Kurtis that make a great office wear
The Business Standard listed three brands offering a unique collection of kurtis
In recent years, single-piece kurtis have become a defining trend in women's fashion across Bangladesh, especially among working professionals.
What was once considered casual ethnic wear has now transformed into a smart, stylish, and culturally rooted outfit that blends tradition with modern practicality.
For Amreen Morshed, a banker at a private bank in Dhaka, cotton Kurtis are a staple of office wear.
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"My mother was also a banker at a government bank. At her time, she wore mostly salwar kameez or shari. I think Kurtis makes better office wear than salwar kameez. Kurtis are usually of looser fits than kamiz, making them more comfortable," she said.
"Besides, you can style it with pants or salwars, based on your mood, and hence you can recreate different looks with a single kurti," Morshed added.
This balance of style and practicality has led to a growing number of homegrown brands catering to this new wave of demand, with each adding its own flair.
Here are three such brands offering a unique collection of kurtis.
Wearhouse
Founded by Tasnim Ferdous, Wearhouse has become a go-to brand for young women seeking comfort, creativity, and confidence in their everyday wear. Tasnim believes that Kurtis are the ultimate fashion solution for the younger crowd, a perfect fusion of tradition and trend.
"It's like a revamped, modern version of the salwar kameez," Tasnim shares. "You get the best of both worlds. You can style it in a traditional way, go full-on Western, or create a chic fusion look. It's safe, comfortable, and incredibly versatile. After a long day at work, the same outfit works effortlessly for a dinner or casual hangout."
At Wearhouse, quirky, funky prints meet smart, wearable designs. The brand offers a colourful array of Kurtis — from playful, shorter cuts with punchy patterns, to more subdued and sophisticated styles featuring traditional floral motifs. Whether you're into bold statements or classic charm, Wearhouse has something for every mood and personality.
The appeal spans generations. "Younger women often pair our Kurtis with palazzos or jeans, while the older crowd leans towards salwars, sometimes styling them with a matching orna for a more traditional touch," Tasnim explains. "Kurtis really give women a lot of styling freedom."
Wearhouse uses soft cotton, locally produced linen, and khadi fabrics to ensure breathable comfort for Bangladesh's climate. Many designs include thoughtful details like tassels, adjustable fits, and full-length and short-length sleeves, providing both flair and function.
With prices ranging from Tk1,099 to Tk1,790, Wearhouse proves that fashion can be fun, expressive, and affordable—all at once.
Madeleine
Madeleine is the heartfelt passion project of Anika Maisha Hossain, who balances her creative journey with her full-time profession as a schoolteacher. Having grown up in a household where fashion was part of daily life, as her mother owns a boutique. Anika has long been familiar with the ins and outs of the apparel business.
"I'm also a painter," Anika shared. "I studied art and love drawing colourful cartoons. Somehow, those whimsical characters found their way into my clothing designs. My art and fashion both reflect who I am, silly, vibrant, funky, cute, and full of positivity."
At Madeleine, you will find a wide range of Kurti selections in offbeat patterns like seashells, dolphins, stars, herbs, boats, and more.
"Kurtis make a great officewear as they are modest, comfortable and easy to carry," added Anika.
Madeleine stands out not just for its playful aesthetic but also for its commitment to fabric quality. The brand exclusively works with Remi cotton, carefully sourced from local markets.
"I've done quite a bit of research on cotton and linen," said Anika. "While pure versions are breathable and soft, they often shrink or wear out after a few washes. Remi cotton doesn't have these drawbacks, making it ideal for everyday wear."
The brand's catalogue includes Kurtis, Salwar Kameez sets, women's shirts, and a handful of unisex designs, all carrying Anika's signature touch. She prefers a minimalist base, embellished with embroidery and karchupi, and often plays with quirky motifs like seashells, dolphins, boats, herbs, and stars.
Madeleine primarily works on a pre-order basis, allowing Anika to tailor each piece with care, respecting different body types and preferences. Prices start at Tk3,000, making it an accessible yet artistic choice for cotton lovers seeking both comfort and charm.
Aurum Bangladesh
Founded in 2017 by Neshat Unzum during her undergraduate years, Aurum Bangladesh began its journey with a single exhibition and quickly gained traction thanks to widespread appreciation for its unique offerings. What started as a passion project has now evolved into a beloved fashion brand known for its distinct identity and commitment to quality.
Aurum Bangladesh specialises in block-printed single-piece Kurtis, crafted with care and attention to detail. Today, over 80% of its clientele are working women, drawn to the brand's blend of comfort, affordability, and effortless style.
"Kurtis are incredibly versatile. Whether paired with a simple stud or a bold jhumka, flats or sneakers, they always work. They are perfect for office wear, easy to care for, and more budget-friendly than traditional salwar kameez," says founder Neshat Unzum.
The brand primarily works with locally sourced cotton, silk, and muslin, proudly steering clear of imported fabrics. Prices range from Tk1,000 to Tk6,500. The brand is open to customisation and mostly takes orders on a pre-order basis.
