Vendor Spotlight: Q&A with Sophia Vo of Ao Dai By Cute Sass

Why can't buying an áo dài be as easy as ordering a dress online? That's the question Sophia Vo asked herself after watching friends struggle to find áo dài for events like Lunar New Year. She founded Ao Dai by Cute Sass to be the answer, building a brand where the Vietnamese diaspora can find inclusive sizing and accessible pricing. No need to have relatives guess your measurements when you can try on áo dài at their showroom in Orange County, where they even offer bridal party try-on sessions.

In this Q&A, Sophia shares her approach to balancing tradition with modern design, her advice for Vietnamese American brides considering áo dài for their wedding, and why accessibility is so central to keeping Vietnamese culture alive for the next generation.

Q: What’s the inspiration behind Ao Dai by Cute Sass? Was there an “aha” moment that sparked it?

A: The inspiration really came from my personal frustration. I found out that buying a modern, well-fitting áo dài in the States was not easy. You either had to wait until you visited Vietnam, ask a relative to guess your measurements for a custom piece, or settle for limited off-the-rack options here.

The "aha" moment happened when I realized how many of my friends were skipping wearing áo dài for Lunar New Year or family events because they couldn't find one in their size. I thought, "Why can’t buying an áo dài be as easy as ordering a favorite dress online?" If the younger generation stops wearing the áo dài, this part of our legacy will fade away. That's when I decided to make that change happen.

Q: Your brand makes áo dài accessible in every way: size, price, availability. Why is accessibility so important to you?

A: Accessibility is important to us because culture shouldn't have a barrier to entry. When cultural garments are gatekept by high price points, limited sizing, or difficult buying processes, the younger generation starts to drift away from them.

We want every Vietnamese American, and anyone wanting to appreciate our culture, to feel like the áo dài belongs to them. By offering inclusive sizing, keeping our prices fair, and ensuring fast, reliable shipping, we make it easier to celebrate Vietnamese culture. We're keeping the tradition alive by making it fit into modern, busy lives.

Q: How do you balance honoring the tradition of áo dài while making it feel modern and wearable for today’s generation? 

A: Honoring tradition is the core of our business. We look at it as an evolution rather than a reinvention. The silhouette of the áo dài is already a masterpiece. We respect that structure because that’s where the magic lives.

We modernize in the details such as fabrics, comfort factors, and modern styling. We experiment with lightweight, breathable materials, or trendy textures and patterns. We focus on fits that let you move without feeling restricted. We make pieces that look amazing with modern hairstyles, heels, or fun accessories.

Q: Many Asian American brides are looking to incorporate their heritage into their weddings. What’s one piece of advice you’d give a Vietnamese American bride considering áo dài for her wedding?

A: Our heritage isn't a rulebook, and it doesn't have to cost you an arm and a leg. There can be so much pressure from older generations to do things a very specific way, which often comes with a high price tag. But your wedding áo dài should ultimately reflect your personality and fit your real life.

Q: For Vietnamese American brides looking for wedding inspo, do you have a favorite bridal áo dài?

A: My favorite is a classic, timeless white look. Trends come and go, but I recommend choosing something that will look just as elegant 10, 30, or 50 years from now when they're looking back at their wedding photos.

Find the Perfect Áo Dài for Your Wedding

We love the work Sophia has done with Ao Dai by Cute Sass to make it easier for Vietnamese Americans to stay connected to their culture. Clothing contains so much history, and what you wear on your wedding day is no exception. Whether you're looking for a wedding áo dài, a tea ceremony look, or an engagement shoot outfit, visit their website to browse styles and book a try-on session.