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Ao dai is a Vietnam national costume. It holds the cultural significance of national identity and pride. It embodies the delicate beauty, modesty, and grace deeply valued in Vietnamese culture. Women wear Ao dai for a fashion statement and to honor the homeland’s rich heritage.
Every Vietnamese girl wears ao dai in pride. Photo: Vietnamplus
Beyond the aesthetic appeal, the dress represents Vietnam's history and traditions. Its design has evolved over centuries, influenced by various cultural and historical factors, yet it has remained a timeless and iconic garment. If you are beginning to fall in love with this dress, then let’s read the article to learn more with Asia King Travel.
Ao dai’s origins can be traced back to the period of division between Dang Trong and Dang Ngoai. Lord Nguyen Phuc Khoat wanted to change customs to be completely different from the north under Lord Trinh's rule. He ordered the people to change their clothing from the four-panel, belted tunic to the five-panel tunic. It had two long flaps, quite similar to ao dai.
Image of a five-panel tunic (ao ngu than). Photo: Lamia Design
The dress as we know today took shape during the French colonization (1885-1945). The traditional dress underwent a significant transformation. The robe was tailored to fit the body more closely, with a high collar and fitted sleeves. The first designs of modern ao dai could belong to Artists Cat Tuong and Le Pho.
An ao dai design of Artist Lemur Cat Tuong. Photo: Vietnamplus
Over time, the dress continued to evolve. During the 1920s and 1930s, it became more form-fitting, with a shorter length and tighter sleeves, reflecting the influence of Western fashion trends. In the 1960s, fashion designers made another transformation, with the addition of the iconic long slits on both sides of the skirt for greater freedom of movement.
The casual design is a fitted silk tunic worn over long silk pants. The tunic is tailored close to the body from the shoulders down to the waist, accentuating the wearer's curves. Below the waist, the tunic flares out into a flowing panel that falls gracefully over the wide-legged pants.
Various colorways and silhouettes of the dress. Photo: Ao dai Nhan
One of the most distinct features is the two panels that make up the front and back of the tunic. These panels are sewn together at the shoulders and side seams. The front panel typically has a contoured neckline that can vary in style.
The pants go along with are loose and wide-legged, often made from the same silk material as the tunic. The pants are designed to be worn underneath the long tunic, creating a flowing appearance as the wearer moves.
While the basic form is consistent across Vietnam, there are regional variations. The north is more conservative, with higher necklines and subdued colors. In Hue the former imperial capital, it often features more intricate embroidery, vibrant colors, and elaborate designs.
Dreamy purple is Hue girls’ beauty. Photo: HueCIT
Traditionally, Vietnam national dress is crafted from natural fibers like silk, cotton, or linen. Luxurious silk fabric lends an elegant sheen and lightweight drape, making it a popular choice for formal occasions. Breathable and comfortable cotton is well-suited for everyday wear, especially in Vietnam's tropical climate. Linen adds a touch of sophistication to the design.
Silk has superior properties and a sophisticated production process, so the price is high. Photo: Binh An Store.
In modern times, synthetic fabrics like polyester and chiffon have also found their way. However, many traditionalists argue that these materials compromise the authentic essence of the garment.
Vietnamese women love wearing ao dai for special occasions and festivals. During Lunar New Year celebrations, you will see mothers and sisters wear it to visit relatives. The flowing silk adorned with intricate patterns and vibrant colors adds a touch of grace to the festive atmosphere.
Weddings are another occasion where this charming dress takes center stage. Brides often choose to wear for their wedding ceremonies, symbolizing their connection to cultural roots and the virtues of modesty. The delicate embroidery and rich hues complement the bride's beauty, perfect for the union time of two souls.
People often choose red or yellow to express the Tet atmosphere. Photo: EMOI
Formal events such as graduations, business meetings, and diplomatic gatherings, are other must-wear events. Its sophisticated silhouette exudes a sense of professionalism and respect.
