arts ¥
The project begins with research into the history, cultural identity, traditional clothing, colors, patterns, materials, and distinctive visual elements of each community. Rather than simply reproducing traditional garments, Re-Ethnic identifies the features that make each culture visually recognizable and translates them into contemporary fashion. Traditional silhouettes, embroidery, motifs, color combinations, and accessories are selectively adapted into modern designs that remain connected to their cultural origins while becoming more relevant to everyday life.
Each collection therefore acts as a conversation between heritage and modernity. Through this combination of cultural research, fashion and technology, Re-Ethnic seeks to make Vietnam’s ethnic diversity more approachable and engaging for young audiences. Ultimately, the project asks a simple question: What if preserving tradition does not only mean looking back, but also finding thoughtful ways to carry it forward?
Let’s find the answer!
MAN
Inspired by the traditional clothing of the Tay people, this male design preserves the culture’s distinctive deep indigo palette and understated aesthetic while translating them into a contemporary look. Traditional Tày menswear is known for its simple construction, minimal decoration, and five-panel shirts with a central row of fabric buttons. These characteristics are reinterpreted through a structured denim jacket and wide-leg jeans, retaining the monochromatic indigo appearance while introducing a material strongly associated with modern everyday fashion.
The jacket maintains a clean, upright neckline and central opening, reflecting the restrained silhouette of traditional Tày garments. A matching indigo headscarf further preserves the visual identity of the original attire. Rather than introducing elaborate patterns, the design intentionally remains minimal, reflecting the Tày tradition of emphasizing form and color over ornamentation.
The dan tinh, an iconic musical instrument in Tày cultural life, completes the outfit, connecting its contemporary silhouette with a recognizable symbol of Tày heritage.
women
Inspired by traditional Tay women’s clothing, this design transforms the community’s characteristic indigo attire into a contemporary, elegant silhouette. The traditional preference for deep indigo, clean construction, and minimal ornamentation is preserved through a fitted denim jacket and monochromatic skirt, reimagining the simplicity of Tày dress within modern professional fashion.
The jacket retains several recognizable elements of traditional Tày clothing, including its structured neckline, central fastening, and restrained form, while open shoulders and flared sleeves introduce a more contemporary silhouette. A long waist sash, inspired by the fabric belts traditionally worn around the body, creates movement and contrasts with the fitted office-style skirt.
Accessories provide another connection to Tay cultural identity. The indigo headscarf is redesigned with a modern shape, while silver necklaces and bracelets reference the silver jewelry traditionally used to complement women’s clothing. A miniature handbag and high heels complete the reinterpretation, placing traditional visual elements within a distinctly modern wardrobe.