Kim Tonelli captures the poetry of tradition meeting modern life, as Vietnam’s youth reclaim their dynastic past in radiant new forms.
This series was created in Vietnam, where I was inspired by the way history is woven into everyday life. For me, Viet Phuc felt like the right project because I’ve always been fascinated by the fusion of the old and the new.
In 2024, I noticed something extraordinary—young Vietnamese people were embracing their ancient dynastic heritage by dressing as emperors and empresses in modern contexts. What could have felt like pure nostalgia instead felt alive, playful, and deeply proud. These traditional gowns weren’t just costumes—they carried family stories, history, and cultural significance. Some were even reimagined as fashion for weddings, transforming heritage into a trend.
Vietnam’s dynasties, which trace back over 1,000 years to 1009, have left an enduring imprint on the country’s culture, aesthetics, and identity. I couldn’t help but feel captivated—and, in many ways, envious—of such a rich and layered heritage.
My aim in this series was to capture the essence of this revival: the moment where ancient meets modern, and tradition meets innovation. I wanted my images to echo the feeling of old Vietnamese paintings, yet exist in today’s world.
Through Viet Phuc, I see young Vietnamese becoming modern-day emperors and empresses—celebrating their bloodlines, reclaiming their dynasties, and carrying history forward with elegance and pride.
Kim Tonelli is an internationally published photographer whose career spans 80 cities worldwide, from photographing icons like Pavarotti and Oasis to creating award-winning personal projects exploring family, culture, and identity.
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