In this collection of old film photos from 1962 taken by an unknown photographer, perhaps the most eye-catching feature is the fashion. Saigon men appear in simple attire of white shirts and pants, but the women of the city wore áo dài much more often than they do today.
In a time when trends were less widespread and fast fashion was non-existent, áo dài is the perfect outfit for any occasion, thanks to its versatile appeal.
Đồng Khởi Street.
Nguyễn Thiệp Street.
A souvenir stand on Đồng Khởi near the intersection with Đông Du.
Tables on the patio of the Majestic Hotel.
The Saigon Palace Hotel at the corner of Đồng Khởi and Ngô Đức Kế.
The historic facade of Hotel Majestic.
Passersby listening to music on the street.
Lam Sơn Square.
The intersection of Lê Lợi and Nam Kỳ Khởi Nghĩa.
The pavement in front of Hotel Continental.
The block between Lê Lợi Boulevard and Nam Kỳ Khởi Nghĩa, where Takashimaya is today.
The entrance of Eden Department Store, today's Vincom.
An eyewear shop on Đồng Khởi.
The morning rush.
The entrance of Lê Văn Duyệt base.
Trần Hưng Đạo Street.
How many means of transport are there in this photo?
In front of Hotel Continental.
Parents picking up schoolchildren after class at Colette Secondary School on Hồ Xuân Hương Street.
On the pavement of Lam Sơn Square.
Shorts and sandals.
Áo dài and nón lá.
Hai Bà Trưng from above.
The French-era opium refinery on Hai Bà Trưng.
On the side of the Opera House.
A horse-drawn carriage on Cách Mạng Tháng 8.
Tết flowers on Nguyễn Huệ.
[Photos via Flickr user manhhai]
