Reviving the Art of the Potli
In a world of fast fashion and fleeting trends, some things deserve to be revived — not reimagined, just lovingly returned to their roots. At Tabassum, one such revival was that of the potli bag — a charming, traditional South Asian accessory that once lived in the palms of our grandmothers and is now having a stylish comeback.
And that revival didn’t happen by accident — it started in 2020.
From Fabric Scraps to Fashion Statements: The Beginning
In 2020, while working on our tie-dye range, we were faced with an unexpected challenge — vibrant fabric scraps piling up from pattern cuttings.
Instead of discarding them, we found inspiration in the past — from the potlis our grandmothers carried to hold money, prayer beads, or essentials. That spark of nostalgia, combined with our sustainability goals, led to the idea of crafting upcycled, charming accessories.
This is where the Tabassum potli was born — designed to be joyful, practical, and eco-conscious.
A Ready-to-Wear First: Potlis for Everyone
Tabassum became the first ready-to-wear Pakistani brand to consistently introduce potli bags as part of everyday eastern wear — not just bridal wear. Before us, potlis were largely reserved for brides and formal trousseaus. We reintroduced them into the wardrobes of modern women who craved charm, nostalgia, and fun.
Signature Potli Shapes by Tabassum
Every Tabassum potli is handcrafted with intention, shaped with creativity, and rooted in heritage. Over the years, we’ve launched several signature silhouettes:
1. Cylindrical Potli
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Inspired by classic South Asian designs
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Straightforward, roomy, and versatile
2. Phool (Flower) Potli
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Opens like a blooming flower — romantic and soft
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A favorite for springtime and festive wear
3. Mini Potli
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Pocket-sized charmers
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Perfect for gifting, wedding giveaways, and young girls
4. Heart-Shaped Potli — A Tabassum Original
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First launched in 2022, this became an instant hit
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A first in Pakistan’s ready-to-wear scene
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Its quirky, lovable design quickly gained popularity — and was soon replicated by other brands
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But the heart potli remains a Tabassum signature, crafted with the same original love and whimsy.
The Perfect Gift: Celebrations Made Sweeter
Our potlis have now become a go-to gifting option across life’s celebrations — adorable, practical, and full of meaning.
They’ve been used as:
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Wedding favors at the mehndi of YouTube personalities Arooj and Ducky Bhai
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Baby shower gifts — lovingly handed out to guests as sweet tokens
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Bridesmaid presents and mehndi giveaways that are memorable and budget-friendly
These potlis aren’t just accessories — they’re part of your most special moments.
Affordable, Ethical, Adorable
Every potli by Tabassum is:
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Often made from upcycled fabrics, reducing waste
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Crafted by local artisans, supporting sustainable employment
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Extremely budget-friendly, with prices that make them perfect for bulk gifting or self-indulgence
Whether paired with a matching outfit or gifted on its own, it’s a piece of tradition wrapped in love.
Still Leading, Always Inspiring
Others may have followed, but Tabassum continues to lead the way — launching original silhouettes, popularizing potlis in mainstream eastern wear, and setting trends rather than chasing them.
From brides to brands, we’ve inspired many — but it all started with a handful of scraps and a whole lot of heart.
A Little Bag with a Lot of Heart
For us, the potli is more than just a bag. It’s:
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A symbol of heritage
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A commitment to sustainability
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A gesture of care, rooted in culture
And as our patrons carry them into weddings, baby showers, festivals, and everyday life — they carry our story with them too.
Have you tried the Tabassum potli bag yet?
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