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As an anonymous interviewer, I had the opportunity to chat with one of the Top 3 finalists from Season Two about her incredible experiences on the show. She shared insights into dressing notable figures like Gigi Hadid and Jennifer Lopez, as well as her memorable collaboration with Jack Black.
Watching Netflix’s “Next in Fashion” is a truly creative experience. Witnessing talented designers push their boundaries and showcase their expertise, while renowned judges offer their critiques, prompts viewers to imagine what they themselves could create in the designers’ shoes (or gowns!). Each contestant faces the challenges and triumphs of competing for a cash prize and the opportunity to launch a collection with Rent-the-Runway. Among them, one contestant’s journey stands out as particularly inspiring: Bao Tranchi.
Who is Bao Tranchi, Next in Fashion
Bao Tranchi is truly a force to be reckoned with. She wears many hats – a mother, a designer, and a successful business owner. Her journey began in the modest setting of an immigrant Vietnamese family. Watching her mother toil away in a sweatshop ignited not only her passion for fashion design, but also instilled in her the qualities of a strong business woman and a leader who champions female empowerment.
Having spent time chatting with Bao, it’s clear that she approaches each challenge on the show with incredible preparation. Even in the toughest moments, she maintains her trademark high-quality craftsmanship and sultry aesthetic. “I don’t want to be describable,” she boldly declares, as she effortlessly transitions between ready-to-wear, evening wear, costume design, and now even ventures into a shoe collaboration.
Beyond her pursuit of perfection and impressive list of accomplishments, I discovered that at her core, Bao is a true advocate for uplifting fellow women. She wholeheartedly believes in “fixing each other’s crowns” and cherishing female camaraderie in all its forms. As an alumna of the Otis College of Art & Design, she graciously shared her journey with me, from dressing Gigi Hadid at the American Music Awards to their meeting on the show. Bao’s determination to break free from being typecast, along with her collaboration with Jack Black, were also highlights of our conversation.
Here is the conversation between the Harper’s Bazaar Arabia and Bao Tranchi next in fashion
HBA: What motivated you to participate in the show?
Bao Tranchi: It was a combination of passion and necessity, honestly. I really wanted to showcase my capabilities on a larger scale. While I have my own brand and work in costume design, there’s a misconception that as designers, we just sit around drawing pretty pictures.
I adore every aspect of what I do, from starting with a plain bolt of fabric and transforming it into something truly magical. The fact that I can do it all myself is something I hold dear. It all began because I didn’t have a lot of money, and in my immigrant family, dreaming of becoming a fashion designer seemed outlandish.
When you can’t afford to hire experts for tasks like pattern making and sample creation, do you let that stifle your dreams and prevent you from doing what you were meant to? For me, the answer was a resounding “No, I’m going to learn it myself.”
Taking matters into your own hands is incredibly empowering. As my brand gained traction, I’d visit tailors who would insist, “That’s not how it’s typically done.” But I’d confidently reply, “Actually, I’ve already created three samples this way, and it works.” This makes you the true maestro of your own creations.
Sure, it’s a rollercoaster of fun, but it’s also stress-inducing to the max. And to do it all on an international stage? Absolutely, let’s dive right in.
HBA: While your craftsmanship is undoubtedly impressive, did you find it challenging to maintain that level during the show’s intense challenges?
Bao Tranchi: You know, having a strong foundation in construction actually pushed me to design even more. It’s funny, I held myself to higher standards. While others might be fine with something a bit raw, I felt the need to make sure everything was meticulously finished. Oddly enough, I felt like the judges, being aware of my expertise, scrutinized my sewing and construction more intensely than others. So, it’s a bit of a double-edged sword. Sure, I had the skills, but it felt like I was held to a different standard for it too.
HBA: Did you find it challenging to maintain your strong craftsmanship during the show’s challenges?
BT: You know, having a solid foundation in construction actually inspired me to be even more creative in my designs. It’s interesting because I held myself to higher standards. While others might be fine with something a bit more raw, I felt the need to ensure everything was meticulously finished. Strangely enough, I felt like the judges, recognizing my expertise, scrutinized my sewing and construction more intensely than others. So, it’s a bit of a double-edged sword. Sure, I had the skills, but it felt like I was held to a different standard for it too.
HBA: Back in 2015, you crafted Gigi Hadid’s stunning red carpet look for the AMAs. How has your relationship with her evolved since then?
BT: Our friendship really blossomed during the show. I’ve designed for numerous celebrities, but often it’s a whirlwind process. That’s the real-life “Next in Fashion” scenario!
For Gigi’s look, I had just two and a half days. That includes submitting a sketch to her team, having it chosen, and then bringing it to life. In situations like these, you’re not the only designer in the mix. You design and create like your life depends on it. When Gigi picked my design, everything happened so swiftly. There was no time for initial fittings, no chance to measure her or get to know her personally. It was all rapid and intense. Then, it exploded onto the major red carpet scene, and it was incredible. When we reunited on the show’s first episode, Gigi came over and said, “Oh, my God, I was so excited when it was you!” It was such a heartwarming moment.
HBA: Have you noticed an uptick in interest for your pieces since Next in Fashion aired?
BT: Absolutely, it was like an instant surge. As soon as the show came out, sales took off, and it was really heartwarming to receive messages from people sharing how they felt about the show. I’m incredibly grateful for that. It’s amazing to connect with such a wide international audience and feel all the support and love coming in. It’s definitely one of my favorite aspects of this whole experience.
Where is Bao Tranchi now after competing on Next in Fashion?
Before stepping into the Next in Fashion spotlight, Bao was already making waves as a successful designer with her cutting-edge clothing line, aptly named Bao Tranchi.
Since her time on Next in Fashion, Bao’s creativity has soared. She teamed up with the footwear brand United Nude and unveiled a festive collection that got featured in the pages of Harper’s Bazaar Vietnam. And get this, thanks to her role as the costume designer for Zac Efron’s latest movie, The Greatest Beer Run Ever, she even got to attend the premiere.
Now, when it comes to mingling with the stars, Bao is no stranger. She’s worked her magic as a costume designer on projects like Charlie’s Angels and Hedwig and the Angry Inch. Plus, she’s dressed big names like Jennifer Lopez (including a standout look for her 2018 Superbowl performance!), Nicki Minaj, and Laverne Cox.
And remember that striking outfit that Next in Fashion judge Gigi Hadid rocked at the 2015 American Music Awards? Yep, that was a Bao Tranchi creation.
But wait, there’s more. At the season two premiere of Next in Fashion, none other than X-Men’s James McAvoy couldn’t stop singing Bao’s praises. He was particularly impressed with a coat she designed for a photoshoot he did after starring in Atonement.
Bao’s designs, often featuring her signature cutout patterns, exude a genuine admiration and respect for the female form, as Tudum rightly points out.
And speaking of powerful moments in fashion, one of Bao’s standout creations is the costume she crafted for model Ashley Graham at the 2016 Vanity Fair Oscar Party. It was a celebration of Graham’s body in a way that, up until then, had been mostly reserved for sample-size figures.
This look sparked a crucial conversation about what it means to be confidently sexy for a plus-sized woman. It became a massive viral fashion moment, echoing Bao’s message of inclusivity and empowerment in the industry.
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