Happy shopping, folks!

Eid and other festivals are all about mixing up simplicity and style and below is a vast array of choices you could possibly want, to do just that

We feel it is the birthright of every girl to shop her heart out, regardless of season or occasion. When an occasion does, however, rear its bejeweled head, there is absolutely no stopping! For a city like Dhaka, the act of shopping is as simple as it is complicated. During Eid, as it is now, men and women battle traffic, brave the heat and crowd and travel far and wide to buy the very best of the lot. This is why, we feel that a quick look at some of the best bazaars of Dhaka is invaluable!

Tried and tested look

Saris are the best friend of a Bengali woman. Simple, graceful and comfortable, this look is tried and tested and adored each time! While there are many places to shop for saris, we feel the need to mention two of the best sari bazaars in town. At one end of town -- in hatirpool -- is a mall known and renowned as Eastern Plaza. Since its conception, this mall has been known for its vast choice in saris, be it in crepes, silks, chiffons or cottons. You name the colour and they have it for you. Yards and bolts of material is unfolded and refolded each year by over a hundred salesmen, catering to throngs of fashionistas. If all this makes you worry about your bank account, curb that thought right now. These stores are as reasonable as they get. If you pride yourself on being a class negotiator, these stores are your calling.

On the other end of the spectrum is the Mirpur wholesale sari market. Was that a smile at the mention of wholesale? Smile away ladies, because this is the largest sari market in town and the choices are abundant. Rajshahi silks, Jamdanis or nets, this bazaar boasts everything. Buy the best at the cheapest and walk away smiling wide.

They never disspoint

Unparalleled in its variety for salwar kamizes is Chandni Chowk and Gausia. Call them twin sisters, because they complement each other every which way. Cloth pieces, readymade suits, simple or embroidered heavily, these stores have them all. If Chandni Chowk gives you quality cloth pieces, hop over to Gausia for the perfect match of complementary items like dupattas. Between Chandni Chowk and Gausia, shoppers have a two-stop solution for it all. With almost everything to offer, like shoes, jewellery, accessory items and clothes, Chadni Chowk and Gausia never disappoint. Be well prepared to brave massive amounts of traffic if you do not come from nearby areas, though! You would also do well to brush up on your negotiation skills for this one.

Just for men

Men who have, by now, lost hope that this is an article only for the benefit of ladies, wait up a little because this part is yours for the taking. Eid means kurta pajamas for most and what better place for that than the Bangldeshi pride, Aarong! With branches in Tejgaon, Uttara, Lalmatia, Bashundhara and Banani, these stores are accessible anywhere. Intricate work or simple designs, Aarong sports the best punjabis in town. It is also your solution for sandals, shoes and men's accessories for that complete Eid look.

If you have an Aarong nearby, look nowhere else! Do remember, however, that because all their work is handmade by local craftspeople, they can be a tad bit expensive, but as they say -- with great price, comes greater fashion. Okay, we may have modified that saying just a little.

Some more option

Artisti, Artisan, Sailor and Cat's Eye are some more Bangladeshi fashion brands that fashionable men set their eyes on. Known for their variety and fit, these stores are available in the leading malls of Dhaka, namely Bashundhara City and Jamuna Future Park. If you happen to be near one on Elephant Road, don't forget to stop by Chaurangi Bazaar for shoes that will claim your heart and stay there. We speak here, for both our male and female readers. Chaurangi Bazaar is the best you can do for any kind of footwear. While the surrounding stores will entice you with big names like Woodland and Buffalo, rest assured, you will get first copies or even originals, if you are lucky, at Chaurangi for half that price. That's right, people. Prudence.

Eid and other festivals are all about mixing up simplicity and style and what you have above is a vast array of all the choices you could possibly want, to do just that. Happy shopping, folks.