Since the pandemic, consumers had significantly changed their lifestyles and become even more engaged in sustainability topics. The crisis could serve as an opportunity for players in the fashion sector to strengthen their sustainability commitments. Organic food, plastic-free products, and eco-friendly fashion are the trend to watch out for this year. While the tourism industry is reorganizing for the new normal, my idea is to produce travel & shopping bags that are crocheted, tied from rami yarn, and hemp yarn. All colours for dyeing are 100% natural and environmentally friendly. The "magic" bags can be used as a fashion item. It could be expanded or collapsed easily when needed.

This collaboration takes place between three creatives from Hanoi, Sapa and Melbourne. Hoang Linh Pham (Linht Handicraft), Vu Thao (Kilomet109) and Dewi Cooke (The Social Studio) bring a collective understanding of the significance of cultural heritage in contemporary design and fashion making. Their shared interest in cultural and environmental sustainability underpins their concern with how ‘traditional’ practices can be translated for diverse fashion and design markets.

Linh’s design and making skills are at the centre of this collaboration. She works closely with Dao Tuyen people in northern Vietnam to learn how they make yarn from plant (ramie and hemp) fibres. Her experiments with weaving, knotting and natural dyeing techniques benefit from this community knowledge, from the design expertise of Vu Thao, and from the industry knowledge of Dewi, whose work with migrant and refugee makers in Australia also reflects a commitment to community-engaged and socially responsible fashion.

(Rimi Khan)