Lidia May
Bangladesh is known for its RMG sector and the country has managed to make quite an impression in the international market in this regard. However, the country is lagging far behind when it comes to creating truly global brands. With designs emphasising heavily on the traditional side of things, the products turn into novelty items, reduced for special occasions. But Lidia May, the place where fashion meets heritage, is the brand that is about to change all of that.
Founded in 2014 by May Yang, a well-travelled American designer and social entrepreneur, the brand was established keeping the ethos of values and the idea that beauty blossoms on the basis of justice in mind. The name stands as a homage to businesswoman Lidia of Thyratira who lived in the first century AD. A successful entrepreneur at a time when few could claim such a title, Lidia was an inspiration and Lidia May, the brand, aspires to be the same.
Lidia May is an exclusive handbag brand, on par in quality with the best brands in the world. The company uses local raw materials wherever possible and employs local artisans, whilst training others to join the craft at the same time. The training is undertaken and provided for women from low income household and the brand actively works in empowering and showcasing the talent of local artisans to a worldwide audience. The leather used is especially tanned using vegetable extracts and devoid of harmful chemicals.
Lidia May, along with their team of top of the class international designers, manage to create unique hand-stitched patterns which grace each of their high quality bags, many made from top quality leather which is generally exported without the local market even getting a few pieces. Lidia May infuses heritage with modern designs, without laying too much emphasis on either. The designs are grand and Lidia May actively engages women who are more self-assured than trend led.
"Let's see if we can take the best of Bangladesh and put it at the service of the least," is May Yang's plan in her very own words. The Lidia May story is indeed a fascinating one, but that is for another day. For now, Lidia May is parterning up with online store La Rouge. Check out their event to be held at the Amari Hotel in Gulshan on the 21st from 5-8 pm and on the 22nd from 10 am-8 pm. Be sure to pay it a visit.
Photo Courtesy: Lidia May
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