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Mai Van Anh

Vietnam

Born in a backward mountainous region of northern Vietnam, where for us fashion was just something to wear, I had the opportunity to meet my uncle, a garment worker in a nearby town. He gave me experiences with fashion and instilled in me the initial belief that I would one day become a fashion designer. Despite the difficulties along the way, I have now almost completed my fashion design course at Hanoi University of Architecture. And my childhood dream is nearly a reality.

"Rồng Rắn Lên Mây"

Category: Apparel

Competitions: Vietnam

The fashion design product is inspired by the traditional folk game “Dragon Snake Cloud” (“Rồng rắn lên mây”)—a familiar image closely associated with the childhood and cultural life of the Vietnamese people. Originating from the desire to preserve and spread traditional culture, this fashion design is developed from that folk foundation through a modern street-style visual language, creating an intersection between tradition and contemporaneity. The two figures of the dragon and the snake are explored as symbols of earth and water, representing two opposing yet harmonious elements that complement each other in Eastern philosophy. They are also powerful images rooted in folk beliefs, expressing aspirations for balance and growth. The product is crafted using engraving techniques on leather, with patterns designed based on the folk spirit of the game through the perspective of young people. It not only recreates traditional cultural values but also refreshes them with the dynamic breath of modern fashion and street art. From a young person’s perspective, Vietnamese folk games are not merely memories of the past but also a rich source of creative potential. Link Youtube Trailer https://youtu.be/74RqLNP-Vso

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