With winter approaching, quality shawls become a wardrobe essential for those seeking warmth and style. Among luxury winterwear, the Pashmina shawl stands out for its timeless elegance, crafted from the ultra-fine fibers of the Changthangi Mountain Goat. Originating in Ladakh in northern India, these shawls carry a rich cultural heritage and are highly sought after worldwide. However, the market is flooded with imitations, making it crucial to know how to distinguish a true Pashmina. Here’s a guide on identifying an authentic Pashmina shawl and ensuring your investment reflects its genuine beauty and craftsmanship. 5 Effective Ways to Spot A Real Pashmina Shawl Feel the Softness  The hallmark of genuine Pashmina is its uniquely fine softness without compromising warmth. A gentle stroke over Pashmina feels feather-light, with an even smoothness across its entire surface. In contrast, synthetic or blended shawls often feel coarse, stiff, and less flexible, lacking the delicate texture of authentic Pashmina. Read more: How to Declutter Your Wardrobe to Donate Some Clothes Observe the Weave Original Pashmina fabrics are handwoven with traditional techniques. It results in a distinctive, slightly uneven weave that reflects the artisanal craftsmanship behind each piece.  Machine-made shawls, on the contrary, have a uniform, flawless weave, lacking this character. Holding the fabric reveals subtle differences, with these irregularities highlighting the skill and heritage embedded in pure Pashmina, all without compromising its flexibility or warmth. Sunlight Test Authentic Pashmina doesn’t shine when exposed to sunlight, as its natural fibers absorb light rather than reflect it. If a shawl glitters in direct light, it likely contains silk, nylon, or other synthetic materials. Read more: How to Choose the Best Fabric for Your Suit Though finely woven, this fabric is not transparent, meaning sunlight does not pass or refract through it; instead, it effectively blocks light. Static Check To test for synthetic content, gently rub the edge of the shawl between two fingers. Synthetic fibers generate static electricity through friction, causing the fibers to stand upright. Since the original Pashmina is made from natural wool, friction does not generate static electricity. As a result, the fine wool fibers remain in place without standing up when rubbed. Read more: How to Identify an Authentic Bangladeshi Jamdani Saree? Flame Test This test should only be used when other methods leave doubts, as it is best avoided unless necessary. It remains a highly effective technique for verifying authentic Pashmina, but caution is essential. Gently pull a small thread from the shawl and burn it. Genuine Pashmina will emit a scent similar to burning hair and turn to fine, powdery ash. In contrast, synthetic fibers will begin to melt, releasing a plastic-like odor and leaving a hardened residue as they burn. In a Nutshell Spotting a real Pashmina shawl requires attention to key characteristics that distinguish it from its synthetic counterparts. Texture, weave patterns, and burn tests offer physical indicators, while sunlight transparency and friction behavior further help identify natural versus synthetic fibers. Each method ensures an investment in a genuine piece of luxury crafted from Changthangi goat wool, embodying traditional craftsmanship. These five steps provide a reliable approach, enabling the selection of a true, high-quality shawl suited for warmth in winter and elegance. Read more: Personal Grooming Tips and Tricks for Better Life and Career

Ready to make a difference? Declutter your wardrobe and donate clothes to help those in need. It is a simple way to simplify your life and give back to others. Start by organising your wardrobe, choosing items in good condition, and making space while making a positive impact. Tips to Declutter Your Wardrobe to Donate Some Clothes Set Clear Goals Before you start decluttering, define your goals. Are you looking to reduce clutter or simply donate clothes? Setting clear objectives will keep you focused and motivated throughout the process.  Knowing why you are decluttering helps you make quicker decisions about what to keep and what to donate. It also ensures that you remain committed to the task, reducing the chances of giving up halfway. A clear goal can make the decluttering process more purposeful. Read more: How to Identify an Authentic Bangladeshi Jamdani Saree? Schedule Time for Decluttering Decluttering your wardrobe is a time-consuming task, so it is essential to set aside dedicated time. Depending on the size of your wardrobe, you might need a few hours or an entire day. Block out this time on your calendar to avoid distractions.  