Hanoi (VNA) – Representatives of the Vietnamese community in the UK, international partners, journalists and culture enthusiasts gathered in London on March 8 to hear about the 'Ao dai Fashion Week' project, which aims to bring Vietnam’s iconic traditional dress to the global fashion stage.
With support from the Embassy of Vietnam in the UK, Vietnamese associations across Europe, as well as business and artistic communities, the initiative seeks to establish the 'Ao dai' brand on the world fashion map. After London, the project is expected to travel to Paris and Milan, two of the world’s leading fashion capitals, to further showcase Vietnam’s cultural identity.
“We are not only bringing the 'Ao dai' to the world. We are opening a journey for the world to step into Vietnam’s cultural story,” said Hoang Thi Hai Ha, the project founder.
On the sidelines, correspondents of the Vietnam News Agency in London met with Lillia Langley and Lauren Elms, two models who have been presenting Vietnamese 'Ao dai' since 2019.
Langley shared that wearing 'Ao dai' allows her to feel a sense of modesty and elegance. It is a traditional costume, yet one that blends beautifully with modern times, she said, expressing her pride to help introduce Vietnamese culture to the world.
Elms encouraged audiences to approach the costume with openness and curiosity about Vietnamese culture. “Each outfit tells a story. Vietnam has so much to discover. I have been presenting this traditional attire for many years but continue learning about Vietnamese culture,” she added.
Among the 200 models who registered for the casting call within the 'Ao dai Fashion Week' project, 65% were foreigners, reflecting the growing appeal of the costume among the international fashion community.
Savita Kaye, CEO of House of iKons, noted that the beauty of Vietnam itself is a key factor attracting international audiences to the 'Ao dai' and the country’s cultural traditions. She highlighted the intricate details in 'Ao dai' designs and the versatility of many styles as elements increasingly drawing interest from Western audiences.
Kaye also expressed confidence that the 'Ao dai Fashion Week' will receive a warm reception in Western markets, stressing that the time has come for Vietnamese creativity and talent to step onto the “front line” of the global fashion stage. Built on Vietnam’s cultural heritage, the project aims to connect diverse cultures around the world and integrate international cultural elements into a broader celebration of Vietnamese heritage.
The March 8 press event not only introduced the 'Ao dai Fashion Week' project but also marked the beginning of a long journey in which heritage and creativity go hand in hand. Designers, artisans, artists and communities are expected to work together to help Vietnamese culture shine on the international stage.
According to the organisers, the 'Ao dai Fashion Week' is scheduled to take place as part of the London Fashion Week in mid-September 2026.
London, long known as one of the world’s financial and cultural capitals, is now also becoming a stage where Vietnam’s 'Ao dai' can tell its own story - one of beauty, creativity and national pride./.
VNA
