Fashion award winner optimistic on Vietnam’s fashion scene

Tiếng Việt

Fashion award winner optimistic on Vietnam’s fashion scene

Thu Vu, an RMIT Vietnam graduate with a degree in Fashion (Merchandising Management), won the Fashion Discipline Award for her achievements at the University and in the fashion industry.

Fashion Merchandising Management graduate Thu Vu (left) and Head of Design Professor Julia Gaimster at the School of Communication & Design’s award ceremony.

Thu was presented with the award at a ceremony during the School of Communication & Design’s Creative Showcase Nexus.

Though she is only 23, Ms Thu has already built up a formidable reputation in Vietnam’s fashion industry. She previously ran a popular fashion blog and has written for major publications such as Elle Vietnam, in addition to working on the 2015 and 2016 editions of the Vietnam International Fashion Week.

“I got an internship at a media agency when I was 19. At the same time, I began studying at RMIT,” she said.

“I took a lot of opportunities that came my way for freelance projects. I didn’t do it for money or experience, I did it for connections in fashion, and one of the best things about studying at RMIT is that I got to network with a lot of people in the industry.”

“The school connected me with people who had a huge impact on my career,” Ms Thu added.

Thu focused on making industry connections during her time at RMIT.

She currently works as a freelance fashion consultant, and is designing and managing the fashion show for Coca-Cola Vietnam, that will be part of a national New Year’s event.

Given her success over the past four years, it comes as little surprise that Ms Thu believes Vietnam’s fashion industry is an exciting sector to be a part of.

“I think there are a lot of opportunities now,” she said. “More and more international brands are coming to Vietnam, and also the local fashion brands are expanding.”

“I’m very optimistic on the future of the industry here. Also, since a lot of brands and companies are coming, there are more employment opportunities for young people, especially people who are professionally trained in business.”

A freelance fashion consultant, Thu is optimistic about the future of Vietnam fashion industry.

She also had advice to share for current students interested in jumping into the industry.

“My advice is to always dream big, start small. Work first for your passion; money or reputation will then come along as the rewards you deserve,” she said.

Story: Michael Tatarski