Vietnam Clothing

Clothing can be regarded as one of the traditional beauty of a diversified culture cradle Vietnam. In the past of feudal Vietnam, clothing was one of the most important marks of social status with strict dress codes. The traditional clothing varied from region to region and partly reflected the lifestyle of ancient people.

One of the most interesting features of Vietnamese clothing to the foreigners is the unique and specific styles in clothing of 54 ethnic minority groups in Vietnam. Unlike the colorful dressing of ethnic people on the plateau, the traditional costumes of plainsman tend to be very simple and modest with different dressing styles in Northern and Southern Vietnam. However, whether in Northern or Southern Vietnam, the main traditional clothing materials come from natural fiber that appropriate for a tropical climate such as hemp, silk or cotton.

Have you ever heard about “ao dai”? When mentioning the clothing of Vietnam, it is a mistake if not introducing the traditional “ao dai”. Ii is the most popular and widely-recognized Vietnamese national costume. The fact has shown that there is a similarity between “ao dai” Vietnam and the Chinese Qipao which consisting of a long gown with a slit on both sides, worn over silk pants. “Ao dai” was derived in the 18^th century; up to now, no one can deny that this Vietnam traditional custom it is elegant in style and comfortable to wear. “Ao dai” is worn mostly by Vietnamese women on special occasions such as weddings and funerals. Nowadays, white ao dai commonly can be seen with high school girls in Vietnam or some female office workers like receptionists, secretaries, tour guides … Presently, “ao dai” has been renovated in order to be more and more beautiful and fashionable; nevertheless, it still keeps its original tradition of Vietnam clothing.

To sum up, the traditional Vietnamese styles has been gradually changed along with social development for a long time. Some traditional clothes have been lost, substituted with more modern interpretations, while business shirts and trousers have replaced traditional long sleeved shirts and wide trousers. Yet, traditional costumes still exist and efforts are increasingly being made to restore traditional festivals and entertainment which incorporate traditional costumes.