Ao Dai
Welcome ​to
Canada
Ao Dai Canada (ADC) was created in May 2016 and was officially registered as a non-profit organization #270801219 on July 27, 2017.
We are a Toronto-based non-profit organization that focuses on preserving the Vietnamese culture while raising awareness against human trafficking and child exploitation. Maintaining a non-political and non-profit agenda, we aim to provide cultural and charitable opportunities for youth involvement. Ao Dai Canada’s intent is to share the Vietnamese culture and traditions with the public, in an inclusive manner.
We welcome new participants, models, designers, and volunteers… Anyone who loves arts and culture, feel free to reach out to us. We would love to hear from you! Please visit your Facebook page at Ao Dai Canada or email us at info@aodaicanada.org
​Our Mission
At Ao Dai Canada, our mission is to promote and preserve Vietnamese cultural traditions, especially the Ao Dai costume, and to support charitable initiatives, particularly in the fight against human trafficking.
​Our Vision
We envision using the Ao Dai costume as a tool to promote national pride and introduce Vietnamese culture to the international community, while building a strong and united Vietnamese community in Canada where individuals can find empathy, support, and connections with fellow Vietnamese.
What We Do
1
Promoting and preserving
Ao Dai
We organize events, exhibitions, and contests related to the traditional Vietnamese costume, Ao Dai, to introduce and honor its value. We also encourage the use of Ao Dai in important events of the Vietnamese community.
2
Conducting charity programs
We participate in or organize charity programs to help people with difficult circumstances, especially victims of human trafficking and domestic violence.
3
Organizing cultural events
We organize cultural events such as festivals, exhibitions, and artistic performances to introduce and celebrate Vietnamese culture. We also aim to strengthen the connection and relationship within the Vietnamese community in Canada.
Our Events
Join us in celebrating the rich heritage of Vietnamese culture and community spirit through our vibrant events. Discover a diverse range of cultural festivities and community outreach programs hosted by Ao Dai Canada. Our events are designed to showcase the beauty of Vietnamese traditions and create meaningful connections among fellow community members. Come be a part of our mission to promote cultural awareness and build a strong and united Vietnamese community in Canada.
I. Taste Of Vietnam I, II, III
An extraordinary festival that showcases the beauty of Vietnamese culture, latest fashion, and exquisite cuisine, while raising awareness against human trafficking and child exploitation, not only within our city of Toronto but also across the world.
Taste of Vietnam™ is registered with the Canadian Intellectual Property Office as of February 2, 2022.
II. Ao Dai Cultural Show
As proud ambassadors of Vietnamese culture, we are excited to showcase the exquisite beauty of our traditional Ao Dai designs and performances to audiences from around the world.
The Fashion Art Toronto event is the longest running fashion week in Toronto, featuring avant-garde runway shows and immersive multimedia experiences. By participating in this event, we hope to not only raise awareness against human trafficking and exploitation but also to promote our culture and inspire others to appreciate the richness of Vietnamese traditions. Join us in celebrating the spirit of cultural exchange and creativity through our Ao Dai Cultural Fashion Show!
Our dedicated young volunteers at Ao Dai Canada are working hard to bring the exquisite beauty of traditional Vietnamese Ao Dai designs to the global stage at Fashion Art Toronto's upcoming Ao Dai cultural show. This prestigious event is an incredible opportunity to promote our culture and raise awareness against human trafficking and exploitation. We hope to inspire audiences from around the world to appreciate the richness of Vietnamese traditions and join us in celebrating the spirit of cultural exchange and creativity through our Ao Dai Cultural Fashion Show
III. Ao Dai Day
​Event
coming...
LET US ADORN OUR FAVORITE AO DAI ON THIS SPECIAL OCCASION
MAY 14, 2023 | 4PM - 6PM
Nathan Phillips Square
100 Queen St W
Toronto ON M5H 2N1
- STOP HUMAN TRAFFICKING FLAG RAISING
- CULTURAL AO DAI SHOW
- PARADE WALK
- AO DAI CONTEST
- TORONTO SIGN LIGHTING
- CN TOWER LIGHTING
Ao Dai Day is a celebration of the pride of Vietnam. This iconic dress has been an integral part of the Vietnamese culture for generations, reflecting the aesthetic and cultural values of the Vietnamese people. It has been inherited and constantly developed by younger generations not only in Vietnam, but all over the world. In Canada, where over 240,000 Vietnamese people reside, the Ao Dai is known, loved, and celebrated by many Canadians.
