HÀ NỘI — The beauty of 'steel roses' – female police officers who maintain public order, protect everyday peace and perform the quiet duties behind the scenes – has inspired a new áo dài collection by designer Trần Phương Hoa.

The collection, entitled Hương Thời Gian (Scent of Time), is a celebration of their courage, intelligence and compassion. It is structured as a story of a woman’s journey through the different stages of life, expressed through four principal colour palettes.

* Green - Seed of Life opens the collection, symbolising youth, aspiration, and the fresh energy of women beginning the journey to define themselves.

* Beige - Memory, a hue that evokes the reflective years of life, where a woman’s beauty becomes deeper, more refined, and rich with experience.

* Navy - Intellect represents maturity and resolve. The image of the modern woman who is confident, composed and steady in both work and life.

* Red - Inner Self, a symbol of emotion, vitality, and the radiance that comes when a woman truly understands and cherishes herself.

According to designer Trần Phương Hoa, each piece in the Scent of Time is more than an áo dài – it is a snapshot of a woman’s journey, from radiant youth to a beauty that deepens with time.

“Through this collection, I aim to honour the áo dài and to portray the modern Vietnamese woman as dynamic, talented, and full of resolve,” the designer shared.

The Scent of Time collection has been unveiled at the Graceful Elegance — Shine with Confidence programme, organised by the Ministry of Public Security Women’s Union to celebrate International Women’s Day (March 8), 1,986 years since the Trưng Sisters’ uprising, and the 43rd anniversary of the Union’s founding.

In addition to the áo dài fashion show and exhibition, the programme featured welcoming art performances and the launch of Áo Dài Week for women in the People’s Public Security force in 2026.

Through this series of activities, the Union aims to rekindle pride in the proud traditions of Vietnamese women and to encourage female officers and members within the force to uphold political conviction, a strong sense of responsibility, and a confident manner in both work and life. — VNS