Talent: Tracy Tram Nguyen. Photographer: Harris Thong. Dress, Phan Huy. Jewelry, Dior and David Yurman. Shoes, Femme Los Angeles.
The air in the studio buzzed with the clattering garment racks and the flashing lights. Tracy Tram Nguyen and I settled into a cozy corner, and immediately, it felt less like an interview and more like a chat between friends. The model-turned-fashion-designer began to recount stories from her childhood, a world filled with vibrant fabrics and the gentle hum of sewing machines. You could tell, even then, that this was a woman destined to weave her own unique thread into the fabric of the fashion world..
Dress, Phan Huy. Jewelry, Dior and David Yurman. Shoes, Femme Los Angeles.
Harper’s Bazaar Việt Nam (HBZVN): Tracy, growing up surrounded by creativity with an artist father and a textile company-owning mother, how did this environment shape your early creative interests, and do you have any memorable childhood stories that highlight that influence?
TRACY TRAM NGUYEN: Growing up in a household filled with creativity, I was constantly surrounded by artistry and craftsmanship. My father, an artist, taught me to appreciate beauty in its rawest form, while my mother’s textile business exposed me to the intricate process of fabric-making. Everything in her workshop was handmade – designing, printing, and dyeing fabrics took hours, sometimes days. Watching her work so meticulously instilled in me a deep appreciation for the effort behind every piece of clothing. One of my fondest memories is playing with leftover fabric scraps in my mother’s shop. I would gather them and hand-stitch tiny outfits for my dolls, pretending I was designing for a real fashion show. My mother encouraged this creativity, sometimes even letting me experiment with dyes and patterns.
Looking back, those playful moments were the foundation of my love for fashion, teaching me that clothing isn’t just fabric—it’s an expression of art, emotion, and identity. This early exposure to handmade craftsmanship is why I gravitate toward timeless, high-quality fashion today. I believe that clothing should be cherished, not discarded, and that philosophy has carried through my career as both a designer and now as a fashion influencer.
Dress, Phan Huy. Jewelry, Dior and David Yurman. Shoes, Femme Los Angeles..
HBZVN: Your fashion design style has evolved over the years. How would you describe your design aesthetic, and what elements or inspirations continue to influence your work today?
TRACY TRAM NGUYEN: My design aesthetic has always been about celebrating confidence, femininity, and individuality. I love playing with color combinations because I believe what we wear directly affects our mood. Vibrant, bold colors bring energy and joy, while softer tones create a sense of elegance and sophistication.
Beyond color, I focus on impeccable cuts and silhouettes that contour and flatter a woman’s body. I design with the intention of enhancing natural beauty, ensuring that every piece makes the wearer feel empowered and confident. Statement pieces have always been at the heart of my work—designs that turn heads, command attention, and make a lasting impression. Fashion, to me, is more than just clothing; it’s a form of self-expression. Whether through a striking color palette, a perfectly tailored fit, or an unforgettable design, my goal is always to create pieces that make women feel bold, beautiful, and unstoppable.
Dress, Phan Huy. Jewelry, Dior and David Yurman. Shoes, Femme Los Angeles.
HBZVN: From modeling to launching your own clothing brand, your career has been diverse. How did your experience as a model contribute to your understanding of fashion design?
TRACY TRAM NGUYEN: My journey in the fashion industry started with modeling, but it wasn’t an easy road. Being petite, I faced constant rejection because I didn’t fit the industry’s rihem into fuel. I refused to take no for an answer. The rejection only pushed me harder to prove that success isn’t about fitting into a mold—it’s about talent, passion, and perseverance. That drive led me to launch my own clothing brand, where I had complete creative freedom to design for real women, not just a select few.
My experience as a model gave me invaluable insight into how clothes should fit, move, and empower the wearer. I wanted my designs to make women feel confident, regardless of their size or shape. Now, as a designer and fashion influencer, I hope to inspire the next generation to break free from outdated beauty standards. You don’t have to be “perfect” to succeed—success comes from believing in yourself and fighting for what you deserve. If doors don’t open for you, build your own.
Dress, Phan Huy. Jewelry, Dior and David Yurman. Shoes, Femme Los Angeles.
HBZVN: You’ve studied Management Information Systems and Marketing, which are not traditionally linked to fashion. How did these fields complement your fashion journey, and in what ways do they support your approach to business and creativity?
TRACY TRAM NGUYEN: When I graduated with a degree in Management Information Systems and Marketing, I didn’t think I would ever apply those skills to fashion. But I quickly realized how valuable they were when I started my own business. In the early days, I had to wear many hats—handling everything from operations to branding. My background in business and technology became essential as I navigated the complexities of running a company. As e-commerce and digital marketing became increasingly important, my knowledge allowed me to collaborate effectively with web designers and marketing teams. I understood the technical aspects of building an online presence and how to position my brand in a competitive market.
Looking back, I’ve learned that as a business owner, the more knowledge you have, the better. Fashion isn’t just about creativity—it’s also about strategy, innovation, and adaptability. My studies gave me the tools to not only design but also successfully grow and manage my brand in a digital-first world.
Dress, Phan Huy. Jewelry, Dior and David Yurman. Shoes, Femme Los Angeles.
HBZVN: Your philosophy of “buy less, choose better” reflects a commitment to sustainable fashion. How did you come to adopt this perspective, and what are some key steps you’re taking to promote sustainability in the fashion industry?
TRACY TRAM NGUYEN: My philosophy of “buy less, choose better” comes from both my upbringing and my experience in the fashion industry. Growing up, I watched my mother run a textile business where everything was handmade with care. She would use leftover fabrics to create clothing for our family, which taught me to appreciate craftsmanship and the value of each piece. Nothing was wasted. Everything had purpose.
