Bhutan is taking a confident stride onto the international fashion stage with the launch of the first-ever Bhutan Fashion Week (BFW) — a celebration of homegrown creativity, culture, and craftsmanship. The event, running from October 28 to 31 across Paro and Thimphu, marks a defining moment in the country’s emerging creative industry.
A Showcase of Bhutanese Talent
The Bhutan Fashion Week will feature 20 Bhutanese designers and 54 local models, each bringing a unique interpretation of the nation’s distinctive aesthetic. From traditional handwoven fabrics to modern silhouettes inspired by Himalayan motifs, the event seeks to merge Bhutan’s artistic heritage with contemporary fashion expression.
A Vision Rooted in Culture and Change
According to Kelly Dorji, director of the BFW, the event is more than a fashion showcase — it’s a movement to establish a sustainable Bhutanese fashion industry that honors cultural roots while embracing innovation.
“This is a milestone for Bhutanese designers and artisans,” Dorji said. “We want to foster creativity, inspire innovation, and create a platform that reflects Bhutan’s identity and values.”
The event is designed to encourage evolution within the local fashion scene, promoting modern interpretations of traditional styles without compromising the essence of Bhutanese culture.
Institutional Support for Creative Growth
The BFW is supported by the Department of Media, Creative Industry and Intellectual Property (DOMCIIP) and the Royal Textile Academy (RTA) — two institutions that play a central role in nurturing Bhutan’s creative ecosystem. Their involvement underscores the government’s commitment to fostering cultural industries as a viable economic and artistic sector.
Bridging Local Talent and Global Opportunities
Beyond the runway, the week will feature 20 fashion industry experts — from stylists and photographers to producers — who will engage with Bhutanese talent through workshops and discussions. The goal is to expose designers and models to international best practices and help them envision a future where Bhutanese fashion can thrive on global platforms.
Looking Ahead
Kelly Dorji hopes the inaugural Bhutan Fashion Week will become a regular fixture in Bhutan’s cultural calendar, serving as a launchpad for the next generation of designers.
“This is just the beginning,” he shared. “We see the Bhutan Fashion Week growing into a regional event that celebrates not just fashion, but Bhutanese identity and craftsmanship.”
As the lights rise on this landmark event, Bhutan’s creative industry prepares to make its mark — weaving tradition and modernity into a tapestry that tells its own unique story to the world.
