Ah, Vietnam, a land of captivating beauty, vibrant culture, and mesmerizing traditions. And one such tradition that has captured the hearts of many foreigners is the allure of the Ao Dai. This elegant Vietnamese costume has become a symbol of grace and femininity, leaving visitors enchanted and yearning to have one in their wardrobe. Today, allow me to be your guide on the journey to finding your perfect Ao Dai when you visit Vietnam.
Choose the Material Carefully
The first step in your quest for the perfect Ao Dai is to select the right fabric. Delicate chiffon, shimmering silk, and exquisite lace are commonly used materials for creating this enchanting attire. Their lightweight nature adds to the overall gracefulness of the dress. However, if you find yourself exploring Vietnam's colder regions or if you're of a more mature age, velvet fabric can provide warmth and comfort without compromising style.
Better choose the material carefully
Colors also play a crucial role in your Ao Dai choice. Consider your skin tone and body shape when selecting the perfect hue. While white complements fair skin tones, deeper skin tones radiate beauty when adorned with shades of yellow, brown, or Bordeaux. If you desire a slimmer silhouette, opt for darker colors with lighter fabrics, creating an illusion of elegance and grace.
Material to make Ao Dai
Decorations also add a touch of uniqueness to your Ao Dai. If you choose lace, let its natural beauty shine and avoid excessive embellishments. For a more affordable option, consider the charm of floral prints. And for the ultimate sophistication, indulge in the art of hand embroidery. If you find yourself uncertain amidst the sea of choices, don't fret. Trust the expertise of the tailor, who will surely provide invaluable advice.
Must Be Tailor-Made
An Ao Dai, like any other formal costume, must be tailor-made to achieve perfection. Resist the temptation to settle for a ready-made garment, even if it catches your eye. Remember, an Ao Dai is meant to embrace your unique body shape, accentuating your curves in all the right places. To truly experience the beauty of an Ao Dai, invest your time in visiting a tailor shop.
The stage to make an Ao Dai
Long dress shop
Where and How Long?
For the ultimate Ao Dai experience, venture to Hue, the charming old city in the heart of Vietnam. Legend has it that women in this city possess a staggering 22 Ao Dai in their wardrobes. While the number might be slightly exaggerated, it is true that they possess an average of 4-5 Ao Dai for each special celebration. Additionally, the cost of tailoring in Hue is more affordable compared to other cities. However, if time constraints prevent you from visiting Hue, fear not, for there are exceptional tailor shops in Hoi An, Hanoi, and Ho Chi Minh City. These establishments can craft your Ao Dai in as little as 24 hours or take a few days, depending on the intricacy of your chosen decorations. What's more, they offer shipping services throughout Vietnam.
The beauty of Hue's women in Ao Dai costume
Here are some addresses that might assist you in selecting your perfect Ao Dai:
Hue
- Tham Tailor - 42 Tran Nguyen Han St., Hue City
- Tel: (84-54) 3516286 - 0914.006.890
Hoi An
- A Dong Silk - 62 Tran Hung Dao, Son Phong, Hoi An
- Website: adongsilk.com
- Thu Thuy Silk:
- 60 Le Loi, Hoi An - (+84) 510 3861 699
- 23 Tran Hung Dao, Hoi An - Tel: (+84) 510 3911 321
Hanoi
- Ao Dai Hanoi - 33 Tran Phu, Ba Dinh, Hanoi
- Tel: (+84) 43 736 5551 - (+84) 0904802698
Embark on this journey, dear friends, and allow the Ao Dai to unveil your Vietnamese charm. Immerse yourself in the elegance and grace of this traditional attire, handcrafted to celebrate your unique beauty. Let the Ao Dai whisper your story as you stroll through the enchanting streets of Vietnam, leaving a trail of admiration in your wake.
