New York, London, Paris… Hanoi doesn’t naturally trip off the tongue as a fashion capital, but stylistas in the know have long visited Vietnam’s northern city to snap up bountiful silks, velvets and one-off designer pieces for a fraction of the price back home. Here are three top shops for getting your chic on.
Ha Linh Thu
Designer Linh Hu turns her deft hand to crafting frocks, palazzos and blouses in slinky silk and richly-hued, plush velvet. Sizes run small – this is Vietnam after all – but the fash-forward cuts and sensual draping create sexy yet wearable threads. Shop from two intimate and feminine boutiques.
6 Trang Tien, Hoan Kiem, +84432668184
Chula
It’s worth making the trek to the sprawling 50s villa that’s home to Chula Fashion. Marrying original Euro-accented design with traditional Vietnamese textiles and techniques, founders Laura and Diego have created a remarkable line of brightly coloured, boldly printed garms, individually made by hand – each and every item is limited edition so ensure you buy when you spy. Take time to browse the collections, ask to see the temple, then stay for a tea in the pretty garden.
Can’t make it to West Lake? There’s a Chula boutique at 18 Nha Chung, near the cathedral and their designs are stocked at various hotel boutiques including Sofitel Metropole.
43 Nhat Chieu, West Lake, +84437101102. chulafashion.com
Tan My Design
This glassy, multi-level, third-gen emporium of fashion, jewellery, art, bags and lifestyle whatnot is Hanoi’s original concept store – complete with chic onsite java spot for mid-shopping respite. Expect to bag plenty of swag, but it’s the exquisitely embroidered linens that will have you cooing. Granny’s original shop is across the road at #66.
61 Hang Gai, Hoan Kiem, +84439381154. tanmydesign.com
Hero Image: Chula Fashion
Want to discover more of Hanoi’s best bits? Nab a copy of the LUXE Hanoi guide…
