Paro witnessed a rare transformation this week. In place of cars and traffic, a vibrant runway stretched down its main street — alive with applause, music, and striking designs that brought together the old and the new in exhilarating harmony.
This was the debut of Bhutan Fashion Week (BFW), a first-of-its-kind event aimed at elevating Bhutanese fashion onto a global platform. Fifty-four models walked confidently down the improvised street runway, showcasing the creative works of nine designers who are pushing the boundaries of Bhutan’s evolving fashion identity.
As models took to the ramp, each outfit told a story — some rooted in age-old textile patterns and artisanal craftsmanship, others experimenting with bold silhouettes and inventive fabric combinations. The show was a reminder that Bhutanese creativity is dynamic, adaptable, and ready for fresh forms of expression.
Speaking on how far the field has come, a renowned designer reflected on her two decades in fashion.
“Our journey from 2006 to today shows incredible progress. Bhutan Fashion Week continues to inspire us to explore new ideas while celebrating the richness of our culture.”
But the event is not only about glamour. Organizers emphasized its role in building a stronger industry — one where designers can sustain themselves and contribute to Bhutan’s growing creative economy.
“Our designs are crafted to bring joy in everyday life — not just admiration on the runway. By embracing Bhutanese fashion, the public nurtures emerging designers and strengthens a flourishing creative market,” stated Show Director, Kelly Dorji.
Speaking on similar lines, Sonam Penjor, Director, Department of Media and Creative Industry and Intellectual Property (DoMCIIP) said the event is a landmark. “We thank everyone involved for this,” he said. The Director added that fashion, in Bhutan’s context, is a reflection of history, craftsmanship, and identity. “Our fabrics, such as kira and gho, along with patterns that carry centuries of symbolism, embody the soul of Bhutanese artistry. And through BFW, we have the opportunity to keep these traditions alive,” he said.
The Director also said that with the BFW, confidence have seeped into the designers of Bhutan. “They can now go global. It is an opportunity for them and for the upcoming lovers of design.”
The event also drew international figures from the fashion community, many seeing Bhutanese design up close for the first time. For them, Bhutan’s appeal lies in its authenticity — a depth not easily replicated elsewhere.
According to a fashion editor from Australia, Jillian Davison, the honesty and individuality woven into Bhutanese designs immediately capture attention. This is why Bhutanese fashion can resonate across the world.
A designer noted that she wants to see Bhutanese fashion blend Bhutan’s culture with modern ideas, and be appreciated around the world.
BFW officially opened on October 27 at the Royal Textile Academy (RTA) in Thimphu with a special photo exhibition featuring archival images from the 1980s. This milestone event marks a historic moment for Bhutan’s creative industry — bringing together local and regional designers, textile artists, and fashion entrepreneurs to celebrate the country’s unique design identity and craftsmanship.
BFW aims to showcase the fusion of traditional artistry and modern expression, highlighting Bhutan’s distinctive use of textiles, patterns, and cultural storytelling through fashion. The event also seeks to create a new platform for dialogue between Bhutan’s designers and the global fashion community.
With the runway laid on the street where life unfolds daily, BFW has sent a clear message: Fashion belongs to everyone. And as models walked beneath fluttering prayer flags and a setting Paro sun, the event marked more than a stylish milestone — it hinted at a new frontier of Bhutanese cultural expression, driven by innovation, confidence, and creative courage.
Held with the support from the Indian Embassy, Department of Media, Creative Industry & Intellectual Property (DoMCIIP) and Royal Textile Academy (RTA), the event is showcasing nine talented designers. Their creative works are on display for both local visitors and international guests, as well as the general public.
Tashi Namgyal
From Thimphu
