A press conference held on January 12 provided details about the upcoming Arka Fashion Week, scheduled to take place from January 16 to 19. Present at the event on behalf of the organizers were Asad Sattar, the founder of Arka Fashion Week; Azra Mahmud, a model, choreographer, and member of the organizing committee; and Sheikh Saifur Rahman, a senior journalist and committee member.
In his welcoming remarks, Sheikh Saifur Rahman shared insights into the continuity of Arka Fashion Week and the specifics of this year’s event. Asad Sattar elaborated on the details of the event, emphasizing its tradition of introducing new elements each year. He highlighted the addition of “masterclass” as one such new feature this year. Over the four days, each day will feature a unique theme, except for the first day, which will not host any shows.
Azra Mahmud provided details about the fashion shows and other key aspects of the event. During the Q&A session, she addressed this year’s model selection process, explaining that over 600 applications had been received. From these, 100 candidates were shortlisted for auditions, and 25 models were ultimately selected. She noted that this year’s lineup includes not only new faces but also returning models from last year and some of the country’s top models.
When asked whether the selected models could achieve the same level of success as Azra herself, she responded, “Azra is Azra. But they will find their own way. They are doing well, and I am optimistic about their future.” She added that many of the models have already been doing exceptional work.
Asad Sattar echoed this sentiment, pointing out that several models from last year have progressed significantly in their careers, working with major brands like Aarong and others.
Regarding the financial aspects of the event, Asad Sattar stated that the event relies on funding from sponsors. However, these funds are not always sufficient, and the organizers often have to cover expenses from their own. He added that if additional funds become available in the future, they would be used for initiatives to develop the fashion industry further, as Arka is a not-intended-for-profit initiative.
Sheikh Saifur Rahman acknowledged the role of the media in helping Arka Fashion Week establish its position within just a year and a half. He expressed gratitude to journalists and assured them that timely and accurate information would be provided during the event. He also invited journalists to attend the masterclasses, requesting advance notice to make necessary arrangements.
For others interested in attending the masterclasses, registration and a specific fee will be required. Fashion entrepreneurs and fashion design students in the country are encouraged to participate in the masterclasses.
The detail of the event has been attached here.
Arka Fashion Week 2025
Dhaka, 16th January 2025: With a vision to democratize fashion in Bangladesh, Arka Fashion Week will return with its third edition in January 2025.
Date: 16th – 19th JANUARY, 2025
Venue: Aloki Convention Center
Time: 11AM – 10PM
Last year, Arka Fashion Week, held from June 13 to 16, 2024, made a significant impact and captivated the city with its unparalleled energy and creativity. Drawing a remarkable footfall of over 20,000 attendees, it became a magnet for the youth and celebrated fashion’s transformative power. Building on this success, Arka Collective and Arka Studio are once again creating a platform reaffirming its commitment to equitable opportunities for designers and brands of all kinds. The ultimate vision of Arka Fashion Week is to elevate and help Bangladesh transition from exporting garments to exporting fashion, turning our cultural heritage into a global asset. This shift in the fashion and textile industries not only elevates our creative industries, enhances the nation’s global stature, but also strengthens the country’s economic standing.
This year, Arka Fashion Week 2025 offers a platform like no other to dive into the world of fashion and promises to deliver an engaging lineup. With runway shows, masterclasses, and collections from top designers and brands, it’s a space for exploring ideas, sharing stories, and celebrating fashion. Most importantly, it’s an event where people can express their individuality, showcase their unique sense of style, and connect with the growing fashion community in Bangladesh.
This year, Arka Fashion Week 2025 is themed across four days, each day highlighting a unique focus:
- Day 1: Denim
- Day 2: Modern Contemporary
- Day 3: Fusion
- Day 4: Sustainability
These themes not only reflect the diversity of the event but also underscore its dedication to blending heritage, innovation, and eco-consciousness, making Arka Fashion Week a dynamic space for inspiration and growth.
Platinum Partners:
- Platinum Partners: Sundora, Aarong
- Banking Partner: Prime Bank
- Fashion Partner: Amirá Apparel; Dheu by SaRa
- Experience Partner: Let’s Vibe
Gold Partners:
- Coffee Partner: Arabika
- Travel Partner: Dana Aviation Ltd.
Silver Partners:
- Bubble Tea Partner: Kona Cafe
Media Partners:
- Canvas Magazine; Star Lifestyle; Cablgram; ICE Today
- Associate Partner: Prothom Alo
Strategic Partners:
- Loudworks; Azra Mahmood Talent Camp; E-Cube Productions; Duckpeon Digital; Persona; Elegant Makeover and Fashion; Aura Beauty Lounge; Arka Collective; Haal Fashion
MARKETPLACE
The Marketplace at Arka Fashion Week is a dynamic hub celebrating the ingenuity and craftsmanship of Bangladeshi brands and artisans. It showcases an eclectic mix of established names like Aarong, Dheu, and Arabika, alongside emerging labels such as Nuzart, Dhaka Vintage, and House of SHUI, creating a rich intersection of tradition and modernity.
With sustainability as a guiding philosophy, the Marketplace emphasizes promoting homegrown talent and supporting small-scale entrepreneurs. Participating brands and artisans such as Tasha, Protibha, Shoilee, and Dhaka Vintage represent diverse facets of local heritage while incorporating contemporary innovations. By offering these designers and creators a platform to connect with a wider audience, Arka Fashion Week provides critical exposure to budding entrepreneurs, bridging the gap between tradition and the global fashion landscape.
