I am Tashi and my journey into fashion began in 2015. Although my academic background is in business, it blended well with the world of local textiles, which have always been a part of my life.
Growing up in a family deeply connected to traditional weaving, I was especially inspired by my mother, a highly skilled local designer and weaver. Her artistry and dedication to preserving our culture left a lasting impression on me.
This intimate exposure to Bhutanese textile traditions shaped my creative identity. Over time, what began as a passion evolved into a mission to bring a fresh perspective to our heritage by blending modern design with traditional values. My biggest influences come from my family, our community of artisans, and the rich cultural language of Bhutanese textiles. Each thread tells a story, and I strive to continue that narrative in a contemporary context.
Creative experiences
Since stepping into the fashion world, my creative focus has been on revitalising traditional Bhutanese attire with modern taste, colors, and motifs. I aim to keep the integrity of our heritage intact, while infusing it with current trends and global appeal. My designs reflect a deep respect for tradition, paired with an understanding of evolving fashion sensibilities.
What sets my work apart is this unique fusion of preserving the essence of Bhutanese identity, while presenting it in a language that resonates with today’s generation. I see fashion as a bridge between the old and the new, and I continuously experiment with ways to keep our cultural motifs relevant and wearable in modern life.
My journey has been deeply fulfilling, not only as a designer but as a cultural ambassador. While I may not come from a formal fashion school, my experience, the craftsmanship in the family, and my hands-on approach have shaped a unique creative voice.
In 2025, Wangpe Couture came about, a Bhutanese design and fashion studio space that focused on traditional attires, accessories, contemporary dresses, and other fashion products. Over the years, we catered to wide range of customers covering Canada, the USA, Australia, Singapore, Indonesia and Japan, among others.
Some of the highlights:
Represented Bhutan in SAARC local handicraft exhibition and design workshop in Sri Lanka, 2016
First Prize (Designer)in the Gho category at the 17th annual national design and art competition, 2018
Successfully completed natural dye (traditional and contemporary method), a training conducted by Agency of Promotion of Indigenous Crafts, 2019
Awarded Bhutan seal of quality award for Designer Handbag category by Department of Trade, Ministry of Economic Affairs, 2021
Second prize winner (designer) in the Gho category at the 19th annual national design and art competition by the textile museum and Royal Textile Academy, 2022
First prize winner (designer) in the Gho category at the 20th annual design and art competition by the Textile Museum and Royal Textile Academy, 2022
Two-time recipient of Royal soelra from Her Majesty the Gyaltsuen
Fashion vision BFW 2025
For BFW 2025, I am presenting a collection that celebrates Bhutanese identity on a global stage, with a dedicated focus on our traditional attires- Gho and Kira. This collection brings together classic Bhutanese motifs, reinterpreted through modern color palettes, and styling, while staying rooted in the essence of our national dress.
The message is clear: our traditional wear is not just ceremonial. It is timeless, adaptable, and ready to be embraced by a wider audience. By honoring the Gho and Kira in innovative ways, I aspire to show that these garments can evolve without losing their soul. I believe Bhutanese fashion, especially our national dress, deserves a place in global fashion conversations-not as a novelty, but as a refined, evolving art form.
Through BFW 2025, I hope to forge meaningful connections with creatives, collaborators, and markets that value authenticity and craftsmanship. I see this platform as a springboard to expand the reach of our local designs and textiles, while also strengthening the role of Bhutanese artisans in the fashion supply chain.
Looking ahead, I envision a future where Bhutanese fashion, particularly Gho and Kira, continue to grow in relevance, both locally and internationally. Our responsibility as designers is to protect this heritage while pushing it forward. Through thoughtful innovation, we can ensure our traditional attire not only survives but thrives in the modern world.