High school girls are encouraged to wear ao dai to school. Photo: CafeF
Besides, young girls also love wearing ao dai to capture their youthful beauty. You can often see them posing for pictures with flowers on Phan Dinh Phung Street or West Lake in Hanoi. The skirt hugging the girls' bodies makes it impossible to look away.
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Van Phuc Silk Village (Ha Dong District, Hanoi) has been famous for hundreds of years. "Ha Dong silk" and traditional handicrafts are often mentioned in ancient poetry. Many families still sewing on old looms.
Van Phuc Village has a long-standing tradition of silk making.
Silk fabric is always appreciated for its diverse patterns, elegant lines, and the sense of freedom it brings to the viewer. Buying an ao dai from Van Phuc silk means you are receiving traditional Vietnamese values.
In the heart of the capital, finding a traditional tailor shop is not difficult, a simple Google search will reveal a list of famous tailoring brands. But if you want to have a dress made with a strong Hanoi identity, people will probably remember the century-old tailor shops located in Hano Old Quarter.
Mrs. Quyen's Vinh Trach tailor shop, although just a small shop tucked away at 23 Luong Van Can Street is always visited by many customers. At a glance, the shop still has the familiar look of a city in the 1990s. Up to now, Ms. Quyen’s family has been in the tailoring business for five generations.
Mrs. Quyen is still passionate about her profession. Photo: Thanh Giong
Mr. Le Van Hao is from Trach Xa Silk Village. He built his tailor shop called My Hao at 82 Cau Go Street. After more than half a century, he passed down the profession to his son and daughter to open their shops. All of their shops are very popular.
Ao dai not only brings a gentle beauty to the wearer but also harmonizes with the ancient town atmosphere. Perhaps when you come to Hoi An Ancient Town, you will encounter many types of clothing, but traditional costumes still stand out, exuding a unique beauty.
Traditional clothing is the ideal complement to the ancient town's historic ambiance. Photo: MIA
Just walking around the street you can see plenty of tailor shops. Don’t rush when selecting your preferred color and style. With skilled hands, Hoi An tailors can make a new dress in just a day!
If you tend to prefer traditional dress, you should choose a model with a high collar and long sleeves. In addition, the front and back panels should be balanced. A round-neck is the perfect choice for a flattering look that minimizes the neck and stomach area and highlights the bust.
Listen to the tailor's advice to choose your most suitable style. Photo: Vnplace
Custom-tailored dresses can be quite expensive. Silk fabric typically costs between VND 200,000 and 400,000 per meter, but there are often additional fees. Renting a dress for a photoshoot is a more affordable option.
When taking body measurements, you should be honest. Don't try to suck in your stomach or wear a push-up bra. This will directly cause your dress to be the wrong size. Whichever is too tight or too loose, you will feel uncomfortable and have difficulty moving. Tailors always advise against eating too much before measurements because a full stomach can alter your body measurements.
Wearing the Vietnam traditional dress requires adhering to certain etiquette norms. Proper attire and behavior are essential to respect traditional costumes.
Ao dai is designed to enhance the elegance and gentleness of women. Photo: All Things Hair
Ao dai should be worn modestly, with the neckline and hem lengths maintaining a level of conservatism. The dress should fit snugly to accentuate the body's natural curves while preserving a sense of elegance and grace. Wearing too tightly or revealing too many body parts is considered disrespectful.
It is essential to maintain a poised and dignified demeanor. Movements should be gentle, reflecting the refinement and sophistication of the dress. High heels or overly ornate footwear may be seen as inappropriate and disruptive to the harmonious aesthetic.
Ao dai has enhanced the beauty of Vietnamese women for hundreds of years and continues to be the national pride. Now, it is also a tourism ambassador for Vietnam tourism, inviting people from all over to discover a new kind of beauty. Contact Asia King Travel to visit and find your perfect dress.
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