Students of the Department of Fashion Studies of BGMEA University of Fashion & Technology (BUFT), Batch BFS_231, showcased contemporary fashion products inspired by the traditional motifs, patterns, and visual heritage of the Kumarkhali Bedsheet, a Geographical Indication (GI) product of Bangladesh, at the university's Multipurpose Hall on August 10, 2026. The showcase was organized as part of the course FS02124106 - Traditional Craft in Fashion, taught by Ms. Sarmily Sarker, Assistant Professor, Department of Fashion Studies. As part of their coursework, the students conducted field-based research in Kumarkhali, Kushtia, engaging with local artisans, producers, and industry stakeholders to study the craft's history, cultural significance, motifs, materials, production techniques, craftsmanship, and market practices.
Based on their field research, the students reinterpreted traditional Kumarkhali Bedsheet motifs and design elements into contemporary fashion and dress-material concepts through experimentation with color, surface development, pattern placement, and product applications. The showcase demonstrated how traditional craft can be connected with modern fashion while retaining its cultural identity. The initiative reflects BUFT's emphasis on experiential learning, research-based design education, and preservation and revitalization of Bangladesh's textile and craft heritage. It also explored new creative and market-oriented opportunities for traditional crafts, artisans, and designers.
Mr. Faruque Hassan, Chairman, Board of Trustees, BUFT; Prof. Dr. Engr. Ayub Nabi Khan, Vice-Chancellor (Designate), BUFT; and Prof. Dr. Md. Alamgir Hossain, Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Acting) & Treasurer, BUFT were among the distinguished guests. Other guests included Mr. Benazir Ahmed Tito, Chairman, BSCIC; Mr. Jahangir Hossain, Director General, DPDT; Mr. Chandra Shekhar Shaha, Designer and Crafts & Textiles Researcher; Mr. Shahid Shamim, Director, PRABARTANA; Mr. Md. Masud Rana, Director, Rana Textile, Kumarkhali; Mr. Md. Ayub Ali, Chief (Planning & Implementation), Bangladesh Handloom Board; Mr. Md. Jahedul Alam, APS to the Political Adviser, Prime Minister's Office; Mr. Sk. Saifur Rahman, Consultant, Haal Fashion; Ms. Taslima Jahan, Consultant & Academic, Intellectual Property, Bangladesh; and Mr. Salauddin Yousuf, Director, Lub-rref Bangladesh Limited. Faculty members of the Departments of Fashion Studies and Fashion Design & Technology also attended the showcase. The exhibition presented the students' research documentation, design development, and final product concepts, highlighting the connection between academic research, traditional craftsmanship, and contemporary fashion design.
