Traditional clothing of Ha Nhi ethnic group in Dien Bien

In Dien Bien province, Ha Nhi ethnic people mainly reside in Muong Nhe district, with a population of around 4,500. Through many upheavals in history, the traditional clothing of the Ha Nhi has been carefully preserved, remaining an integral part of their cultural identity. With their exceptional embroidery skills, Ha Nhi women have crafted a distinctive style for their attire, adding to the vibrant cultural diversity of Dien Bien province.

When the rice harvest is over and the cornfields have been gathered, the Ha Nhi ethnic people enter their off-season, a time of rest and preparation for the New Year.

For Ha Nhi women, this is the time to focus on making intricate garments for the entire family to welcome the New Year, with the wish for good luck for the year ahead.

The traditional outfit of the Ha Nhi ethnic people is one of the most elaborate among the minority ethnic groups in Vietnam’s mountainous regions. Each set, including a shirt, hat, apron and belt, takes them up to six months to complete. The outfit design tells a story about life, beliefs, and a deep connection to nature.

In 2023, the traditional Ha Nhi clothing-making craft was officially inscribed in the National Intangible Cultural Heritage, which helps preserve and promote the unique folk knowledge and cultural value of the Ha Nhi people in Dien Bien province.

Festivals are the time the Ha Nhi people show their pride and deep connection to their culture. For the Ha Nhi ethnic people, these traditional garments are not merely clothing; they represent the essence of life, a symbol of pride, and a key part of their heritage, helping to preserve their cultural identity for future generations./.