I am a fashion design graduate, and I draw my inspiration from our country’s developmental philosophy of Gross National Happiness, a rare concept of sustainability that we must apply in our daily lives. I specialise in natural dyes, hand woven textiles, CAD and silhouette. My journey into fashion and textiles design was deeply influenced by my mother who loved crocheting and knitting, as well as my admiration for Bhutanese handwoven textiles.
Growing up in a country surrounded by vibrant textiles, intricate weaves and centuries-old craftsmanship, my biggest motivation remains the skilled artisan of Bhutan, especially the weavers who create a unique world of textiles using age-old techniques.
In my work, I focus on using ethical materials, natural dyes, and traditional weaving methods to honor our country’s commitment to Gross National Happiness. My designs celebrate our identity as Bhutanese and aim to make traditional fabrics more relatable to modern audiences, mixing our heritage with contemporary ideas. I strive to create unique pieces that connect people to Bhutan’s rich history and its future possibilities.
Creative experiences
My signature style combines the rich artistry of Bhutanese handwoven fabrics with modern silhouettes, ensuring that each piece reflects both cultural authenticity and innovation. I prioritise sustainability by exclusively using natural dyes and traditional weaving methods, symbolic of our deep respect for nature. Every design I create incorporates sacred Bhutanese symbols, inspired by nature, spirituality and traditional patterns, all woven with care to tell a meaningful story.
As a sustainable fashion designer, I have showcased my collections and held several fashion shows. I am also proud to be the Lead Contemporary Designer of Bhutan’s first weaving centre. I take great pride in being the first woman to set up a free natural dye program in Phuentsholing Thromde, Chukha. This program has empowered over 50 women by equipping them with knowledge and skills to create eco-friendly textiles, while preserving our dyeing traditions.
For me, fashion is more than just my work- it’s my effort to make a difference in cultural preservation, sustainability, and empowerment of the lives I encounter along the way.
Fashion vision BFW 2025
I’m excited to share my collection, themed “Bhutan’s Sacred”. Inspired by gothic colors, this collection honors Bhutan’s rich spiritual history and cultural heritage. I chose to work with hand-woven textiles, dyed with natural pigments, because they are important to our traditional craft. I gave them a modern twist by using bold, Gothic-inspired colors.
Blending the old with new, my design includes traditional Bhutanese motifs and HOR designs. Auspicious symbols like the Druk (dragon), Dorji (vajra), Bumpa (treasure vase) and Khorlo (wheel of dharma), and everyday sacred items like bangchung (handwoven cane container), and dapa (traditional wooden bowl) have also been added.
Every piece tells a story of who we are today, of change and identity that are deeply rooted in our tradition. Through this collection, I want to honor all that are Bhutan’s sacred- our cultural richness, spiritual depth, and sustainable practices, while exploring a contemporary Gothic aesthetic. It aims to bridge tradition and modernity, creating garments that are both wearable art and cultural storytelling.
I see Bhutan’s fashion industry changing, as it mixes our rich traditions with new ideas, focuses on being eco-friendly, and connects with the world. This is Bhutan’s journey into global fashion scene, while treading on the path that is purely unique and cultural.
What More?
LEENA’s WORLD is a fashion brand that focuses on being aware and sustainable. I blend tradition with modern styles, showing my respect for craftsmanship, culture, and the environment. Each collection I create is carefully designed using hand-woven textiles that are dyed with natural and eco-friendly colors from nature. This shows my commitment to sustainable practices and ethical fashion.
What makes LEENA’s WORLD special is how I mix traditional designs, inspired by local art, stories, and nature with modern shapes that appeal to human today. I also add detailed embroidery to each piece, giving it depth, character, and a timeless elegance. LEENA’s WORLD is not just a clothing brand; it is a movement that aims to preserve cultural history, while looking forward to a sustainable future in fashion in Bhutan.