By allocating specific time, you can focus on the task at hand without feeling rushed. It also helps you mentally prepare, making the process smoother and more organised. It is necessary to remember that rushing can lead to poor decisions. Empty Your Closet Completely Start by emptying your entire closet. This allows you to see everything you own and prevents you from overlooking any items. Spread your clothes out on your bed or floor to get a full view.  By emptying your closet, you can better assess what you have, making it easier to identify duplicates or items you no longer need. It also gives you a clean slate to reorganise your space once the decluttering is complete. This step is crucial for thorough decluttering. Read more: Personal Grooming Tips and Tricks for Better Life and Career Categorise Your Clothes Create categories for your clothes: Keep, Donate, Toss, and Unsure. This methodical approach helps you organise your wardrobe more efficiently. As you sort through each item, decide which category it belongs to.  By doing this, you can streamline the decluttering process and make better decisions. It also makes it easier to identify which clothes are suitable for donation and which need to be discarded. Organising items into categories prevents you from keeping unnecessary clutter. Evaluate Each Item for Condition Carefully inspect each piece of clothing for wear and tear. Check for stains, holes, or fading. Only donate items that are in good condition. This ensures that your donations are usable and appreciated by the recipients. Evaluating the condition also helps you identify clothes that need repair before donation. Clothes in poor condition should be discarded or recycled. By donating only quality items, you contribute to the well-being of those in need and ensure your donations have a positive impact. Read more: Gemstones Guide: Precious, Semi-precious Stones Used in Jewelry Consider Last Worn Dates If you have not worn an item in over a year, it is time to consider letting it go. Clothes that sit unworn in your closet are prime candidates for donation. This rule helps you make quick decisions and reduces the emotional attachment to items.  By considering when you last wore something, you can better assess its relevance in your current wardrobe. Items that are no longer worn often indicate a change in style, size, or need. Letting go of these items frees up space and benefits others. Prioritise Fit and Comfort Try on clothes to ensure they still fit and are comfortable. If an item does not fit well or feels uncomfortable, it is unlikely you will wear it again. These items should go into the donation pile.  This ensures that your wardrobe consists only of clothes you love to wear. It also makes your daily dressing routine easier and more enjoyable. Donating ill-fitting clothes gives someone else the chance to use them, while you make room for items that suit you better. Read more: How to find right perfume, body spray for you

Suits are more than just formal attire for men; they are a statement of style, personality, and professionalism. The fabric of your suit plays a crucial role in its comfort, durability, and overall appearance. Selecting the right fabric can make all the difference, especially when it comes to creating a bespoke suit tailored specifically for you. In this article, we will explore the various types of suit fabrics, the factors to consider when choosing the best fabric for your suit, and some top suit fabric brands in Bangladesh. Types of Suit Fabric Wool Wool is an excellent choice for suits due to its exceptional versatility and comfort. It naturally breathes well, resists wrinkles, and offers warmth in winter. Its durability and ability to tailor beautifully make it a timeless option for any formal wardrobe which ensures a sharp and polished appearance year-round. Cotton Cotton is a great option for a suit, especially in warmer weather. It is lightweight, breathable, and more affordable than wool or linen. While it may wrinkle more easily, cotton offers a comfortable, casual fit that is ideal for summer. Its ease of care and versatility make it a practical choice for both office wear and special occasions.  Read more: How to Identify an Authentic Bangladeshi Jamdani Saree? Linen Linen is an awesome choice for suits in hot and humid climates due to its lightweight and breathable nature. Its natural wrinkling adds a relaxed, casual elegance making it perfect for summer events. Though it may wrinkle easily, linen’s airy feel and timeless appeal make it a standout option for warm-weather attire.  Silk Silk is an outstanding choice for a suit when you want to exude luxury and sophistication. It's natural sheen and soft drape make it perfect for special occasions and also add a touch of elegance to any ensemble. While delicate and requiring gentle care, silk or silk blends offer unparalleled refinement and style.  