Traditional clothing in a Dong community

Two Dong women catch up along a village path, one carrying her grandchild on her back, both dressed in traditional clothing.

Clothing carries particular meaning in Dong communities. Traditionally, many of the skills involved in making Dong cloth, dyeing, embroidery, and sewing are passed down through generations of women. Clothing made for children can carry both practical and emotional significance, with embroidered patterns expressing wishes for health, safety, and a good life.

From making and caring for clothes to carrying a child on her back, traditions are passed between generations through everyday family life.