About
Bibi Hanum

Handcrafted with love, care, and tradition

Welcome to Bibi Hanum – Experience the Beauty of Handmade Craftsmanship!

BIBI HANUM™ is a socially responsible fashion house creating garments and accessories from traditional hand-woven silk and cotton ikat fabrics.

Founded in 2006 by Muhayo Alieva, the brand’s mission is to empower women artisans by providing sustainable economic opportunities while preserving Uzbekistan’s rich cultural and ethnographic heritage.

At BIBI HANUM™, we are dedicated to bringing you the finest handmade pieces, crafted with exceptional care and attention to detail. Our collections feature exquisite silk ikat fabrics and dresses that celebrate the art of traditional craftsmanship — a dialogue between history, heritage, and modern elegance.

Photo: Muhayo Alieva, founder and owner of Bibi Hanum™

The Beauty of Handmade Craftsmanship

Each item in our collection is meticulously handcrafted. The fabrics are hand-dyed and loom-woven, and every piece is individually cut and stitched. This human touch makes each creation truly one of a kind.

Because of the hand-dyeing and weaving processes, slight variations and irregularities may appear — these are not flaws, but rather the hallmarks of authenticity. They remind us that every thread was touched by an artisan’s hand.

Some natural characteristics you may find include:

  • Subtle yarn irregularities or slubs: Variations in thread thickness that add depth and character to the textile.

  • Tiny weft or warp thread variations: Small knots or tension differences that occur naturally during hand weaving.

  • Delicate color shifts: Hand-dyeing techniques create soft variations in tone, enriching the visual beauty of each piece.

These details are the soul of handmade craftsmanship — they make every garment unique and full of life.

While we strive to provide accurate descriptions and photos, please note that small variations in color, pattern, and texture are part of the charm and authenticity of BIBI HANUM™ products. We believe these qualities make each item a true work of art, infused with the story of its maker.

We take great pride in preserving traditional techniques and supporting skilled artisans who pour their passion and expertise into every creation.

Your satisfaction means the world to us. Should you have any questions or concerns, our friendly team is always ready to assist you and ensure your experience with BIBI HANUM™ is exceptional.

Join us in celebrating the artistry and legacy of handmade Uzbek silk ikat.

Explore our collection and discover the beauty woven into every thread.

The Legend Behind the Name

Bibi Hanum — said to be the favorite wife of the great Central Asian conqueror Amir Temur (Tamerlane) — was known for her wisdom and extraordinary beauty.

To honor her husband’s return from a victorious campaign, she decided to build a grand mosque in his name. The architect, deeply moved by her grace, fell in love with her. Knowing he would never see her again once the mosque was finished, he delayed the construction as long as he could.

When Temur’s return drew near, the queen demanded the mosque be completed immediately. The architect agreed — but only in exchange for a kiss. Bibi Hanum reluctantly accepted, and the kiss left a mark upon her cheek.

When Amir Temur returned and saw the mark, he ordered the architect’s capture. Forewarned, the architect escaped, and his pupil told the guards, “My teacher has sprouted wings and flown to Mashhad.”

The Bibi Hanum Mosque, built between 1399 and 1404, still stands in Samarkand, a timeless symbol of love, beauty, and artistry — the same spirit that inspires our creations today.

BIBI HANUM™ – Where Tradition Meets Elegance.