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From Ao Dai to Avant-Garde: How Has Vietnamese Fashion Evolved?

Ivy Vu
- Fashion Blogger -
Vietnam International Fashion Week (VIFW) Fall/Winter 2024, held from November 13-16 at Hanoi’s Quan Ngua Sports Palace, wasn't just another fashion event; it was a landmark celebration. Under the theme #FashionEvolution, this year’s VIFW marked a decade of Vietnamese fashion’s remarkable journey, a testament to its burgeoning creativity and a bold step towards a new vision for the industry. It was a powerful showcase of how tradition can intertwine with contemporary design, creating a unique and vibrant aesthetic.
Vietnam International Fashion Week (VIFW) Fall/Winter 2024, held from November 13-16 at Hanoi’s Quan Ngua Sports Palace, wasn't just another fashion event; it was a landmark celebration. Under the theme #FashionEvolution, this year’s VIFW marked a decade of Vietnamese fashion’s remarkable journey, a testament to its burgeoning creativity and a bold step towards a new vision for the industry. It was a powerful showcase of how tradition can intertwine with contemporary design, creating a unique and vibrant aesthetic.

A key strength of VIFW is its commitment to fostering international collaboration. This year, the event showcased the work of 16 designers from Vietnam and beyond, including Indonesian designer Priyo Oktaviano. This exchange of creative ideas is essential for the growth of the Vietnamese fashion industry, exposing local talent to global trends and perspectives. It also adds an element of surprise and delight, leaving attendees wondering what unexpected collaborations might emerge – perhaps even a fun, whimsical touch like a Labubu appearance, adding a pop of playful energy to the sophisticated atmosphere.
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For ten years, VIFW has served as a vital platform, propelling Vietnamese designers onto the global stage and fostering a dynamic exchange of ideas. This year's event, featuring 16 talented designers, including both local luminaries and international guests, solidified its position as a key player in the Asian fashion landscape. The choice of Hanoi, a city steeped in history and cultural heritage, further emphasized the deep connection between Vietnamese tradition and the evolution of its fashion industry.

Tradition Meets Transformation: The Collections

The collections showcased at VIFW Fall/Winter 2024 were a captivating blend of traditional Vietnamese elements and modern design sensibilities. While specific details on all 16 collections aren't readily available, the information we do have paints a vivid picture:

Do Manh Cuong’s “Pure Drops”

Opening the week with his “Pure Drops” collection, Do Manh Cuong, a prominent figure in Vietnamese fashion, set the tone for the entire event. The collection, imbued with a spirit of innovation and creativity, likely explored new silhouettes, fabrics, and techniques, pushing the boundaries of Vietnamese design while potentially drawing inspiration from traditional motifs or craftsmanship. The name itself, "Pure Drops," evokes a sense of freshness and renewal, suggesting a forward-looking approach.

Duc Hung’s “A Winter Like This”

In contrast, Duc Hung's “A Winter Like This” collection offered a sense of warmth and comfort, perfectly capturing the essence of the Fall/Winter season. It's likely that Hung incorporated rich textures, perhaps drawing inspiration from traditional Vietnamese textiles like silk or brocade, and explored layering techniques suitable for the colder months. This collection could have showcased how traditional Vietnamese patterns or embroidery could be adapted for contemporary winter wear.
The presence of international designers, such as Fredrick Lee from Singapore and Priyo Oktaviano from Indonesia, added another layer of richness to the event. Their participation fostered cross-cultural exchange, allowing Vietnamese designers to gain exposure to global trends and perspectives, while simultaneously showcasing the unique beauty of Vietnamese fashion to an international audience. This exchange is crucial for the continued growth and evolution of the Vietnamese fashion industry.

Models as Ambassadors: A Global Showcase

The event featured hundreds of international and Vietnamese models, including renowned names like Thanh Hang, H'Hen Nie, and Huynh Tu Anh. These models served as ambassadors for Vietnamese fashion, showcasing the designers' creations with elegance and grace. Their presence further elevated the event's international profile, attracting media attention and highlighting the growing sophistication of the Vietnamese fashion scene.

Investing in the Future: The WGSN Seminar

Beyond the runway shows, VIFW partnered with WGSN (Worth Global Style Network), a leading global trend forecasting organization, to host a seminar for Vietnamese fashion brands. This partnership demonstrates a commitment to the long-term growth and development of the industry. By providing access to cutting-edge trend forecasting and market analysis, VIFW is empowering Vietnamese brands to make informed decisions, stay ahead of the curve, and compete effectively in the global marketplace. This focus on education and industry development is crucial for ensuring the sustainable growth of Vietnamese fashion.

Embracing Tradition, Defining the Future

The success of VIFW Fall/Winter 2024 lies in its ability to balance respect for tradition with a drive for innovation. Vietnam boasts a rich cultural heritage, with centuries-old traditions in textile production, embroidery, and garment design. These traditions are not relics of the past; they are living sources of inspiration for contemporary designers. By incorporating traditional motifs, techniques, and materials into their creations, Vietnamese designers are creating a unique and compelling aesthetic that resonates with both local and international audiences.
VIFW serves as a vital bridge between the past and the future, showcasing how tradition can be reinterpreted and reimagined for the modern world. It provides a platform for Vietnamese designers to express their creativity, connect with international buyers and media, and contribute to global fashion conversation.
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The #FashionEvolution theme perfectly encapsulates the spirit of this year’s event. It is a celebration of the progress made over the past decade and a bold declaration of intent for the future. As Vietnamese fashion continues to evolve, it will undoubtedly draw strength from its rich cultural heritage, while embracing innovation and embracing its place on the world stage. The Vietnam International Fashion Week is not just a fashion event; it is a symbol of Vietnam's growing creative power and its confident stride into the future.
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