With a background that includes being an associate designer for BCBG and a stylist for some of the top Vietnamese entertainment companies, Thai Nguyen and his partner, Helen Nguyen, launched Thai Nguyen Couture in May 2008. With a clientele that includes contestants on Vietnamese and American television shows (think RuPaul’s Drag Race and Launch My Line), Nguyen showed a collection of evening-focused and bridal dresses that, like many of those seen on reality television shows, could use a little guidance.
Inspired by a classic Vietnamese song, “Chiếc Lá Cuối Cùng” (meaning “The Last Falling Leaf”), the collection lacked in cohesion with an all-over color palette and prints, and disjointed embellishments and silhouettes. Taken individually, however, there were some closet staple looks, albeit none that were terribly original. Included in the lineup were loosely draped gowns and tiered cocktail dresses, while other looks featured cut-outs and peplums for welcome touches to liven up the dresses which were done mostly in monochromatic hues.
Images: WWD.
