In the last few years, Vietnam’s rise as fashion’s next favourite hotspot has been nothing short of undeniable. From homegrown talent Peter Do taking over as creative director of Helmut Lang to a wave of new trailblazers—buzzy names such as Cong Tri and Fanci Club’s Duy Tran—rocking the scene, the country has steadily stepped into its own fashion identity. Add that to centuries of rich tradition, culture, and architecture, and the result is one brimming full of energy and potential.
Last month, the country’s premier fashion event Vietnam International Fashion Week returned for its 18th season. Held at the iconic Quần Ngựa Sports Complex in the capitol city of Hanoi from 12 to 16 November, the fall/winter 2024 season saw a total of 16 brands and over 10,000 show attendees over the five days. Organised by Vietnamese production and media company MultiMedia JSC and in partnership with American bottled water giant Aquafina, the week was a display of the nation’s best, reinforcing the country’s influence and grip across Southeast Asia.
Themed “Fashion Evolution: New Steps in Fashion”, this season was a myriad of brands old and new. Legacy names showed heritage pieces that paid homage to the country’s history and craft, while younger designers offered contemporary designs fitting of the current zeitgeist. This season saw various international favourites as well, such as the return of couture designer Frederick Lee from Singapore and Indonesian designer Priyo Oktaviano.
Below, Vogue Singapore spotlights three of the standout designers from Aquafina Vietnam International Fashion Week fall/winter 2024.
Duc Hung
Best known for melding together traditional Vietnamese designs with modern tropes, namesake designer Duc Hung has long become a must-see name on the fashion week calendar. This season saw Hung adopt vintage quilting techniques that were first introduced several decades ago, incorporating them into timeless wardrobe staples. Oversized capes, cropped blazers and floor-length dresses were offered in electric shades of marigold, emerald and fuchsia, their textural finish adding volume and flair.
Ivan Trần
First exploding onto the scene following his participation in Project Runway Vietnam in 2015, designer Ivan Trân is one who looks to constantly challenge the norm. His work highlights the dichotomy of the past and future, often mixing in elements of surrealism and sci-fi futurism that evokes a sense of wonder. Trân’s pieces also boast a wearability that speak to the modern consumer; sleek and feminine lines and that are constructed to accentuate the wearer’s natural figure.
Ha Linh Thu
Boasting an extensive client rolodex that includes celebrities such as American actress Nicole Beharie and Israeli singer-songwriter Dorin Hirvi, Ha Linh Thu is a brand that celebrates the joys of living. Old Hollywood glamour is the name of the game, by way of svelte tailoring and intricate gowns. Floral motifs are also present in much of the brand’s pieces, adorned on lush coats made from crushed velvet. Aside from the evening wear, the brand also prides itself on its extensive range of homeware goods, which includes handmade plates, lacquer trays and even pillows.