Polyester Polyester is a practical option for suits, offering durability, wrinkle resistance, and affordability. It is ideal for those seeking a low-maintenance suit that maintains a sharp, polished appearance. While it may not be as breathable as natural fibres, polyester suits are versatile and suitable for various occasions making them a budget-friendly choice.  Read more: Personal Grooming Tips and Tricks for Better Life and Career Velvet Velvet is an exceptional choice for a suit when you want to stand out with luxury and sophistication. Its plush, soft texture and distinctive sheen create a striking, elegant look ideal for formal events. Perfect for cooler weather, a velvet suit adds a touch of opulence and glamour to any occasion.  Factors to Consider While Choosing the Best Fabric for Your Bespoke Suit Climate and Season Climate is a crucial factor when choosing the best fabric for your bespoke suit. For colder climates, wool or flannel suits provide warmth and insulation.  In contrast, linen or cotton suits are ideal for warmer weather due to their lightweight and breathable qualities. Selecting a fabric that matches your climate ensures comfort and practicality, allowing you to look sharp while staying comfortable throughout the day.  Read more: Gemstones Guide: Precious, Semi-precious Stones Used in Jewellery Occasion The occasion for which you will be wearing the suit is a key factor in fabric selection. For formal events like weddings or business meetings, fabrics like wool, silk, or cashmere offer a refined and sophisticated look.  On the other hand, for more casual settings, lighter fabrics like linen or cotton provide a relaxed yet stylish appearance. The fabric should match the formality and purpose of the event to ensure appropriate attire. Comfort Comfort is essential when selecting the fabric for your bespoke suit, especially if you will wear it for long periods. Wool is a popular choice due to its natural breathability and temperature regulation, ensuring comfort in various climates.  Read more: How to buy men’s watches: A beginner’s guide For warmer weather, fabrics like cotton, linen, or lightweight wool blends are ideal, offering breathability and coolness. Choosing a fabric that feels good against your skin is crucial for all-day comfort. 

Nancy Tyagi, a Delhi-based fashion influencer, made her Cannes red carpet debut in a stunning pink gown. The influencer turned to Instagram to describe her "dream come true" experience. She disclosed in the post that her outfit was her own design rather than one from a designer house, reports NDTV. She dedicated her "heart and soul" into making her Cannes debut dress, which took her 30 days to complete. Sadia Khalid Reeti invited back as Fipresci jury at Cannes "Stepping onto the red carpet at the 77th Cannes Film Festival as a debutant feels surreal," Tyagi wrote. She also posted a series of images of herself on the famed red carpet. "I poured my heart and soul into creating this pink gown, which took 30 days, 1000 meters of fabric, and weighs over 20kg. The journey has been intense, but every moment was worth it. I'm overwhelmed with joy and gratitude for the love and support from all of you. This is a dream come true, and I hope my creation dazzles you as much as your support has inspired me. Thank you from the bottom of my heart!" the influencer added. Tyagi's post has received over 310,000 likes within a few hours of sharing. In the comments section, individuals complimented the fashion influencer, calling her "legendary." Cannes 2023: Johnny Depp overcome with emotion as film gets 7-min standing ovation "I don't why but it feels like we all have won here. I mean it's a dream for every small city ppl and she has done it so gracefully.. it feels like a personal win," one netizen wrote. "The happiest I've been for someone I don't personally know!" said another. "A story like this restores my belief in the power of hard work and goodness. Literally the most well deserved of all!" commented another person. Who Is Nancy Tyagi? Tyagi is from Uttar Pradesh. She graced the red carpet as a member of the Brut India squad. The content maker has 1.3 million Instagram followers and over a million YouTube subscribers. She is well-known for her amazing DIY talents. Over the years, she has even reproduced designs worn by celebrities from around the world. "I'm Nancy Tyagi, and I love anything and everything about Fashion! I create outfits from scratch and style them in my own way. Apart from that, I love trying out new makeup and skincare products, so check out my videos to know more!" — according to her YouTube page. Aishwarya Rai and Eva Longoria’s “spectacular” reunion on Cannes Red Carpet

