In an episode of the Chinese show The Birth of an Actor (演员的诞生), Zhang Ziyi (章子怡) and Zhou Yiwei (周一围) re-enacted a classic scene from the 1988 film Rouge (胭脂扣). To perfectly embody the characters, Zhang Ziyi borrowed two qipaos from costume designer Zhang Shuping (张叔平), famous for his work on The Grandmaster (一代宗师). This homage to the qipao, one of China's most iconic garments, invited a closer look at its cultural resonance and its timeless ability to embody feminine grace. As we explore the evolution of the qipao, it's clear why this traditional attire remains a powerful symbol of both beauty and heritage. The Qipao: More than Just a Dress The qipao, known for its sleek silhouette and elegant cut, has long been a symbol of Chinese femininity. Its high collar, tightly fitted bodice, and side slits beautifully emphasize the figure, and it has become a symbol of grace and allure. What makes this garment truly stand out is its ability to reflect the wearer's personality, from its material and pattern to its accessories. In the case of Zhang Ziyi's re-interpretation of the qipao in Rouge, the combination of the outfit's delicate floral design and its minimalist elegance captures…

The qipao, a symbol of Chinese femininity and grace, has undergone a fascinating evolution since its inception in the early 20th century. At the heart of its transformation lies the story of societal shifts and the rising movement of women's independence, a tale that is embodied in the iconic garments once worn by the members of the Confucius family, which are now showcased at the Confucius Museum. The museum's exhibit, titled "The Old Collection of Republican-era Clothing," offers a rare glimpse into this evolving fashion. Initially, the qipao emerged in the form of a long vest-like garment during the early years of the Republic of China. This was a time when the traditional attire for women, primarily composed of skirts and jackets, was evolving to incorporate more practical and modern elements. Around the 1920s, a new fashion trend appeared in the form of a long vest that was worn over jackets, initially providing warmth. Over time, the vest grew longer and was worn without the skirt, and eventually, it was merged with sleeves. The result was the early version of what we now recognize as the qipao—a fusion of function and fashion that marked a clear departure from the previous…

In the heart of Shenyang, a city steeped in history and buzzing with modern energy, an extraordinary fusion of tradition and innovation has unfolded. The 2024 Shenyang (沈阳) Qipao Culture Week, an event that has become a hallmark of the city's cultural calendar, recently drew to a close with a breathtaking ceremony that left spectators in awe and ignited a renewed passion for this iconic garment. The closing ceremony, held in the urban oasis of Times Wencang City Park in the Dadong (丹东) District, was a testament to Shenyang's commitment to preserving and reimagining its cultural heritage. As the graceful silhouettes of qipao-clad models glided across the stage, it became clear that this was more than just a fashion show – it was a celebration of Shenyang's soul. Divided into three poetic chapters – "Mantingfang · Jinxiu," "Qingpingle · City Rhyme," and "Xiangjian Huan · Weiyang" – the ceremony wove together various art forms in a seamless tapestry. Dance performances like "In the Mood for Love" and "2046" paid homage to cinematic masterpieces while infusing them with the elegance of the qipao. A recitation of "You Are the April of This World" bridged the gap between traditional Chinese poetry and contemporary fashion, creating a…

Reviving Ancient Elegance: The Qipao's Journey Through Time In the vibrant tapestry of Chinese culture, few threads shine as brightly as the qipao. This iconic garment, with its gentle curves and timeless elegance, has weathered the storms of history to emerge as a dazzling jewel in the crown of traditional Chinese attire. But for Qiu Lingyan, a prominent figure in Guangdong's qipao cultural promotion circle, this beloved dress is more than just a fashion statement – it's a living, breathing embodiment of Chinese aesthetics and values. "Qipao aesthetics, as an excellent part of traditional Chinese culture, should be integrated into daily life and become a part of life aesthetics," Qiu asserts. Her words carry the weight of a lifetime dedicated to the preservation and promotion of this quintessential Chinese garment. Born in the picturesque Jiangnan region, Qiu was steeped in the rich cultural milieu of qipao aesthetics and classical literature from an early age. This immersion ignited a passion that would shape her life's work. "It's a calling that comes from deep within," she explains, describing her devotion to traditional culture, particularly qipao aesthetics. Qiu's approach to promoting qipao culture is as multifaceted as the garment itself. From coaching teams…

