Founded in 2014, QUYN defines itself as a high-end leather craft brand, established by young artisan Cao Quynh with the ambition to elevate Vietnamese craftsmanship to global standards. Over a decade of growth and refinement, QUYN now operates under two lines: QUYN – a ready-to-wear collection embodying contemporary aesthetics, and QUYN Artisan – a bespoke service for clients who wish to co-create one-of-a-kind leather pieces rich in personal expression.
Below is an interview with artisan Cao Quynh – the founder and soul of the brand – as he reflects on a decade of unwavering commitment to leather craft, and shares his vision for the road ahead.
Q: Hello Quynh. QUYN is recognized as a notable name in Vietnam’s leather craft scene. If you had to define your service in just three words, what would they be?
A:
If I had to choose three words to describe QUYN, I would say: Sophistication – Identity – Modernity.
“Sophistication” is the essence of leather craft – each cut, each stitch must be intentional and precise. “Identity” reflects how QUYN stays true to its roots – not following trends, but highlighting Vietnamese character in our designs. And “Modernity” represents our drive to innovate – ensuring that traditional craft can still resonate with today’s world.
“Through every bespoke leather piece, I understand how someone sees beauty – and life itself.”
Q: It’s been 11 years since QUYN was founded. What’s been the biggest challenge for you?
A:
The biggest challenge was introducing a new leather craft brand to the market – especially one that doesn’t follow predictable commercial molds.
With bespoke leather, the challenge is deeper: both the maker and the wearer must share an appreciation and respect for craftsmanship.
In late 2024, we decided to separate the two lines: QUYN Artisan for bespoke services, and QUYN for the ready-to-wear collection – to help customers better connect with each value we offer.
(Our bespoke creations open the door for QUYN to connect with true connoisseurs of leather craft)
Q: What has this journey given you?
A:
It has taught me patience. And a deeper understanding that:
“Craftsmanship – and art in general – is a journey where the destination lies in the vast inner worlds of each individual.”
Every piece we deliver is not just a physical item, but an exchange of memory, aesthetics, and trust between artisan and owner.
Q: What achievement are you most proud of?
A:
I’m proud to see that Vietnam’s leather craft industry is finally gaining recognition – both domestically and internationally.
There was a time when people saw handcrafted leather as an obscure hobby. But now, we’re being invited to exhibit internationally and sought out by customers from Europe, Japan, and the U.S.
Each artisan at QUYN is not just a maker, but a storyteller – carrying the voice of Vietnamese craftsmanship out into the world.
(Cao Quynh at the Range Rover SV Bespoke event)
Q: What do you believe are the essential qualities of a leather artisan?
A:
Skill is necessary – but not sufficient. At QUYN, I look for those who are patient, humble, and possess a refined aesthetic sensitivity.
A true artisan must understand their materials, grasp the design intent, and “communicate” through their hands – so that each product becomes a harmonious symphony of technique and emotion.
Q: What is QUYN’s vision for the future?
A:
As we advance, QUYN Artisan will further develop its bespoke services – not just custom-made pieces, but a space for true co-creation.
Meanwhile, QUYN – our ready-to-wear line – will expand into more functional designs, while still maintaining the highest standards of quality and leather craft expertise.
These are two distinct approaches in form, but united in one spirit – the spirit of craftsmanship.
Q: Is launching a ready-to-wear line a compromise with the market?
A:
Not at all. On the contrary, it’s a step forward. QUYN Bespoke has earned a solid reputation, giving me and my team the confidence to go further.
The ready-to-wear line brings leather craft closer to a wider audience – people who love fine craftsmanship but seek more flexibility in time and budget.
I truly believe that a well-crafted piece will always find its place – whether in a bespoke gallery or in the wardrobe of a young urban professional.
(Too Good To Go is the first official ready-to-wear collection by QUYN)