Should I buy luxurious items in Vietnam?

January 15, 2024 - 18670 views

Every traveler loves to buy gifts from the country they travel to bring back home. In fact, shopping is one of the best ways to immerse yourself in the local culture during the holidays. Vietnam is known for being one of the most affordable countries in the world, where you can find both inexpensive and luxurious items at reasonable prices. There is a wide variety of items to buy in Vietnam. Here are some recommendations for luxury items to buy when traveling in this country.

Should I buy luxurious items in Vietnam?

If you are looking to purchase world-famous luxury items such as Prada, Louis Vuitton, Chanel, or Dior, Vietnam may not be the ideal place to do so. In fact, many young Vietnamese people take advantage of their vacations abroad to purchase these items at a cheaper price than they would find in Vietnam. However, foreign tourists can save money when shopping for luxury items such as Vietnamese silk, jewelry, and antiques at local markets and boutique shops in Vietnam. Make sure that you do some research before going shopping. Do not forget to get official receipts (including the store name, address, phone number, description, and price) for the products you buy to prevent any shopping traps in Vietnam.

There Is A Growth Of Luxury Shopping Centers In Vietnam

There Is A Growth Of Luxury Shopping Centers In Vietnam

What luxurious items in Vietnam should I buy? 

1. High-end fashion

Local Luxury Clothing

Vietnam has a growing luxury fashion industry, with many high-end brands opening stores in major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. In addition to international luxury brands, Vietnam also has a number of local designers and brands that offer high-quality luxury clothing. Some of the popular local luxury clothing brands in Vietnam include Cong Tri, Do Manh Cuong, and Le Thanh Hoa.

While luxury clothing can be expensive in Vietnam, there are also many options for more affordable luxury clothing, such as outlet stores and online shopping platforms. It's important to research and compares prices before making a purchase to ensure you're getting the best value for your money.

Places to buy:

  • Hanoi: SIXDO (108a Tran Duy Hung St.), Kilomet109 (64 Quang An St.), IVY Moda (47 Thai Ha St.)
  • Ho Chi Minh City: Cong Tri Flagship (132-134 Dong Khoi St., Dist 1)

 

Handmade Leather Craft

Vietnam has a number of skilled artisans and craftsmen who specialize in leather crafting, using traditional techniques and modern technology to create unique and high-quality products. Many of these craftsmen work for local companies or international brands that have factories in Vietnam. Some popular leather craft items in Vietnam include bags, shoes, belts, wallets, and jackets.

In addition to established brands, there are also many small, independent leather craft shops and workshops throughout Vietnam where you can find unique and handmade leather products. These shops often offer custom-made items and personalized services, making them a great option for those looking for something truly special.

Places to buy:

  • Hanoi: Do Da Tam Anh (44 Bui Thi Xuan St.), LaForce (58 Pho Hue St.)
  • Ho Chi Minh City: Olug Leather Craft (44 Truong Quoc Dung), NEYUH Leather (168 Ly Tu Trong St., Dist 1), Desino (10 Nguyen Thiep St., Dist 1)
  • Hoi An: LENDO (90 Le Trong Tan St.)

There Are Many High Quality Leather Craft Shops In Vietnam

There Are Many High-Quality Leather Craft Shops In Vietnam

Silk products

Silk has a long and rich history in Vietnam, dating back to the 7th century when it was first introduced. Today, Vietnam is one of the top silk producers in the world, with many regions specializing in the cultivation and production of this luxurious fabric. 

Vietnamese silk is known for its high quality and beautiful designs. The fabric is made using traditional methods that involve raising silkworms, spinning the silk threads, and weaving them into intricate patterns and designs. In recent years, there has been a growing interest in sustainable and eco-friendly silk production in Vietnam. Some companies are using organic methods to grow mulberry trees and raise silkworms, while others are experimenting with new technologies to reduce waste and improve efficiency in the production process.

