4 Interesting Facts About The Vietnamese Ao Dai

What exactly is the Ao Dai, you ask? Why, it’s the national dress of Vietnam. Here are some fun facts about it just for the heck of it!

Ingeniously Cheeky!

Sang Nguyen / Via 500px.com

Traditional does not always have to mean conservative, as portrayed by this subtly sexy outfit, with its high-waisted slits, form-fitting silhouette & often translucent fabric!

It’s Not Just for the Fairer Sex

Bonanzastatic / Via images.bonanzastatic.com

Apparently, men can wear Ao Dai too! A more masculine version of it, anyway. No sheer or see-through materials for them, of course. Wouldn’t want them feeling exposed, now would we?

Ancient History

Via vir.com.vn

Take a look at the multi-layer Ao Dai’s above. These works of art have certainly come a long way, having evolved over a period of over 4,000 years. Want your own? If you find yourself holidaying at a Vietnamese hotel such as Anantara Hoi An Resort (which, by the way is known for great views of the water from its Deluxe River View Suite), or any other, just ask the front desk for advice on where to find the best modern-day Ao Dai’s. You’re likely to be pointed in the right direction.

They Weren’t Always Such a Snug Fit!

Via vir.com.vn

The Ao Dai’s of the late 19th & early 20th centuries were more loose-fitting & modest in comparison. It wasn’t until the 1950’s that they were fashioned to be more figure-hugging, reflecting the evolving social & cultural attitudes of the time.