This year, the Marketplace moves outdoors to accommodate a larger number of stalls, offering visitors a chance to explore timeless traditions and contemporary innovations in an open setting. This lively segment highlights Arka Fashion Week’s commitment to elevating Bangladesh’s fashion ecosystem while fostering meaningful connections and promoting sustainability.
DESIGN LAB
The Design Lab at Arka Fashion Week is an engaging space where creativity takes center stage. This year, attendees can purchase a ‘canvas’—a plain t-shirt, tote bag, scarf, or hat—and transform it at customization stations offering block printing, screen printing, hand-painting, patchwork, and other embellishment techniques.
In addition to crafting their own designs, visitors can enjoy live performances by artists offering face painting, hair braiding, and caricature art. A dedicated corner will feature live art demonstrations, providing inspiration and entertainment. Open throughout the event, the Design Lab invites individuals of all ages to explore their creativity and create something truly unique.
THE RUNWAY
The runway at Arka Fashion Week 2025 is set to dazzle with four fashion shows each day, running from January 16th to January 19th and showcasing a vibrant mix of designers. Carefully curated, the runway brings together emerging talent, established brands, and leading names in Bangladesh’s fashion scene, offering a diverse and engaging experience.
- Day 2: Modern Contemporary (January 17th) highlights bold, innovative designs by Daania, Royal Bengal Couture, DHEU by SaRa, and AMI Dhaka, Kathal among others, reflecting the spirit of modern fashion.
- Day 3: Fusion (January 18th) celebrates creativity and diversity, featuring collections by fashion design students featured on the Student Runway, as well as brands GLEE and AMIRÁ, creating a platform for dynamic, new voices in fashion.
- Day 4: Sustainability (January 19th) emphasises eco-conscious design with collections by Dhong, Tasha, Friendship, Grissho, Bliss, Urukku.Bangladesh, Taan, Aranya, and Kuhu. championing the movement toward sustainable fashion.
With a total of 12 runway shows, this segment serves as a centrepiece of Arka Fashion Week, offering a stage for designers to connect with audiences and showcase the future of Bangladeshi fashion.
MASTERCLASS
For the first time, Arka Fashion Week is introducing a dedicated Masterclass segment, bridging the gap between industry leaders and aspiring talents. This exciting new feature will host 26 Masterclasses, led by some of the most prominent names and brands in the fashion and creative industries. Attendees will have the unparalleled opportunity to learn directly from pioneers through sessions such as Kantha Stitch Masterclass by Afsana Ferdousi, Karchupi & Zardozi Masterclass by Ahmed Tuhin Reza of House of Ahmed, Natural Dyeing with Marigold and Catechu Dyebath by Nawshin Khair of Aranya, Modelling Masterclass by Tangia Zaman Methila, and Fashioning Influence: Community & Identity by Sobia Ameen and Rahemur Rahman, among many others.
The masterclasses are divided into four exciting themes across the event:
- Denim: Dive into sessions like the Natural Dyeing Masterclass by Nawshin Khair and Bake with Style Masterclass by MahimMakes, among others.
- Modern Contemporary: Learn innovative techniques in the Indigo Tie-Dye & Shibori Masterclass by Living Blue and discover artistic versatility in the Graffiti Art Masterclass by Aakabaaka, etc.
- Fusion: Explore heritage craftsmanship in the Rickshaw Painting Masterclass by Protibha and artistic techniques in the Screen Printing Masterclass by BanglaPunk, and more.
- Sustainability: Attend sessions like the Upcycling Masterclass by Urukku and the Pati Diversification Masterclass by Karunik, among many others.
Each masterclass connects participants with leading voices in fashion and creativity, offering insights into traditional crafts, modern techniques, and sustainable practices. These sessions are designed to inspire, educate, and empower, making them an essential part of Arka Fashion Week.
By uniting industry experts and emerging talents, the Masterclass segment fosters collaboration and innovation in Bangladesh’s fashion community, paving the way for the industry’s transformation.
FOOD ZONE
The Food Zone at Arka Fashion Week 2025 will bring together some of the most exciting culinary names in the city, creating a space where attendees can indulge in diverse flavours and experiences. Designed to complement the vibrant energy of the event, the Food Zone will feature a diverse lineup of brands offering everything from comfort food to artisanal snacks and refreshing beverages. Featuring brands like Arabika, Just Juice, Slurps, Waffle-Up, Fruitsicles, Couch Potato, Kora Fry, Birria Stop, Shei Nihari, Izakaya, KONA CAFE, and Lueur Bakery, the Food Zone is set to offer something for every palate. From artisanal beverages to savoury delicacies and sweet treats, this space promises to be a hub of activity and enjoyment. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty meal, a quick snack, or a gourmet experience, the Food Zone has something for everyone, making it the perfect spot to refuel and relax during the event. Designed to enhance the overall event experience, the Food Zone will be a energetic addition to celebrating the creativity and community that defines Arka Fashion Week.
CONCERTS
Arka Fashion Week 2025 will culminate each day with an extraordinary lineup of musical performances, showcasing some of the finest talents in Bangladesh. Spanning four nights, these concerts will set the tone for unforgettable evenings filled with energy and artistry.
16th January 2025
Arka x Bhai Bhai Takeover: Munasib, Deathwail, Bhai Bhai Sound System
17th January 2025
Arka Collective Night: RCBD, Psytaraa, Readhwan
18th January 2025
Joler Gaan
19th January 2025
Indalo, Kanna Dey The Destroyer
These concerts are more than performances—they are a celebration of sound and expression, complementing the creative spirit of Arka Fashion Week.
PROGRAM FLOW
