Vietnam's Traditional Hat

 How lovely is this card?! Diana has been to Vietnam a few months ago and brought me this card for my old people collection. Love it!!

The cute old lady is making a Non La, a cone-shaped hat made mainly from palm leaves, latanier leaves, or bamboo leaves. Its frame is crafted from thin bamboo or rattan, creating a light and durable structure. Each hat includes around 16 to 20 bamboo rings, all hand-stitched with great care and precision.

 

It usually takes 4 - 8 hours to complete one Non La, depending on the detail and craftsmanship. For farmers, the Non La is an essential tool used daily to shield them from the sun and rain. It is also used by women when going to the market, or as a hand fan to create a breeze during rest breaks in the fields. When worn with the graceful ao dai, it highlights the gentle and modest charm of Vietnamese women. You can see the Non La everywhere, from countryside fields to city streets, and even at cultural festivals and fashion shows.

Its simple and rustic beauty reflects the soul of the Vietnamese people.
Beyond its daily use, the Non La is a meaningful souvenir. Many visitors buy it as a special gift for loved ones or as a keepsake from Vietnam. It also holds deep meaning, appearing in poetry, music, and art, and living on through generations as a symbol of Vietnamese identity. - in: https://www.vietnamairlines.com