Chandrika Tamang, the innovative fashion designer and founder of the sustainable brand CDK Gyencha, has returned to Bhutan from Melbourne with a renewed vigor. After weeks of preparation, Tamang and her dedicated team of weavers and assistants are poised to showcase her latest collection at the prestigious Fabric of Multicultural Australia (FOMA) fashion show in Sydney this October.
FOMA, a prominent platform for sustainable and indigenous fashion in Australia, will host its 7th Annual Runway and Exhibit on October 12. This event is renowned for celebrating and promoting indigenous and eco-friendly design labels. For Tamang, this represents a groundbreaking moment, as she will be the first Bhutanese designer to feature in the show.
Tamang, who established CDK Gyencha in 2014, has made a name for herself by blending traditional Bhutanese craftsmanship with modern fashion. Her latest collection, “Ballads of Nomads,” draws inspiration from the vibrant culture and attire of the Merak and Sakteng communities in Trashigang. The collection embodies her commitment to sustainability while highlighting the rich heritage of Bhutanese design.
In an interview with Kuensel, Tamang expressed her excitement about participating in FOMA, noting that the platform is unparalleled in its dedication to indigenous and hand-woven fashion. “FOMA is a significant opportunity for us to reach the international market and promote Bhutanese contemporary fashion,” she said.
In addition to her runway debut, CDK Gyencha will be making waves with pop-up stores in Sydney, aimed at increasing brand visibility and engagement. Tamang plans to extend these pop-ups to Melbourne between November and January, with aspirations to showcase Bhutanese fashion worldwide in the future.
Tamang’s journey into fashion began as a personal hobby during her school years. What started as a pastime evolved into a full-fledged career, leading her to leave a stable banking job to pursue her passion for design. Her brand now collaborates with 20 female weavers in Bhutan, creating modern interpretations of traditional designs.
The FOMA event will also feature Bhutanese fashion designer and illustrator Karma Wangchuk, known professionally as Lhari Khampa. Wangchuk will present an exhibition of photography and illustrations focused on Bhutanese street fashion. The collaboration between Tamang and Wangchuk aims to promote Bhutanese culture through their respective artistic lenses.
Support for the Bhutanese designers comes from the Royal Bhutanese Embassy in Canberra, the Honorary Consul of Bhutan in Sydney, and the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
This year’s FOMA show will celebrate the cultural diversity of over 15 local and international artists, showcasing a rich tapestry of fashion and design that highlights global traditions and contemporary practices.