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Date: May 15th
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Venue: Toronto City Hall
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Flag-raising ceremony to raise awareness against human trafficking (non-political)
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Cultural performance: "The Evolution of the Ao Dai" showcasing the changes in style of the traditional Vietnamese dress throughout different eras
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Parade
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Vote for the most beautiful Ao Dai of the day.
On this occasion, we come together to showcase the beauty of Vietnam's traditional culture through this graceful dress, highlighting the elegance and gentleness of Vietnamese women. Ao Dai Day also provides an opportunity for volunteers to meet, network, learn, and develop with each other. After two years of online activities, the 2022 Ao Dai Day will return with lively and exciting activities for everyone to participate in.​​
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Furthermore, Ao Dai Day raises awareness against human trafficking, a cruel reality for women and children happening all over the world. Join us in celebrating the beauty of the Ao Dai and standing against human trafficking.
I. The History of Ao Dai in Vietnam
1. Early development and emergence (1744 - 1930s)
The Ao Dai is a traditional Vietnamese garment that has become an iconic symbol of Vietnamese culture. Its history can be traced back to the early 18th century during the reign of the Nguyen Lords, who ruled over southern Vietnam. The Nguyen Lords introduced a new style of clothing that consisted of a long, flowing tunic and loose pants, which was designed to provide more comfort and freedom of movement for the wearer.
2. The Ao Dai evolves (1930s - 1950s)
Over time, the Ao Dai evolved to reflect the changes in Vietnamese society and culture. In the early 20th century, Vietnam underwent a period of modernization and Westernization under French colonial rule, and the Ao Dai was adapted to include elements of Western fashion such as tighter fitting designs and higher necklines. This new style of Ao Dai became popular among Vietnamese women, who saw it as a symbol of their modernity and independence.
3. Ao Dai during war and division (1950s - 1975)
During the Vietnam War, the Ao Dai continued to evolve as women sought to adapt the garment to the realities of wartime. Some women shortened the tunic to make it more practical for working in the fields, while others added pants underneath for added protection. Despite the difficult circumstances of the war, the Ao Dai remained a symbol of national pride and Vietnamese identity.
4. The resurgence of the Ao Dai (1975 - present)
Today, the Ao Dai continues to be an important part of Vietnamese culture and fashion. It is worn on special occasions such as weddings and festivals, and has become an iconic symbol of Vietnamese beauty and elegance. The Ao Dai has also been recognized internationally, with designers and fashion enthusiasts around the world embracing its unique style and beauty.
II. Characteristic of Ao Dai
Ao Dai is a traditional Vietnamese garment that is both elegant and graceful, and it has a distinct appearance that is recognized all over the world. The characteristics of Ao Dai include:
Silhouette
The design of Ao Dai features a tight-fitting top with long sleeves and a high collar, and a long, flowing skirt that gently hugs the curves of the body. This silhouette creates a flattering and feminine look.
Colors
Ao Dai is available in a wide range of colors, from pastels to bright and bold hues. Some of the most popular colors include red, pink, blue, green, and yellow. The colors chosen for an Ao Dai can represent different meanings, such as red for luck and prosperity, or yellow for royalty.
Materials
Ao Dai is usually made from lightweight and breathable materials such as silk, satin, or chiffon. The fabric is often embroidered or decorated with intricate patterns or designs to enhance its beauty.
Accessories
Ao Dai can be paired with a variety of accessories, including a traditional Vietnamese hat called a non la, elegant high heels, or simple sandals.
III. Beautiful Ao Dai Designs
In this section, we showcase some of the most talented Ao Dai designers who have contributed greatly to the preservation and promotion of this iconic Vietnamese dress. Each designer has their unique style and approach, but all share a passion for creating beautiful and meaningful Ao Dai designs.
Meet Tran Thien Khanh, a celebrated designer whose creations are known for their intricate details and exquisite craftsmanship.
With years of experience and a deep understanding of the history and cultural significance of the Ao Dai, Khanh has created a signature style that combines traditional elements with modern twists.
Discover the work of Vu Viet Ha, whose designs showcase the beauty and diversity of Vietnamese culture. From the Cultural Show of Vietnam's 54 Ethnic Groups to his stunning Ao Dai designs in our Taste of Vietnam events, Vu Viet Ha's creations are bold, colorful, and playful. Inspired by nature and everyday life, his designs reflect a youthful and optimistic spirit.
