Áo Dài, the traditional Vietnamese dress

Áo Dài is a traditional Vietnamese dress. "Áo" classifies the item as a piece of clothing on the upper part of the body. "Dài" means "long". It is commonly worn by women, though it has been worn by both men and women is history.

Traditionally, the color of the dress is indicative of the age of the wearer. Young girls wear white. As they grow older, but are not married, they wear pastels. Then older, married women wear rich and darker colors.

The Áo Dài is created precisely to fit the person it is made for so that it is flattering. Many shops in Vietnam will take tourists' measurements and the dress will be ready in one day. However, they usually take a few weeks to make high quality ones.

As the country has developed, so has the garment. It has become more than just a traditional dress. It is a symbol for Vietnam and a fashion icon seen in many pageants. More casual versions are often worn to school or work and lace ones can be seen on brides.

As the Áo Dài has become more popular in other countries, it has started to be mass produced. This is resulting in alterations to the design, which changes the look and essence of the traditional dress. However, those who have been to Vietnam and seen the real Áo Dài dresses agree that the traditional design is the most beautiful.

Bridal Áo Dài

Casual Áo Dài 

Áo Dài Pageant

Historical Áo Dài