Literature Review Tailor in Bangladesh Dhaka –Free Word Template Download with AI

This Literature Review explores the significance of tailors within the socio-economic and cultural framework of Bangladesh’s capital city, Dhaka. As a hub for the Ready-Made Garment (RMG) industry, Dhaka is often associated with large-scale textile production. However, traditional tailoring remains a vital component of its economic ecosystem, catering to local demand for custom-made garments while navigating challenges posed by globalization and industrialization.

The practice of tailoring in Bangladesh has deep historical roots, tracing back to pre-colonial and colonial periods when handcrafted garments were central to regional dress codes. Dhaka, historically renowned for its muslin textiles, was a focal point for skilled artisans who specialized in weaving and tailoring. Post-independence (1971), the RMG sector emerged as Bangladesh’s economic lifeline, but traditional tailors continued to operate alongside industrial manufacturers.

Studies by Rahman et al. (2015) highlight that Dhaka’s tailoring industry has evolved through a blend of heritage and adaptation. While large-scale factories dominate exports, small-scale tailors in neighborhoods like Sonargaon and Karwan Bazar provide bespoke services, reflecting a cultural preference for personalized clothing.

Modern Dhaka’s tailoring industry exists in two distinct realms: high-end bespoke ateliers and affordable local workshops. The demand for custom-made attire persists due to cultural norms emphasizing individuality in dress, particularly during weddings and religious events. According to a 2019 report by the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA), approximately 30% of Dhaka’s garment production involves tailoring services, underscoring its relevance despite competition from mass-produced clothing.

However, challenges such as limited access to modern equipment, fluctuating material costs, and pressure from fast fashion have strained traditional tailors. A study by Ahmed (2020) notes that many artisans in Dhaka struggle to compete with automated stitching machines and low-cost imports, forcing them to either innovate or retreat from the market.

Tailoring serves as a critical employment generator in Bangladesh’s informal sector. In Dhaka, women constitute a significant portion of tailors, with many working from home-based workshops or small shops. According to the World Bank (2018), over 15% of female laborers in Dhaka are engaged in tailoring and related crafts, providing income stability in a city marked by economic disparity.

Moreover, tailors often act as intermediaries between customers and suppliers, fostering local networks. This informal economy is vital for communities where formal job opportunities are scarce. However, lack of legal recognition and limited access to credit hinder their ability to scale operations or invest in training.

Recent years have seen gradual technological adoption among Dhaka’s tailors. The integration of digital tools such as Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software and laser cutting machines is emerging, particularly in high-end ateliers. Online platforms like Facebook Marketplace and Instagram have also enabled tailors to reach a broader clientele, including expatriates and international buyers.

Despite this, many small-scale tailors remain reliant on manual techniques due to cost barriers. A 2021 survey by the Bangladesh Institute of Development Studies (BIDS) found that only 12% of Dhaka-based tailors had access to digital payment systems, limiting their ability to compete with modern businesses.

Traditional tailoring in Dhaka is deeply intertwined with cultural practices. For instance, the demand for shalwar kameez, jogra, and other regional garments reinforces the need for skilled tailors who can replicate intricate patterns and stitching techniques. However, environmental concerns are growing, as synthetic fabrics dominate the market, raising issues about waste management and sustainability.

Efforts to promote eco-friendly practices—such as using organic cotton or recycling fabric scraps—are nascent. A 2022 report by the Bangladesh Environmental Lawyers Association (BELA) emphasized that tailors must adopt sustainable methods to align with global green initiatives, though this requires policy support and consumer awareness.

The future of tailoring in Dhaka depends on addressing systemic challenges. Strengthening vocational training programs, as suggested by the Bangladesh Technical Education Board (BTEB), could equip artisans with skills to integrate technology into their workflows. Additionally, government incentives for small-scale tailors—such as subsidized tools or tax exemptions—might help them thrive in a competitive market.

Collaboration between tailors and RMG factories could also create synergies, allowing traditional techniques to complement mass production. For example, customizing factory-made garments through tailoring services might bridge the gap between affordability and individuality.

In conclusion, tailors in Bangladesh Dhaka represent a unique blend of tradition and adaptation. While they face formidable challenges from globalization and industrialization, their role in preserving cultural identity, providing livelihoods, and contributing to the local economy remains irreplaceable. Future research should focus on scalable solutions that empower these artisans while ensuring their relevance in an evolving socio-economic landscape.