Vietnam has very strict regulations about exporting real antiques. Most “antique” and art pieces sold to tourists are fake or copies of the original. Be careful and check your sources for certificates if they claim to sell you an original or antique piece.
Clothing varies greatly from tourist T-shirts to beaded handbags and traditional ao dai made to fit your size. Items made from silk are a popular buy, with prices varying depending on the material and tailor. Pre-made traditional dresses are sold in many places. However, it is more recommended to have the dress made to fit your body, which takes more time and slightly more money. Shoes, slippers and handbags made from traditional materials can also become unique gifts and accessories. The Vietnamese traditional conical hat, can be found everywhere throughout the country, but hats made in Hue are most famous as they have a poem printed on the inside.
Vietnam is rich in gemstones. The jewelry business is also increasing during current years, and sophisticated works are produced by both big businesses and traditional craftsmen. The quality of the gemstones sold is sometimes doubtable, so it is recommended that you buy gems at prestigious locations and be ware with cheap prices. Most war souvenirs sold today in Vietnam are fake reproductions. Be careful while transporting these items as many airlines do not allow weapons, even fakes to be carried on their planes.
Other popular handicrafts in Vietnam include lacquer ware, wood-block prints, and oil and watercolor paintings, blinds made from bamboo, reed mats, carpets, and leatherwork. Shopping in Vietnam is fun and interesting. There are many places around Vietnam where you can find these above items, here are some places that you should google more: Thao Nguyen in Ho Chi Minh, Precious Qui in Ho Chi Minh, Art Tunnel in Hanoi, Nga in Ho Chi Minh, Kids And Stone in Hanoi.