Trần Tiến Dũng wears a Nguyễn dynasty-inspired imperial robe to bring Vietnamese culture to Manhunt International 2026

Trần Tiến Dũng chose an imperial robe inspired by the Nguyễn dynasty for the cultural costume presentation at Manhunt International 2026 in Sri Lanka. Standing alongside the other contestants, the Vietnamese representative used the outfit to present a different image of his country on an international stage.

The costume, created by artisan Phạm Văn Tuyền of Áo dài Năm Tuyền, takes its cues from images and records of Nguyễn dynasty court dress. Gold dominates the design, while dragons, clouds, water waves and auspicious patterns form its main decorative language. A large belt, headgear and matching accessories complete the court-inspired look.

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We focused on the composition and the combination of decorative sections, rather than simply putting as many traditional patterns as possible onto the garment. The aim was to convey a courtly spirit in a form suitable for an international fashion presentation.

The robe is a reconstruction, not an antique artifact or an exact copy of any specific historical imperial robe. Its creators used documented features of Nguyễn court clothing, then reinterpreted them through contemporary fashion. The design employs weaving, embroidery and metallic-thread decoration. The dragon occupies the front of the robe, surrounded by multicolored cloud patterns.

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I hope international audiences will see that Vietnam is not only represented by familiar images of the áo dài, conical hats or natural landscapes, but also has a richly distinctive culture.

“We focused on the composition and the combination of decorative sections, rather than simply putting as many traditional patterns as possible onto the garment,” Phạm Văn Tuyền said. The aim, he added, was to convey a courtly spirit in a form suitable for an international fashion presentation.

Dũng said the robe was intended to leave an impression while introducing the distinctive character of Vietnamese court dress. “I hope international audiences will see that Vietnam is not only represented by familiar images of the áo dài, conical hats or natural landscapes, but also has a richly distinctive culture,” he said. He described the robe as a starting point for telling stories about Vietnamese history, art and traditional craftsmanship in a modern, open and accessible way.

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At an international event such as Manhunt International, I hope Vietnamese culture will be viewed in a modern, open and integrated spirit. We can take pride in our heritage while also telling its story in a new language that is easier for international friends to approach.