Photographer: Kieng Can

Model: Chau Bui

Makeup: Hiwon

Hair: Jumin Young

Fashion: Vu Viet Ha

Boutique: Hanoi: 12 Nam Ngu Str., 61 Hang Gai Str.; HCMC: 107 Dong Khoi Str.

Inspired by the legend of “Son Tinh – Thuy Tinh” (The God of the Mountains and the God of Water) as expressed in Hang Trong ancient paintings, designer Vu Viet Ha’s

latest áo dài collection delivers a message that happiness must always be cultivated and cherished.

Designer Vu continues to nurture his strength in using silk and chiffon to create áo dài that evoke the styles of the 1930s. Images from paintings of “The God

of the Mountains and the God of Water” tale were embroidered in color shades which represent different parts of the story. The myth tells of the battle between the two gods for the hand of the King’s daughter.

Stylized patterns of Thuy Ba (water waves) and Tam Son (three mountains) are used as decorative elements on the áo dài. These patterns add elements of the traditional Vietnamese culture that often shapes Vu Viet Ha’s creations.