Anh Tuấn Lý

Category: Apparel

Competitions: International

THANH BINH DIEN THUY (Peaceful Fields and Gentle Waters) Thanh Binh Dien Thuy is inspired by the tranquil beauty of Vietnam’s Mekong Delta, a land where fertile fields and gentle waters have shaped the lives of generations. Here, the harmony between land and river has nurtured not only abundant harvests, but also a rich cultural identity deeply rooted in gratitude, resilience, and respect for nature. The costume captures the beauty of the golden harvest season, one of the most cherished moments in the Mekong Delta. Endless rice fields shimmer beneath the sunlight, while boats travel along winding waterways carrying the fruits of months of dedication and hard work. After a long season in the fields, the water buffalo rests peacefully beneath the village bamboo grove, enjoying the cool breeze scented with ripened rice. This scene reflects the simple yet profound happiness of Vietnamese rural life, where prosperity is measured not by wealth, but by gratitude, family, and the rewards of honest labor. At the heart of the design blooms the lotus, Vietnam’s national flower and a timeless symbol of purity, resilience, and inner strength. Rising gracefully from muddy waters without losing its beauty, the lotus embodies the enduring spirit of the Vietnamese people—humble in character, steadfast in adversity, and unwavering in their pursuit of goodness. As an old Vietnamese proverb beautifully states: “Though it grows from the mud, it carries none of the mud’s stain.” Complementing the lotus is the image of the traditional Banh Lai hair bun, a distinctive beauty of Southern Vietnamese women. Inspired by the flowing rivers of the Mekong, this element carries a deeper symbolism. Like the long, graceful hair of a mother, the rivers gently embrace the land, nourish fertile fields, and sustain countless lives through generations. The Banh Lai hair bun is therefore presented as a symbolic gift from the children of the Mekong to the Mother River—a heartfelt expression of gratitude for the waters that have carried fertile alluvium, nurtured every harvest, preserved cultural traditions, and shaped the identity of Southern Vietnam. More than a hairstyle, it represents the enduring bond between humanity and nature, a relationship built upon care, respect, and appreciation. To honor Vietnam’s rich artistic heritage, the costume incorporates the traditional craft of mother-of-pearl inlay. The shimmering inlaid details resemble sunlight dancing across the rivers of the Mekong Delta, bringing movement and vitality to the design. Through this centuries-old handicraft, the costume pays tribute to generations of artisans who have preserved the beauty of Vietnamese craftsmanship with patience, dedication, and pride. Created primarily from natural materials and handcrafted techniques, the design reflects a commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility. Every element is carefully chosen not only for its aesthetic value, but also to demonstrate how traditional craftsmanship and contemporary fashion can coexist in harmony with nature. More than a costume, Thanh Binh Dien Thuy is a living portrait of Vietnam—a land where rivers embrace fertile fields, where honest labor transforms nature’s blessings into prosperity, and where cultural traditions continue to flourish through generations. Through the imagery of the harvest season, the lotus flower, the Banh Lai hair bun, and the art of mother-of-pearl inlay, this design tells a story of gratitude—to the land, to the water, to the people, and to the cultural heritage that shapes the Vietnamese identity. It is an invitation for the world to discover a Vietnam that is humble yet resilient, traditional yet vibrant, and forever connected to the timeless rhythm of nature.

Category: Apparel

Competitions: Vietnam, International

As a child of the Mekong Delta, I have always carried a deep desire to convey the beauty of its culture and people as a way of expressing my gratitude and profound love for my homeland—the place where I was born and raised. My childhood is closely tied to the gentle Mekong River, to breezy afternoons, and to the soothing lullabies of my mother that echo through every moment of my life. My mother loves me the way nature blesses this land—with a mild, fertile climate and people who are simple, sincere, and full of warmth. In my memory, the image of my grandfather carefully crafting mother-of-pearl inlay paintings remains vivid—each delicate line and shimmering hue blending harmoniously, telling stories of time and the artisan’s soul. From these cherished memories, I created “Serenity of Riverine Fields” (Thanh Bình Điền Thủy) as a tender reflection of life in the riverlands. The artwork draws inspiration from floating markets—where boats gather and trade upon the water, where lively voices merge with the golden glow of sunrise shimmering across the river. The people of the Mekong Delta are portrayed with authenticity and intimacy: simple yet warm, hardworking yet full of vitality. “Serenity of Riverine Fields” is not merely an artwork, but a journey back to memory—a place where the river flows gently, where human connection runs deep, and where the spirit of the Mekong Delta lives on forever in my heart. Product Description The upper part of the garment is constructed in a corset silhouette, accentuating the natural curves and elegance of the female body. The lower section is shaped using draping techniques, creating layered folds that evoke fluidity and a sense of gentle movement, reminiscent of flowing water. To incorporate mother-of-pearl inlay onto leather, thicker leather materials are selected or reinforced with an additional backing layer to ensure structural stability. The mother-of-pearl is carefully segmented into smaller pieces to minimize the risk of cracking during wear, while still maintaining its signature iridescent effect. The front and back panels are inspired by the flowing hair of a mother and the movement of the Mekong River. Soft, thin leather is chosen to achieve a graceful drape. Decorative motifs such as lotus flowers, buffalo imagery, clouds, and water waves are executed through leather carving techniques, creating recessed surfaces before applying the inlay—mirroring traditional mother-of-pearl inlay methods used in woodcraft. Additionally, the use of traditional “son thếp” lacquer techniques enhances luminosity and depth, adding striking highlights to the overall design. Boat elements are developed in three-dimensional form to increase realism and liveliness. Each leather piece is precisely cut and assembled in a modular, puzzle-like construction, resulting in a meticulously crafted boat structure.