The history of the creation and development of the Vietnamese ao dai has been studied and updated by researchers for years now. The ups, downs and the constant changes have formed a distinctive Vietnamese cultural trait. The ao dai’s historical and cultural values have been gradually reinforced by the Vietnamese people while supported and cherished by their international friends.

The ao dai covers everything, hides nothing.

Following the country’s reunification in 1975, life transformed with every passing day, bringing the ao dai into a new era. No longer reserved for ceremonies or schoolyards, the garment emerged as a cultural emblem, quietly mirroring the inner shifts of the Vietnamese spirit. We trace the ao dai’s journey—from the stately five-panel form to the contemporary silhouette—and explore the delicate differences in shape, fabric and meaning woven into each fold.