Asad Sattar on the heart and soul of Arka Fashion Week.
In just two transformative years, Arka Fashion Week (AFW) has become a game-changer in Dhaka’s fashion realm. Asad Sattar, the visionary behind this movement, transcends the typical role of a fashion entrepreneur. He is not just a leader but a groundbreaking advocate for Bangladeshi talent and a pioneer in reshaping the nation’s global fashion identity – from ‘Made in Bangladesh’ to ‘Designed in Bangladesh.’ With this compelling vision, Sattar has cultivated AFW into an essential platform highlighting the ingenuity and vibrant essence of the evolving Bangladeshi fashion scene. As Dhaka eagerly anticipates the grand return of AFW this month, ICE Today caught up with Sattar to discuss the event’s inspiring journey, its significant influence on the industry, and the thrilling plans ahead.
What sparked the idea for AFW?
The concept for AFW emerged from a critical question: Why do we export our entire production, often undervaluing our products by selling them for peanuts? With our skilled workforce, a robust garment industry, and immense local talent, why not elevate our creations into high-end fashion products that command premium prices? By pivoting our strategy, we could amplify our creative exports and significantly enhance our GDP. China is a testament to this potential—not always ethical or sustainable, yet brands like Shein illustrate how smaller markets can make a significant splash with the right approach. This ambition fueled the establishment of AFW – a comprehensive ecosystem designed to empower creatives and elevate Bangladeshi fashion globally.
How do you curate such a diverse group of brands and designers?
Many designers hold back, afraid to stumble or take risks, which stifles their artistic potential. I wanted to challenge that narrative. At AFW, we encourage our designers to embrace creativity by following a simple yet powerful principle: Break at least one rule. This methodology empowers brands to liberate themselves from conventional norms and reimagine fashion possibilities. AFW represents an evolution toward ‘anti-fashion’ fashion, promoting the belief that creativity should thrive as an inclusive celebration open to all.
How has AFW helped brands and designers in the fashion industry?
Our mission is to democratise fashion, expanding access to a wider audience within the industry. The retail landscape in Bangladesh is often ruled by major established brands with substantial backing, leaving little room for young, ambitious designers. How can a young, talented brand or designer compete with that? This is precisely where AFW steps in. Our platform provides a multifaceted marketplace for brands to showcase their work and gain visibility on the runway. We also aim to provide critical support services—like production assistance and financial aid—to nurture the next wave of talent. Additionally, we are committed to diversifying the modelling industry, opening auditions to everyone regardless of experience or background, empowering a new generation of models, and challenging traditional beauty standards.
What have been some of your biggest lessons from organising AFW?
Running AFW has been a transformative experience. Two lessons have stayed with me: one, pursuing a unique path or idea often means going against the grain. There`s no logical explanation for this opposition; that`s just the way it is. Two, I have witnessed the power of collaboration. Building a community through AFW is essential; we've seen the fashion scene flourish by fostering connections among designers, models, and industry experts. As the market continues to evolve, embracing diversity
and collaboration becomes even more crucial. By working together, we can uplift the entire industry.
What`s next for AFW?
The next edition of AFW promises to be our most remarkable yet. Our inaugural event in 2023 unveiled our vision, while last year's edition elevated that vision to new heights. We are building on those successes this year to create an unparalleled experience. If we achieve our anticipated success, even more thrilling initiatives await us. Though I won't reveal everything just yet, I assure you that AFW will continue redefining the fashion landscape and exploring our industry's vast potential. Looking ahead, we hold grand aspirations to expand AFW`s international reach. While we proudly celebrate our Bangladeshi heritage, we also embrace our role as a vibrant platform for Southeast Asian fashion. Our shared cultural and stylistic ties with neighbouring countries make this evolution not just possible but
inevitable.