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| Each Zeng ao dai embodies the unique identity of A Luoi's land and its people |
In early March, over 500 female officials, women’s union members, youth, and workers participated in “Ao Dai Week” in A Luoi District. The highlight of this year’s event was the ao dai crafted from the Zeng fabric of A Luoi, a traditional textile of Ta Oi and Pa Co ethnic groups. The flowing silhouette of the ao dai beautifully showcased the intricate motifs and warm hues of Zeng fabric, each pattern meticulously woven by skilled artisans.
Mrs. Le Thi Quynh Tuong, Chairwoman of A Luoi Women’s Union, shared: “Ao Dai Week is an opportunity to celebrate the beauty of Vietnamese women. It is also a chance to bring A Luoi’s Zeng fabric closer to the public.”
According to Ms. Tuong, Zeng fabric, once used mainly for household purposes, has now been created and designed in many styles, and has been chosen as the material for innovative collections of some famous designers. “Each ao dai made from Zeng represents a blend of tradition and modernity, shaping the distinctive cultural identity of the land and people of A Luoi,” she said.
The making of a Zeng ao dai requires meticulous craftsmanship and dedication in each stage. Artisan Mai Thi Hop, a Ta Oi woman from Lam Dot Commune with over 40 years of experience in Zeng weaving, explained: “Creating a single piece of Zeng fabric can take days or even weeks, depending on the design and size. The fabric is handwoven on wooden looms, with each motif intricately crafted by the skilled hands and creative vision of the weaver.”
Not only weaving, Ms. Hop is also involved in designing process of Zeng ao dai. “Each Zeng ao dai is more than just attire - it tells a story about culture and identity. When combined with the traditional form of the ao dai, Zeng retains its rustic charm while exuding elegance and sophistication,” she said.
Thanks to the dedication of artisans like Ms. Hop, A Luoi’s Zeng fabric has expanded into modern fashion. Zeng ao dai is gaining popularity, becoming a source of pride for the local ethnic communities and a distinctive cultural emblem of A Luoi.
Ms. Hoang Thi Lan from Hong Bac commune expressed her pride in wearing a Zeng ao dai: “Wearing this ao dai, I feel a deep connection to the cultural heritage passed down through generations. Zeng ao dai is not only beautiful but also carries the spirit of the mountains and forests, embodying the essence of our Ta Oi identity.”
Zeng ao dai of A Luoi is also making its mark internationally. Since 2020, the collective trademark “Zeng A Luoi” has been recognized by the Intellectual Property Office of the Ministry of Science and Technology, opening doors for broader promotion. These unique ao dai not only have graced cultural events in Vietnam but have also been showcased in countries such as Russia, France, and Japan.
The celebration of “Ao Dai Week” in A Luoi plays a crucial role in preserving cultural heritage, fostering the growth of the Zeng weaving craft, and improving the livelihoods of local artisans. As Hue moves towards its goal of becoming the "Capital of Ao Dai," Zeng ao dai will continue to spread its influence, becoming a cherished symbol of both A Luoi women and the Vietnamese nation as a whole.