From Cotton to Silk: The Versatile Materials Shaping Contemporary Qipao The qipao, a garment steeped in Chinese cultural history, has undergone a remarkable evolution in recent years. This iconic dress, once a symbol of 1920s Shanghai g,amour, has reemerged as a versatile piece of clothing that bridges the gap between tradition and modernity. At the heart of this renaissance lies the diverse array of fabrics now used in qipao production, each bringing its own unique characteristics to this timeless design. Jacquard cotton, a favorite among qipao enthusiasts, offers a perfect blend of comfort and elegance. This fabric, characterized by its intricate woven patterns, provides a subtle texture that catches the light in fascinating ways. Unlike printed cottons, jacquard patterns are woven directly into the fabric, creating a more durable and sophisticated finish. The versatility of jacquard cotton makes it suitable for a wide range of occasions, from casual daywear to more formal events. For those seeking the pinnacle of luxury, silk remains the gold standard in qipao fabrication. Composed of fibroin and sericin proteins, silk offers an unparalleled combination of softness, sheen, and drape. The natural properties of silk, including its ability to regulate temperature and moisture, make it an…

A Lifetime Devoted to the Art of Qipao In the bustling heart of New Taipei City, a small studio stands as a testament to one woman's lifelong dedication to the art of qipao. Yuan Nienhua (袁念华), now 74, has spent decades breathing new life into this iconic Chinese garment, weaving together threads of tradition and innovation to create pieces that speak to women across generations and across the Taiwan Strait. Yuan's journey with qipao began on her 10th birthday when her father, a mainland Chinese immigrant to Taiwan, gifted her a small qipao. This seemingly simple gesture was laden with cultural significance - a tangible link to their ancestral home in Jiangsu and a symbol of Chinese femininity. Yet for young Yuan, the garment initially felt cumbersome and unattractive. "My father was always homesick," Yuan recalls. "Making me wear qipao was his way of holding onto our roots. But at the time, I found it impractical and unflattering." This early resistance sparked a creative fire in Yuan. Determined to make the qipao more appealing, she began experimenting with alterations, utilizing the embroidery skills she had learned from her mother. Little did she know that these childhood attempts at "improving" the qipao…

In the heart of Beijing, where history meets modernity, a celebration of cultural richness and sartorial elegance unfolded at the Beijing Institute of Fashion Technology. The culmination of the Beijing Cultural and Art Fund's 2023 annual project, the "Jinghua Charm: Heritage and Innovation" Centennial Beijing-Style Qipao Cultural Art Exhibition, mesmerized visitors with its blend of tradition and cutting-edge creativity. Honoring Tradition through Innovation Nestled within the renowned halls of the Beijing Institute of Fashion Technology, the exhibition breathed new life into the timeless allure of the qipao. Over a century's worth of history unfolded through meticulously curated displays of over a hundred qipao garments and accessories. From the early 20th century to the present day, each piece not only spoke of fashion but also echoed the cultural evolution of Beijing-style qipao. What set this exhibition apart was its seamless fusion of heritage with innovation. Utilizing state-of-the-art digital and virtual technologies, the qipao garments were not merely displayed but rejuvenated. They were digitally restored and reimagined, showcasing how classic qipao craftsmanship could harmoniously coexist with modern advancements. This marriage of tradition and innovation highlighted the adaptability and timelessness of Beijing-style qipao in a rapidly changing world. The Artistry of Beijing Institute…

The qipao, with its rich history and timeless appeal, embodies a unique blend of cultural heritage and modern sophistication. This iconic garment has transcended centuries, evolving from traditional Chinese attire into a global symbol of elegance. However, not every woman feels equally comfortable or confident in a qipao. It takes a certain grace and demeanor to carry off this garment with poise and style. Understanding the Characteristics of an Ideal Qipao Wearer The allure of a qipao lies not only in its design but also in how it complements the wearer's physique and demeanor. Here are some characteristics that typically define an ideal qipao wearer: Graceful and Curvaceous Physique One of the defining features of a woman who suits a qipao is a gracefully curvaceous physique. The qipao is known for its form-fitting silhouette that accentuates the curves of the body, particularly the waist, hips, and legs. A woman with a slightly fuller figure, often described as having a "plump" or "curvy" appearance, can beautifully fill out the qipao's lines and curves, enhancing its elegance and charm. Full and Well-Defined Curves An ideal qipao wearer typically has well-defined curves in areas such as the face, waist, hips, and legs. These…

