Pakistani dresses are dominating Eid shopping in Bangladesh this year, blending comfort, style, and affordability. Industry insiders estimate annual sales of these dresses at around Tk100 crore.
The trend accelerated after the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, when Pakistani dresses began selling online. Local outlets have since joined the wave, catering to growing consumer demand.
Roni Ramany, administrative specialist at Fascino on Sat Masjid Road, said the store offers four types of Pakistani dress products: unstitched Pakistani fabric, dresses stitched in Pakistan and imported, pre-stitched dresses, and Pakistani dresses stitched locally by the store’s own tailors.
“During Ramadan, our sales increased by 40 per cent compared to usual months,” Ramany said, adding that customers are drawn to Pakistani dresses for their attractive designs.
Miraz Ahmed, manager of StyleMart, said demand for Pakistani dresses has been rising every year. “This year, we are getting a very positive response from customers. We try to keep our prices reasonably affordable,” he said.
Students and young shoppers are among the main buyers. Afroza, a student at the University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh, said, “The fabric of Pakistani dresses is very comfortable and can be worn all day. It is especially suited for hot summer weather.” She added, “Compared to local brands, Pakistani dresses are not much more expensive, so I purchased one this Eid.”
Importers face a complex supply chain. Yasin Arafat, owner of Lamisa Collection, said Pakistani dresses do not arrive directly in Bangladesh but via Dubai or Qatar. Retailers buy from importers, who set their own profit margins, resulting in slightly higher prices.
At Lamisa Collection, Pakistani dresses are priced between Tk3,000 and Tk10,000, with customers spending an average of Tk5,000 per visit.
This year, well-known Pakistani brands such as Maria.B. and Sana Safinaz have opened outlets in Bangladesh, with prices ranging from Tk3,500 to Tk45,000. Popular brands for this Eid include Elaf, Afrozeh, Zara Shahjahan, and Khoobsurat.
As shoppers seek clothing that balances style, comfort, and price, Pakistani dresses are securing a firm place in Bangladesh’s festive wardrobe.
