Rawalpindi - The swiftly changing trend of branded bridal dresses has significance in the eyes of a bride but the affordability of certain segments of society has also given an edge to the replicas to stay in market.

For bridal dresses, girls constantly look at fashion markets, top designers and renowned bridal shops but they also have to keep in mind huge expenditures incurred on the marriages.

Anum Nisar, a bride looking for a dress at a shopping mall said, “I have visited many designers but they don’t meet my budget. The range of designer’s dresses is from Rs 100,000 to Rs 500,000. I am glad that a replica of a designer cost me Rs 50,000 of same quality and standard.”

While talking to APP Sarah Babur, a shop owner, said, “We are very much aware of the affordability factor and everybody cannot buy designers’ dresses. Therefore, replicas are alternative options.”

“We have to pay at many steps as it involves choice of fabric, dying, fancy work and stitching. The artisans have increased their rates as compared to last year,” she added.

Shakir Roohi, a famous designer said, “The dresses of brides are mostly heavily embellished with zari work, stone work, cut dana, applique, thread embroidery and dabka. In thread embroidery silk thread is customary used which enhances the beauty of the dress.” He said, “The stuff of cloth used is pure chiffon, silk, China silk, jamawar, organza, georgette, net and crinkle chiffon. Pure fabric increases the price of the dress and we don’t compromise on quality that’s why our prices are high.”