Colors of Tradition

Vietnam

Việt phục (Chữ Hán: 越服), or Vietnamese clothing, is the traditional style of clothing worn in Vietnam by the Vietnamese people. The traditional style has both indigenous and foreign elements due to the diverse cultural exchanges during the history of Vietnam. This all eventually led to the birth of a distinctive Vietnamese style of clothing, including the birth of the unofficial national dress of Vietnam, the áo dài. The country’s attire varies from modern ceremonial wear to ancient village garments, each carrying its own symbolism and grace.

Áo Dài

Áo Dài

The áo dài is considered to be the traditional Vietnamese national garment. Besides suits and dresses nowadays, men and women can also wear áo dài on formal occasions. It is a long, split tunic worn over trousers. Áo translates as shirt and dài means "long". The outfit was derived from its predecessor, the áo ngũ thân, a five-piece outfit that was worn in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Women typically wear brightly colored or floral designs that emphasize grace and femininity, while the male version of áo dài or modified áo dài are also worn during weddings or formal occasions.

Áo Tứ Thân

Áo Tứ Thân

Áo tứ thân is a traditional Vietnamese dress for women, especially popular in the Northern region. It is made from four pieces of cloth, two front panels and two back panels. According to researchers, Áo tứ thân may have originated from the Lý dynasty. Áo tứ thân is a symbol of Vietnamese culture. It is associated with the image of Vietnamese women who are gentle, graceful, and capable. Today, Áo tứ thân is not as widely used as before. However, Áo tứ thân is still loved by many people and worn on traditional festivals .

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