Following a successful debut last October, Arka Fashion Week is set to captivate Dhaka again with its second installment this June, aiming to democratise fashion in Bangladesh. During a press conference held on Sunday at Aloki, Arka Fashion Week’s venue in Tejgaon, founder Asad Sattar, alongside co-organizers Tahsin N Choudhury, Aumia Khundkar, Shifa Mamoon, and Sk Saifur Rahman, detailed the enhancements planned for this year’s event. They expressed a shared goal to transition from being a major garment exporter to becoming a renowned fashion exporter. “We see the ‘Made in Bangladesh’ tags in our exported products across the world; however, very rarely do we see the ‘Designed in Bangladesh’ tags attached. While the absence of major retailers like H&M keeps Bangladeshi fashion entrepreneurs competitive, we need to be able to build ourselves up to meet the quality demands of a growing consumer base while also holding on to our own identity so we don't lose out to bigger retail giants like H&M and Zara. We can assure you that more than 90% of designers and participants in this fashion week will be from Bangladesh,” Asad Sattar said. The first Arka Fashion Week, held from October 26 to 28 last year, attracted over 7,000 attendees, resonating particularly with the youth. This year’s event promises to build on that enthusiasm, focusing heavily on homegrown designers and brands. The event will feature specially curated runway shows, clothes and accessories by the country’s best brands and designers, and most importantly, the event will continue to be a place for fashion-savvy individuals to express their sense of style, the organizers said. The event will once again have a food zone and diverse musical performances every night, along with its other exciting offerings - a dedicated Marketplace, an innovative Design Lab, The Runway and several exhibitions and seminars on different fashion-related topics. The Marketplace, the heart of the event, will house entrepreneurs and brands made in Bangladesh, which work with fashion, fashion accessories, and fashion-related products. A core philosophy to expect among the brands to be found in the Marketplace is sustainability. Most participants of ARKA Fashion Week Marketplace are small boutiques and/or e-commerce/f-commerce brands. The Design Lab is an interactive space where one can create their own designs and was one of the most popular segments in the maiden edition, and the concept offers to walk in and purchase a ‘canvas’ product like a plain t-shirt, hat, tote bag or scarf, which can then be customized at any of the seven different design stations such as block printing, screen printing, hand-paint, patchwork, different forms of embellishments and appliqués, etc. This is a segment that any age group will enjoy participating in and can use to channel their creativity, the organizers said. The Runway this year will take place over three days with four slots each day, showcasing a variety of designers - including new and upcoming, trailblazers and some exclusive designer brands. Curated by Azra Mahmood, Mehruz Munir, Nawshin Khair and Zarin Rashid, each of the participants on the runway was carefully selected and guided by the team. Perhaps one of the most anticipated segments of the event, the Arka FW24 runway will not only be unique in terms of the designs being showcased on it; this time ARKA will also be presenting the finalists of a headhunt for new models to debut on the ARKA FW24 Runway. Moreover, the runway will also feature some students from design institutions in a cue curated by renowned Bangladeshi fashion designer Afsana Ferdousi. This year, a couple of new segments, workshops and seminars will be introduced at the Arka FW, to cover all aspects of fashion including the challenges and issues faced by the industry. The fashion week this year will facilitate an exhibition concerning Tangail weaving and ways to preserve the traditional art of handloom textiles. “Last year, we could not have the exhibition and seminars; this year we are proceeding with these because we want to introduce open dialogues related to fashion, and we felt that we should move forward with these conversations and activities,” Tahsin N Choudhury said. Led by Tahsin N Choudhury, Nawshin Khair, Sk Saifur Rahman and Jewel A Rob, the results of the workshop regarding the exhibition will be showcased at Arka Fashion Week 2024. The exhibition will be curated by Jewel A Rob. Founded by Asad Sattar, Arka Fashion Week is orchestrated by the love and care of its vibrant team of co-organizers: Azra Mahmood, Tahsin N. Choudhury, Aumia Khundkar, Afshan Sattar, Shifa Mamoon, Nawshin Khair, Sk Saifur Rahman, Mehruz Munir and Zarin Rashid.