Vietnam Is One Of The Top Silk Producers In The World

Vietnam Is One Of The Top Silk Producers In The World

One of the most famous silk-producing regions in Vietnam is Hoi An, where you can find many shops and markets selling a wide range of silk products such as scarves, dresses, and suits. Another popular destination for silk lovers is Ha Dong City, which is known for its silk-weaving traditions and beautiful silk products.

Vietnamese silk comes in a variety of colors and designs, with many featuring traditional motifs such as dragons, lotus flowers, and bamboo. The fabric is also used to create beautiful embroidery and applique designs, which are often featured on clothing and home decor items.

Prices for authentic silk can be high, but it is well worth the extra expense. Be careful because there is synthetic silk in some shops. Regular Vietnamese silk typically costs 100.000 VND per meter (US $4.5), while premium fabrics are priced at over 300.000 VND per meter (US $13). A nice suit will cost approximately US $200. The price of tailored clothing can be higher.

Places to buy:

  • Ho Chi Minh City: Nhasilk (82 Hoa Lan St., Ward 2, Phu Nhuan District)
  • Hanoi: Van Phuc Silk Village or Hang Gai St., 
  • Hoi An: Hoi An silk village (28 Nguyen Tat Thanh), or Bebe Tailor (05-07 Hoang Dieu St.)

2. Handicrafts

Lacquerware

Lacquerware is a traditional & unique art form in Vietnam. Lacquer products in Vietnam are jewelry boxes, photograph albums, dishes, bowls, vases, and paintings, which is known for its beauty, durability, and unique artistic style. To have a high-quality lacquer product, lacquer makers must work really hard and carefully. It takes about 20 stages and 100 days to have a finished product.

One of the most famous lacquerware-producing regions is Ha Thai Village, located near Hanoi. You can also find lacquerware in An Dong Craft Market (Ho Chi Minh City) or some tourist sites in Hue and Hoi An. A small lacquer product is about US $10, but a lacquer painting can cost US $100 or more. Small, family-run shops or off-the-beaten-track galleries sometimes offer a better price.

Places to buy:

  • Hanoi: Thien Loc Fine Arts (176 Quang Trung St.) 
  • Ho Chi Minh City: Ngoc Lan Crafts Store (775 & 1427, Cua Dong, Gate 11, Phan Boi Chau St., Ben Thanh Ward, Ben Thanh Market, District 1), NGA Art & Craft Showroom (240A Duong Dinh Hoi St., Tang Nhon Phu B Ward, District 9), Minh Phuong Lacquer-ware Gallery (40 Phung Khac Khoan Street, Dakao Ward)
  • Hue: Tinh Hoa Art Shop - (6B Vo Thi Sau St.)
  • Hoi An: Lam Kieu traditional lacquerware and sculpture (41 Tran Phu Street)

Lacquerware In Vietnam Is Famous For Its Unique Artistic Style

Lacquerware In Vietnam Is Famous For Its Unique Artistic Style

Embroidered Art

Vietnamese embroidery is known for its delicate and detailed workmanship, with many pieces featuring traditional motifs such as flowers, birds, and landscapes. The craft has been passed down through generations of artisans, and many families specialize in the production of embroidered products.

Vietnamese embroidery comes in a variety of colors and designs, with many featuring traditional motifs that reflect the country's rich cultural heritage. The process of making embroidered products is time-consuming and requires great skill, with each piece taking several days or even weeks to complete.

The Quat Dong Village (Hanoi) is one of the most famous embroidery-producing regions. Here, you can find many shops and workshops selling a wide range of embroidered products such as clothing, handbags, and home decor items.

Places to buy:

  • Hanoi: The Quat Dong Village (Thuong Tin Ward), Ha Son Store (290 Pho Hue St.), Xuan Nguyen Store (91 Nguyen Thai Hoc St.)
  • Da Lat: XQ Da Lat Su Quan (80 Mai Anh Dao St.)
  • Ho Chi Minh City: Tranh Theu Tay Hue (2/22 Lu Gia St., Ward 15, District 11)

Vietnamese Silk Embroidery Art

Vietnamese Silk Embroidery Art

Ceramics

Ceramics is a traditional craft in Vietnam that has been practiced for thousands of years. It involves the creation of pottery and other ceramic products using clay and other natural materials. Vietnamese ceramics are known for their high quality and distinctive artistic style. 

