It's time for another session of sharing cheongsam details. In previous issues, we've talked about the types of handmade frog buttons on cheongsams, the collar and sleeve styles, and the exquisite front - placket patterns. Today, I'd like to discuss the slits, which play a crucial role in the overall design of cheongsams.
Don't underestimate this small detail. A tiny slit can present a variety of charming female moments. A smaller slit results in smaller steps, making the posture and gait automatically slow and elegant. A larger slit offers a stronger sense of fluidity, and the faintly visible legs bring out the charming rhythm of the cheongsam.
The slits in cheongsams are like opening the door to the sensuality of Chinese clothing. However, this sensuality is not the straightforward Western - style one. It is based on Chinese female culture and the generally reserved and implicit nature of Eastern women. Through a small opening, it slowly releases the rhythm and charm of female beauty.
Next, let's talk about the common types of cheongsam slits, as well as their respective advantages and characteristics.
Before that, here's a little knowledge about slits. In the early Republic of China, cheongsam slits were actually up to the waist, paired with a thin pair of underpants, which was a feature of that era. Later, in the process of continuous improvement, it was replaced by more convenient and light - weighted fancy slits.
The slits in cheongsams meet the needs in terms of female aesthetics and daily functions, as well as considerations in cultural characteristics and clothing beauty. Especially in modern cheongsam design, the height and position of the slits are very particular. Where should the slit be made to make a cheongsam more beautiful? How long should the slit be to make a woman's posture and gait more charming?
So, how to choose the right cheongsam slit? Let me teach you two relatively simple measurement methods. First, stand upright with your arms hanging naturally. Then, find the position of the tip of your middle finger. This is the best height for the cheongsam slit, preferably no more than 5 centimeters above or below. The second method is even simpler. Based on the back of your knee, 12 centimeters upward is the best slit height. On this basis, let's talk in detail about the characteristics of each type of cheongsam slit.
Front - slit Design
The front - slit design is a popular new - style slit design in recent years, often used in modified cheongsams and new Chinese - style clothing. Compared with traditional slit designs, this type has a more bold and intuitive beauty. It is also more suitable for daily wear and can be worn by women of different ages. Since the slit is in the front, when walking, the leg lines can be faintly seen, adding a touch of charm invisibly. Moreover, the front - slit not only makes the overall style breathable and light but also can elongate the leg lines through the slit, making the wearer look taller and thinner.
Side - slit Design
The side - slit cheongsam is a very traditional and retro way of slitting. It is both classic and elegant and is often used in various cheongsam styles. A cheongsam with a single - side slit has a graceful and retro "Old Shanghai" flavor. Side slits are generally divided into single - side and double - side slits. The single - side slit cheongsam is further divided into three types: high - slit, medium - slit, and low - slit.
High - slit cheongsams: As a common style of modified cheongsams, the slit height is usually about 15 cm below the hip line, around the middle of the thigh. This slit height may cause accidental exposure, so extra care should be taken when walking and sitting.
Medium - slit cheongsams: As a common style of traditional cheongsams, the slit height is generally about 25 cm below the hip line, around the knees. The hem is slightly gathered, and it is more of a straight - tube and loose style, making it more convenient for daily walking.
Low - slit cheongsams: As a modified style of long gowns, the slit height is usually about 40 cm below the hip line, around the calves. This slit height is very suitable for lovers of retro and loose cheongsams. The lower the slit, the larger the hem, giving a more leisurely taste of the old - fashioned long gowns.
Back - slit Design
Some people say that back - slit cheongsams are more suitable for conservative women. Indeed, this slitting method makes walking easier, allowing for a more natural gait while covering up small flaws on the legs. However, few people mention that when walking, a back - slit cheongsam can make the curves of the waist and hips more beautiful, and the faintly visible skin on the legs adds an unexpected charm.
No - slit Design
The no - slit cheongsam is a more traditional skirt design. This somewhat restrictive skirt used to give a sense of small steps, slow speed, and a implicit and delicate beauty. However, in the process of continuous evolution, it is no longer suitable for the rhythm of modern life and the pursuit of beauty. So now, most no - slit cheongsams adopt the A - line silhouette design. This modified design combines the grandeur and elegance of Western skirts with the simplicity and generosity of daily skirts.
Well, it's time to end today's cheongsam special. In fact, the slits in cheongsams are closely related to a woman's own beauty and style. Whether you are elegant and gentle or bold and unrestrained, these different qualities are the key to choosing a cheongsam and the premise for choosing different slits. So, embrace your unique charm and find the perfect cheongsam slit for you!
