Inside Islamabad’s Emerging Modeling Industry

1 view
Skip to first unread message

Shokat Ali

unread,
Jun 5, 2025, 1:06:30 PMJun 5
to Nishag

Islamabad, Pakistan’s serene and organized capital, is traditionally known for its diplomatic presence, government institutions, and natural beauty. Yet, in recent years, another side of the city has begun to flourish quietly — its modeling and fashion industry. While cities like Lahore and Karachi have long dominated the national fashion scene, Islamabad is rapidly cultivating its own identity in this creative arena.

Fueled by a digitally connected youth, growing social openness, and increasing commercial demand, Islamabad's modeling industry is finding its voice. Let’s take a deep dive into how this city is shaping a new narrative in fashion, who’s leading the charge, and what challenges lie ahead.

A Quiet Yet Bold Rise

Unlike the glamor-saturated image of Karachi’s fashion weeks or Lahore’s couture circles, Islamabad’s entry into the modeling industry has been more organic and grassroots-driven. Young photographers, aspiring models, indie designers, and social media influencers are collectively building a culture of creativity and self-expression.

This growth is largely influenced by three key trends:

  1. The Rise of Social Media Platforms: Instagram and TikTok have democratized exposure. A model in Islamabad can now build a following, collaborate with brands, and reach nationwide recognition without a traditional agency.

  2. University Pop Culture: Islamabad’s top educational institutions like NUST, COMSATS, and Quaid-i-Azam University are incubators of talent, hosting fashion shows, themed events, and photo projects that provide models with their first gigs.

  3. Shift in Social Norms: The city’s middle and upper-middle class youth are increasingly embracing artistic careers, including modeling. While still conservative in many ways, Islamabad is developing safe spaces for creative expression.

Who’s Behind the Movement?

A range of professionals is contributing to Islamabad’s modeling scene — not just models but also stylists, makeup artists, photographers, and digital marketers. Here’s a closer look at the key players:

1. Freelance and Instagram Models

Rather than working exclusively with agencies, many Islamabad-based models are building their own brand identities online. By posting styled photoshoots, behind-the-scenes content, and collaborating with local designers or beauty brands, they gain traction organically.

Notable micro-influencers have used their platforms to land commercial shoots, brand ambassadorships, and magazine features, setting a new standard for what it means to "make it" in the industry.

2. Photographers and Stylists

Photographers play a huge role in shaping Islamabad's modeling scene. Local talents like Ahsan Qureshi, Bilal Saeed, and a new generation of Instagram-savvy visual artists are known for editorial-style shoots that rival international standards. Their work often incorporates Islamabad’s natural beauty — from the Margalla Hills to colonial-era architecture — giving a distinct aesthetic to the city’s modeling output.

Stylists and makeup artists like MUAbyZahra or Face It by Alina are also essential, offering high-quality services that elevate the professional appearance of aspiring models.

3. Fashion Startups and Indie Designers

Islamabad’s boutique labels and online clothing brands provide an ever-growing source of work for new models. From bridal couture to Western streetwear, these brands are investing in localized photoshoots, fashion lookbooks, and influencer campaigns, enabling models to diversify their portfolios.

Key Platforms and Events

Islamabad’s modeling industry doesn’t yet host full-scale fashion weeks like other cities, but several platforms and events are helping fill the gap:

  • University Fashion Shows: Often held at institutions like NUST and FAST, these events are breeding grounds for fresh modeling talent.

  • Bridal Expos and Lifestyle Exhibitions: These provide commercial exposure for models working with bridal designers, makeup brands, and event management companies.

  • Creative Collaborations: Local fashion photographers frequently organize thematic shoots for online publications, portfolios, or social media releases — and these have become key platforms for emerging models.

  • Influencer Events: Instagram meetups and PR campaigns offer paid modeling work tied to digital marketing efforts.

Breaking Stereotypes and Expanding Representation

One notable aspect of Islamabad’s modeling rise is the push for diversity. Unlike the historically narrow standards of beauty in mainstream media, Islamabad’s emerging industry is promoting more inclusive representations in terms of ethnicity, body type, and personal style.

While challenges persist, especially regarding conservative backlash or social limitations, many models in Islamabad take pride in challenging stereotypes. There’s a growing movement that sees modeling not as vanity, but as art, confidence, and storytelling.

Opportunities in a Growing Market

Islamabad’s modeling industry is still growing, but the opportunities are expanding:

1. Brand Collaborations

From local skincare products to online fashion stores, Islamabad’s market is booming with small businesses looking for affordable, stylish promotion. Models play a central role in this advertising evolution.

2. YouTube and Content Creation

Many Islamabad-based models have pivoted into vlogging, beauty tutorials, and lifestyle content. This hybrid role of model + influencer is increasingly popular and profitable.

3. Commercial Advertising

TV commercials, digital ads, and product launches are now being filmed in Islamabad as production houses branch out of Karachi. This brings paid opportunities for new faces.

4. International Platforms

Some Islamabad-based models have gained recognition abroad by submitting portfolios to international agencies or taking part in global campaigns led by Pakistani brands with foreign operations.

Challenges on the Path

Despite the progress, Islamabad’s modeling industry faces significant obstacles that must be addressed to ensure sustainable growth:

1. Limited Professional Agencies

Unlike Karachi or Lahore, Islamabad lacks established modeling agencies. Most models work freelance, which provides flexibility but limits access to structured career support, legal protection, and formal training.

2. Social Resistance and Stigma

Modeling, particularly for women, still carries a social stigma in more conservative parts of Islamabad. Many aspiring models struggle with family or community pressure, and the lack of widespread acceptance can limit exposure or even force individuals to remain anonymous.

3. Unregulated Industry Practices

Without proper contracts, codes of conduct, or professional HR processes, new models can be vulnerable to exploitation, delayed payments, and unprofessional behavior. The need for ethical standards and unionized protection is increasingly urgent.

4. Low Pay for Newcomers

Many shoots offer little or no pay, especially for beginners. The expectation to work "for exposure" persists — making it difficult for financially independent careers to flourish.

The Road Ahead

Islamabad’s modeling industry is still taking shape — and that’s exactly where its power lies. It’s a city where new rules are being written, often by young people who are using creativity, digital platforms, and a desire for representation to redefine fashion and modeling for their generation.

To support this journey, the industry needs:

  • Training academies or mentorship programs to professionalize talent.

  • Safe creative spaces where diverse expressions of beauty can flourish without fear.

  • Networking events and collaborations that connect Islamabad with the wider fashion circuits in Karachi, Lahore, and abroad.

Conclusion

Islamabad’s modeling industry is no longer just an undercurrent — it’s a movement. Behind the camera flashes, curated feeds, and runway walks is a generation of young creatives who are reshaping how the city sees fashion, identity, and artistic ambition.

As the capital city grows not just politically but culturally, modeling in Islamabad is becoming a symbol of change — a bold new face for a bold new generation.

Reply all
Reply to author
Forward
0 new messages