One of the most famous ceramic-producing is Bat Trang Village, located near Hanoi. Here, you can find many shops and workshops selling a wide range of ceramic products such as bowls, plates, vases, and decorative items.

Places to buy

  • Hanoi: Bat Trang Village, Vietclay (1083 Hong Ha St.), Authentic Battrang (115 Hang Gai St.)
  • Ho Chi Minh City: Minh Long (17 Ba Huyen Thanh Quan St., Vo Thi Sau Ward, Dist.1), 

You may be interested in Bargain Tips for Shopping in Vietnam

Vietnamese Ceramic

Bat Trang is One of The Most Popular Ceramic Villages in Vietnam

3. Jewelry

Pearls

Pearls have a long history in Vietnam, dating back to ancient times when they were used as currency and gifts for royalty. Today, Vietnam is one of the top producers of pearls in the world, with pearl farms located in many coastal provinces such as Ha Long Bay, Nha Trang, and Phu Quoc.

Vietnamese pearls are known for their high quality and unique colors. They come in a variety of shades, including white, black, pink, purple, and golden. The pearls are cultivated using traditional methods that involve inserting a small bead into the oyster and allowing it to grow over time. This process can take anywhere from 2 to 5 years, depending on the type of pearl.

High Quality Pearls In Phu Quoc

Various Pearl Jewelry in Phu Quoc

One of the most popular types of pearls in Vietnam is the Akoya pearl, which is known for its luster and round shape. Another popular type is the Tahitian pearl, which is larger in size and comes in a range of colors from black to green to blue.

When shopping for pearls in Vietnam, it is important to buy from a reputable seller to ensure that you are getting a good quality product. You can find pearls in many places, such as markets, jewelry stores, and even online. It is also recommended to visit a pearl farm to see the process of how pearls are cultivated and harvested.

Places to buy:

  • Hanoi: Huong's Jewellery( 62 Hang Ngang St), Hoang Gia Pearl (Floor 2 - Lotte Center, 54 Lieu Giai St.)
  • Nha Trang: PNJ (46 Le Thanh Ton), Long Beach Pearl (30A Nguyen Thien Thuat St.), Golden Pearl (60 Tran Phu St.)
  • Phu Quoc: Showroom Long Beach Pearl (124 Tran Hung Dao St.), Ngoc Hien Pearl Farm (Duong Bao Ward, Duong To Town)
  • Ho Chi Minh: Mai Phuong (99 Tran Quang Khai), SJC (418-420 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai St.)

Vietnamese Pearls Are Known For Its High Quality

Vietnamese Pearls Are Known For Its High Quality

Creative Jewelry

Jewelry in Vietnam is a reflection of the country's rich culture and history. Vietnamese jewelry is known for its intricate designs, use of precious metals and gemstones, and traditional craftsmanship.

Vietnamese jewelry also includes a wide range of other styles, from modern and contemporary to more traditional designs. Many pieces are made using precious metals such as gold and silver and feature gemstones such as diamonds, rubies, and sapphires.

In addition to traditional jewelry, Vietnam is also home to many talented artisans who create unique and creative pieces using non-traditional materials such as bamboo, coconut shells, and recycled materials.

Places to buy:

  • Hanoi: Hang Bac Street, DOJI (5 Le Duan St.)
  • Ho Chi Minh City: IJC Long Khanh (145 Hung Vuong St.)

Vietnamese Jewelry Includes A Wide Range Of Styles

Vietnamese Jewelry Includes A Wide Range Of Styles

4. Artwork

Paintings

One of the most famous painting styles in Vietnam is the Dong Ho folk painting, which originated in the Red River Delta region. These paintings feature traditional motifs such as animals, landscapes, and daily life scenes and are made using natural materials such as bamboo paper and natural colors.

