Call it beginner’s luck? The very first time Vo Thi Quynh Nhu tried her hand at lingerie, she beat out 500 other fashion students to win a national design competition. The rookie’s futuristic vision netted her this year’s Vietnam Triumph Inspiration Award, handed out by the lingerie company back in March. 

 

But that’s not the end of Nhu’s story. In July, the student from HCM City’s VMode Fashion Institute will vie against 36 other international finalists in Berlin, with €15,000 up for grabs – along with as an all-important opportunity to see her line for sale in stores.

 

We caught up with the talented young designer to find out more about her inspirations, what she’s doing with her prize money and whose personal style she admires. 

 

 

Simple is best! (Laughs) Classic, simple, intricate, a bit rustic. 

 

I admire the style of Coco Chanel and Audrey Hepburn.

 

This was my first time, joining the contest. It's a new field for me -- it's pretty interesting, I’d like to learn more about it.

 

At first, I did not plan to join the contest because I found out about it too late, only a day before the deadline. But that afternoon I sat and sketched and came up with a lingerie design that followed a vision I had had earlier in the day. So I thought, “Why don't I try sending this to the Triumph contest. Who knows?” The result was beyond my expectations. Going into the final round, I hardly believed it!

 

 

I wanted to dedicate my creation to women who have imperfect bodies because all women have the right to express their beauty. I think that’s similar to what Triumph has represented in the past 125 years, honoring women’s figures and building beauty through lingerie. 

 

The inspiration first emerged when I was in a library in Thailand with my best friend, where we saw a picture of Quasimodo and Esmeralda from the movie The Hunchback of Notre Dame. The image of the Hunchback and his love for Esmeralda made me think of this design, which represents both the slow, sagging silhouette in the gritty corner of the old bell tower, and the gorgeous dance of the nomadic beauty. In embracing both the Hunchback’s rugged back and Esmeralda’s beautiful curves, I wanted to merge the ideas of beauty and the "eyesore.” It offers a new recipe for beauty to Triumph. 

 

I have not spent any of my prize money as I have not received it! (Laughs) But once I get it, I will take a trip to Angkor Wat, buy a gift for my uncle and a friend, and give my friends and students a memorable treat. 

 

Vo Thi Quynh's Award Winning Design

 

Most of my time is devoted to VMode – the professors at the school have helped me a great deal in making my designs more mature. Outside of school, from 10pm to 3am, I work for myself. I like working late at night as then I have the most strong sentiments. 

 

Vincom Center

 

Alexander McQueen, Coco Chanel and Valentino.

 

At the moment I am still pursuing the intensive MSP course at VMode Institution of Fashion Management. In my opinion, every talent needs honing and I train everyday in a professional environment so I can catch up with the latest fashion trends and design techniques. 

I am also getting prepared for Berlin with all I have: knowledge, passion, creativity, and love!

 

“It's a life.” That's the name of my new idea. And that's all I’ll reveal for now!

 

Before July’s finale, lingerie lovers across the globe can vote for their favourites at www.triumph-inspiration-award.com.