On March 8, at the Branch of the Vietnam Association for Cultural Industry Development in Ho Chi Minh City, an exhibition and introduction program of the contemporary traditional five-panel ao dai collection took place in a solemn space.
According to the organizers, ao dai is not only a traditional costume but also a cultural symbol associated with the history and national identity of Vietnam. Among them, the five-panel ao dai is considered the predecessor of the modern ao dai, which appeared commonly from the 18th - 19th centuries and carries many human philosophies of ancient Vietnamese people.
The five bodices symbolize the four bodies of parents and children, expressing the spirit of filial piety, family morality and social cohesion. Every detail on the costume - from the collar, buttons to the way of sewing the ao dai - reflects the aesthetic standards and philosophy of life of Vietnamese people.
Within the framework of the program, three contemporary traditional five-panel ao dai collections including "Xuan Van Dong Nguyen", "Phuc Dao Khai Van" and "Long Phung Hoa Minh" were introduced to the public. The designs were performed on the U-shaped catwalk stage, recreating the image of traditional ceremonial costumes combined with modern aesthetic breath.
The special feature of the program is the performance combined with ritual guidance and demeanor when wearing the five-panel ao dai. Through the participation of models, artisans, designer Ha Van Loi directly illustrates how to walk, stand, greet, and sit in accordance with traditional costumes.
According to Mr. Ha Van Loi, ao dai not only honors physical beauty but also expresses the demeanor and charisma of the wearer. Therefore, understanding correctly about rituals, gestures and style when wearing ao dai is an important factor to fully honor the value of this costume.
The ao dai is not just a fashion design. It is the crystallization of history, culture and morality of Vietnamese people. When wearing the ao dai, each person is also carrying a part of the nation's heritage," Mr. Ha Van Loi shared.
Cultural experts believe that restoring the five-panel ao dai not only helps preserve traditional costumes but also opens up new development directions for the cultural and tourism industry. The image of ao dai, if widely spread in life, will become a typical symbol of Vietnam in the eyes of international friends.
The organizers want to spread the message that Ao Dai is not only a beautiful costume but also a living cultural heritage that needs to be preserved and promoted in contemporary life.