Recently, Zhou Xun's Qipao (旗袍, cheongsam) dress look in the movie "Hidden Blade" brought this traditional costume back into the spotlight. If it is said that every era has representative clothing, then, the Republic of China women's closet must not be missing one cheongsam.   01 Fashionable clothing in the Republic of China period Qipao dress can be said to be the most representative clothing in the Republic of China. For social needs, the ladies also often update cheongsam style. Song Meiling often wore cheongsam, when she went to the United States to seek support for the war, especially when she spoke in the U.S. Congress, the image of a black satin cheongsam stunned the crowd, while boarding the major U.S. magazines. The popularity of the cheongsam owes much to the successful incorporation of practical Western elements without losing traditional Chinese features. Although designated as one of the Chinese dresses, the Qipao dress is actually a Western-style wear under a Chinese-style appearance. On the outside, the Qipao dress still adheres to the traditional Chinese elements such as silhouette, Pankou, and vertical collar, and the custom of "right overlapping" is also retained, which constitutes the unique aesthetic form of the Qipao…

Hanfu vs Qipao, both are excellent representatives of traditional Chinese costumes. Hanfu (汉服), Han national traditional costume. Qipao (旗袍, cheongsam), the women's clothing of the Republican era. Whenever traditional Chinese clothing is mentioned, the cheongsam is usually the first thing that comes to mind. But with the expanding influence of Hanfu, a costume that better represents Chinese history is being preferred by more and more people. What exactly are the differences between the two costumes?   1. Hanfu vs Qipao in Different Origins Origin of Hanfu Ancient hanfu was the traditional clothing and accessory system of the Han Chinese from the time of the Yellow Emperor to the middle of the 17th century AD (late Ming and early Qing dynasties). Origin of cheongsam Cheongsam was formed in the 1920s and later became the most common women's clothing at that time, being one of the most splendid phenomena and forms in China's long-standing dress culture. The controversy of the origin of cheongsam There are still many controversies about the definition of cheongsam and the time of its production, focusing on the following. 1. It is believed that cheongsam is developed directly from the robe of Qing Dynasty. 2. It is believed…

Cheongsams or Modern Qipao are a kind of figure-flattering Chinese dress perfect for showcasing a lady’s features gracefully. It is no wonder they’re becoming ever more prevalent to wear, particularly for special occasions like your wedding. But the modern qipao can be worn anytime for any event. Although there are nearly too many choices when shopping for the Western wedding outfit, purchasing Chinese wedding clothing or Modern Qipao (cheongsam) can be a maddening experience if you don’t know what to look for in a Modern Qipao dress. How will you get the best Cheongsams or Modern Qipao if you don’t know them well? Fortunately, we have reviewed a complete list of 5 vital things to check before you buy a cheongsam or modern qipao dress in this article below. It will certainly help you to get the best qipao China dress from anywhere in the world!   What Is a Modern Qipao or Cheongsam Chinese Dress? As a type of Chinese dress, qipao is at all times a classic option for women. Cheongsams or qipao originated almost a century ago in Shanghai in China as a contemporary take on the Chinese Manchu dress, and then it remained among the most…

In a Chinese wedding, a suitably wore qipao dress not only shows the bride's delicate figure but also sets off her extraordinary temperament, which will be exclusive to the oriental woman's classical quality bloom definitely. The wedding ceremony is the most important ritual in the life of the new couple. In addition to a white wedding dress, the bride will choose a beautiful and fashionable qipao dress for the wedding occasion, so as to conveniently wear when thanking guests for the toast. Choose the bridal qipao dress that can be considered from the color, style, fabric, and personal figure, temperament and so on, and must not ignore the hair accessories, accessories, shoes, and other details factor. The Color of Qipao Dress Whether it's a Chinese wedding or a Chinese wedding dress, there's a preference for the festive big red, and the qipao dress is also the same one. When hosting a more Chinese wedding, choose a qipao dress in a big red color that can fit all brides. Brides who are tired of seeing red cheongsam can choose according to their own conditions. For example, a younger and fairer-skinned bride can choose a rose-red one. The dark is suitable for the…

