Story HANG NGA
Photos INTERNET

As we enter the Lunar New Year 2024, the traditional ao dai is being rediscovered through creative designs by both domestic and international brands.

Coordinated style

The ao dai strikes a perfect balance between simplicity of shape and clever highlighting of the wearer’s form. As such, there’s often no need to look for an elaborate ao dai in order to stand out for the Tet holiday. Instead, selecting trendy accessories can make a stronger impression when paired with the traditional outfit. While a pair of pointed-toe shoes might be a familiar choice, try opting for YSL symbol high heels. Moreover, don’t forget to carry a self-portrait bag with its signature bow, along with gold, silver or pearl accessories to enhance your style for the New Year’s day. All these elements will be highlights for a radiant new year.

Deconstructed ao dai

For those who favor innovation, the conversation no longer revolves solely around traditional shapes and materials. Gen Z women often say, “As the country becomes more modern, so does the ao dai.” Consequently, fashion houses offer an array of choices in designs, colors, fits and sizes every Tet holiday season. Girls will undoubtedly be drawn to minimalist, monochrome ao dai designs, featuring pleat details and seamless fabric cutting and joining techniques. To elegantly style this ao dai and create a modern fashion statement, consider pairing it with distinctive accessories like the Fendi First bag, powerful boots and a scarf from YSL’s latest collection. Top it off with Prada gloves and the highly sought-after sunglasses from Céline.

Red, the color of fortune

On the first day of the new year, Vietnamese people not only “dress up for Tet” but also seek to attract joy and fortune. When selecting an ao dai, many prioritize the color red in order to symbolize happiness and positivity. The red ao dai itself is already quite striking, but to make the color more elegant, it can be paired with silver accessories. This perfect blend of hues will help the modern woman maintain a youthful, bold and feminine appearance. Amidst the festive season’s silver craze, the Gucci Horsebit Chain bag stands out as a prime choice, mimicking the metallic color while maintaining a soft, lustrous appeal. Similarly, Ferragamo captures this exquisite leather treatment in their high-heeled sandals, featuring the iconic Gancini symbol, a hallmark of the Italian fashion house for over 50 years. Furthermore, stunning silver accessories don’t have to be a challenge to find if fashion enthusiasts explore luxury brands like CHANEL and Bottega Veneta.

The contemporary halter top

Vietnam is rich in cultural intersections, and it is unsurprising to find international brands drawing inspiration from traditional garments like the ao dai and yem (halter top). The halter top is particularly favored during Tet in the South due to the warm climate, offering convenience in wearing more comfortable attire. Soft, light and fluid, yet intriguingly stylish, the halter top allows women to smartly choose smaller accessories that focus on intricate craftsmanship. For instance, the hobo bag that put Miu Miu on the map is an excellent choice. Additionally, charming ballet flats from CHANEL provide a sense of comfort and security. Over the past year, Van Cleef & Arpels has gained significant attention, especially for its four-leaf clover symbol, which is worn as a precious lucky charm. With the Tet season upon us, what better time is there to don these exquisite jewelry pieces as we welcome the new spring?