The beauty of Dao Thanh Phan women in Quang Ninh

In Ba Chẽ commune, Quảng Ninh province, the Thanh Phán Dao people live concentrated in the villages of Làng Cổng, Khe Mằn, Khe Vang, and Nà Làng. Through generations, the Thanh Phán Dao people have preserved many traditional cultural values, among which their traditional clothing is a prominent characteristic.

For generations, Dao Thanh Phan women have placed special importance on their clothing. The patterns embroidered on their garments not only beautify them but also convey their aspirations, thoughts, and feelings.

Traditional clothing is frequently worn in daily life, especially by women. In Ba Chẽ, it's not difficult to spot Dao Thanh Phán women in their traditional attire at markets, on their way to the fields, at festivals, weddings, or family gatherings.

The distinctive feature of Dao Thanh Phan women's clothing lies in its intricate hand-embroidered patterns. Not following pre-printed templates, each design is created by the skillful hands and memory of the embroiderer.

Most prominent are the dog paw prints – a symbol of the Dao people's ancestor, representing the belief that ancestors always accompany and protect their descendants, helping them avoid misfortune and calamities. Alongside these are motifs reflecting the daily life and cultural practices of the community.

The traditional clothing of Dao Thanh Phan women consists of trousers, a shirt, and a headscarf in shades of black or blue, creating a simple yet graceful look. The shirt is made of coarse black fabric, extending past the hips, with a wide collar and a split hem on both sides.

The collar, waistband, and trouser hems are embroidered with exquisite multicolored patterns, with red as the dominant color, symbolizing connection and harmony with nature and the earth.

Through every stitch, the Dao Thanh Phan women not only create traditional costumes but also contribute to preserving and spreading their ethnic cultural identity amidst modern life.

Luong Quang Tho

Source: https://nhandan.vn/net-dep-phu-nu-dao-thanh-phan-o-quang-ninh-post933750.html