The word Qipao originally meant "Qing People's Robe." But in modern day, cheongsam dress immediately conjures up images of the famous traditional Chinese outfit, an icon of Eastern Asian fashion and a symbol of Shanghai City, with an enduring appeal the world over. You may think, "Chinese women wear qipao every day or anybody know how to wear qipao." However, with the development of society, only a few people wear traditional cheongsam everyday, and a lot of people don’t even know how to wear qipao in modern life. Traditional qipao got avoided by people because it took time to wear one compare to modern clothes, and it was hard to move when wearing it. Now, It hasn't always been this way, that situation has been changed. Modern fashion coordinates the heat of qipao dress. Western trend is bright fashion, and qipao has a vintage design that western clothes don’t have. So, today's young people are having fun that they arrange qipao style with their favorite fashion elements. This time we'll bring you a brief history of traditional cheongsam and unveil how the modern qipao fashion achieves rapid development, and hope you enjoy it! What is the Modern Qipao of Chinese…

The cheongsam (literally, long shirt/dress), also known as Qipao or Mandarin Gown, was a type of feminine body-hugging dress with Manchu and Western elements. It was first used as the uniform of Shanhai girl schools at the time of the Republic of China period (1911-1949). Back then, it was very popular for representing the images of new era knowledge females. Cheongsams led a fashion trend for a long time during the Republic of China period. After the sovereignty was transferred to the People’s Republic of China (1949), Cheongsams had been forbidden as they were a sign of bourgeoisie. It was until the conduct of the Reform and Opening policy in the 1980s that Qipaos being prevalent again. Nowadays, Qipaos have gained more and more attention with a great number of local and international designers involved. History When it comes to modern Qipao’s origins, there are 3 mainstream claims. The first claim suggests that modern Qipao is only the evolutionary style of Manchu’s clothing. The second claim says western elements affect a lot on modern Qipao designs. The last claim supposes that ancient Chinese clothing plays an important role as well. 1. Qipao with Manchu Speaking of the history of Cheongsams, the…

Kuala Lumpur's night sky ignited as 1,200 drones wove luminescent dragons above the Petronas Towers, officially launching the 2025 "Happy Spring Festival" global tour. In Bangkok's Yaowarat district, the scent of tom yum soup mingled with sizzling Chaozhou dumplings as over 100,000 locals and overseas Chinese flooded the neon-lit streets. "Sharing this festival has become our bridge," remarked Thailand's Tourism Minister Sudawan Wangsuphanakul, gesturing to crowds where Thai silk sarongs brushed against Hanfu sleeves. The UNESCO-listed festival's first year as intangible heritage saw unprecedented fusion. Brussels' Royal Museums of Fine Arts hosted children stamping Suzhou's peach-blossom woodblock prints onto Flemish-style canvases, while Greek Parthenon steps echoed with Kunqu opera arias. "It's like watching a Renaissance muse awaken to a Chinese melody," marveled Belgian curator Antoine Delvaux. Southeast Asia's celebrations shimmered with layered identities. Singapore's Clarke Quay transformed into a living Analects: youths in Peranakan-embellished Hanfu practiced archery beside QR-coded lantern riddles. "The ‘Six Arts' aren't relics—they're life hacks for modern minds," laughed Malaysian student Mei Ling, her calligraphy brush tracing Confucian maxims onto augmented-reality scrolls. Jakarta's National Monument witnessed a culinary diplomacy coup—Shenyang chefs reimagined nian gao rice cakes with durian fillings, served alongside VR tours of China's ice festivals.…

Fashion is a reflection of history, culture, and identity, evolving alongside society. Chinese fashion, in particular, has undergone a remarkable transformation, shifting from traditional attire to modern, globally influenced styles. This evolution is deeply connected to social changes, economic growth, and cultural exchanges with the world. Understanding how Chinese fashion has changed over time provides valuable insights for students interested in history, art, and design. For centuries, China’s clothing styles were shaped by dynastic rules, Confucian values, and regional influences. The Hanfu, Tang suit, and Qipao symbolize different eras, each with unique materials, patterns, and meanings. These garments carried social significance, often indicating class, status, and occupation. However, as China opened its doors to modernization and globalization, traditional clothing slowly gave way to contemporary designs influenced by Western trends. Today, fashion in China blends tradition with innovation, creating styles that appeal to both young students and professionals. The rise of street fashion, sustainable clothing, and high-end Chinese designers has positioned China as a fashion powerhouse. Many students now explore this transformation in college, studying fashion history, design, and business as part of their assignments. This shift not only reflects aesthetic changes but also highlights the deeper impact of culture on…

