Tenzin Wild’s “Abode of Snow”: A Tribute To Tibetan Heritage Through Fashion

The Himalayas, known as the “Abode of Snow,” are a stunning, icy range of peaks that stretch across South Asia, touching the borders of several countries. They are some of the highest and most formidable mountains in the world. However, the term “Abode of Snow” also carries a deeper, symbolic meaning, reflecting the spiritual and cultural significance of this region to the people who have lived there for centuries. It is within this context that Tenzin Wild, a designer of Swiss-Tibetan heritage, has created a fashion collection inspired by the Himalayas’ natural beauty, cultural depth, and timeless traditions.

“Abode of Snow,” the new outerwear line co-designed by Wild and his wife, Tao Okamoto, is a striking fusion of contemporary design and Tibetan heritage. The collection’s goal is not only to showcase practical and stylish garments but also to tell the stories of Tibet’s rich cultural history and the experiences of its people. Drawing from his unique background—Wild was born in Switzerland to a Tibetan mother and a Swiss father—the collection is a deeply personal homage to his Tibetan ancestors and the culture that has shaped his life.

A Fusion Of Heritage And Contemporary Fashion

Tenzin Wild’s diverse upbringing has influenced both his career and creative vision. As the co-founder of The Last Magazine, Wild has long been immersed in the worlds of design, fashion, and visual storytelling. However, “Abode of Snow” is not just another fashion line; it is a collection imbued with the spirit of his Tibetan heritage and a deep desire to share his cultural roots with the world. Wild aims to craft outerwear that reflects the history and traditions of Tibet while introducing them into the global conversation about contemporary fashion.

“Abode of Snow” is more than just a name—it represents the very essence of the Himalayas. These snow-capped mountains have long been a source of reverence and inspiration, often symbolizing both isolation and enlightenment in Tibetan culture. Through this line, Wild aims to bring awareness to the everyday lifestyle of Tibetans, who have relied on functional, high-quality outerwear for generations to protect themselves from the harsh conditions of the Himalayan region. The garments in this collection are designed not only to be practical but to embody the rich heritage of Tibet, creating a bridge between traditional clothing and modern fashion sensibilities.

The Chuba Parka: Traditional Meets Modern Elegance

A key piece in the “Abode of Snow” collection is the Chuba Parka, a modern take on the traditional chuba, a long, ankle-length robe typically worn by Tibetans. The chuba has historically been a symbol of status and cultural pride, worn during important ceremonies and daily life in the Tibetan highlands. Wild recalls wearing the chuba during cultural ceremonies as a child, where it was tied around the waist with a sash, symbolizing both warmth and dignity.

The Chuba Parka takes this ancient garment and reimagines it for modern-day use. The parka is cut shorter, hitting just below the knee, and comes with a removable drawstring hood, making it versatile for different weather conditions. Despite its practicality, the design maintains a level of sophistication and elegance that makes it appropriate for formal settings, such as a fine dining experience in New York City. As Tao Okamoto explains, the goal was to design a coat that embodies both warmth and refinement, blending the functional needs of outerwear with the elegance expected in high-end fashion. The Chuba Parka serves as an ideal piece for those looking for stylish winter outerwear that doesn’t compromise on comfort or practicality.

The Mila Jacket And Lhasa Parka: Versatility And Innovation

Beyond the Chuba Parka, the “Abode of Snow” collection also introduces other innovative designs like the Mila Jacket and the Lhasa Parka. Each of these garments continues the theme of merging tradition with modernity while maintaining a deep respect for the cultural inspirations behind them.

The Mila Jacket, for instance, is a puffer jacket named after Milarepa, a revered 11th-century Tibetan yogi. This piece is designed to provide warmth and comfort while reflecting the deep spiritual connections that Wild and Okamoto feel to their Tibetan heritage. Milarepa is an important figure in Tibetan Buddhism, and the jacket is a tribute to his legacy of wisdom and resilience.

Another notable piece in the collection is the Lhasa Parka, which draws its name from Lhasa, the Tibetan capital. This piece is a true demonstration of versatility, as it can be worn in four different ways. The Lhasa Parka includes a reversible bomber jacket that can be detached from its outer shell with a zipper, allowing wearers to create various looks based on the season or their personal style. The outer shell itself is water-resistant, offering protection from the elements, and can also be worn as a light raincoat for more casual settings.

This multifunctional approach to design is central to the “Abode of Snow” collection, ensuring that each piece is not only an elegant addition to a wardrobe but also highly functional for everyday use. Whether worn for casual outings or dressed up for formal occasions, these pieces are designed to meet the diverse needs of modern lifestyles while staying true to the spirit of Tibetan culture.

