Vietnamese Ao Dai: National Dress Evolution
Amara Diallo·Published
From Court to Street
The ao dai is Vietnam national dress — a long, fitted tunic worn over wide trousers. Its current form dates to the 1930s.
Historical Evolution
- Ao giao lanh: crossed-collar robe (pre-18th c.)
- Ao ngu than: five-panel dress (18th-19th c.)
- Ao dai Lemur: modernized version (1930s)
Contemporary Ao Dai
Today the ao dai is worn by schoolgirls (white), office workers, brides, and at formal events. Annual ao dai festivals celebrate the garment enduring appeal.