With the participation of Bangladeshi female garment factory workers working in Jordan, as models, the Bangladesh Embassy in Amman organised a unique fashion show by Bangladeshi fashion icon Bibi Russell recently to mark the 53rd anniversary of Bangladesh's independence and National Day. The show was held on April 30. Wajih Tayeib Azaizeh, Minister of State for Prime Ministry Affairs of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, was present as the chief guest, according to a media statement on Thursday. Ambassadors, diplomats, high officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates, including the Chief of Protocol, and other ministries, officers of the armed forces, journalists, academia, and civil society attended the reception. The guests were captivated by the fashion show titled "Magical Threads of Bangladesh" by legendary Bangladeshi fashion designer Bibi Russell, where models were expatriate Bangladeshis and Jordanian female garment workers.   Nahida Sobhan, Ambassador of Bangladesh to Jordan, mentioned that involving the girls from the garment industry in such a prestigious fashion show with Bibi Russell as her models was an effort to dismantle social barriers and embrace inclusivity. It reflected the life of the people of Bangladesh, their joy, celebrations, spirituality, attire, and the harmony of the society, she said.

Eid, the festival of joy and togetherness, calls for celebration and dressing up in the finest attire. Bangladeshi apparel brands are renowned for their craftsmanship and cultural richness, making them ideal for Eid shopping. With a plethora of options available, families can find the perfect attire to celebrate the festive season in style. 10 Renowned Bangladeshi Clothing Brands for Men, Women and Children Aarong Aarong, a household name in Bangladesh, is synonymous with quality craftsmanship and timeless elegance. Established in 1978 by Ayesha Abed, Aarong is owned by the non-profit organization BRAC. The term 'Aarong' refers to a 'village fair' and it was established to preserve local culture, heritage, crafts, and styles while empowering artisans in rural areas. Aarong is a pioneer in promoting Bangladeshi crafts.  Renowned for its traditional yet contemporary designs, Aarong offers a diverse range of clothing options for men, women, and children. From intricately embroidered sarees and panjabis to trendy kurtas and salwar kameez sets, Aarong celebrates the essence of Bangladeshi culture in every garment. Read more: How to Identify an Authentic Bangladeshi Jamdani Saree? Anjan’s Anjan’s is another prominent name in the Bangladeshi fashion industry, celebrated for its exquisite ethnic wear collections. Anjan’s was founded by Shaheen Ahmed in 1994. With a focus on exquisite fabrics and intricate detailing, Anjan’s offers a stunning array of sarees, lehengas, and sherwanis for Eid festivities.  Anjan’s not only excels in fashion design but also provides employment opportunities for impoverished women in rural villages. Whether you're looking for traditional attire with a modern twist or timeless classics, Anjan’s craftsmanship ensures elegance and sophistication. Yellow Catering exclusively to men, Yellow is renowned for its dapper collection of panjabis, shirts, and suits tailored to perfection. Yellow, established in 2004 by Salman F Rahman, is a clothing brand owned by Beximco. The latest craze among the youth, Yellow stands out as one of Bangladesh's trendiest fashion brands.  Read more: Personal Grooming Tips and Tricks for Better Life and Career

In a stunning display of fashion and charisma, Bollywood actress Ananya Panday recently marked her international runway debut at the prestigious Haute-Couture Spring/Summer 2024 Fashion Week in Paris. Ananya walked the ramp for renowned designer Rahul Mishra, as reported by NDTV. Gracing the runway in a captivating black and gold ensemble, Ananya’s presence was a sight to behold. She added an artistic touch to her appearance by carrying a giant sieve, a bold and unique accessory that complemented the haute-couture vibe of her outfit. Expressing her exhilaration, Ananya shared on her Instagram story, “Walking for Rahul Mishra at Paris Couture Week,” capturing this milestone moment in her career. Read more: How to Identify an Authentic Bangladeshi Jamdani Saree? Designer Rahul Mishra also took to social media to welcome Ananya into the world of high fashion. He posted, “Hello baby girl. Welcome to the world of couture. Ananya