United News of Bangladesh

The fashion industry, which has always been praised for its productive and cultural contributions, has turned into one of the most environmentally damaging sectors in the world. Its impact stretches across natural resources and climates. From piling up in masses in landfills, polluting and clogging water, and making air unbreathable to destroying the balance in the earth’s resources and atmospheres, fashion waste is making life impossible on the planet. What is Fashion Waste? The term fashion waste refers to the useless materials naturally produced during the manufacturing of textile products and thrown away afterwards. It also includes worn-out clothes and other materials like wastewater, plastic waste, and toxic dyes discarded or discharged after their use. Though the term fashion waste mostly highlights the wastage related to garments and fabrics, it has more branches. Any poisonous discharge of non-biodegradable waste that pollutes energy and natural elements like earth, water, and air during or after the manufacturing and use cycle of garment products falls under the definition of fashion waste. Read more: How to Declutter Your Wardrobe to Donate Some Clothes Key Environmental Impacts of Fashion Waste . Landfill Overflow Much of the fashion waste is synthetic fibres such as polyester, nylon, and acrylic. These elements take about centuries to decompose and mix with soils or never decompose. There are many regions on the earth where miles after miles have been occupied by them. Massive piles of non-biodegradable materials are slowly eroding away, releasing poisons into the soil and air, making those regions unlivable. In 2018, the US single-handedly generated about 11.3 million tonnes of textile waste, about 66% of which ended up in landfills. Water Clog and Pollution Fashion waste contaminates water in two ways: chemically transforming its nature and clogging it with insoluble materials like plastic. Among chemical polluters, textile dyeing is the world's most common and second-largest water contaminant. Several rivers in Bangladesh and India, such as the Buriganga and Ganges, are carrying the mark of the devastating impact of textile waste. Synthetic and plastic materials cause water clogs, impeding usual flow and preventing water from passing. They are the primary reason for clogged drains and sewerage. Synthetic clothes are also known to release microplastics into water during washing or when dumped in a water body. These microplastics are invisible, insoluble fibres that travel with river currents and fall into oceans, where they accumulate in large amounts and are consumed by marine life.  Read more: How to Choose the Best Fabric for Your Suit Greenhouse Gas Emissions Dumped clothing waste in landfills doesn’t only pile up and occupy spaces; during decomposition, it releases methane, one of the primary catalysts of the global greenhouse effect and about 25 times more potent than CO2. Studies have found the fashion manufacturing industry to be highly energy-intensive. To manufacture a single shirt, about 2,700 litres of water are needed, and 2.1 kg of CO₂ is emitted. A pair of jeans produces 33.4 kg of CO₂ in their cotton cultivation and dyeing phases. At the current production acceleration rate in the fashion industry, the emission rate will increase by about 50% by 2030 without interference from regulatory bodies. Resource Depletion The fashion industry is one of the most resource-depleting sectors. For example, cotton covers around 2.5% of the world’s farmland and consumes about 24% of all insecticides and 11% of pesticides. That’s a huge environmental cost for a single crop. Then there’s polyester, the most common fabric in today’s clothing, found in about 60% of garments. It’s made from crude oil, tying fast fashion directly to fossil fuel depletion. Read more: Personal Grooming Tips and Tricks for Better Life and Career The impact doesn’t stop at raw materials. The dyeing and finishing stages of textile production are some of the most chemically intensive and responsible for nearly 20% of global industrial water pollution. Around 43 million tonnes of chemicals are poured into the process each year. 

