Dylan Khải Nguyễn, Teen Model of the Year at Harper’s Bazaar Star Awards 2025.
Stepping onto the stage to receive the Teen Model of the Year award at the Harper’s Bazaar Star Awards 2025, Dylan Khai Nguyen wore a bright, genuine, and humble smile – an attitude he has carried throughout his journey in modeling. “I am humbled by the recognition, honored to receive the accolades, blessed by this opportunity, and simply ecstatically happy,” Dylan shared with heartfelt sincerity.
Holding the trophy in his hands, the young model had just conquered another milestone in his steady climb through the fashion world.
The spark of passion
For Dylan, modeling was never a calculated career choice – it was something that found him through the threads of family influence and artistic curiosity. “My dad’s wanderlust and my mom’s innate design talent and passion for the aesthetic aspect of landscape photography led to my serendipitous discovery of modeling,” he shared.
What began as a love for exploring the world evolved into a joy for location-based travel modeling – a way to merge fashion with the soul of each place he visits. From that moment on, Dylan pursued the craft with intention. Though naturally reserved, his modeling journey – and the experiences of immersing himself in diverse cultures – helped him transform shyness into strength: the ability to listen, remain humble, and forge deep connections with others.
He looks up to Keanu Reeves as his role model – not just in his career but in shaping his character. “He embodies humility, generosity, integrity, grace, dedication, sincerity, empathy, and thoughtfulness.” It’s a choice that reflects the quiet depth and calm confidence Dylan brings into his modeling path.
Growth Through Gratitude
Each year, Dylan collaborates with designers and photographers on editorial projects and fashion campaigns. But his talents extend beyond the camera. He has graced major runways in Paris, Milan, New York, Dubai and Aquafina Vietnam International Fashion Weeks, and even appeared on the red carpet at the Cannes Film Festival.
Most recently, he walked as a model for designer Phan Đăng Hoàng’s Spring/Summer 2026 collection at Milan Fashion Week. This achievement adds to his impressive portfolio of renowned brands you’ve worked with, including Michael Cinco, MM Milano, Michael Leyva, Mischka Aoki, and YËKIM – showcasing his versatility from couture to streetwear.
Those are achievements any model would dream of – and Dylan has reached them at an early age. Yet he remains grounded in gratitude. When asked what contributes most to his success, Dylan doesn’t mention skill. He says, “My family’s remarkable support and dedication as well as my community’s encouragement. That’s what plays the biggest role in my success. I remind myself every day to cherish the blessings and opportunities I’ve been given.”
Facing challenges with calm and maturity
Like any journey worth taking, Dylan’s has come with challenges. But he approaches them with a calm wisdom beyond his years. “Experiencing life struggles is an essential and natural part of the human experience. Having a healthy attitude and perspective helps manage and overcome challenges, difficulties, and unrealistic expectations,” he says.
Through it all, his family – especially his mother – has been a constant source of support. “I am blessed and fortunate to have a robust support system, most notably my mom,” he said warmly. It’s clear that his mother’s influence not only nurtured his dreams but also shaped his refined sense of aesthetics. “My mom has been a great inspiration to me,” he added. “I’ve inherited her passion for classic elegance – timeless and refined.”
The road ahead of Dylan Khải Nguyễn
When asked what message he’d like to share with other young dreamers, Dylan paused before offering advice that sounds both grounded and poetic: “Immerse yourself in the journey, but stop and enjoy at each junction to savor and reflect on the moment, recharge when necessary, and remember to maintain a healthy attitude – as advised by my aunt.”
As for the future, Dylan chooses to remain present. “I’d like to immerse myself in the current moment of this modeling journey and explore further possibilities as I continue along this path,” he said.
Perhaps that’s the most beautiful part of Dylan’s story—not the trophies or the runways, but the grace with which he embraces each step. In an industry often defined by image, he stands out by being authentically himself: thoughtful, grounded, and endlessly curious.
HARPER’S BAZAAR STAR AWARDS 2025: SECRET BLOOMSWith the theme “Secret Blooms,” the Harper’s Bazaar Star Awards 2025 is proudly presented in collaboration with SK-II, the premium skincare brand; Mercedes-Benz, the luxury automobile marque; FV Hospital, a member of the Thomson Medical Group; the entertainment platform VieON; and Thủ Thiêm Riverstage. The event continues to honor the vibrant creative journeys of individuals and brands who have contributed significantly to the nation over the years. Like blooming flowers, they quietly nurture their passions, dedicate themselves wholeheartedly, and when the time is ripe, their talent and spirit unfold, radiating their own distinctive fragrance. Harper’s Bazaar Star Awards 2025: Secret Blooms also embodies the essence of fashion and art – a world where creativity and aspiration are refined through time, blossoming to illuminate and beautify life. |
Harper’s Bazaar Việt Nam
