KATHMANDU: While the eyes of the style world were on London's autumn fashion week, another couture event was taking place on the other side of the world — in the Himalayas.

At Nepal Fashion Week the models sashayed down the catwalk in a mix of western and ethnic apparel, contrasting classic with kitsch in a cornucopia of sassy cocktail dresses, flowing silk gowns, kaftans, kurti blouses, shalwars, sequins and ruffles.

Dozens of young designers displayed their collections as the Nepali fashion industry bid to bring itself to global prominence, and attract the attention of international buyers.

The show, which wrapped up on Saturday night, mixed high concept with ready-to-wear, with established Nepali designers, and stars of the future, hoping to introduce themselves to the world.

“There is a lot of potential in Nepal,” said US designer Bethany Meuleners, fashion consultant for the event.

“There's a lot more interest than ever before so that gives a big push for where the fashion industry could go.” Organisers of Kathmandu's four-day event, launched in 2004, hope it will prove there is more to Nepal than politics, and efforts to sell the local fashion industry to the West were apparent throughout.—AFP