If there's any Chinese actress who knows how to wear a Qipao best, Gong Li undoubtedly tops the list. As an ambassador promoting Qipao culture, Gong Li has been showcasing the beauty of Chinese aesthetics to the world since her debut at international film festivals in 1988. Today, I'd like to focus on Gong Li and explore the remarkable chapters she has written with Qipao over the decades, as the most accomplished and influential Chinese actress in global cinema. Through her choices and presentations, we can rediscover the beauty, charm, and versatility of Qipao in different contexts.
In 1988, Gong Li attended the Cannes Film Festival for the first time to promote her film King of the Children. Her youthful face was complemented by a pearl - white jacquard Qipao with subtle patterns, marking the beginning of her iconic association with Qipao. In the early days, her Qipaos were understated—short sleeves paired with a narrow skirt, adorned with delicate handmade floral buttons and statement earrings, creating a perfect balance of elegance. Even when standing alongside actresses like Sylvia Chang and Pan Hong, Gong Li radiated grace.
1990: Elegant Curve
In 1990, at the Cannes closing ceremony, she wore another white Qipao. Its minimalist design accentuated her narrow waist and curvaceous hips, showcasing her figure in a subtly captivating way.
1991: Regal Splendor
The year 1991 was pivotal for Gong Li. At the 63rd Academy Awards, where her film Raise the Red Lantern was nominated, she chose a red Qipao with gold - trimmed round collars. The vibrant yet grounded color palette exuded confidence, grandeur, and solemnity, embodying a universal beauty with immense inclusivity.
1992: Unique Vitality
In 1992, at the Venice Film Festival, she transformed a quilt - inspired Qipao into a unique statement piece. The lace - trimmed tiered skirt and bold floral motifs burst with vitality. Decades later, Zhang Xinyu attempted to replicate this look at Cannes in 2015, but it paled in comparison. That same year, Gong Li won the Volpi Cup for Best Actress at Venice for The Story of Qiu Ju, becoming the first Chinese actress to achieve this honor. Her lace - and - silk Qipao, paired with gloves and elegant earrings, reflected her growing sophistication in red - carpet styling.
1994: Mastery of Styles
By 1994, at Cannes with To Live, Gong Li showcased three Qipao looks. A jade - green velvet Qipao evoked the freshness of daffodils, while a sequin - embellished version shimmered like moonlight. Her off - carpet modernized Qipao blended half - sleeves with a stand - up collar and intricate embroidery, striking a balance between tradition and contemporary flair. This period highlighted her mastery of Qipao, where her beauty and talent shone equally. The Qipao, for Gong Li, became a vessel for Eastern charm—subtle, graceful, and filling a void in Western aesthetics.
1996 - 1999: The 'Gong Empress' Era
From 1996 onward, Gong Li entered her "Gong Empress" era. At 31, her poise and vision peaked, as seen in Temptress Moon at Cannes. Her black Gaoliang Qipao (modernized Qipao) with a sleek updo exuded sensuality and nobility, while her off - carpet Xin Zhongshi (new Chinese - style) outfit emphasized understated elegance. Though Xin Zhongshi gained recent popularity, Gong Li pioneered it two decades prior.
In 1997, as the first Chinese jury member at Cannes, Gong Li wore a white high - collar Qipao with a daring slit, radiating regal authority. Another Qipao in soft yellow with jacquard patterns echoed the classical charm of Jiangnan (southern China), standing out amidst Western styles. Even beside French icon Isabelle Adjani, Gong Li’s Eastern allure remained unforgettable.
In 1998, as a Cannes Palme d'Or presenter, her red Gaoliang Qipao with a deep V - neck and floor - length skirt blended tradition with modernity. By 1999, at Cannes with The Emperor and the Assassin, her Qipao featured a floral collar, adding a Classical touch to its Minimalist design. Gong Li’s 90s Qipao journey ends here, but her post - millennium glamour awaits in the next chapter. In the following years, Gong Li continued to use Qipao to show the world the unique charm of Chinese culture, and her every appearance on the red carpet became a classic moment worth remembering.
