[7] Although the design of the áo giao lĩnh was heavily influenced by China, it was less constrained in style compared to its Chinese counterpart; and thus, facilitated ease of movements to its wearer.

[2] In the 17th and 18th century, the áo giao lĩnh worn by men was an ankle-level gown which could be used as part of a formal attire; it was composed of four-panel of fabric and was loose-fitting and featured a jiaoling youren collar, loose sleeves, and side slits.

[8]: 72  The women's áo giao lĩnh were also a non-decorated, four panel of fabric, loose fitting gown, similar to those worn by men.

[8]: 72 Prior to the 18th century, nobles wore the áo giao lĩnh, which were adopted from Han Chinese clothing.

[14][15][16] The authors of the book mostly consisted of dress makers, artists, stylists, photographers, proof readers and editors (but lacked the presence of historians and archeologists) attempted to reconstruct the ancient clothing worn by Vietnamese through extensive historical research.