Vietnam Heritage Áo dài Fest mùa 3 recently launched in Ho Chi Minh City with 50 prominent fashion designers in attendance. A notable highlight of the event was the showcase of the ‘Đăng quang’ áo dài, famously worn by the late singer Phi Nhung, and skillfully designed by Trần Tâm Tâm. This design draws inspiration from the sacred flame, symbolizing the passing of values to future generations. A striking feature of this piece is the meticulous hand-embroidery and hand-painting technique.
The talented designer Trần Tâm Tâm revealed that he had also worked on another áo dài, titled ‘Tằm vương tơ,’ for Phi Nhung, utilizing real silkworm cocoons. Unfortunately, the project remained incomplete. This áo dài holds immense sentimental value as it serves as a reminder of the gifted singer Phi Nhung.
This event is part of the Vietnam Heritage Áo dài Festival, an initiative under the guidance of the UNESCO Center for Preservation and Development of Cultural Education in Vietnam (UNESCO-CEP). The festival aims to contribute to the preservation and celebration of Vietnam’s traditional culture.
According to ông Huỳnh Minh Hòa, director of VIETMISSION and deputy head of the festival’s organization committee, the highlight of this year’s celebration is the gathering of 50 skilled artisans and áo dài designers. A fashion show is scheduled to take place in October at a museum in Ho Chi Minh City, featuring the theme ‘Kiệt tác sóng đôi – Di sản đi giữa lòng di sản’ (Masterpiece Duo – Heritage Walking Among Heritage).
The first two seasons of Vietnam Heritage Áo dài Fest were previously held at a century-old tea factory and the Văn miếu Trấn Biên. This year, models Vũ Thu Phương, nghệ sĩ Kim Tuyến, and Miss Global Vietnam 2025 Kiều Thị Thúy Hằng will serve as the event’s image ambassadors.
As part of the festival, nearly 1,000 people adorned in traditional áo dài ngũ thân and cổ phục attire marched through the central streets of Ho Chi Minh City. This event stands as a testament to the honor and preservation of Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage. The UNESCO Center for Preservation and Development of Cultural Education in Vietnam plays a vital role in promoting and safeguarding the nation’s traditional values.
The Vietnam Heritage Áo dài Fest brings together the country’s finest designers and artists to showcase their creative interpretations of traditional áo dài and cổ phục. By embracing and celebrating its cultural roots, Vietnam continues to weave its rich heritage into the fabric of modern society. For more information on the event and its activities, please visit the official website or follow the UNESCO Center for Preservation and Development of Cultural Education in Vietnam on social media.
