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Story & Photos: Tran Tan Vinh
Hue, the former capital of Vietnam under the Nguyen Dynasty, enchants visitors with its well-preserved historic landmarks such as the 19th-century imperial citadel and well-preserved cultural artefacts. Hue is also known for its colorful festivals that celebrate its history with theater, entertainment and fashion shows.
For generations, Hue was the land of poetry, music and fine arts. Works by late artists such as Ton That Dao, Dinh Cuong and Buu Chi, as well as current painters such as Truong Be, Dang Mau Tuu and Phan Thanh Binh… highlight the romantic and tranquil charm of Hue.
The idea of adopting fine arts on the áo dài was explored by several designers this year. Designers including Quang Huy, Chu La, Vu Viet Ha, Hien Dang and Ngoc Han flew back and forth to Hue to meet artists and select some of their works to adapt to the áo dài. The process entailed finding the best fit for the art onto the flowing and moving “canvas” of the áo dài, along with skillfully employing the latest printing techniques to ensure vibrant and accurate colors.
Portraits of traditional Hue ladies, paintings of lotuses and lilies and landscapes of the Perfume River and Ngu Mountain were some of the subjects adapted to the áo dài. A set of dove paintings by Buu Chi in 1973 to demonstrate a desire for peace and a collection of paintings by artist Dinh Cuong that portrayed the grace of Hue maidens were adapted by designer Minh Hanh on her impressive collection. Her unique designs were contemporary but faithful to the timeless beauty of the áo dài, wearable both on the catwalk and on special occasion in everyday life.
The Hue fine arts – áo dài collection proved a successful creative encounter between fashion and fine arts, honoring the beauty and culture of Hue and Vietnam.
