Shopping for shalwar kameez

The American journalists on the Pakistan-US exchange needed business attire for most of our meetings in Pakistan's capital, and that meant going shopping for a shalwar kameez at an upscale shop called Khaadi.

It's the national dress for both men and women, although there are many regional and ethnic variations. I saw them on both villagers and VIPs like Imran Khan, the cricket star turned politician.

It wasn't easy to figure out what size our American bodies would need, so we had to try them on. I ended up with the design shown on the model at the front door of the shop. We were assured that these garments were "good" quality; you can pay a lot more for high-end designs encrusted with jewels, or a lot less for a simpler version at a street bazaar. I paid about $40 for my outfit, which included fashionable long tights, intended to be gathered at the ankle.When I wore the clothing the next day, I wondered why this hasn't caught on the US; shalwar kameez are incredibly comfortable and flattering on almost everyone. However, I must point out that some people thought my "kurta" or top with handmade stitchery was more Afghan than Pakistani. What do you think?

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Family Night in Islamabad

Host families are one of the best features of the Pakistan-US journalists' exchange. Each visiting American was assigned to visit the home of a journalist working in Islamabad. I was paired with Dawn TV anchor Matiullah Jan, who also covers the courts at a time when Pakistan's judiciary is taking a more active role. He is best known for his program called "Apna Gareban" or "Under Our Collar" which exposed unethical behavior in the media.