Crafting Identity Through Costume Design: My Experience with" Gunah"

As a costume designer, every project I undertake is an opportunity to bring characters to life through the clothes they wear, blending narrative with visual storytelling. My journey with the television miniseries Gunah (2023) was a deeply enriching experience, one where I had the privilege of working with some of the finest actors and behind-the-scenes talent in the industry.

About Gunah
Gunah is a gripping Pakistani television drama, directed by Adnan Sarwar, that aired from June 15 to July 20, 2023, on Express Entertainment. The series revolves around Malik Hayat Khan (Sarmad Khoosat), whose wife goes missing, and the chaos that ensues as he tries to unravel the mystery. The narrative explores themes of loss, power, betrayal, and justice, with standout performances from the talented cast, including Saba Qamar, Rabia Butt, Juggan Kazim, and Faiz Chauhan.

Costume Design: A Deep Dive into Character and Storytelling
When I first read the script of Gunah, I was immediately struck by its complex characters and the intricate, emotional journey they would undertake. As the costume designer, my job was to ensure that each character’s attire would reflect their role in the story—whether it be their background, personality, or their psychological evolution throughout the series.

For example, Sarmad Khoosat’s character, Malik Hayat Khan, is a man of influence and authority, and his wardrobe had to communicate his power and leadership, yet also his vulnerabilities. I chose structured, dark-colored suits that symbolized his high status, but with a slight rustic touch to reflect the inner turmoil he faced.

On the other hand, Saba Qamar’s character, Gul Meher, was an embodiment of grace and resilience. Her outfits were designed to reflect her elegance and strength, while subtle details in fabric choices conveyed her emotional complexity. The contrast between her public persona and private struggles was important to show through her attire.

For supporting characters like SHO Sabiha (Rabia Butt) and Gul Noor (Juggan Kazim), I paid close attention to the socio-economic standing and personal journeys of each role. SHO Sabiha, a professional with authority, wore sleek, functional clothing that commanded respect. Meanwhile, Gul Noor's costumes were designed to reflect a more grounded and relatable character—her outfits were more practical, showing the difference between her and the upper echelons of society.

The Art of Bringing a Story to Life
The beauty of costume design lies in the details. It’s about more than just dressing a character—it’s about embodying their essence, their struggles, and their growth. Every fabric choice, every color palette, and every accessory had a purpose. From the vintage pieces to the modern cuts, the costumes served as a silent yet powerful layer to the storytelling.

Gunah was a collaboration with an incredibly talented team of directors, actors, and production designers, and it was an honor to contribute to such a compelling and multi-dimensional narrative. Watching the characters come alive on screen, and seeing how the costumes helped shape their identities, was truly a fulfilling experience.

Reflections on the Journey
Working on Gunah was a deep learning experience for me. It reaffirmed my belief in the power of costume design as a tool for storytelling. The way clothing reflects a person’s journey, both internally and externally, is profound. As a designer, my role was to interpret the character's journey and translate it into visuals that complement the story—creating a seamless integration between the character’s emotions and their physical appearance.

As I look back on the production of Gunah, I feel incredibly proud of the work we accomplished. The cast’s powerful performances, combined with the thoughtful design choices, made the series an unforgettable visual and emotional experience for the audience.

I hope that Gunah left a lasting impact on viewers, not only through its storyline but also through the way its characters were visually brought to life. For me, as a costume designer, it was a rewarding chapter that I will always cherish.