DUY, the eponymous Montreal-based high-end ready-to-wear line created by Duy Nguyen in 2001 has won numerous fans for its sharp tailoring and impeccable cuts. Duy has always experimented with the best in quality fabrics and pattern-making. His unmistakable precision, his mastery of cut and his high precision tailoring have created a unique tailoring approach that has become his signature. His timeless pieces have made him a favourite amongst women looking to be beautifully dressed, no matter the time of day or the season and with fashion editors and industry players who have been rightfully impressed with his edgy contemporary styling.
Born in Vietnam, raised in Montreal, Duy studied fashion design at Collège LaSalle and has worked with some of the biggest names in Canadian fashion design. Duy is the winner of the 2012 edition of the Mercedes-Benz Startup prize.
Clothes should be simple but well thought. I love menswear for its tailoring qualities and womenswear, because it makes me dream. Great style happens when it really reflects who you are. My clothes are edgy and innovative yet very wearable. They have a refined sensibility with unexpected details to catch the eye says Duy.
I had the pleasure to watch Duy win the Mercedes-Benz Startup show at World MasterCard Fashion Week in October. I met with him backstage after his win and he was so lovely to chat with. Here is a look at our interview and the inspiration behind the brand~DUY.
BB411~ When did you know you wanted to be a designer?
DUY~ After reading American Vogue March 1994 issue.
BB411~ If you weren’t a designer and you could be anything in the world what would it be?
DUY~ A restaurant owner or a florist.
BB411~ Which designers did you admire growing up?
DUY~ Cristobal Balenciaga
BB411~ Have you always been in love with fashion and beauty?
DUY~ Yes, when I was young, I shampooed my sister’s dolls.
BB411~ What kind of person does your line represent?
DUY~ Confident and individualistic people.
BB411~ Who has been your favourite celebrity to dress?
DUY~ Karine Vanasse, she’s tall and nice.
BB411~ What is your favourite season to design a collection for?
DUY~ Fall/winter. I love jackets and coats
BB411~ What do you look for when creating each collection?
DUY~ Interesting new details or silhouettes.
BB411~ What was your favourite moment from showing Spring/Summer 2013 at World MasterCard Fashion Week?
DUY~ Winning I guess.
BB411~ Favourite colour?
DUY~ Light grey
BB411~ What are the 5 staple pieces every woman should have in their wardrobe?
DUY~ Wool pantsuit for fall/Silk suit for spring, a white shirt, a black shirt, a cocktail dress and an evening gown. KEEP everything basic and simple but very well cutted.
BB411~ Describe your style?
DUY~ Chic, classic with a twist.
BB411~ What does beauty mean to you?
DUY~ That you are comfortable with yourself.
BB411~ What inspires you personally and professionally?
DUY~ People who keep challenging themselves.
BB411~ Are you involved in any charities that are close to your heart?
DUY~ Helping homeless people
BB411~ What does it mean to you to give back?
DUY~ Help people in any way when you can.
BB411~ If you could tell your younger self something you have learned and know now what would it be?
DUY~ Everything happens for a reason.
BB411~ 3 words that best describe you?
DUY~ Easy going, obsessed (with work) , honest (with myself).
BB411~ What is your skin care regime?
DUY~ I just wash my face twice a day with a cleanser with a citrus smell and use a moisturizer when my skin is dry.
BB411~ 3 beauty products you carry with you always?
DUY~ Lip balm, a small size eau de toilette spray and wipes.
BB411~ #1 beauty product you could not live without?
DUY~ Lip balm
BB411~ Do any certain scents remind you of your childhood and what is your favorite fragrance?
DUY~ Ariel, a famous detergent sold in France. I wear Jil Sander for men
BB411~ Do you have a best kept beauty secret that has been passed down to you (say from your Mother or Grandmother)?
DUY~ Good sleep.
BB411~ Fun fact that your fans may not know about you?
DUY~ I am a very shy guy
BB411~ Favorite quote?
DUY~ Be rich or have a lot of friends.
BB411~ What advice would you give entrepreneurs starting out that are following their dreams?
DUY~ Marry rich or make a lot of friends.
To see more of DUY collections, visit the Website or follow on Twitter
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Much Love, Beauty Buzz 411
