| Item | Indicative price | Usual turnaround | Fittings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ao dai (tunic) | about 40 to 150 USD and up depending on fabric | 2 to 3 days | 1 to 2 |
| Two-piece suit | about 250 to 350 USD for standard quality; 780 USD and up for wool and cashmere | a few days after measuring | 1 to 2 |
| Shirt, dress, trousers | ask, varies with fabric | 1 to 3 days | 1 |
Where to go
- Hang Gai street: silk shops and workshops side by side; see Hang Gai silk street.
- Van Phuc silk village: lower fabric prices, half a day from Hanoi; see Van Phuc.
- Hanoi is less specialised than Hoi An for fast tailoring; if you are heading to central Vietnam, see Hanoi to Hoi An and Da Nang.
How to avoid nasty surprises
- Silk: check it is silk and not polyester: pinch and rub, ask for a swatch or the price per metre.
- Written quote: fabric, lining, buttons and alterations included.
- Fittings: plan two; state your departure date when ordering.
- Deposit: reasonable (about half); keep the receipt.
- Alterations: ask for them free until you are satisfied.
- Shipping: for posting abroad, compare with luggage weight.
If you only want the experience
No need to order: an ao dai photoshoot, with rental and makeup, can be booked online; see the ao dai photoshoot. For simpler gifts, see Vietnam souvenirs.
FAQ
How much does a made-to-measure ao dai cost in Hanoi? About 40 to 150 USD or more depending on silk and embroidery, according to travel guides.
How long does it take? Two to three days with one or two fittings; a suit can take a few days longer.
Can I haggle? Yes, a little, with the quote in hand.
