Mills Update: Vietnam Manufacturers on Denim Trends and Sustainable Production
In a time of trade volatility, brands are shifting their sourcing strategies to guard against tariffs. Denim manufacturers are soldiering on, leaning on innovation and their internal capabilities to drive business while also keeping a watchful eye on the situation.
Ahead of Kingpins Show Amsterdam, held on April 16-17, Carved in Blue caught up with denim mills to discuss the sourcing landscape, their latest launches and where denim trends are headed for Fall/Winter 2026. Here, executives from TCE and XDD discuss what leg shapes, fabrics and denim shades are resonating in the market and how they are addressing sustainability.
TCE
Alex Cha, fabric sales director and Jimi Byun, design lab manager
Carved in Blue: Tariffs are top of mind right now for the industry. How are trade policies impacting your business—particularly in the U.S.?
Alex: The recent implementation of reciprocal tariffs by the U.S. is poised to significantly impact the apparel industry, leading to increased operational costs and potential supply chain disruptions for the time being.
The reciprocal tariffs against Vietnam seems to be unavoidable, which is very unpredictable and [creates] uncertainty in the global market.
Carved in Blue: What do you expect consumers will be looking for in Fall/Winter 2026? How are you developing denim to meet their expected wants?
Alex: The mid-cast blues trend combines clean washes and retro touches. Soft is another key word, blending classic sophistication with a modern look. Also, modern denim offering various curved-leg jeans such as barrel fit and wide-leg styles.
Accordingly, we are developing a variety of blues toward trendy colors and new color technologies to meet consumers’ diversity with new function and performance.
Jimi: Clearly, the market is moving towards sustainable denim. And customers prefer to spend wisely.
For example, the dry process is reduced or a less wash flow is shown, or on the contrary, the pigment power of the dye is highlighted. Simple shade denim is shown in an exaggerated shape, or a new combination is created by mixing and matching materials.
On the other hand, the wide-leg pants have been transformed into balloon-shaped or barrel pants, and we expect another transformation in the next season. The pants are increasingly diversified and show a set look that combines practicality.
Customers still prefer comfortable, soft, practical and active items.
Carved in Blue: What collections will you showcase at Kingpins Amsterdam this April? Do any of your textiles incorporate TENCEL™ Lyocell and/or Modal fibers?
Alex: Various colored denim, dobby textured tops and dress denim, modern look denim in cotton-rich authentic character but it gives soft and drape touch, utilizing TENCEL™ fibers.
As TCE is a fully vertical manufacturer from fabric to garment, we are preparing some stylish garment samples using TENCEL™ blended fabric and collaborating with the Lenzing team.
Jimi: Materials such as TENCEL™ Lyocell and Modal have the advantage of being widely promoted without age or target restrictions.
We are using them in development with various fabrics and items, and plan to provide them in combination with other solutions.
XDD
Wilson Li, marketing director
Carved in Blue: What do you expect consumers will be looking for in Fall/Winter 2026? How are you developing denim to meet their expected wants?
Wilson: As we present our latest denim collection for the Fall/Winter 2026 season, we have focused on key consumer trends that emphasize the importance of tactile experiences. In collaboration with Lenzing, our innovative denim delivers exceptional hand feel while integrating their advanced sustainable fibers, setting new benchmarks for quality and comfort.
The collection features slightly drapey fabrics that maintain a robust body structure, providing a perfect balance of comfort and durability. Additionally, we have incorporated subtle variations in texture that enhance the overall aesthetic of our denim.
Offered in a weight range of 10-12 oz. after wash, our denim strikes the ideal harmony between comfort and structured style. Our specialized fabric constructions utilize super soft yarns along with Lenzing’s TENCEL™ Lyocell and Modal fibers, resulting in luxurious textiles designed for the discerning consumer.
Sustainability remains central to our production philosophy. Our collection is crafted from Better Cotton Initiative (BCI) cotton, recycled cotton, recycled polyester and eco-friendly fibers like LENZING™ ECOVERO™ Viscose. This commitment aligns with consumer demands for quality craftsmanship while reinforcing our dedication to environmental responsibility.
Through our partnership with Lenzing, we are proud to offer a denim collection that meets the expectations of the modern consumer, seamlessly blending style, comfort and eco-consciousness.
Carved in Blue: What collections will you showcase at Kingpins Amsterdam this April? Do any of your textiles incorporate TENCEL™ Lyocell and/or Modal fibers?
Wilson: At Kingpins Amsterdam this April, we are excited to showcase two key collections: Marshmallow and Heritage.
The Marshmallow collection embodies the perfect fusion of softness and structure, making it a must-have for the season. Crafted from low-twist and ultra-soft ring-spun yarns, our unique denim features an airy, fluffy texture that redefines both comfort and style. This collection is designed to appeal to consumers who seek luxurious yet comfy fabrics.
The Heritage collection features our latest selvedge offerings. While many end customers are familiar with selvedge denim, they may find the traditional heavy weight and hard hand feel challenging. To cater to these diverse preferences, we have developed a series of modern selvedge fabrics that combine the authenticity of classic selvedge with contemporary enhancements, including stretch and a super soft hand feel. Some variations also incorporate functional features, ensuring versatility and comfort.
In both collections, we proudly utilize Lenzing’s TENCEL™ Lyocell and Modal fibers, along with their revolutionary LENZING™ ECOVERO™ Viscose. LENZING™ ECOVERO™ is a sustainable fiber made from certified renewable wood sources and produced in a way that significantly reduces environmental impact compared to conventional viscose. By choosing LENZING™ ECOVERO™, we are not only enhancing the sustainability of our fabrics but also contributing positively to the planet’s health. This commitment allows consumers to enjoy high-quality textiles while supporting eco-friendly practices in the fashion industry.
Furthermore, we have thoughtfully incorporated Lenzing products into the warp of our fabrics, achieving an optimal balance between softness and structured body. This innovative method ensures that our denim maintains its form while providing a luxurious hand feel, fulfilling the modern consumer’s desire for both functionality and style.
We are eager to present these exceptional collections at Kingpins Amsterdam and showcase how our partnership with Lenzing allows us to push the boundaries of sustainability, quality and modern denim innovation.