The Significance of the Red Dao Headdress

Source: Kyle Sandilands, CBT Vietnam Team

In Vietnam, the Dao ethnic minority is an umbrella to a variety of groups, including the Red Dao; The Red Dao are the second largest ethnic minority, following the Hmong who are the first largest. Researchers say that the two groups have quite close relationships; the differences can be easily recognized by appearance, costumes, and way of life. A unique characteristic of this minority is their vibrant costume. The women wear long indigo blouses over trousers, which are endowed with many different red and white decorations at the collar and the lap. In the Sapa market, their costume is often considered one of the most beautiful.1

Source: http://sapatoursfromhanoi.com/exploring-the-red-dao-ethnicity-culture-in-ta-phin-village-sapa/

One of the most important features of the Dao woman’s identity is their headdress known as the Huong. When a young girl reaches about 13 years old, she is gifted a headdress from her parents. It is at this age that she is old enough to go to the market, and to begin courtship.2 Aside from being experts in silver-smithing, the Red Dao are also exceptionally skilled in brocade. In fact, the craftsmanship of brocade is a focal point of their marital system; unless a girl has mastered the art, she will not be married.3

Source: https://vickychong.wordpress.com/2014/03/13/vietnam-trekking-in-sapa-with-red-dao-tribes/

As you can see, the actual appearance of the gorgeous headdress is quite distinct. It is also normal for the headdress to be adorned with coins, silver bells, and tassels and to have about 20-25 layers of red cloth. Once folded, tucked, and tied, the headdress becomes a round, puffed shape. Hair is tucked inside the cloth to ensure that no strands are to be exposed.2 Because of Sapa's (sometimes) harsh weather, the headdress is not only beautiful but functional! So, if you ever find yourself in Sapa, Vietnam, you may just be lucky enough to see this craft yourself!

 References:

1. About Red Dao people in Sapa. (2015). Retrieved April 19, 2016, from http://www.dirtbiketravel.com/news/about-red-dao-people-sapa

2. Dao - Taphin, Sapa. (n.d.). Retrieved April 19, 2016, from http://www.craftlink.com.vn/projects/ethnic-groups/Dao-Taphin-Sapa.html

3. The Red Dao in Ta Phin. (n.d.). Retrieved April 19, 2016, from http://www.taphin-sapa.info/Home/Our-Ta-Phin/History/The-Red-Dao.php