It is worn not only to sleep but also when working. Áo bà ba became popular due to the simplicity in finding materials to make it, but also allowing you to change the material to the cloth of your choice. Typically dark colors such as brown or black are commonly worn while working. Whereas bright colors are worn for festivals. With the versatility of making it with different cloths, it benefited many poor people since this way it would be cheaper.
Áo bà ba shows the beauty in Southern women with the skin-tight fit allowing others to fall in love with them easily.
Today, áo bà ba is no longer commonly used for labor work; however, it remains as a fashionable clothing to preserve the culture. It is currently worn during special occasions such as festivals, events, and the spiritual life of the Southern Vietnamese.