(KPL)The Lao Fashion Week 2025 opened with a historic first-time collaboration between Lao Fashion Week and the Lao Handicrafts Association, bringing together the country’s fashion and textile sectors under a shared vision of innovation, cultural preservation, and global exposure.

The event, held on May 30 at Souphattra Hotel in Vientiane, was attended by Ms. Pany Saignavongs, CEO and Founder of Lao Fashion Week; Ms. Souvita Phaseuth, President of the Lao Handicrafts Association; ambassadors; invited guests; and prominent designers and models.

Under the theme “Lao Textiles to Fashion,” the evening featured exclusive collections by 13 leading Lao designers, incorporating textiles produced by local artisans and members of the Lao Handicrafts Association.

“This evening is very meaningful. It marks the first time Lao Fashion Week officially partners with the Lao Handicrafts Association—an important milestone that unites fashion and traditional textiles in Laos,” said Ms. Pany Saignavongs.

The showcase aimed to elevate Lao textiles by adding contemporary value, promoting traditional craftsmanship, generating income for rural communities, and positioning Lao fabrics on the international fashion scene.

The event also served as a fundraiser for the Lao Young Designers Project, a non-profit initiative of Lao Fashion Week dedicated to building human resource capacity in the Lao fashion industry. Funds raised will support the top five young Lao designers of the year to pursue further studies and training at prestigious international institutions, including ESMOD Paris (France), Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts (Singapore), London College of Design and Fashion (Hanoi), Fashion Institute of the Philippines (Manila), and leading fashion houses in Bangkok.

“This is a great opportunity for members of the Lao Handicrafts Association to collaborate with a project that enhances access to wider markets for our artisans,” said Ms. Souvita Phaseuth.

Designer and Khang Company founder Ms. Viengkham Nanthavong Duangsy shared her enthusiasm, stating, “I’m honored to take part in the Lao Fashion Week 2025 opening. This partnership is a powerful step toward showcasing Lao craftsmanship internationally and supporting the next generation of fashion talent.”

Now celebrating its 12th anniversary, Lao Fashion Week and its Lao Young Designers Project have nurtured over 40 emerging designers. The project maintains strong partnerships with renowned international academies and diplomatic organizations, including the French and Singaporean Embassies in Vientiane, Campus France Laos, and the Philippine Embassy.

KPL