As a designer, I’ve seen how fast fashion encourages excessive consumption and waste. I want to inspire the younger generation to break away from the habit of constantly chasing trends. That’s why I’ve been guiding my nieces, including Britney Vuong, to be more mindful of what they wear. I even brought Britney to today’s shoot so she could witness the effort that goes into creating and presenting beautiful, high-quality fashion.
From the design process to the photoshoot—the work of makeup artists, hairstylists, photographers, and stylists—so much passion and skill go into every piece. Quality clothing isn’t just about fabric; it’s about craftsmanship, artistry, and dedication. That’s why well-made fashion costs more than fast fashion –we must learn to value our clothes.
Tracey brought Britney Vuong to the shoot to show her the effort that goes into creating and presenting beautiful, high-quality fashion.
HBZVN: You’ve been in the fashion industry for over 18 years, witnessing its transformation. How do you see the future of fashion, especially with the growing trend of fast fashion?
TRACY TRAM NGUYEN: Having been in the fashion industry for over 18 years, I’ve seen it evolve in many ways—some exciting, others concerning. The rise of fast fashion has made clothing more accessible, but it has also led to overconsumption, waste, and a loss of appreciation for quality craftsmanship.
Looking ahead, I believe the future of fashion must shift toward sustainability and responsibility. Consumers are becoming more aware of the impact of their choices, and I hope this encourages brands to prioritize ethical production, higher-quality materials, and timeless designs over fleeting trends.
I want people to embrace the idea that less is more—to invest in pieces that are beautifully made, versatile, and designed to last. I also hope to see more brands take accountability by focusing on sustainable fabrics, fair labor practices, and reducing waste.
Britney Vuong.
HBZVN: When it comes to your personal style, how has it evolved over the years, and how do you incorporate your own fashion design into your everyday wardrobe?
TRACY TRAM NGUYEN: My personal style has always been rooted in timeless elegance. Even when I was younger, I never bought trendy pieces. Instead, I saved up to invest in beautifully made, high-quality clothing—pieces that I still own and wear today. I’ve always believed that fashion isn’t about having more; it’s about having the right pieces that make you feel confident and empowered. This philosophy naturally extends to my own designs.
I create pieces that are not just beautiful for a season but can be cherished for years. I focus on impeccable cuts, luxurious fabrics, and craftsmanship that stands the test of time. Whether it’s a structured blazer, a perfectly draped dress, or a statement piece with bold elegance, my wardrobe reflects my belief in quality over quantity. Fashion, to me, is about longevity and purpose. A thoughtfully curated wardrobe is not only more sustainable but also a true expression of personal style.
Dress, Tuyet Le. Shoes, Femme Los Angeles.
HBZVN: Can you tell us more about your hobbies outside of fashion? How do activities like reading, music, or film influence your creativity and daily life?
TRACY TRAM NGUYEN: Outside of fashion, I’m a foodie at heart—I love cooking and exploring different flavors. There’s something so creative about putting together ingredients to make something delicious, just like designing an outfit by mixing textures, colors, and silhouettes. Cooking is my way of unwinding, and it often inspires me in unexpected ways, whether it’s through vibrant colors in a dish or the artistry of plating.
I also enjoy reading and listening to podcasts, especially those that focus on business, creativity, and personal growth. They keep me inspired and constantly learning, which fuels my work in fashion and beyond.
Another passion of mine is repurposing clothing. I love finding ways to give new life to older pieces. It aligns with my philosophy of valuing what we own and being mindful of waste. Creativity isn’t just limited to fashion—it’s everywhere. Whether through food, books, or upcycling clothes, I find inspiration in the little details of everyday life.
Dress, Tuyet Le. Shoes, Femme Los Angeles.
HBZVN: Who are the people you look up to, both in the fashion world and outside of it, and how have they influenced your journey?
TRACY TRAM NGUYEN: The person I look up to the most is my mother. She has always been my greatest influence, not just in life but also in fashion. She taught me from a young age that dressing well goes beyond just looking good – it has many benefits. She would always say that the way we present ourselves boosts confidence, creates positive first impressions, and allows for self-expression. She valued craftsmanship and always believed in making the most of what we had. That lesson stayed with me and shaped my philosophy on fashion.
Outside of my mother, I also admire designers who create with intention, focusing on quality and sustainability rather than mass production. People who challenge the industry’s norms and inspire others to see fashion as an art form rather than just consumption. Their work reminds me why I do what I do – to create fashion that empowers, lasts, and tells a story.
Dress, Tuyet Le. Shoes, Femme Los Angeles.
HBZVN: On a lighter note, what’s one fun fact about you that most people wouldn’t expect?
TRACY NGUYEN: People often see me as serious because of my work in fashion, but once they get to know me, they realize I love to joke around and make people laugh. I’m also an overly caring person—sometimes to a fault! I always want to make sure the people around me are happy, whether it’s checking in on friends, making sure everyone is well-fed, or going out of my way to help someone in need. It’s just in my nature.
Fashion may be my passion, but at the end of the day, I think life is about spreading joy, being kind, and lifting others up. A great outfit can boost your confidence, but laughter and love are what truly make life beautiful!
Dress, Tuyet Le. Shoes, Femme Los Angeles.
Photographer: Harris Thong
Makeup: Tiny Dang
Hair: Hunter HSon
Stylist: Chau Phan
Outfits, Phan Huy, Tuyet Le.
Necklaces and earrings, Dior and David Yurman.
Shoes, Femme Los Angeles.
Harper’s Bazaar Việt Nam
