The Distinct Beauty Of Leather: Where Art Meets Industry

The “Real Leather. Stay Different Vietnam 2025” competition attracted nearly 100 design entries from students at 15 universities and colleges across the country – from Ton Duc Thang, Van Lang, University of Industrial Fine Arts to Bach Khoa University and the Universities of Architecture in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. With three main categories – Footwear, Accessories, and Apparel – the works showcased not only design and leather processing techniques but also conveyed stories rich in national spirit.

Designs such as “Lac Viet – Footsteps of the Lac Hong,” “Water Puppetry,” “The Echoes of Chu Quyen,” and “Sacred Carvings” demonstrated a skillful fusion of tradition and modernity, cultural identity and contemporary craftsmanship. Elements such as hand-carving, folk motifs, and cultural symbols were incorporated with finesse and creativity, highlighting each young designer’s individuality.

More than a competition, the event served as a platform for businesses, designers, artisans, and industry experts to meet, exchange, and connect. From honoring sponsors such as ISA Tantec, Dang Tu Ky, and Harvest Glory to presenting commemorative plaques to the 15 participating universities, the event reaffirmed the sense of community and ecosystem value of Vietnam's leather fashion industry.

Many designs reached a high level of applicability, ready for mass production or adaptation into premium fashion collections. The connection between student designers and local manufacturers and exporters opens up long-term collaboration opportunities—transforming ideas from paper into tangible products.

The jury included prominent industry figures such as handcrafted shoe artisan Nguyen Thanh Nhan, fashion designer Nguyen Ha Nhat Huy, leather sculpting expert Do Pham Khanh Hoa, high-end handbag designer Hiente Nguyen, and creative design manager Hoàng Oanh from Thái Dương. They not only judged the entries but also shared valuable experiences and inspired the next generation of designers.

One of the event’s climactic moments was the announcement of the overall winner—who will represent Vietnam at the global final in Taiwan. Sponsor’s Choice awards also highlighted market-relevant trends, complementing the professional jury’s evaluations.

The fashion show at the end of the evening was a true visual feast: leather shoes, edgy and individualistic outfits, and especially the premium leather bag collection by VITITA – a LEFASO partner – delighted all attendees.

More than just an awards gala, “Real Leather. Stay Different Vietnam 2025” marked a strategic step in nurturing young creativity, enhancing the added value of genuine leather products, and shaping the stature of Vietnamese fashion on the world map. In the hands and minds of the youth, leather – once seen as merely traditional – has become fresh, vibrant, and full of emotion.