When Eid approaches, Bangladesh’s fashion houses begin their annual transformation, colour palettes deepen, fabrics soften, and silhouettes shift to capture the spirit of celebration. For designer Shaibal Saha, the festive season is not about dramatic reinvention, but thoughtful evolution.
Known for his signature affinity for blue and his balanced approach to tradition and modernity, Shaibal brings a calm, considered aesthetic to Eid fashion each year. In this interview, he reflects on seasonal inspiration, changing consumer tastes and the future of Bangladesh’s growing fashion industry.
TIMES: How does Eid influence your design philosophy and creative direction each year?
Shaibal Saha: I always keep the season in mind, especially when it comes to colour, materials, and motifs. At the same time, I focus on ongoing trends that have been evolving over the past few years.
What have you planned for this Eid?
I design for Art of Blue, a sister concern of Anjan’s. I work with both natural and chemical dyes, using traditional materials throughout. Heavily influenced by shades of blue, which form my signature palette, I continue to work with my usual silhouettes, reinterpreting them in different pattern variations.
How do you balance modernity and tradition when launching your collections?
I believe in modernity, but I also see fashion as something that moves in cycles. Trends always come back, just with small changes. I like to redesign traditional wear with new patterns, mixing old styles with a modern touch.
How has Bangladeshi Eid fashion evolved over the years?
Consumers are more fashion-aware than ever, and despite strong competition from imported goods, Bangladesh’s fashion industry continues to grow, with more boutiques and an expanding customer base. The future is bright, but greater investment in research and development is essential to strengthen competitiveness and long-term growth.
What fabrics, colours or silhouettes best capture the spirit of Eid?
Black, maroon, beige and shades of grey dominate the palette, while fabric choices shift with the season, cotton for comfort and silk for elegance and grandeur.
What current fashion trends are shaping this year’s Eid collection?
Different sleeve styles, A-line silhouettes, the return of the churidar, and loose, patterned, sleek cuts are shaping current fashion trends.
From a designer’s perspective, how important is proper fabric care in preserving festive wear?
It is extremely important. As designers and boutique owners, we must educate customers, as we are expected to have a deeper understanding of fabric texture, hand-feel, and durability. Understanding the nature and texture of fabrics ensures their proper care and maintenance.
Where do you see the Bangladeshi fashion industry in the next few years?
I always stay very positive. The more fashion entrepreneurs we have, the larger the industry will grow. However, growth needs to be guided by a clear plan; without it, the industry may expand, but high-quality work will remain limited.
