Ashraful (Aneek) is a current student at BGMEA University of Fashion and Technology, Bangladesh, where he is studying for a degree in Fashion Design Technology. He recently joined ACME Garments as a Junior Fashion Designer, where he works primarily with sweaters and jute, focusing on incorporating natural materials into design. Ashraful is passionate about exploring sustainable and eco-friendly fashion and is excited to continue growing his focus in this field.
INTERVIEW WITH ASHRAFUL
Tell us about the inspiration behind your project.
Jute, often referred to as “Sonali Ash” (Golden Fiber), was once widely cultivated in Bangladesh, where it played a significant role in the economy. However, over time, its use has declined. When I began researching jute, I was struck by its unique appearance and texture, which I found incredibly beautiful and inspiring. This sparked my desire to reintroduce jute into the mainstream fashion industry and showcase its potential as a sustainable, stylish material.
How did you come to work with your chosen natural material? What do you find makes natural materials so good to use?
I initially started by exploring jute items, but I found that jute clothes weren’t commonly used for gaining weight. However, I was drawn to their beautiful appearance, so I decided to work with it. I began creating a blend of cotton and jute fabric, which is both comfortable and functional. The dyeing process here is done naturally, using myrobalan fruit for its rich colour. Additionally, raw jute, rope, and wooden buttons are incorporated into the designs.
What are your thoughts on natural materials & sustainability, and how do you think natural materials can adapt to a design industry increasingly focused on sustainability?
We have a tendency to complicate things that were once simple. With the rise of machine-made products, we’ve drifted away from nature and, in many ways, are harming it. The truth is, we don’t need anything that isn’t found in nature. So why not embrace what nature offers? For instance, jute could be used as an alternative to denim in certain designs. And this is just one of many possibilities where natural materials can replace synthetic ones.
Tell us about if/how you’d like to evolve and continue your work with natural materials in the future.
There’s a unique joy in working with natural materials—it’s as if I’m connecting with my own roots. Winning this competition has deeply inspired me to continue exploring and working with such materials. I’m now on the lookout for neglected natural resources that I can rediscover and share with the world, bringing their beauty and potential into the spotlight.
Please tell us how you think being a winner of this competition will impact your career as a designer.
I started my new job during the competition, and when my office learned that I was a winner, they offered their support in various ways. They showed a keen interest in my project and even decided to launch a new department focused on jute. As a result, I now work in the Department of Jute.
Follow Ashraful on his socials:
Instagram: @aneek9618
Facebook: @aneek1698
