Nicholas Phat Nguyen

“I will bring a female look and a male look,” responded Nicholas Phat Nguyen to our inquiry for a photo shoot. Not surprising, as the burgeoning fashion designer is known for wearing whatever makes him feel powerful and beautiful—whether that’s a single-breasted suit and sensible loafers or a red sequined minidress with matching patent leather stiletto boots. Originally from Vietnam, Nguyen got his start in 2014 at Austin Fashion Week, where he took home the Critics’ Choice Award, and from there his line of couture, custom and ready-to-wear, Mysterious by N.P.N, was born. The 30-year-old designer’s creations are a reflection of the designer himself: overstated, colorful, feminine and endlessly fun. “I don’t just want to be a star,” says Nguyen. “I want to be the force to make this world a better place.”

Wakeup time: 2PM. I’m basically nocturnal.

My earliest style memory is ao dai.

My style hero is Lady Gaga.

My fashion splurge is always 6-inch heels.

Silk or suede? Brocade

Double- or single-breasted suit? Single for sure. But a double-breasted minidress.

Bow tie or traditional necktie? I love a great bow tie. A lot of my latest work has consisted of huge bows. It’s quirky and sweet—the bigger the bow, the better the statement!

Cologne or aftershave? Perfume, baby!!

The craziest thing I ever did was moving to the other side of the world (Houston) alone when I was 15. And it is the best decision I have ever made in my life.