Nguyen My Hoa, 22, and known online as Hoa Xu, is a model, dancer and TikToker whose videos have attracted millions of views. She is a final-year student of international economics at the University of Languages and International Studies under Vietnam National University, Hanoi.
Known for her bright red hair and energetic personal style, Hoa Xu recently chose the ao dai as the centrepiece of a Lunar New Year photoshoot in Hanoi. Rather than opting for familiar, classic designs, she selected a more experimental look while retaining key elements considered central to the garment’s identity, including the high collar, long sleeves and figure-hugging silhouette.
The outfit, titled Tiger, features a modern orange palette and bold tiger-stripe patterns. Made from suede, the fabric surface is treated to form stylised, reconstructed motifs of ancient Vietnamese dragons, creating stripes that shift visually under coloured lights.
One of the most distinctive elements is the back, designed with a corset-style structure and criss-cross lacing down the spine. The detail cinches from the neck to the waist, giving the traditional form a sharper, more contemporary edge.
Accessories were selected to reinforce the Tet atmosphere while maintaining a coherent theme. Hoa Xu wore festive hanging earrings featuring a red knot, dark beads and long tassels, adding movement and a vivid accent against the orange fabric.
Her nails were decorated with bronze-gold dragon motifs to match the patterns on the ao dai, while her make-up drew inspiration from traditional Tuong and Hat Boi theatre.
Symmetrical red dots were placed on her forehead and cheekbones, paired with heavy bronze-orange eye make-up. Her hair was styled into a side bun, voluminous and naturally waved to keep her face prominent against the strong pattern.
Instead of high heels, she wore traditional wooden clogs with a moderate heel, adding a subtle traditional balance to the heavily modernised design.
Hoa Xu said the outfit is a high-end design, costing about VND 21 million (about USD 820) if custom-made. She suggested it would suit evening parties, art events or diplomatic gatherings for wearers seeking individuality while still expressing a national spirit.
She also stressed that the most important element is the wearer’s attitude. Each time she wears an ao dai for Tet, she said, she recalls childhood memories of family gatherings, folk games and waiting for Lunar New Year’s Eve.
“Wear the ao dai with understanding and self-respect,” she said. “When you comprehend the story and value the design represents, beauty will naturally emanate from the wearer.”