On Thursday, the Prada Group announced an agreement to acquire Italian fashion label Versace from U.S.-based luxury conglomerate Capri Holdings in a deal valuing the brand at 1.25 billion euros (approximately $1.4 billion). Prada described Versace’s “highly recognizable aesthetic” as a “strongly complementary addition” to its existing portfolio, which includes its flagship Prada brand along with Miu Miu. The company also noted that Milan-based Versace holds “significant untapped growth potential.” The deal’s final value will be determined at closing, anticipated in the latter half of the year. It will be financed through 1.5 billion euros in new debt and has received approval from the boards of both Prada and Capri Holdings. In a statement, Prada said Versace would “retain its creative DNA and cultural authenticity” while also gaining from the Group’s “considerable consolidated platform,” including its manufacturing capabilities, retail operations, and overall business expertise. Versace, established in 1978 by the late Gianni Versace, has been under Capri Holdings’ ownership since 2018. Capri’s portfolio also includes the Michael Kors and Jimmy Choo brands. Although Capri Holdings acquired Versace for $2 billion, the company has faced challenges repositioning the iconic Italian label—renowned for its bold designs and provocative style—amid the trend toward “quiet luxury.” Last month, Capri appointed Dario Vitale as Versace’s new creative director, succeeding Donatella Versace, who had taken the role after her brother’s murder in 1997. Vitale previously worked at Miu Miu, the Prada Group’s youth-oriented brand. Donatella Versace was named chief brand ambassador in the leadership reshuffle, a move widely seen as paving the way for the much-speculated Prada acquisition. Miuccia Prada had hinted at the Group’s interest during Milan Fashion Week in February.

Just days after an unexploded World War II bomb near Paris’ Gare du Nord made headlines, a different kind of spectacle unfolded across the street: Louis Vuitton’s fashion show extravaganza on Monday evening. The only bursts of excitement at Paris Fashion Week came from fabric, form, and a whirlwind imagination. When designer Nicolas Ghesquière took his bow, the audience’s admiration reached a fever pitch, with French first lady Brigitte Macron, in a rare display of enthusiasm, leaping to her feet to kiss him. When should you eat? Before, after — or even while — exercising? A station full of mystery The show took place at "L’Étoile du Nord," described by Louis Vuitton as "a hidden station where past and future travelers converge, evoking the golden age of railway adventure." The event was held in the historic 1845 building, originally designed for the Compagnie du Nord railway company. Its atrium was meticulously transformed into a grand train station waiting room for the ready-to-wear show, reinforcing the themes of travel, anticipation, and adventure — central to Vuitton’s identity. From their front-row seats, Emma Stone, Jennifer Connelly, Ana de Armas, Chloë Grace Moretz, Lisa, Jaden Smith, Ava DuVernay, and Sophie Turner watched attentively as projected shadowy figures drifted across the upper windows, like ghostly travelers from another time. This evoked Vuitton’s origins at the dawn of the Orient Express and haute couture, when wealthy women needed to bring numerous cases to store their extensive traveling wardrobes. On the runway below, Ghesquière wove a story of train stations, both real and imagined, styling passengers for unknown journeys. There were detectives in trench coats, campers in chunky New Wave sweaters, and party girls rushing to catch the last train in ruched velvet. Ghesquière is renowned for his cinematic styling, drawing from a vast range of film influences—whodunnits, fantasies, and comedies. Aarong unveils world's largest craft store in Dhanmondi In other instances, a voluminous layered tulle skirt in deep fuchsia captured Ghesquière’s knack for blending different centuries, paired with a contemporary architectural knit top and sleek, futuristic hair. When the tracks got bumpy However, while the narrative was rich, some of the styling occasionally veered off course. One look, in particular, featured a hybrid fisherman’s hat so oversized it nearly obscured the model’s vision, paired with an enveloping scarf, shapeless dress, and a horizontally placed belt buckle above the bust, which made even seasoned fashion insiders raise an eyebrow. While some outfits were exciting, others felt like mismatched passengers on the wrong train. While fluid, translucent trenches and cleverly constructed jumpsuits stood out, some pieces seemed overcomplicated, leaning more toward hurried layering than artful disarray. Fashion on a synthesized beat A notable collaboration with electronic music pioneers Kraftwerk merged Vuitton’s travel legacy with the band’s vision of movement and modernity. 'Trans-Europe Express' was emblazoned on pinstriped jumpsuits and accessories, reinforcing the rhythm of the journey. Additionally, Vuitton revived its 1988 ceramic-bezel watch, nodding to precision in both travel and design. As the last model exited the train station set, a question lingered: Has Ghesquière lost his spark after 11 years at the helm? Perhaps not yet, but this season’s journey, while evocative, didn’t always have a clear final destination.

