Dhaka, Bangladesh – In a landmark moment for South Asian fashion and cross border cultural exchange, Maria B, Pakistan’s leading fashion house, has officially opened its first international flagship store in Dhaka, Bangladesh, marking the brand’s historic step beyond its home market. The new store, located in Centre Point Mall, was inaugurated on Tuesday with a grand launch event that attracted fashion industry figures, local designers, influencers, and media, highlighting the growing influence of regional fashion brands across South Asia.
Founded in 1999 by designer Maria Butt, popularly known as Maria B, the brand began as a single boutique in Lahore and has since grown into one of Pakistan’s most influential fashion names, celebrated for its blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern design. Over more than two decades, Maria B has expanded its product range to include unstitched fabrics, luxury pret, formal wear, casual lines, accessories, perfumes, and handcrafted jewelry, building a loyal customer base in Pakistan and internationally.
At the Dhaka launch event, Maria Butt spoke passionately about the significance of the occasion, describing the opening as something that had long been “close to her heart.” She reflected on the unwavering support the brand has received from customers in Bangladesh over the years, noting that the decision to open a physical presence in the country was inspired by a deep appreciation for the region’s fashion sensibilities and cultural affinity. “In just two days, Bangladesh has already begun to feel like home — a reflection of our shared love for fashion, culture, food, and deeply rooted values,” she said to applause from guests.
Industry experts and attendees at the event described the launch as a watershed moment not just for Maria B but for South Asian fashion as a whole. The Dhaka boutique is the first ever physical store launched by a Pakistani designer brand in Bangladesh, signaling a new chapter in regional brand collaborations and retail expansion. Analysts believe the move will strengthen cultural and economic ties between Pakistan and Bangladesh, providing local shoppers with direct access to one of South Asia’s most iconic fashion labels.
The flagship store showcases a comprehensive selection of Maria B’s celebrated collections, allowing customers to explore a wide array of styles and designs under one roof. Among the offerings available are the brand’s signature unstitched collections, luxury prêt-à-porter pieces suitable for both formal and casual occasions, elegant formals designed for festive events, the contemporary MBasics line, artisanal perfumes, and intricately handcrafted jewelry. Shoppers were seen browsing through the vibrant displays during the launch, with many expressing excitement about being able to experience the brand’s products in person for the first time.
The launch event also featured an exclusive fashion showcase that highlighted Maria B’s latest creations, blending modern trends with traditional aesthetics. Attendees praised the brand’s ability to cater to diverse tastes, noting the seamless fusion of classic South Asian styles with contemporary design elements. The runway presentation set the tone for the store’s opening, signaling Maria B’s commitment to creativity, quality, and cultural resonance.
For decades, Maria B has been a trendsetter in Pakistan’s fashion landscape, known for pioneering accessible designer wear that resonates with a broad audience. By choosing Bangladesh as its first international outpost, the brand underlines the country’s importance as a vibrant and fashion forward market with a sophisticated consumer base eager for global design influences. Fashion commentators see this expansion as a natural progression for the label, which has cultivated strong online and retail demand from Bangladeshi customers for years.
Local industry figures at the opening expressed optimism that Maria B’s presence will elevate the retail landscape in Dhaka and foster stronger connections between designers across South Asia. “This is more than fashion — it is a celebration of our artistic spirit,” said Farhana Akhter, Managing Director of Closet Social Bangladesh, noting the collaborative energy surrounding the launch.
As Maria B opens its doors in Bangladesh, the brand’s move is widely expected to encourage further regional expansion by South Asian fashion houses, demonstrating the potential for shared cultural heritage to fuel cross border retail success. The Dhaka flagship is more than a store; it is a symbol of growing economic and artistic synergy in the region’s dynamic fashion ecosystem.
