Matchy-match sets the trend this Eid
The idea of matching outfits is nothing new in Bangladesh. Parents often dress their children the same, especially if they are twins. Then again, some parents like the whole family to wear matching outfits.
Previously, these matching outfits were not readymade designs, though. People used to make them on their own, have them tailor-made, or buy the same two or three outfits in different sizes.
In 2004, fashion house Sada Kalo introduced a new idea named ‘Tumi ami ek chimty’ (referring to the fun habit of pinching anyone dressed the same.) They launched matching apparel for parents and children.
Then came the couple clothes for love-birds. In 2005, the fashion house brought couple-outfits featuring Aly Zaker and Sara Zaker.
Tahsin Shaheen, the chairman of Sada Kalo said it was the first among local fashion houses to launch such an idea commercially.
Now-a-days matching outfits have become a popular trend, especially for couples. It is, to some extent, a way to express commitment and love for each other.
Such a couple, Sabrina and Hossain from Wari came to buy a couple-outfit from Baily road.
When asked why the matching outfits, Sabrina said, it is their first Eid after marriage.
"We will visit relatives together on the day. Moreover, matching outfits look good in photos," she added.
Many children have tantrums for panjabis like their fathers or sarees like their mothers. That’s another reason for matching outfits.
Almost all local fashion houses, Kay-Kraft, Nipun, Anya Mela, Srishti, Nagordola, Banglar Mela, Anjan's, Rong, Prabartana and many shops in Aziz Super Market in the capital's Shahbagh, ranging from Tk 2000 to Tk 9000.
Businessmen say there is a huge demand for matching outfits this Eid.
The motifs and colours of matching outfits are almost the same but the patterns are changed sometimes. There are panjabis for fathers and their one-year-old sons.
*This report, originally published in Prothom Alo print edition, has been rewritten in English by Farjana Liakat.