Aarong, Bangladesh’s fashion and lifestyle brand, announced the grand opening of its newest flagship outlet in Dhanmondi—the world’s largest craft store. Spread across an awe-inspiring 60,000 square feet and encompassing eight spacious floors, this stunning architectural masterpiece is set to transform the nation’s retail landscape and cement Bangladesh’s standing as a global hub for artisanal excellence, according to a press release on Friday. How to Identify a Genuine Pashmina Shawl The press release claimed that the Dhanmondi flagship outlet is more than just a store; it’s a statement of magnificence and creativity. The building’s distinctive façade and meticulously crafted interior speak to Aarong’s unwavering commitment to uplifting local artistry. As guests journey through each floor, they will be treated to a series of monumental art installations, including A 4-Storey Nakshi Kantha: Towering at the heart of the store, this spectacular piece showcases the intricate embroidery tradition of Bangladesh, telling the story of Aarong. Clay Pottery Wall: A tactile tapestry of handcrafted clay pieces that showcases age-old pottery practices as a contemporary art piece, symbolising Aarong’s innovative spirit. Alchemy: Made from copper and repurposed glass, this luminous centrepiece cascades from above, casting a warm, enchanting glow throughout the space. From the widest selection of handcrafted textiles to exclusive artisanal décor, the store promises a truly world-class experience. The children’s wear section, in particular, features a magical, forest-themed playpen—an interactive wonderland that will captivate young imaginations while allowing parents to browse in comfort. At the pinnacle of this unprecedented retail adventure lies the Orange Parrot restaurant on the 7th floor, which will open by the end of the year. Serving mouthwatering Bangladeshi fusion cuisine, this unique dining destination will offer an unmatched culinary journey complete with sweeping views of Dhanmondi from its serene terrace. “This groundbreaking destination store is a proud testament to Bangladesh moving boldly into the future,” said Tamara Abed, Managing Director, BRAC Enterprises. “It embodies our mission to preserve and celebrate Bangladesh’s rich artisanal heritage while delivering a world-class shopping experience. Every product tells a story, connecting our customers to the hands that create them. This store marks a new era for Aarong and highlights this brand’s ambitions for the global stage.” Bata launches 2025 Eid-Ul-Fitr collection 'Starlight' Founded in 1978, the press release said, Aarong has grown into a household name, renowned for preserving and promoting the art and craft traditions of Bangladesh.

Designed to add elegance and charm to Eid celebrations of its consumers and enthusiasts, popular footwear brand Bata launches its 2025 Eid-Ul-Fitr collection 'Bata Starlight' at its Jamuna Future Park outlet on Thursday. This latest collection showcases a stunning range of new arrivals, featuring trendsetting heels in captivating colours with crystal accents, stylish mules with modern uppers, and shimmering, technology-infused Comfit sandals designed for ultimate comfort and elegance for the ladies. The launching event at Jamuna Future Park was joined by Nusrat Hasan, Head of Marketing, and Md Jobayer Islam, Senior Manager, Brand Communication at Bata Bangladesh, alongside a number of popular social media influencers.  For men, the collection offers a variety of dress shoes, moccasins, fisherman sandals, and other fashionable summer styles, complemented by an exclusive leather range that perfectly captures the spirit of Eid celebrations. The price range for Starlight men’s shoes are within BDT 499–16,999; women’s shoes range from BDT 499 to 5,999; and children’s shoes range from BDT 499 to 3,999. Bata is also offering cashback and coupons for consumers in different payment gateways/platforms like bank cards and mobile wallets. Each pair of Bata shoes is crafted with meticulous attention to detail, using only the finest materials and the latest technology to ensure maximum comfort and durability.  Bata offers trendy shoes with modern technologies, including memory foam, ortholite cushioning, and life anti-bacterial properties with a lightweight feature, making these shoes the ultimate fashion choice. Besides 2500+ unique designs and a selection of 1000+ newly dropped styles, especially for this Eid, Bata’s online platform, Batabd.com, now boasts exciting weekly flash deals and free shipping catering to the increasing demands of online customers. Over 250 Bata outlets across the country are also awaiting their consumers' footfall, according to the brand authority. 

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.