Paisley Babylon Vintage Clothing

Item #2183

Vietnamese Ao Dais Dress

Sm

$48

"A lasting impression for any visitor to Vietnam is the beauty of the women dressed in their ao dais. Girls dressed in white pick their way through muddy streets going home from school or sail by in a graceful chatter on their bikes. Secretaries in delicate pastels greet you at an office door and older ladies in deep shades of purple, green or blue cut a striking pose eating dinner at a restaurant. The ao dai appears to flatter every figure. Its body-hugging top flows over wide trousers that brush the floor. Splits in the gown extend well above waist height and make it comfortable and easy to move in. Although virtually the whole body is swathed in soft flowing fabric, these splits give the odd glimpse of a bare midriff, making the outfit very sensual. Rapidly becoming the national costume for ladies, its development is actually very short compared to the country's history."

Here in New Orleans the Vietnamese American girls dressed in these dresses while participating in celebrations and weddings.

The above quote perfectly describes the allure of this costume! The dress is made of sheer white fabric (an incredibly silky blend, which is not marked but may contain some silk and maybe nylon), embellished with glitter. It has lace at the neck, and designs in silver foil strategically placed so that the dress can be worn with just a bra. The trousers are loose and long and zip in back. The fabric is silky white satin in silvery white.

The top part snaps around the side of the bust (like a cheongsam) and has very high slits at the sides.

The top part seems much smaller than the trousers, which are probably meant to be worn loose.

About a small size,it measures:

Top

Bust - 34"

Length - 56"

Pants

Hips - 44"

Length - 40"

In #1 excellent condition: like new, no flaws!