Panday for Rahul Mishra at Paris Couture Week,” celebrating her successful debut. Away from the runway, Ananya continues to make waves in the Bollywood film industry. She recently starred in “Kho Gaye Hum Kahan,” a film directed by Arjun Varain Singh, featuring Siddhant Chaturvedi, Adarsh Gourav, and Kalki Koechlin. Her fans eagerly await her upcoming ventures, including “Control” and “The Untold Story of C Sankaran Nair.” Additionally, she is set to appear in the upcoming show “Call Me Bae.” Since her acting debut in 2019 with “Student Of The Year 2,” Ananya has carved a niche for herself in Bollywood. Her filmography includes notable titles such as “Dream Girl 2” with Ayushmann Khurrana, “Pati Patni Aur Who” alongside Kartik Aaryan and Bhumi Pednekar, “Khaali Peeli” with Ishaan Khatter, and “Gehraiyaan” featuring Deepika Padukone and Siddhant Chaturvedi. Ananya Panday’s ascent illustrates her versatile talents and her growing influence. Read more: "Khadi Fest 2024" begins in Dhaka showcasing its immense potential in shaping future of textile industry

A two-day Khadi Festival, hosted by the Fashion Design Council of Bangladesh (FDCB), began on Friday featuring an exhibition and fashion show.  The theme of the event was 'Khadi: The Future Fabric Show.' President of BGMEA Faruque Hassan said, “I am delighted to witness the Khadi Fest 2024, an event that not only celebrates our rich cultural heritage but also underscores the potential of Khadi as a sustainable and eco-friendly fabric in the fashion industry." He said the collaboration between BGMEA and the Fashion Design Council of Bangladesh for this festival signifies their commitment to supporting initiatives that promote ethical and environmentally conscious practices. "This festival serves as a testament to the creativity of our designers and the craftsmanship of our artisans, showcasing the immense potential Khadi holds in shaping the future of the textile industry.” Read: 22nd Dhaka International Film Festival (DIFF) begins Saturday“We are delighted to be part of a movement that embraces nature, beauty and local culture. Khadi has been part of Bengal for centuries," said Milon Chisim, Owner of the Tribal Crafts. "It is sustainable and it speaks of people. Hoping festivals as such will bring awareness of our local, indigenous products and will promote artisans.”  Maya, BGMEA, HSBC, Berger, Rupayan Group, and Buy Here Now are supporting the event.  The festival showcased the rich cultural heritage of Bangladesh, highlighting Khadi as the fabric of the future and a symbol of sustainable fashion. The two-day event featured a captivating runway show, where Bangladeshi designers unveiled future fashion trends in fabric and innovative products.  Read: Fashion Design Council of Bangladesh unveils  "Khadi- the future fabric show" at Khadi Fest 2024

Zara has expressed regret over what it describes as a "misunderstanding" linked to an ad campaign that faced backlash for seemingly including images reminiscent of the Israel-Gaza conflict. The controversy, which ignited substantial reaction on social media and led to complaints to the UK's advertising authority, prompted Zara to withdraw the remaining images, as reported by the BBC. Bangladesh demands immediate end of Israeli brutalities in Palestine The campaign in question featured a model holding a mannequin wrapped in white plastic, which Zara said some customers interpreted as a reference to imagery “far from what was intended when they were created.” This interpretation led to calls by some netizens for a boycott of the fashion retailer. Bangladesh demands immediate end of Israeli brutalities in Palestine Zara clarified that the Atelier line campaign, launched in July and photographed in September, was unrelated to the Israel-Gaza conflict. The campaign's imagery, showing a model amidst cracked stones and unfinished sculptures, was interpreted by some as depicting scenes from Gaza. However, Zara emphasized that the campaign was intended to showcase handcrafted garments in an artistic setting, with no connection to the conflict. The company deeply regretted any offense caused and reaffirmed its respect for all individuals. One child is killed every 10 minutes in Palestine: Ambassador Yousef SY Ramadan Before the controversy, Zara described "The Jacket" campaign as a focused design exercise, showcasing Zara Atelier's creativity and manufacturing prowess, offering one garment in six styles with endless possibilities.