If I Come Back To Vietnam, Will I Ask “What If?”

Meet Devon Nguyen, a fashion designer and contemporary abstract artist who was born in Vietnam, grew up in Poland, studied at the University of the Arts London in the UK, and returned to Vietnam after spending a long time living abroad.

At the age of 3, Devon moved to Poland to live with her parents. At 18, she pursued her childhood dream in the fashion capital—London. After spending eight years studying and working in the UK, she accepted an invitation to work for a prominent name in the Vietnamese fashion industry, which she considered both a significant opportunity and a major risk at the time.

Nourished By Poland

Just like other children, Devon was asked the cliché question: “Who do you want to be in the future?” Without hesitation, her answer was always, “a fashion designer.” Although her dream was partly influenced by her fashion-forward mother, it was not supported.

Determined to pursue her passion, Devon researched everything on her own. She found out which art schools to apply to and even booked a flight to London by herself—all at the age of 18.

“That’s youth! At that time, I didn’t think much. Luckily, I got into the university I wanted (smile),” Devon shared.

As a Vietnamese immigrant in Poland, Devon’s family had been busy managing their business, leaving her to develop independence out of necessity.

This might explain her love for traveling alone (her first solo trip was at 16), as it allows her to connect with herself and listen to her needs “physically, spiritually, and soulfully.” While her decisions are sometimes guided by the heart and soul, they are harmoniously balanced with the logical mind of an artist.

Built Up By London

Being a student at the University of the Arts London, Devon was exposed to the professional and practical environment to nurture her artistic talent. Notably, she worked for big names such as Burberry London, Alice Temperley, or All Saints.

In her 20s, Devon was a fresh graduate from one of the most prestigious arts universities, brimming with passion and “a pocket full of dreams.” Shortly after graduation, she received offers to work for renowned fashion brands, including one in Vietnam.

Faced with the choice of staying in London or moving to Vietnam, Devon found herself in a dilemma. After conducting careful research into the Vietnamese fashion industry, she ultimately chose Vietnam. Reflecting on her decision, she admitted it was “not the best choice, but the one [she] wanted the most.”

At that time, the Vietnamese fashion industry was in its early stages, presenting challenges but also immense potential for growth. Looking back, Devon believed it was her “mission in life” that inspired her return to Vietnam—a mission to grow alongside the industry, raise it up, and contribute her expertise to shaping its future.

Shaped By Vietnam

“What has been the most difficult challenge you've faced since moving to Vietnam?” I asked.

“There isn’t just one most difficult thing,” she replied. “There are so many.”

Coming back to Vietnam while having spent 8 years in London, Devon found myriad challenges of building a career in Vietnam’s growing fashion industry. Reflecting back, it was about the struggles of staying creative with limited resources and how Devon’s grown alongside the market.

In times of fashion designers in Vietnam remaining limited, Devon cherished how close friendships in the early days have supported her and maintained connection until now. “Although my parents are still living in Poland, I seriously considered moving here for good. Vietnam had truly captured my heart, and now, I proudly call it home—a place filled with memories, love, and belonging that has shaped my current self,” shared Devon.

Devon is a mother of the two brands: DEVON LONDON (a fashion brand) and Dartique (an art brand). Vietnam is where keeps her journey and her plans going on. The girl she was more than ten years ago could never have imagined how far she’d come, and the woman she is today looks back with nothing but gratitude.

"It's not totally perfect, but it’s where I should be,” shared Devon. “Thus, it could have been better or worse. The bottom line is there were no regrets, and I’m grateful for everything that has come after this decision, and for being appreciated for what I’ve done in Vietnam.”

Is Life In Vietnam Worth It?

8/10.

Everything is good so far, but I don’t want my life to be overrated. This life chapter in Vietnam remains ongoing projects. If they are successful after all, I’ll rate it 10.

About Overseas Vietnamese Summit 2025: Crossing Over

Participate in our homecoming reunion, where Vietnamese professionals from around the world share their experiences and perspectives on seizing opportunities and overcoming challenges in building careers and settling down in Vietnam.

Date: January 2-4, 2025
Location: Ho Chi Minh City

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Special thanks to our sponsors & partners for accompanying us in this event:
- Title Sponsor: Ninety Eight
- Major Sponsor: LEGO Manufacturing Vietnam
- Recruitment Lead Partner: Janus Executive Search & Talent Advisory
- Engagement Partner: BECAMEX TOKYU, Vietinvest.au, GoHub & Liobank by OCB
- Travel Partner: BE
- Communications Partner: British Chamber of Commerce Vietnam (BritCham), Shark Tank Vietnam & Nordcham