In Bangladesh, jewellery has always been more than just an accessory. It carries memories, supports traditions, and reflects identity. From royal jhumkas to simple churis, timeless designs have been passed down through generations, each piece holding cultural significance.
However, the rise of fast fashion and mass-produced jewellery flooded the market. As a result, many heritage styles faded from everyday use. To younger buyers, traditional jewellery often felt outdated.
Today, this view is changing. Small designers and vendors are creating a new wave of Bangladeshi jewellery. They blend traditional craftsmanship with modern tastes and offer high levels of customisation.
What sets this new trend apart is customisation. Customers want pieces that tell their personal story. They prefer jewellery that connects to their roots but also suits their style and identity, rather than generic mass-produced items.
“Clients don’t just want jewellery. They want stories,” said Zerin Tasnim Khan, a Dhaka-based designer and founder of 6 Yards Story. “They are drawn to pieces that link them to heritage while fitting their weddings, style, and who they are.”
Small entrepreneurs lead this movement. They focus on handcrafted pieces often made with the client’s input. Many young designers, like Zerin, have backgrounds in design or architecture. They use these skills to give old motifs a fresh, modern look.
Zerin began her business online in 2014, initially selling taat sarees inspired by her Sirajganj roots. But soon, her custom, handmade jewellery caught more attention.
“I was surprised by the response,” she said. “People loved the jewellery I designed. That’s when I knew I had to shift my focus.” As demand grew, she opened a studio this year where customers can see and try the jewellery before buying.
The studio has become popular among brides and lifestyle clients. This change shows a broader shift in Bangladesh’s fashion scene. From kundan sets to chandbalis, people are embracing traditional art with a fresh twist. The jewellery feels wearable and connects deeply to their identity.
Customisation goes beyond looks. It creates a personal bond. Clients help shape the design by choosing materials, shapes, and even adding engravings of initials or symbols that mean something special.
This revival reflects changing lifestyle values. In a fast-paced world, people now appreciate slow-made, meaningful creations more than ever.
Still, challenges remain. Zerin recalls, “I used to deliver products myself when online delivery was not possible. Many people lose patience with creative work quickly. But if you give up, how can you stand out among hard workers?”
This mix of determination and innovation drives the new generation of Bangladeshi jewellery makers. In their hands, tradition is being revived, reshaped, and proudly worn into the future.
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