In a bold stride toward showcasing its cultural heritage and burgeoning design talent, Bhutan will host its inaugural Fashion Week this October. Spearheaded by the Department of Media, Creative Industry and Intellectual Property (DOMCIIP), the event aims to elevate indigenous textile craftsmanship and put the Himalayan kingdom on the global fashion stage.
Supported by the government’s Economic Stimulus Programme, Bhutan Fashion Week (BFW) will offer a comprehensive platform for emerging designers to present their creations and forge connections with local weavers and artisans. “We observe numerous fashion weeks globally, and we envisioned initiating a similar event here in Bhutan,” explained a senior official at DOMCIIP, emphasizing the department’s commitment to both logistics and outreach for this first edition.
Nineteen designers have already signed up, each preparing collections that fuse Bhutanese identity with contemporary aesthetics. Among them is Gaymit Lepcha of She Bhutan, who greeted the announcement with palpable excitement. “This is the first time this has happened here, and I’m very excited,” she noted. Lepcha plans to use the six-month lead time to develop pieces that reflect her personal vision while honoring traditional motifs.
Equally enthusiastic is Leena, founder of Leena’s World, whose work prioritizes hand-woven textiles and natural dyes. “Our textiles are vibrant and rich in tradition, but they remain relatively unknown globally. I believe this platform can change that,” she said. Leena highlighted how the event will not only spotlight her designs but also create post-show markets where artisans can sell their products, strengthening local economies.
DOMCIIP envisions BFW as an annual fixture, eventually overseen by a dedicated fashion council. A consultant on the project, Lhari Khampa, describes the initiative as more than just runway spectacles. “BFW will be a platform to showcase our unique identity,” he remarked, adding that the event seeks to empower communities and secure Bhutan’s place in the creative economy. Khampa also hinted at future plans to extend invitations to designers across the Himalayan region, turning BFW into a broader cultural movement.
Beyond runway glamour, the inaugural week will include skill-building workshops, panel discussions, and networking sessions. DOMCIIP is partnering with training institutes to ensure participants are fully prepared for the spotlight. “Our aim is not merely to display garments but to nurture a sustainable ecosystem that supports designers, weavers, and artisans alike,” the official confirmed.
As October approaches, anticipation is mounting among stakeholders and observers alike. With its blend of tradition and innovation, Bhutan’s first Fashion Week promises to be a vibrant celebration of craftsmanship—and a decisive step toward weaving the kingdom’s fashion narrative into the global tapestry.
