Tenzing Chakma takes RMG to a new height
Mexico City had a glimpse of one of the finest designers from Bangladesh as Tenzing Chakma charmed audiences with his collection. On 3 April, 2018 the Embassy of Bangladesh in Mexico City organised this dazzling fashion show to present contemporary designs, a show that put forward Bangladesh into the Mexican fashion scene, and one more step closer to the global audience.
Tenzing is known as the first designer to brand indigenous textiles through his line Sozpodor, of which he is also the managing director. His designs are an eclectic mix of deeply rooted ethnic traditions and mainstream Bangladeshi fashion with a touch of cosmopolitan trends.
Tenzing's entire range makes best use of colours and motifs which can be instantaneously associated with the indigenous community and their energy.
Mexico City, vibrant in culture, tradition and proud of a long heritage in the fashion world is one of the most coveted destinations for creative minds. Tenzing Chakma's display this time was a colourful portrayal of his vision of RMG from Bangladesh.
Tenzing worked with different fabrics — silk, Banarasi, Jamdani, and indigenous handloom weaving. While using them as a single medium for creative fashion is relatively easier, mixing them is where true innovation is portrayed.
Models dressed in mix-and-match pieces with saris, tops, skirts and dresses stood out and proved once again that our fabrics are versatile. One of the highlights was the monochrome ensembles, red and yellow with complementing blouses or tops.
Preparations for this show started back in October 2017 and His Excellency Supradip Chakma, Ambassador of the People's Republic of Bangladesh to Mexico, and his wife Nandita Chakma, are two names that Tenzing thanked graciously.
Afsana Ferdousi, who displayed two of her latest lines and Shamuk, a fashion brand by Monjurul Alam and Fatema Sharmin Lucky, also took part in this show. Arshi Roy and S K Rahman (Symon) were also part of the show as presenters and behind its overall execution.
Realising the grandeur of the event at such an esteemed platform, Tenzing acknowledged that the show will have a tremendous impact in exposing Bangladeshi RMG fashion and fabrics. He also spoke of the rare opportunity he had in experiencing the vibrant Mexican fashion industry. He acknowledged that a trip like this is bound to help creative minds grow to newer heights.
While visiting an NGO away from Mexico City, Tenzing was exposed to traditional weaving techniques and typical Mexican motifs with needle work as well as woven patterns.
Tenzing has left a portion of his collection back in Mexico for display at the Friendly Cultures Fair in Mexico City, which is an event organised by the mayor of the city, to strengthen international ties.
Fashion shows like this are essential in showcasing Bangladeshi fashion to the world, especially when showcasing artists like Tenzing Chakma, who is, undoubtedly, one of the shining flagbearers of Bangladeshi fashion.
— LS Desk
Photo courtesy: Tenzing Chakma