As a native New Yorker living in Paris, I live for the magic of January. The air turns crisp, and the fashion elite descends upon the City of Light. Haute Couture Week represents the absolute pinnacle of human creativity. Style Cartel stood among the first blogzines to ever cover these prestigious runways. Today, I have the thrill of announcing a historic shift in the couture landscape. A fresh, visionary talent is joining the official Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode calendar.
PHAN HUY Haute Couture Week: The Youngest Visionary at Haute Couture Week
History just unfolded in the heart of Paris this December. The Haute Couture Council officially invited PHAN HUY to join the Spring-Summer 2026 schedule. At only 26 years old, Phan Huy became the youngest designer to achieve this feat. This marks the first time Vietnam holds an official seat at this elite fashion table. As someone who breathes Parisian luxury, I find this milestone incredibly refreshing. It proves that true craftsmanship knows no borders.
The Making of a Vietnamese Masterpiece
Phan Huy founded his namesake house in 2023 alongside CEO Steven Doan. The brand quickly captivated the industry with a “purist” design philosophy. They blend ancient Vietnamese weaving with futuristic laser-cut technology. Their atelier uses natural plant-based dyes to create ethereal, sculptural silhouettes. This dedication to heritage earned them spots on major red carpets like Cannes and the Emmys. Now, they prepare to bring that soulful artistry to the Paris stage on January 29th.
The Extraordinary History of PHAN HUY
The brand began as a valedictorian graduation project in Ho Chi Minh City. Phan Huy’s early work resonated deeply with industry professionals and the public alike. He draws inspiration from childhood memories and East Asian aesthetics. Collections like “La Moyenne Région” showcase his ability to manipulate fabric into wearable art. By 2024, global stars like Jhené Aiko and Leonie Hanne were already wearing his designs. This rapid ascent validates the incredible skill of Vietnamese artisans on a global scale.
Why This Milestone Changes Everything
This invitation signifies more than just a runway show for one man. It proves that Vietnamese craftsmanship meets the rigorous standards of French couture. Steven Doan brings 12 years of styling expertise to the brand’s strategic vision. Together, they bridge the gap between traditional silk embroidery and modern luxury. Their inclusion honours the dedication of the artisans working tirelessly in their Vietnam atelier. We are witnessing the birth of a new fashion superpower.
The upcoming show on January 29th at 1:30 PM will be legendary. I cannot wait to see Vietnam’s rich textile history transform the Parisian runway. PHAN HUY represents the future of global fashion: young, bold, and deeply rooted in culture. Make sure to follow our live updates during the festivities. This season, the “Power of Being Seen” belongs to the artisans of Vietnam.
Follow Style Cartel on Instagram and TikTok for front-row access to PHAN HUY’s debut!
