Khadijah Shah founded Elan in 2006 building on her mother's small atelier. She studied at the London School of Economics and not fashion school which is why Elan pieces feel different. The dresses are less costume and more couture. Embellishments that enhance the look of the dress and designs that stand out rather than just following trends.
The result? A brand worn by Mahira Khan, Ayesha Omar, and even Kate Middleton. A name that means something in Pakistani fashion.
What Makes Elan Embroidery Different
If you have worn Elan before, you know. The embroidery isn't just decoration it's style. Each dress has combined multiple techniques that most brands can not even replicate:
Cutwork: The dresses has intricate patterns cut into fabric. That's Elan's signature.
Zari & Dabka: The dresses has metallic threadwork in gold and silver color. It looks like handwork.
Pearl Embellishment: Hand-embellished pearls placed with precision. Not scattered randomly and positioned appropriately.
Vintage French Embroidery: This technique has taken from European couture. It is delicate, refined, and timeless.
Threadwork: Detailed motifs that take hours to complete. The foundation of every Elan dress.
This is why Elan bridal pieces take weeks to produce. This is why the embroidery holds up after years of wear and the piece look fresh after years.
The Elan Aesthetic: What to Expect
Elan's signature look isn't loud. It's soft.
Colours
Elan dresses are soft pastels like blush, lilac, turquoise, champagne, ivory. When Elan does bold, it is intentional emerald green, deep blue, and pure black.
Silhouettes
Cutwork and Premium fabrics that are long, flowy pieces that move with you. Styles that are designed to complement you.
Fabrics
Elan use gossamer organza, rich raw silk, premium lawn, pure chiffon. Elan knows that the fabric is the foundation.
Details
Motifs are arranged with intention. Embellishments that enhance the look of the dress rather than excessing the design.
Elan Collections We Stock
Elan releases seasonal collections throughout the year. Here's what we offers:
Elan Lawn
Premium cotton with signature prints and embroidery. Lighter than other designer lawns but with more finishing. The prints feel lightweight. Works for UK summers, Eid gatherings, and smart casual occasions.
Elan Luxury Pret
Ready-to-wear pieces with couture-level finishing. Organza, silk, and grip fabrics with detailed embellishment. These are the pieces you reach for when you want to make an impression.
Elan Bridal & Couture
This is where Elan really shines. Lehengas, ghararas, and gowns with hundreds of hours of handwork. Unique designs, intricate beadwork and embellishments. Investment pieces for your most important occasions.
Elan Winter (Khaddar, Karandi, Velvet)
Warmer fabrics for UK winters. Rich colours which are deeper than summer palettes. Embroidery adapts to heavier materials while maintaining the signature Elan element.
Sizing & Fit
Elan runs true to Pakistani sizing. For UK buyers:
XS → UK 6-8
S → UK 8-10
M → UK 10-12
L → UK 12-14
XL → UK 14-16
Why Buy Elan From Maria Faisal?
Elan pieces are an investment. You want to know they're real.
Authentication
Original tags, original packaging, verified stock from registered vendor. If you're unsure, ask us for close-up photos.
UK Shipping
Ships from our local warehouse which means no customs and no surprise fees at delivery. Standard 2-3 weeks, express available.
Tailoring
We have brand tailors stitching service. Send us your measurements via WhatsApp for custom fitting on unstitched pieces.
Returns
UK returns accepted. Unworn, tags attached. See our returns policy for details.
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Questions About Elan
Where can I buy authentic Elan by Khadijah Shah in the UK?
Maria Faisal is the registered vendor for Elan Clothing in the UK. Every piece comes with original Elan packaging. We source directly – no replicas, no "inspired by" pieces.
Why is Elan more expensive than other brands?
The Elan's pieces are statement and has handwork. Elan has special embroidery techniques including cutwork, zari, dabka, pearl embellishment. It requires skilled artisans and significant time.
Which Elan collection is best for a UK wedding guest?
Elan Wedding Festive has the organza or silk pieces from the luxury wedding range. They feel special, and work in both winter and summer wedding venues.
Do you stock Elan bridal?
Yes. We carry formal and bridal pieces up to £1,865. For full couture bridals, contact us. We can source specific pieces with lead time.
What's the difference between Elan and Zaha?
Same designer Khadijah Shah. Zaha is a more accessible sub-brand with lower price points. Elan is the main line with premium fabrics and more intensive handwork.
How do I care for Elan pieces?
Dry clean for embellished pieces. Hand wash lawn in cold water, air dry. Never squeeze embroidered fabrics. Store organza and silk in breathable garment bags.
Do you ship Elan internationally?
Yes, We are based in the UK and ship to USA, Canada, Europe, Middle East – worldwide delivery available. Contact us for shipping rates outside UK or may calculate at the checkout.
Free UK shipping with code SHIPFREE
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