Innovation does not mean losing identity
In the flow of contemporary fashion, many types of clothing have had certain developments and Ao Dai is no exception.
Innovative designs with new materials, diverse colors, and flexible designs are helping traditional Ao Dai become closer to modern life, especially for young people. However, this innovation also poses a challenge of how to keep Ao Dai its inherent value.
Designer Quyen Nguyen - who has persistently maintained the soul of ao dai for more than 20 years with patriotism and dedication to the profession - said: "Finding a balance between traditional elements and modern spirit is always a difficult problem for ao dai fashion.
The designer emphasized that ao dai has unchangeable characteristics such as the neckline, shoulder gathering or body-hugging tailoring.
If I don't keep these details, it's very easy for the shirt to be deformed, becoming another outfit like a gray shirt or a long shirt," Ms. Quyen Nguyen shared.
Besides, the trend of bold design with large openings also worries many people. According to Ms. Quyen's point of view, ao dai is most beautiful when tailored to fit the body, highlighting the discreet grace of women.
Ao dai must not be revealing, that is a taboo in my design," the designer said.
Understand the right values to preserve and spread
From a cultural perspective, Ao Dai is not only a costume but also a symbol associated with history and the soul of Vietnamese people.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bui Hoai Son - National Assembly Delegate working full-time at the Committee for Culture and Society - commented: "Ao Dai is a cultural heritage of the nation, our identity. Innovation is an inevitable trend, but innovation needs to start from a thorough understanding of the value and meaning of this costume.
''Reality shows that when there is a lack of basic understanding, innovation can easily make Ao Dai lose its own identity. Conversely, if you firmly grasp the core values, each innovation will become a step forward, helping Ao Dai adapt to the times while still retaining the traditional soul,'' Mr. Son said.
Ao dai, especially women's ao dai, is also associated with cultural values such as công - dung - ngôn - hạnh. It is not only the beauty of form, but also the expression of charm, confidence and national pride. When wearing the ao dai, the wearer is not only wearing an outfit, but also carrying a cultural story.
In the context of integration, Ao Dai also becomes an ambassador bringing Vietnam's image to the world.
Preserving and promoting the value of ao dai is not only limited to the personal scope, but also has community and national significance. When young people understand, love and are proud of ao dai, they will contribute to spreading that value in a natural and sustainable way," Mr. Bui Hoai Son emphasized.
Preserving the soul of Ao Dai in modern trends is a journey of harmony between tradition and innovation. Only when each individual clearly recognizes the value of Ao Dai can Ao Dai continue to liven up in today's life and reach further in the future.
