San Francisco and the broader Bay Area have the second-largest Vietnamese population in the US, and while dedicated áo dài shops within the city are limited, the South Bay offers an incredible concentration of shops. From a Vietnamese goods store in Chinatown to an entire strip of áo dài specialists in San Jose, the Bay Area is one of the best regions in the country for finding this iconic garment. A short drive south to San Jose Vietnam Town opens up a world of options.
Saigon Trading (Vietnam Center) top-pick
Daily 10AM-6PM
Vietnamese goods store in Chinatown/North Beach that carries traditional Vietnamese clothing including ao dai. The most accessible option for San Francisco proper without leaving the city.
Linda Chan Fashion best-value
Daily 10AM-7PM
Well-known ao dai shop with custom tailoring in the heart of San Jose Vietnam Town. One of the largest selections in the Bay Area, worth the 45-minute drive south from San Francisco.
Britex Fabrics hidden-gem
Mon-Sat 10AM-6PM, Sun 12-5PM
Iconic four-story fabric store in downtown San Francisco with an excellent selection of silks and brocades for ao dai construction. A premier resource for those who want to choose fabrics and work with a tailor.