This week, You! chats with stylist and creative director Tabesh Khoja about his journey, fashion and everything in between…
you & me
His entry into fashion was not exactly planned. After losing his father at the age of three, Tabesh was raised with the support of his uncles and initially worked as a paralegal at his uncle’s law firm. His interest in fashion eventually led him to study at the Asian Institute of Fashion Design (AIFD), where his career began to take a different direction.
A connection with designer Asim Jofa, who was a client at the law firm, led to an internship. He later joined Frieha Altaf’s team, where he gained experience in fashion shows, PR and model casting. His association with Nabila became a defining point in his career, with her mentorship helping him find his footing in styling and setting him on the path he continues to follow today.
Over the years, Tabesh has worked on fashion weeks, campaigns and major industry events, while also playing a role in discovering and developing new modelling talent. From his work with Nabila to his own growing presence in the fashion industry, his career has taken him through several sides of the business. This week, he talks to You! about fashion, style, work and the things that inspire him…
What first drew you to fashion?
My journey began in 2012 when Nabila picked me straight out of AIFD. Learning beauty and fashion from someone like her taught me a lot about discipline, creativity and trust. Her guidance gave me the foundation I needed to grow in the industry.
What was your vision when you started styling?
It was quite simple: I wanted to reject mediocrity, stay focused and stand by my decisions. At the time, styling wasn’t really seen as a profession in Pakistan, so it took years of hard work and consistency to establish it. Seeing styling taken seriously as a proper craft today is something I’m very proud of.
You were among the first to show the behind-the-scenes side of fashion on social media. What made you start?
Backstage is where so much of the excitement happens. In the early days of Instagram, I started filming those moments on my phone and sharing them. People enjoyed seeing the preparation, last-minute changes and everything that goes on before a runway show. It felt more real than only showing the final look.
What do you look for in a new model?
It’s instinct and I’ve learned to trust it. A pretty face or good height isn’t enough. I look for presence, character and individuality. I also look at how willing they are to learn and grow.
Fashion in one word?
Style.
Is style born or learned?
It’s in the DNA. You either have the eye or you don’t.
How would you describe your personal style?
Effortlessly cool with a chic edge.
Your favourite designer?
Balenciaga. I love its avant-garde approach.
Monochrome or maximum colour?
Monochrome. Tonal dressing always looks polished.
Minimalist chic or full-blown drama?
Full-blown drama. Give me the camp and couture!
Tailored suit or effortless streetwear?
Streetwear. It’s comfortable, elevated and always gives you room to play.
High fashion or comfort?
Cosy-chic. If you’re not comfortable, you’re not serving.
The most overrated fashion trend right now?
Those bulky dad sneakers with exaggerated soles. Definitely not for me.
Sneakers with formalwear: pass or play?
Pass. High-low styling can look great when done right.
The ultimate red-carpet cardinal sin?
Bad shoes. They can ruin an entire look.
The last thing you check before a client hits the red carpet?
A full head-to-toe check. Every detail matters.
Your go-to accessory?
Gold-rimmed round sunglasses. They instantly elevate a look.
One celebrity you’d love to style?
Zendaya. She’s such a style chameleon and rarely gets it wrong.
What bores you the most?
Monotony. Basic, repetitive outfits and uninspired looks.
Your favourite restaurant?
Anywhere with great food and a good atmosphere.
What are your healthy habits?
Staying hydrated. It keeps my skin clear and my energy up.
The song that always gets you on the dance floor?
‘Happy’ by Pharrell Williams. Pure feel-good energy.
The last thing you received as a gift?
A Santos de Cartier watch.
Do you remember your first pay cheque?
Yes, a humble 10k. We all have to start somewhere.
How do you spend your Sundays?
Lounge mode. I like to relax and recharge.
The first thing you do when you wake up?
Check my phone and catch up on social media.
If you could revisit any era, which would it be?
The 1920s. The Gatsby era had incredible fashion, glamour and decadence.
The most important relationship lesson you’ve learnt?
Believe in yourself first. Never lose your individuality trying to fit into someone else’s idea of you.
Where do you think Pakistani fashion is headed?
We’ve relied heavily on traditional grandeur for a long time. Celebrating our heritage is important but repeating the same formulas can become predictable. We need to find a better balance between business and creativity. If everything is driven by what’s commercially safe, we stop taking risks and fashion needs those risks to keep evolving.
What’s next for you?
I want to keep creating, inspiring people and hopefully leave the industry a little better than I found it. In the coming years, I hope to be more evolved, more experienced and at the peak of my career.
