Vietnam offers a rich selection of traditional clothing and handicrafts, making it a fantastic destination for souvenir shopping. One of the most recognizable items is the nón lá—a lightweight, rain- and sun-proof conical hat made from palm leaves. A basic version costs around 50,000 VND ($2), while the more intricate nón bài thơ from Hue features hidden inlays of poetry or legendary scenes that appear when held against the light.

Another iconic Vietnamese garment is the áo dài, a timeless and elegant outfit traditionally worn by women. It consists of a knee-length silk tunic with slits on both sides, worn over flowing silk trousers. Ready-made áo dài can be purchased across Vietnam for about $30, while a custom-tailored version—crafted to your measurements—ranges from $50 to $100, depending on the fabric. If you’re planning to get one tailor-made, allow a few days for fittings.

Vietnam is also known for its high-quality silk, which can be bought by the meter in major markets and specialty stores. Popular places for silk shopping include Hội An’s Old Town, Đồng Khởi Street in Ho Chi Minh City, and Hàng Gai Street in Hanoi. Many of these shops offer ready-made clothing, embroidered silk handbags, shoes, and accessories, as well as custom tailoring services. Hội An’s tailors, in particular, have a reputation for exceptional craftsmanship, whether working from a catalog or replicating an item you provide.

For home textiles, embroidered cotton tablecloths, sheets, and pillowcases are elegant and practical souvenirs. Meanwhile, backpackers and tourists will find plenty of graphic T-shirts featuring designs such as Ho Chi Minh’s portrait or the red flag with a yellow star, alongside modern, humorous, or edgy prints—some even from successful local brands that have expanded into small chains.

Wherever you shop, Vietnam’s vibrant markets and artisan boutiques offer authentic, handmade goods that reflect the country’s rich culture and craftsmanship.