More than 150 local and foreign clothing companies are taking part in the 2009 Vietnam Fashion Fair at the HCM City International Exhibition and Convention Centre, which began on July 8.

The Vietnam National Textile and Garment Group (Vinatex) and Vietnam Textile and Apparel Association (Vitas), in cooperation with the Vietnam Leather and Footwear Association (Lefaso), organised the event, which features 240 stalls displaying the latest industry wares.

The organisers hope the six-day fair will encourage local garment companies to develop new partnerships and create promotional and marketing options at home and abroad.

Leading garment companies in Hanoi and HCM City , such as Viet Tien, Viet Thang, Phuong Dong, Phong Phu and Nha Be, participated in the event, displaying new materials and production lines.

Viet Thang’s young designers introduced their latest collections at the fair on July 8, offering new trends in fashion for spring and summer.

The show used original American music to highlight 45 designs from three talented designers who turned their back on casual wear.

Their collection includes accessories made by local craftsman.

Bich Ha, using only silk, highlights the modern beauty of women, both old and young, who look charming in swathes of blue and white.

Meanwhile, Van Khoa and Hong Vuong use cotton and khaki to launch a trend of simple and high-end styles.

“No more foreign items, Vietnamese only,” said Bich Ha, one of the country’s new designers.

Ha believed female customers bought Thai, Korean and Chinese accessories previously but are now going local because “we are offering quality products at reasonable prices”.

Accessories from young designers like Ha cost just 100,000 VND (7 USD) per item.
By offering new collections, they want to send a message to their customers enjoy quality and beautiful products but save money at the same time.

The fair at 446-518 Hoang Van Thu Street , Tan Binh District, will close on July 14./.