In the heart of Changning, an endearing event brought together the elderly residents of Dongbang Residential Area and volunteers from the Bank of Communications Changning Branch for a unique experience. The "Flourishing Flowers" themed photo session offered a chance to relive fond memories and create new ones, as 50 elderly residents posed for elegant portraits in traditional Chinese attire. The event, which captured moments of joy and nostalgia, brought much-needed warmth and happiness to the lives of the elderly, highlighting the importance of community, memory, and love. A Day of Glamour and Laughter The Dongbang community center transformed into a glamorous photo studio for the day, as volunteers and participants created a festive atmosphere with vibrant lanterns and colorful streamers. The air was filled with the cheerful buzz of conversations and the hum of preparations, with volunteers working hard to ensure that the elderly residents felt pampered and appreciated. Some elderly residents wore their cherished qipaos and tangzhuang (唐装, traditional Chinese attire), while others relied on the kindness of neighbors who lent them their clothes and accessories for the occasion. One of the most touching moments came when 76-year-old Mr. Chen and his 69-year-old wife posed for a “wedding photo”…

The Rise of Traditional Wear in Modern China China’s cultural revival has swept through its fashion scene, with traditional garments like the qipao and hanfu reclaiming their places in the limelight. This resurgence reflects a growing appreciation for cultural heritage, as well as a desire to reimagine the past through modern lenses. Among these garments, the qipao—China's iconic dress known for its elegance and form-fitting silhouette—has become a beloved representation of China's intangible cultural heritage. Infused with the elegance of a bygone era, the qipao is more than just attire; it’s a poetic, historical tapestry woven with tradition, grace, and beauty. In Tianjin's Chifeng Street, nestled amid the bustle of city life, stands a historic qipao boutique, Ji Qing Xiang (吉庆祥) Qipao Family Store. For over 140 years, Ji Qing Xiang has been a steward of qipao craftsmanship, evolving from a modest fabric shop to a renowned custodian of traditional Chinese attire. Here, where history lingers in every corner, founder Li Qing’s descendants now introduce modern twists into their creations, appealing to the tastes of young fashion enthusiasts. A Young Artisan at the Heart of Tradition At the helm of Ji Qing Xiang’s legacy is Ji Ruqing (吉洳庆), the fifth-generation…

From Campus Queen to Style Icon: The Evolution of Chinese Celebrities In the ever-evolving landscape of global fashion, a captivating trend is emerging from the East, where Chinese celebrities are masterfully blending traditional aesthetics with modern sensibilities. This movement is not merely a fleeting fad but a powerful statement of cultural pride and artistic innovation, reshaping the way we perceive beauty and style in the 21st century. At the forefront of this sartorial revolution are China's rising stars, who are using their platform to showcase a new kind of elegance that pays homage to their rich cultural heritage while embracing contemporary trends. These luminaries are not just entertainers; they are cultural ambassadors, bridging the gap between China's storied past and its dynamic present. Consider the recent transformation of a beloved actress, once crowned the epitome of campus beauty at the prestigious Beijing Film Academy. Her journey from fresh-faced ingénue to sophisticated style icon encapsulates the broader shift in Chinese fashion consciousness. With a new look that features long, straight black hair adorned with a princess cut fringe, she embodies a perfect fusion of classic Chinese beauty standards and modern chic. This hairstyle choice is far from arbitrary. The long, straight…

The Fusion of Traditional Charm and Contemporary Fashion In the ever-evolving landscape of celebrity fashion, a new star is rising, captivating audiences with a unique blend of classic Chinese beauty and modern style sensibilities. This emerging icon is not just turning heads; Wan Churan's (王楚然) challenging conventional notions of glamour and redefining what it means to be a fashion influencer in today's global culture. At the heart of this phenomenon is a young actress whose distinctive features harken back to traditional Chinese aesthetics while her fashion choices firmly plant her in the 21st century. With high cheekbones, almond-shaped eyes, and a graceful demeanor, she embodies a timeless beauty that transcends trends. Yet, it's her ability to pair this classical allure with cutting-edge fashion that truly sets her apart. Consider her recent appearance that set social media ablaze: a white halter neck dress that seems to float around her like a cloud. At first glance, the dress appears simple, even understated. But look closer, and you'll see the genius in its design. The halter neck, a modern silhouette, beautifully frames her face and accentuates her elegant neck and shoulders. This cut, while contemporary, also evokes the high collars of traditional Chinese qipao, creating…