Another popular painting style in Vietnam is lacquer painting, which involves applying multiple layers of lacquer onto a wooden base to create a glossy and durable finish. Lacquer paintings often feature traditional motifs such as dragons, lotus flowers, and landscapes and are known for their intricate details and vivid colors.

In addition to traditional painting styles, there are also many contemporary artists in Vietnam who create modern and abstract paintings using a variety of techniques and materials.

Places to buy:

  • Hanoi: Nguyen Thai Hoc St., Green Palm Gallery (39 Hang Gai St.)
  • Hoi An: Réhahn's Gallery (7 Nguyen Hue St.)
  • Ho Chi Minh City: The Factory Contemporary Arts Centre (165 Nguyen Van Huong St.)

Vietnamese Traditional Painting

Vietnamese Traditional Painting

Sculptures

Sculpture is a traditional art form in Vietnam that has been practiced for centuries. Vietnamese sculptures are known for their intricate details, expressive forms, and unique artistic style.

One of the most famous sculpture styles in Vietnam is wood carving, which involves the use of chisels and other tools to create intricate designs and patterns on wooden surfaces. Wood carvings often feature traditional motifs such as dragons, lions, and other animals, as well as scenes from daily life.

In addition to traditional sculpture styles, there are also many contemporary artists in Vietnam who create modern and abstract sculptures using a variety of materials such as metal, glass, and plastic.

Places to buy:

  • Hanoi: Du Du Village (Thanh Oai Dist.)
  • Hoi An: Kim Bong Village
  • Quang Nam: Woodart Vietnam (389 highway 610b, Cam Phu 2 village, Dien Phong, Dien Ban)

Exquisite Wood Carving Picture

Exquisite Wood Carving Picture

In Vietnam, there are many traditional craft villages with experienced craftsmen and unique artistic styles. You will surely find valuable items that cannot be found anywhere else. Whether it's a handmade pottery or a delicate silk scarf, these products reflect the rich culture and heritage of Vietnam. So don't hesitate to explore the local markets and shops to discover the hidden gems of this beautiful country. Ready to experience the best of Vietnam? Contact BestPrice Travel now for more travel tips and personalized travel itineraries. 

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Questions & Answers (5)

Ask a Question
26/10/2023

Where the shop to sell silk in Ho Chi Min ..... with medium quality ?

Reply
1
26/10/2023
@Bunda BW:

Hi! It's not recommended to buy silk in HCMC as it's hard to find real Vietnamese silk there and you may be charged overpriced. 

1 Reply
25/07/2023

hi, could u tell me if there is any good silk shop offering tailor-made clothes in Hanoi? thanks

Reply
1
25/07/2023
@Luna:

Hi! You should visit below shops:

  • Thai Tuan: No.74, Pho Hue St., Hoan Kiem Dist., Hanoi
  • La Hang: No.41, Phung Hung St. / No. 246, Hang Bong St., Hoan Kiem Dist., Hanoi
1 Reply
30/05/2023

Where can we buy high quality Akoya pearls in Vietnam?

Reply
1
31/05/2023
@Aspyn:

Hi! Akoya pearls are impressively popular in Vietnam. But for avoiding scams, you should buy Akoya pearls in famous jewelry brands with many stores from North to South, such as: PNJ or SJC.

1 Reply
06/04/2023

Do the pearl farms in Vietnam provide certification for buyers? My friend asked me to buy her some authentic pearl jewelry but she was worried about the quality

Reply
1
08/04/2023
@Jake:

If you buy natural pearls then they must have certificates. However, usually, sellers don't provide certificate for cultured pearls.

1 Reply
27/01/2023

Hello Looking for a small scale clothing manufacturer in Vietnam. Hi s March a good time to visit in search of one? Thankyou Tala

Reply
1
27/01/2023

Hi! March and April are the best time to visit Vietnam from North to South, after that is the hot summer in the North and rainy season in the South. Since, it's late January now, you should plan your trip soon.

1 Reply