Sustainability And Craftsmanship: A Commitment To Ethical Fashion

In addition to its cultural and design elements, “Abode of Snow” stands out for its commitment to sustainability and ethical fashion. Each piece in the collection is handmade by a family of artisans in Japan, who use environmentally conscious materials and techniques. The focus on craftsmanship ensures that every garment is produced with the highest level of care, providing a luxurious feel that aligns with the values of the brand.

The materials used in the collection are carefully chosen for their sustainability. Organic cotton is used for its eco-friendly properties, ensuring that the garments have a minimal environmental impact. Additionally, the collection incorporates yak wool, which is ethically sourced from the Tibetan plateau. Yaks naturally shed their wool around their bellies every summer, making it a renewable resource that has been used for centuries in Tibetan clothing. By using recycled down feathers from the Green Down Project, the collection also promotes the use of recycled materials in fashion, further reducing its environmental footprint.

Wild and Okamoto’s commitment to sustainable fashion is evident in every step of the design process. The use of eco-friendly materials not only makes the collection more sustainable but also reflects a deep respect for nature and the environment—values that are deeply rooted in Tibetan culture.

A Photographic Journey: From Tibet To California

The “Abode of Snow” lookbook was shot during the COVID-19 pandemic, when global travel was restricted. Instead of traveling to Tibet, Wild and Okamoto chose to photograph the collection closer to home, in the picturesque Mammoth Lakes of California, located in the Sierra Nevada mountains. The rugged, snow-covered terrain provided the perfect backdrop for the collection, evoking the spirit of the Himalayas while remaining more accessible.

By capturing the beauty of the Sierra Nevadas, Wild and Okamoto were able to create a striking visual representation of their vision for the “Abode of Snow” collection. The stunning landscapes not only showcase the garments in their natural environment but also allow for a deeper connection between the designs and the spirit of the Himalayas. Wild explains, “We wanted to find something that resembles the Himalayas a little bit, and it’s quite beautiful up there.” The choice to shoot in a location that evokes the majesty of the Himalayan mountains reflects the brand’s goal of merging cultural authenticity with modern appeal.

FAQs About Tenzin Wild’s “Abode of Snow” Collection

1. What is the inspiration behind the “Abode of Snow” collection?

The “Abode of Snow” collection is inspired by Tenzin Wild’s Tibetan heritage and the majestic Himalayan mountain range. Wild designed the line to pay tribute to Tibetan culture and traditions, particularly the functional yet elegant outerwear worn by the people of the region. The collection merges traditional Tibetan garments with contemporary fashion, aiming to showcase the beauty and practicality of these garments while preserving cultural significance.

2. What is the key silhouette of the “Abode of Snow” collection?

The key silhouette of the collection is inspired by the chuba, an ankle-length Tibetan robe. The Chuba Parka is a modern adaptation of the chuba, designed to be shorter and more practical, hitting just below the knee. It features a removable drawstring hood, combining elegance with the warmth and protection required for cold climates.

3. What are some standout pieces in the collection?

The collection includes several notable pieces:

• Chuba Parka: A modern take on the traditional Tibetan robe, designed for warmth and sophistication.
• Mila Jacket: A puffer jacket named after the 11th-century Tibetan yogi, Milarepa, designed for comfort and warmth.
• Lhasa Parka: A versatile, all-season layering piece that can be worn in four different ways, including a reversible bomber jacket and a light raincoat.

4. Where are the garments in the “Abode of Snow” collection made?

All garments in the collection are handmade by artisans in Japan. The artisans use sustainable materials, ensuring each piece is crafted with care and attention to detail. This focus on craftsmanship helps create high-quality, long-lasting pieces.

Conclusion

Tenzin Wild’s “Abode of Snow” is more than just a fashion collection; it is a tribute to the ancient traditions of Tibet and a celebration of the people, culture, and landscapes that have inspired him throughout his life. By fusing traditional Tibetan clothing with modern, gender-neutral outerwear designs, Wild and Okamoto have created a collection that speaks to a new generation of consumers who value both style and substance.

The collection’s versatility, sustainability, and deep cultural resonance make it stand out in the crowded world of fashion. Each piece is designed to be worn with pride, whether in the cold of winter or as part of an elegant outfit for a night out. With “Abode of Snow,” Tenzin Wild has crafted a collection that honors the past while embracing the future, offering a beautiful and meaningful way for people to connect with Tibetan heritage and culture through fashion.

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