Kolkata, Sep 10 - She was a catwalk queen abroad, but returned to her native land, Bangladesh, to help the handwoven textile industry. Today Bibi Russell says nothing in the world can make her design synthetic garments.

'I studied and worked abroad and then came back to Bangladesh because that is what I wanted to do (work on natural fibres). The whole world is turning towards organic products,' said Bibi, who is known for designing 'gamchas' or traditional towels.

'Even if you give me everything in the world, you cannot make me design a synthetic garment,' Bibi told IANS during a leisurely chat at the Kolkata Fashion Week-II.

The former catwalk star will showcase her collection that includes 24 varieties for women and seven for men. She uses fabrics like khadi, cotton, silk, jute, tribal fabrics, recycle fabrics and the legendary jamdani for her creations.

Expressing her fondness for the art and culture of this city, Russell said it's time for Kolkata to build up its image in fashion.

'Fashion is a part of art and culture. Fashion is very important. Kolkata has great films, music, artists and Rabindranath Tagore, who epitomised culture. It's time fashion came up in the city.

'I think it's a wonderful initiative. Only Kolkata Fashion Week can make me come to showcase my collection. Other parts of India can't. I don't go to Bombay or Delhi for fashion shows,' she said.