Profile: Mahima G.C. – Only Natural Design Competitions

Mahima G.C.

St. Clair

I am Mahima G.C., a Fashion Design Technician graduate from St. Clair College, Windsor, Canada. Born and raised in Nepal, I spent two years in Finland before moving to Canada where I have been living for the past seven years. Living across South Asia, Europe, and now America has shaped my unique design creativity- one that merges heritage with modern form and conscious choices. As a fashion technician with multicultural roots, I design with a focus on sustainability, culture and story telling. During my graduating mini collection, I challenged myself to create my fourth look entirely from reused materials. I made a structured panelled sleeveless jacket from the scrap fabric from my first three outfits, and its lining from a discarded umbrella. The wide legged pants that went with it was made from the fabric that I got from a donation box at my college. This hands-on resourceful process deepened my passion for sustainable fashion. I believe in fashion as a medium for identity, voice and the change. I strive to make each piece both visually compelling and environmentally conscious. I am excited to contribute my unique viewpoint to the Only Natural Design Competition, where fashion is more than just glamour- it is a movement rooted that encourages design, creativity, authenticity, story telling, sustainability and much more. For this London based competition, my design pays homage to the historic bond between Nepal and England through the legacy of the Gurkha soldiers. The collection features an army-inspired two-piece ensemble: a structured Canadian smocked Jacket in green, paired with zero- waste pattern pants. Completing the look is a sculptural hat resembling a military camping tent. This tribute honours the Gurkhas' bravery and the ongoing bond between two countries while embodying sustainable innovation. I can't wait to participate in this competition as it resonates deeply with my core belief that beautiful design must serve both people and planet.

← →

"Ashes of Bravery: A tribute to the Gurkhas"

Category: Apparel

Competitions: Fashion Competition 2025

“Ashes of Bravery” is a heartfelt homage to the Gurkhas—warriors from Nepal celebrated for their quiet yet unwavering courage, deep loyalty, and disciplined strength. As a Nepali designer, showcasing this collection in London feels deeply meaningful, as it celebrates the enduring bond between Nepal and the United Kingdom. This relationship stretches back over two centuries to 1816, when the Gurkhas began their legendary service in the British Army under the Treaty of Sugauli . Today, Gurkhas remain among the greatest symbols of UK–Nepal friendship—a sentiment echoed by British leaders at commemorative events such as the 100th anniversary of the UK‑Nepal Treaty of Friendship in Downing Street . Drawing inspiration from their storied legacy, the collection marries avant‑garde aesthetics with mindful, sustainable design, creating pieces that feel both deeply rooted and strikingly modern. The camouflage‑print hat evokes a military camping tent, while the structured wrap jacket— in soft spring green, with mandarin collar and strap‑ties—eschews traditional buttons in favor of functional minimalism and disciplined tailoring. This is not a traditional suit jacket with buttons and a conventional collar. Instead, it features a mandarin collar and strap-tie closures that fasten the garment in a clean, minimalist way. Subtle texture is achieved through Canadian smocking—a North American needle‑manipulation technique that uses a grid on the fabric’s reverse to form three‑dimensional patterns without visible stitches, lending tactile volume and quiet elegance In olive green, the voluminous “bubble” pants celebrate freedom of movement and size inclusivity. Adjustable strap‑tie closures enable a custom fit across a diverse range of body types and heights—ideal for transitioning between full‑length and mid‑length styling. Constructed entirely from sustainable natural fibers, zero‑waste methods, the ensemble avoids zippers, buttons, and elastics, reinforcing the collection’s gender‑neutral, eco‑friendly ethos. This collection is made for all genders. Each piece balances avant‑garde expression with everyday practicality—equally at home on a runway or as part of a carpeted wardrobe. The whole concept, theme and design honors turning fashion into a story of bravery and belonging. Sustainability and inclusivity are at the core of this collection. This mindful, eco-conscious design serves both people and the planet.