short period of time. I’m working with Shaan who is the director of Zarrar, then I have done commercials for Zong4G with Marco Pinesi, Telenor, Pepsi, Zong, Sooper and Peanut Pik Biscuits with the visual maestro Asad ul Haq. I have also been part of numerous other reputable projects which I am proud and grateful for.
What are some of the current projects you are working on?
FB: We have just completed the last spell of Zarrar in Turkey. I’m working on a Telenor TVC with Asad ul Haq, and there are many other projects which are in pipeline. Apart from that my sister Rabia and I have re-launched our new studio for our clothing line, CollectionR.
What are some of the challenges you have encountered?
FB: Honestly, I just love my work and enjoy every bit of it. Everyone is so wonderful: the talent, the crew, the production teams and the make-up artists. We have amazing talent here. In long movie spells that go on for two or three weeks, sometimes you get sleep deprived but it’s all worth it when you see the final result on screen.
How do you strike a good balance between family and work?
FB: My family is extremely cooperative. They have always encouraged me to follow my heart and fulfill my dreams. My daughters love and support me. I try to give maximum time to my family when I am not working. But I can’t thank Allah enough for giving me such an understanding and loving circle of family and close friends.
How would you describe your fashion sense and your personal style?
FB: I prefer to keep things classic and minimalistic. I am not a fan of prints, only solid colours for me. I like giving a contemporary twist by paying attention to details like cuts, colours, shoes and accessories. I love mixing high end and high street brands, and usually my accessory game is subtle but on point. I love following trends but only the ones that click with my mood at that time and only if they suit me.
My wardrobe has a lot of blacks, browns and off whites. The right hairdo, even if it’s a high messy bun, needs to complement the look. I own a lot of sunglasses and I feel that choosing the right one for the look you are going for is very important. Intense deep fragrances for me all the way. Heels, oh yes! I believe in keeping my heels, head and standards high. (Laughs)
What is your diet and fitness regime?
FB: Being a Kashmiri and a Lahori on top of that, I love food and that too desi! I eat everything but in small portions and every few hours, so basically four to five small meals a day. Not a fan of sodas at all. Instead, lots of water for me during the day. I am a huge advocate of a healthy, balanced lifestyle, and my fitness regime includes weight training, a bit of cardio three to five times a week without fail, and adequate supplements.
How do you unwind after a stressful day at work?
FB: I need my ‘me time’ at night, which starts with catching up with my prayers and reading at least a page of the Holy Quran.
Then there is my notebook to write in as I love writing poetry, my music and my snack tray.
Tell us about the inspiration behind your work.
FB: Well, it has been different for me. I was born with a golden spoon, and enjoyed a very comfortable and luxurious lifestyle. Prior to my divorce I worked for fun, but post divorce it was all about proving it to myself first, and then to all those who deserted me, or thought I couldn’t survive and do something in life on my own. Not having parents made me realise that this society has a hard time accepting divorced women.
My sisters Rabia and Mona, friends Maritza, Nazi, and Radya have been my biggest support. I wanted to – and still want to – show all women out there who feel weak and ill-equipped or are made to feel that by the society, that we are all gifted one way or the other. We just need to get out there with courage and do something. This need to prove my worth as a single working woman inspired me. My daughters Sana and Aimen inspired me, for they always supported and loved me. I wanted them to see their mother working hard, keeping her values right and loving what she does. Actions do speak louder than words.
What has been your most rewarding moment in life so far?
FB: In the process of finding tranquility and balance in life, I was exposed to the teachings of the great saint Shiekh Abdul Qadir Jeelani, which led me to the true purpose of life. This enlightenment essentially led and guided me to perform Hajj four years ago. The feeling of letting go – of all that was polluting my existence – for Allah’s sake, was probably the most wonderful and rewarding feeling I have ever felt. After that everything changed for me. I found Maritza, Ijaz Shahid and Hashim Ali who are friends like family, as well as a few who made me realise what true relationships, love and support are.
I can’t thank Allah enough for giving me that chance to let go.
What are your future plans and where do you see yourself in five years?
FB: It’s often asked: “What is the best way to live?” The answer to this question lies within the same statement and that is “to live”.
Honestly, I don’t like to plan for the distant future as I have learnt one thing in life: The more you want to plan or control the future, the more it slips away from your hand. It’s like a Higher Force wants you to keep faith in Him, work hard and hope for the best. The rest just falls in place. For the time being, I want to work, take on new interesting projects, meet new people and learn something new every day. I want to take CollectionR, the clothing line that my sister Rabia and I run, further. Work hard and give it my best shot, but I do wish to have a place or studio which I can run as a style influencer. A lot of people have the money to spend but don’t know what looks good on them keeping their lifestyle, body shape, complexion in mind. I wish people would realise the need of a style influencer and personal stylist in this country.
INTERVIEW: SARA AMIR TURAB
PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF FATIMA BUTT
