Arka Fashion Week (AFW) returned to Dhaka from 13 to 16 June 2024 at Aloki Convention Center. This second edition built upon the success of the first, showcased local talent and fostered a platform for discussions about the future of the fashion industry.
In this edition, AFW facilitated an exhibition curated by Jewel Rob on Tangail tant, focusing on the art of the craft and ways to preserve the traditional art of handloom weaving. Seven contemporary artists worked with traditional weavers to produce original work which were showcased at the event in an exhibition titled Tangail Boyonkabbo.
AFW Summer ’24 provided a space for fashion enthusiasts to express themselves, network, and experience the latest trends.
Moreover, this edition of AFW recognised the importance of addressing industry challenges and introduced seminars with prominent figures. The first seminar explored the legacy of Tangail tant, a traditional handloom textile. SK Saifur Rahman, Consultant at Haal Fashion and Deputy Editor of Online Feature Prothom Alo, served as the keynote speaker, while Zeeshan Kingshuk Huq, Managing Director and Chief Enabling Officer of RTS Enterprise, moderated the event. The panelists included Kizzy Tahnin, Program Officer and Culture Lead at UNESCO Bangladesh, Md Ayub Ali, Chief Planning Officer at Bangladesh Handloom Board, Raghunath Basak, President of Tangail Saree Byabshayee Shomiti, Sarmily Sarkar, Head and Assistant Professor of the Fashion Studies Department at BGMEA University of Fashion and Technology, and Jewel A Rob, artist and curator. The key takeaway from it was that initiatives like workshops and exhibitions are crucial for raising awareness and promoting Tangail tant weaving. Policy and support structures are needed to sustain and promote this traditional craft.
The second seminar, titled ‘The New Vanguard: Empowering Next-Gen Leadership in Bangladesh’s RMG Sector,’ explored how to equip the next generation to lead Bangladesh’s garment industry. Asad Sattar, Founder of Arka Studio and a key figure behind AFW, served as the moderator. The panel consisted of Dr Mohammad Kamruzzaman, Founder of Blucheez Outfitters, Shah Rayeed Chowdhury, Director of Evince Group, Zainab Maqsood, Managing Director of Amira, and Abrar Sayem, Director of BGMEA. The main message from the discussion was that Bangladeshi fashion can carve its own niche by incorporating the country’s rich cultural heritage into designs. This would create a distinctive style and foster national pride among customers.
Moreover, this edition of AFW recognised the importance of addressing industry challenges and introduced seminars with prominent figures.
In the third seminar, titled ‘Fashion Forward: Crafting the Future of Bangladesh’s Fashion Education’, panelists discussed the growing interest in fashion design careers and the need for international exposure to nurture local talent. A key point raised was the limited job opportunities in design compared to manufacturing. Moderated by SK Saifur Rahman, the discussion featured Vidiya Amrit Khan, Deputy Managing Director of Desh Group of Companies; Rokaiya Ahmed Purna, Founder of Design In Bangladesh and Global Fashion; Prof Dr Engr Ayub Nabi Khan, Pro-Vice Chancellor of BGMEA University of Fashion & Technology (BUFT); and Dr Mohammad Abbas Uddin, Assistant Professor and Director of External Affairs at Bangladesh University of Textiles.
The final seminar, titled ‘What Contemporary Consumers Actually Want: Gaps in Retail,’ tackled the disconnect between what consumers want and what’s readily available in Bangladesh. It was moderated by Aumia Khundkar, Managing Editor of ICE Today and ICE Business Times. The panelists included Sobia Ameen, a prominent content creator, model, and social activist; Raiyan Chowdhury, the Founder of Tapered; and Khalid Mahmood Khan, the Managing Partner of KayKraft and Co-founder of Deshi Dosh. The key takeaway from the discussion was that the Bangladeshi fashion industry needs more collaboration between designers, manufacturers, and customers. This can help address the lack of originality, limited production capacity, and affordability issues to offer high-quality, unique designs that meet customer needs.
AFW has sparked a vital conversation about the future of Bangladeshi fashion. By fostering collaboration, innovation, and education, it paves the way for Bangladesh to not only be a garment powerhouse but also a leader in design.
Perhaps the most popular segment of AFW, the runway shows of this edition were once again a treat for the eyes. From designs by fashion students, curated by designer Afsana Ferdousi, showcasing Tangail tant through 30 contemporary looks, to established names like Bibi Russell, Aranya, and Humayra Khan bringing timeless elegance to the runway, there was something for everyone.
One Thousand Poets’ collection was a celebration of femininity and tradition, while Tapered showcased a captivating ensemble of designs infused with personal stories. Strides Fashion Wear’s collection paid homage to Bangladesh’s pop culture, blending heritage and modernity, while AMI’s collection was a kaleidoscope of bright, urban colours, bold graphic prints, and futuristic, genderfluid designs.
AZ’s collection consisted of 12 outfits, distinguished by their subtle colours, oversized silhouettes, and meticulous attention to detail. Grissho and Tori captivated the audience with their remarkable runway performance and theatrical narrative.
On the last day of the event, there was a delightful contrast. Glee’s collection ‘Grissher Chuti’ consisted of playful and inclusive ready-to-wear outfits. Chaap showcased their quintessential summer collection, incorporating traditional folk motifs into modern silhouettes. Rânow, on the other hand, made a bold statement with a collection of 12 exquisite gowns. Royal Bengal Couture, in a collection inspired by dholaikhal, blurred the lines between couture and everyday wear with interesting deshi elements reflecting the theme. Daania and Twills Original surprised the audience with a collaboration, presenting a collection that included four brand new looks on the runway. The final show of the event was an electrifying runway by Kathal, where the stage was ablaze with reds and the bold designs of the brand.
Overall, the event was a celebration of fashion and new talent. AFW Summer ’24 provided a space for fashion enthusiasts to express themselves, network, and experience the latest trends.