Bangladesh is no longer a stranger to hi-wattage events. As the wedding industry and the entertainment industry continue to grow and expand beyond our borders, there is a rising demand for fashion that embraces global trends while being true to our cultural roots. Savvata by Rifah, which had its official launch in December last year, aims to fill that demand with high-end formals, party wear and luxury maternity looks.
Savvata is the brainchild of Rifah Tasnia Swarna. Ahead of the winter wedding season, we caught up with the label’s managing partner for her thoughts on fashion and more.
You’ve already had an impressively full plate with multiple directorships in sectors as diverse as electronics and petrochemical manufacturing. Fashion is an interesting pivot to make at this point. What made you decide to go for it?
While I cherish my role in sectors like electronics (Walton Hi-Tech Industries Ltd.) and petrochemicals (Redmin Industries Ltd.), the move into luxury fashion wasn’t a pivot away, but an extension of my entrepreneurial spirit into a deeply personal and creative realm. Savvata was founded in 2021 and born from a passion for timeless elegance and modern sophistication. I’ve always believed fashion, at its highest form, is a powerful mode of self-expression. I envisioned a brand built on meticulous quality, where artistry and engineering meet to empower women through design.
My goal was to create a brand where every piece reflects a commitment to quality and artistry. It allows me to apply the same focus on execution, efficiency, and global standards I learned in manufacturing, and bring them into the world of couture — crafting heirloom-worthy creations that spotlight the artistry of our nation and proudly elevate Made in Bangladesh on the global stage.
Could you walk us through your vision for Savvata?
My vision is for Savvata to be much more than a clothing brand — it’s a destination for timeless elegance and unforgettable memories. We are not just a bridal fashion boutique; we are curators of dreams and architects of personal style. Our vision rests on three pillars:
Design Excellence: Our creative vision is a clear fusion of classic elegance with contemporary flair. We draw inspiration from global fashion trends, vintage aesthetics, and the unique stories of our clients.
The Seamless Experience: I believe the journey to finding your perfect attire should be as enchanting as the day itself. We provide a personalised and immersive service in our showroom, with a commitment to quality, comfort, and hospitality.
Fulfilling Dreams: The ultimate goal is to create a brand that fulfils the dreams of our customers by offering globally-inspired designs that blend elegance and sophistication.
Empowering Through Employment: Savvata is also a platform that nurtures local talent and creates meaningful employment. We take pride in contributing to Bangladesh’s fashion ecosystem by providing opportunities for artisans, craftsmen, and women in the workforce to thrive and grow. worker
Who is a Savvata woman?
The Savvata woman is discerning, confident, and values individuality above all else. She recognises that her attire should tell her story. She is someone who demands a blend of artistry and comfort. She is the bride, groom, or guest seeking attire — from bespoke bridal gowns and tailored groom attire to elegant traditional wear like sarees, shararas, and kameez — that is a reflection of your individuality and love. The Savvata woman is anyone who seeks meticulous craftsmanship and a design that is as distinctive as the moment she is celebrating.
What are you most excited for in 2026?
I am most excited about two major directions: the evolution of our creative output and the expansion of our reach.
Creative Innovation: We are always looking to cement our brand by pushing the boundaries of style and innovation. Our team is currently dedicated to infusing fresh perspectives by continuously seeking inspiration from the world around us, from art and architecture to nature and culture. The new collections will be a compelling blend of artisanal craftsmanship and trendsetting designs.
Global Presence: Building on our initial success, 2026 will be a key year for expanding our footprint, ensuring we deliver on our commitment to establishing a strong presence in the global fashion industry. We are committed to taking our signature elegance beyond borders, reaching clients who value thoughtful design and redefined craftsmanship.