Winter fashion What and where to buy
by Limana Solaiman Mridha
Bangladeshs export-oriented ready-made garments (RMG) industry is a blessing for people all over the country, not only for its contribution to the growth of the economy with a nearly US$19 billion annual turnover, but also for the availability of A-grade fashionable clothes at a reasonable price in the local market.
Since popular European and American brands are the main buyers of the RMG industry, we get to put on a trendy HM coat or a Next dress for a fraction of the price at which it is sold abroad. Gone are the days when local fashionistas had to depend on overseas travel to get the latest designs, especially in winter wear. Nowadays, almost all of it is made in Bangladesh!
When a certain garments factory gets an order from a brand, they usually produce more than the total order. These surpluses, and also stocks from cancelled orders or rejects due to minor defects are then channeled to local buyers, who in turn supply those to wholesale markets such as Bongo Bazaar and New Market, or to upscale shops like Westecs or Texmart.
Apart from these, local outlets like Gentle Park, Artisti, Yellow, Ecstasy, Jatra and Aarong have launched their own line of winter clothes, with the latter two adding a deshi twist to their collection with quilted cotton jackets and hoodies.
Since winter is upon us, here are some tips on where to buy excellent winter fashions, whether you are on a budget or ready to splurge.
Budget shopping
The following three locations in Dhaka are treasure troves for budget shoppers or youngsters who like to stay up-to-date with the latest trends.
Badruddoja Market, better known as Doja, near Dhaka College in Dhanmondi, is a heaven for bargain hunters who want to bag a trendy cowl-neck sweater for Tk250 to Tk400 max. The shop keepers are keen hagglers, so if your negotiating skills are rusty, it is better to take an expert aunt or a friend who can bargain on your behalf. A wide range of selection is available for your taking that includes long sweater dresses, which you can pair with a trendy shawl or scarf _ also available there for just Tk100-150. From patterns such as stripes, checks and colour blocks, you can find comfortable textured stitch cardigans that will complement your outfit. If you have plans to go out of town for the New Year, Doja offers a nice collection of heavy winter clothes and puffer jackets as well. The second floor of the market sells mens clothing only and you can find a nice light-weight wind breaker for about Tk500 Tk700.
New Market is another location where you can buy winter clothing if you are on a budget. The concept is similar to Doja, but the selection of style on offer is a tad bit limited. But if you want a good pair of sweater for Tk150, this is your place. On the first floor inside New Market, there are many shops that sell outfits for men and a handful that sells womens wear. If you take a walk inside the open compound of the market, you will find many hawkers selling almost all items of clothing. During winter, these small temporary stalls offer a wide range of shawls, sweaters and blankets at affordable prices.
Bongo Bazaar, situated in Gulistan, offers a large variety of merchandise. From heavy winter puffers to a light cardigan to a local khadi shawl, you name it and it is there for your taking at a bargain. One thing to keep in mind when you are shopping at Bongo is to barter your heart out as the shopkeepers are pros at making you feel guilty for uttering a low price, but rest assured that if they agree to sell, they are definitely making a profit. Also, scrutinise items closely before paying for hidden defects. It is always best to go in a group if you have plans to expand your winter wardrobe from Bongo, and be sure to turn on your hunting radar for spotting a steal.
Ready to splurge
Yellow This brand offers a wide range for both men and women to choose from. From slouchy beanie hats to trendy scarves, jackets and sweaters, Yellow screams youth for young fashion lovers. Yellows winter collection for boys and girls is really eye-catching: if you want your little hero to look dapper in a cute casual blazer, look no more.
Gentle Park This local brand offers a good collection of casual blazers for men. Their womens wear is modern and there is a nice selection of trendy woolen sweaters.
Le Reve This shop offers a large selection for men, women and children, and has some really nice ladies jackets to pick from. From hooded shirts to fashionable short sweaters to wraps, shrugs and shawls, their winter collection is worth checking out if you are ready to splurge a little (or more).
Ecstasy Their winter collection has a lot to offer for stylish young women, who prefer western styles. They have a good collection of jackets, coats and sweaters that will truly complement all outfits. Their gorgeous coats will spruce up a pair of jeans as well as a sari. They also have some lovely woolen ponchos and sweaters that will go well with any dress, sari or salwar-kameez suit.
Freeland This store has a huge assortment of fashionable winter wear for men and women, but sadly nothing for children. From suede coats to bright leather jackets, you will find something to suit your diverse tastes. They have almost every pattern and style of winter wear to choose from. Almost everything you see in this shop is imported, and long ZARA sweaters, which you might find elsewhere at a cheaper price, will surely burn a hole in your pocket if you opt to shop in the luxurious setting of this showroom. However, Freeland does offer diversity and quality all in one place and you do not have to hunt around for a good buy.
Westecs If you have plans to dress your little ones in casual blazers, nice pullovers and windbreaker jackets, Westecs is the place you should drop by. It also has an excellent selection of trendy winter clothes for both men and women, and with a moderate price range, you will find something that meets your requirement. They also have formal suits, trousers and tops for women who follow western styles.
Photos: The Independent
