“Nenga”- meaning, the “heart” in Bumthangkha.
I am an upcoming designer with passion in this field since I was a child. For last five years, I have worked as an accessories sewist and assistant trainer at the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT). This experience has deepened my love for fashion and given me an unwavering focus on quality, which inspired me to create a brand dedicated to minimalist design.
My biggest influence is Jil Sander, the “Queen of less”. Very close to her is my institute CEO and designer, Madam Sony. I gained immense knowledge about fashion, working closely with her. I also draw my creative inspiration from my daily routine, our landscapes and simplicity of life in Bhutan. Our Bhutanese culture is unique and I want to translate that richness into modern, minimal designs that people can wear every day. My hope is to create pieces that allow people to connect with and carry a part of our culture with them, no matter where they are.
Creative experiences
My journey into fashion began with a moment of serendipity. I went to a job fair with my cousin and was excited see the first ever fashion institute in Bhutan. I wrote my number down on the register and a few months later, I got a call from Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) inviting to join their first batch.
I have now spent five years immersed in the technical component of fashion as an accessories sewist and assistant trainer at FIT. This experience has deepened my love for the craft and given me unwavering focus on quality, which is the foundation of my designs. Last year, I was also fortunate to take a 14-day training course in textile and fashion design, where I got to learn felting, German pattern making and other skills.
My signature style is minimalist and focused on every day wear ability with good finishes. I believe that true elegance lies in simplicity, and I am also interested in creating unisex pieces. What truly sets my design apart is how I bridge the gap between our cherished Bhutanese heritage and a contemporary aesthetic.
As I am growing and learning, I may not have major achievement yet, but there are moments I am proud of. It is one step at a time, and debuting for the first time at BFW is my most significant achievement so far. I am deeply honored to have this opportunity.
Fashion vision BFW 2025
My collection: A Silent Prayer in Stone.
My first ever collection is inspired by the Tsa Tsa, a small but powerful and sacred object in Bhutan. A Tsa Tsa is a miniature stupa, a small molded clay sculpture with a deep spiritual significance. It’s an unspoken wish, a silent vow, and a quite act of devotion. My theme for these collection is ‘A Silent Prayers in Stone’ because each Tsa Tsa is a quite act of gratitude.
This collection is about the true strength found not in noise, but in the peaceful rhythm of inner life. It’s a tribute to the power of silence, and I have translated that intimate feeling into my designs. Each garment is my own personal offering; a minimal, wearable piece of art that carries a sense of peace and hope.
This collection is divided into three phases, each representing the journey of Tsa Tsa.
Phase i: The Mold.
This phase represents the clay’s earthy color, with each piece inspired by the raw materials used to create Tsa Tsa.
Phase ii: The Stupa
This phase is inspired by the Tsa Tsa’s form as a mini stupa. These pieces will have more detailing, including hand painting of the Tsa Tsa or minimalist hand woven elements. I will show case a wider range of colors of Tsa Tsa.
Phase iii: The Sanctuary.
This phase represents the Tsa Tsa in its final resting place, nestled in scared caves or on mountain passages, this phase will have feature tie dye looks and will conclude my collection with a simple kira and tego look as a tribute to our timeless culture.
For me, Tsa Tsa represents how a profound meaning can be carried through generation in the simplest of form. I hope each piece will be a calm, beautiful reminder of our culture and tradition.
My expectation for Bhutan Fashion Week is for it to grow into a powerful platform that supports and connects our industry with the world. I hope it brings global attention to Bhutanese fashion and opens doors for future opportunities for all of us in the creative industry.
My vision is for Bhutanese fashion to be globally recognized for its unique blend of tradition and innovation. I see a future where we celebrate our traditional craftsmanship and textiles by reimagining them in contemporary, sustainable ways. I hope BFW inspires new generation of designers and help build a strong, self-sustaining fashion industry in Bhutan that we can all be proud of.
What More?
My brand, “Nenga” is my way of sharing my love for my country’s heritage and for fashion. I hope my work inspires new generations to find beauty in our heritage and to fall in love with fashion in a minimal way.
Contact and Social Media
Contact Number: +97577354196
Email: [email protected]
Instagram: @nenga_handmade