Kathmandu, March 4, 2025 – In celebration of its 30th anniversary, The Hidden Treasure, a leading name in Nepal’s fashion industry, has announced the launch of an exciting new event: the Designer of the Year (DOTY) competition. This groundbreaking initiative aims to provide a platform for fashion designers, students, and aspiring amateurs to showcase their creativity and passion for fashion, while also supporting the prestigious Miss Nepal pageant.
The DOTY competition will kick off with auditions in four major cities across Nepal: Nepalganj, Pokhara, Biratnagar, and Kathmandu. Aspiring designers will present their sketches and garments, with 12-15 talented individuals selected to move forward in the competition. These finalists will have 4 to 5 weeks to prepare their final collections, receiving invaluable mentorship from industry experts along the way.
Participants will benefit from a series of guidance sessions with renowned fashion designers, interactions with sewing machine specialists, and collaborations with fabric and accessories suppliers. Additionally, they will have the unique opportunity to visit leading garment factories to gain insights into the production process. Each designer will be tasked with creating 6 to 7 original designs, including 2 to 3 exclusive pieces for The Hidden Treasure. These exclusive designs will feature a National Costume and an Evening Gown, both of which will play a significant role in the competition.
A distinguished panel of five judges, comprising industry leaders and fashion icons, will evaluate the designs and select the winner. The champion of the DOTY competition will receive an impressive prize package, including:
- A cash prize of NPR 150,000.
- A high-tech Jack brand sewing machine.
- The opportunity to have their National Costume worn by the Miss Nepal winner at international pageants.
- The chance to showcase their Evening Gown and other creations at international events.
In addition to the designer awards, one lucky model who walks the ramp for DOTY will receive direct entry as a contestant in the Miss Nepal 2025 pageant, adding an extra layer of excitement to the event.
The Designer of the Year competition is more than just a platform for emerging talent; it is a celebration of creativity, innovation, and the vibrant future of Nepal’s fashion industry. By empowering designers who have previously lacked opportunities to display their work, The Hidden Treasure is not only nurturing the next generation of fashion leaders but also strengthening its commitment to the Miss Nepal pageant.
The DOTY competition promises to be a landmark event, blending artistry, mentorship, and national pride. Fashion enthusiasts and supporters of the Miss Nepal pageant are eagerly anticipating the unveiling of the final collections and the first-ever Designer of the Year