Meet Freddy Nguyen, Vietnam’s Next Young Menswear Designer
From his father’s rebellious spirit to the rhythms of R&B, Freddy Nguyen draws inspiration from every corner to craft HUDB+’s sought-after minimalist menswear
The art of personal connection
As the creative force behind HUDB+, Freddy Nguyen has carved out a unique space that bridges minimalist aesthetics with avant-garde elements, all while maintaining a distinctly Vietnamese identity.
The brand’s story began in 2017, when Freddy, fresh out of university, launched HUDB+. It was a bold move for a young designer, but his vision and talent quickly garnered attention.
However, the path wasn’t without challenges. In 2020, Freddy made the difficult decision to pause operations, citing personal reasons. While a hiatus might have been detrimental for some brands, it became a period of growth and reflection for him.
In 2021, Freddy transitioned into styling, a move that would ultimately reignite his passion for design. Working closely with various fashion pieces, and gaining a deeper understanding of how clothing interacts with different body types and personalities, he gathered invaluable insights.
This new perspective led to the triumphant return of HUDB+—much to the delight of his loyal followers who had eagerly awaited its comeback.
From his father’s closet
What sets HUDB+ apart is Freddy’s deeply personal approach to design. His latest collection draws inspiration from an unexpected source: his father, whom he describes as “a certified and mature guy with a rebellious side.”
This fusion of personal narrative and cultural heritage is central to Freddy’s design philosophy. By drawing from his familial experiences and Vietnamese roots, he creates pieces that resonate deeply with his audience.
For example, his Japanese-inspired denim jacket is a story of generational connection—a physical manifestation of the dialogue between tradition and modernity.
Freddy’s creative process is refreshingly organic, pulling inspiration from his surroundings—whether music, art, movies, or daily life. This holistic approach to design ensures that each HUDB+ piece is imbued with authenticity and relevance.
Whether it’s a sweatshirt designed for easy, fashionable wear or a more intricate piece inspired by his father’s rebellious style, each item in the HUDB+ collection tells its own unique story.
Crafting with purpose
Every piece from HUDB+ is proudly made in Vietnam. From sleepwear-inspired shirts to innovative outerwear, every design reflects Freddy’s dedication to wearable fashion that doesn’t compromise on style or substance.
Music also plays a significant role in Freddy’s creative process. He draws inspiration from various genres, from rap to R&B, allowing the rhythms and emotions of different musical styles to influence his designs. As he himself explains, “I’m easily inspired by music. Every kind of music, like rap, R&B, makes it easy for me to create something in fashion.”
For Freddy and HUDB+, fashion is a medium for storytelling, a bridge between cultures, and a celebration of Vietnamese craftsmanship in the modern world.
As Vietnam continues to make its mark on the international fashion stage, designers like Freddy are leading the way, showing that the country’s fashion industry is rich with talent, creativity, and a unique perspective that the world is eager to embrace.
Photography Nhu Khoi and Duc Ngo
Creative direction Vic Lee
Fashion Freddy Nguyen
Grooming Xi Quan Le
Hair Quan Le
Model Viet Dung
Retouching Dam Thoai My
Lighting Nhu Khoi
