Thai designer's high-altitude fashion show in Bhutan

In collaboration with Bhutan’s Department of Tourism, Fah Chakshuvej, aka FahChak and creative director of Fah Chak Wo+Man, unveiled “Bhutan In Motion”. 

Inspired by Thai and Bhutanese cultures, as well as Fah’s journey through Bhutan, the 17-look collection was presented at a fashion show recently held at Pemako Thimphu. It offered a fresh interpretation of traditional Bhutanese textiles, which were handcrafted by local designers and weavers, through the Thai designer's signature of bold colours, clean geometric lines and playful contrasts.

Fah's first visit to Bhutan was 10 years ago and it inspired her to collect Bhutanese handwoven textiles. For the collection, she embraced Bhutan's different regional weaving patterns and techniques. She's also known for strong tailoring and precise pattern cutting, with previous work experience in Maison Margiela's menswear team in Paris. 

She said, “When I returned [to Bhutan] in April, I was captivated by the sight of motorbike riders travelling through landscapes that shifted from the vibrant colours of spring to falling snow. That striking contrast revealed another side of Bhutan, one filled with romance, adventure and a raw, untamed spirit."

These impressions inspired "Bhutan In Motion", evident from the opening bridal look to edgy biker-inspired details.

She added, "For the most precious fabrics, I explored draping techniques that preserve the integrity of the textiles, allowing each piece to be unfolded and returned to its original form without damage. The colour palette reflects the many facets of Bhutan, from soft, delicate tones inspired by the warmth and gentle grace of its people to vibrant hues drawn from its temples, architecture and traditional attire.”

Two other talents from Thailand were integral parts of the fashion show. Stylist and milliner Eric Tobua (to Fah's right) styled the collection to modernise the garments and created a unique show experience by having weavers sit in the middle of the show with extended looms and weave real panels of textiles. Bangkok-based composer and pianist Filipp Opanasenko (and Eric's boyfriend) used weaving sounds and traditional singing alongside traditional and modern instrumental sounds to create music for the show.

To Fah, the collaboration represented a cultural exchange between two kingdoms, celebrated Bhutan’s extraordinary textile heritage and introduced its designers and weavers to an international audience.