Beneath the cool summer skies of Mudanjiang, Heilongjiang, a living tapestry of tradition unfolds each evening. Dozens of models from Tang Man Culture Company grace parks and plazas, their Manchu qipaos—with sculpted collars, coiled buttons, and artful slits—blending ancestral grace with modern silhouettes. Led by Jia Shujuan (贾淑娟), a provincial intangible heritage inheritor, this daily procession embodies a cultural renaissance where every stitch narrates millennia of Manchu wisdom. Craftsmanship Reimagined Jia’s studio produces over a thousand unique qipaos annually, each a canvas of innovation. Regional motifs merge with ink-wash paintings and botanical dyes, transforming silk into storytelling mediums. The garments honor Qing Dynasty techniques likepan jin(coiling gold) embroidery, while contemporary cuts accentuate natural forms. Seasonal inspirations yield breakthroughs like the Ice-Snow Qipao. Jagged hems mimic glacial formations, while hidden snowflake cutouts along slits create "moving snowfall" illusions under light. This dialogue between environment and craft reflects Jia’s philosophy: "Technology is the bone, culture the soul, nature the muse." Nature’s Silent Language Heilongjiang’s wilderness breathes within every design. Wild tussah silk, harvested locally, provides the foundation. Artisans hand-paint patterns using roots, berries, and leaves—forest hues whispering through fabric. Peonies bloom across bodices, cranes soar on sleeves, each element distilling Northeast China’s…

As Chinese cultural aesthetics gain global traction, actress Dilraba (迪丽热巴) emerges as its most captivating ambassador. Her recent fusion ensembles—a deconstructed qipao and an ink-wash gown—transcend mere fashion statements, weaving historical reverence with contemporary audacity. This exploration delves into how her sartorial choices ignite cultural pride, challenge design boundaries, and crystallize a new era of "Eastern Glamour." The Revolutionary Qipao Rebirth Dilraba’s black-and-gold qipao shattered conventions at a recent gala. Its asymmetric silhouette—featuring a single sculpted sleeve and strategic cutouts—balanced tradition with rebellion. Gold embroidery snaked across midnight silk, evoking dynastic opulence while the exposed shoulder whispered modernity. This architectural masterpiece proved heritage wear needn’t be archival. The ensemble’s genius lay in its disciplined restraint. Unlike ornate historical qipaos, Dilraba’s version used negative space as artistry. A solitary golden phoenix clasp anchored the neckline, while the split skirt revealed flashes of leg sans vulgarity. Every element served the garment’s narrative: China’s past reimagined for fearless futurists. Her styling amplified the revolution. Matte crimson lips contrasted with ink-black hair swept into a low chignon. No jade bangles or dangling earrings distracted; instead, a single gold ring echoed the gown’s metallic threads. Minimalism magnified the garment’s structural audacity. Social media erupted. Weibo…

1. Ironing Care Our Qipaos are crafted from silk and handmade. For the sake of safe transportation, they are packed in waterproof packaging. Once you receive it, use a steam iron at a low temperature to iron the Qipao. After ironing it smooth, let it sit for 10 - 15 minutes before trying it on. During the ironing process, avoid dripping too much water to prevent water stains. 2. Washing Care Due to the special nature of the fabric and craftsmanship, refrain from washing the Qipao with water on your own. We recommend taking it to a dry cleaner. 3. Storage Care Before storing the Qipao, iron it flat and then hang it up (avoid using metal hangers to prevent rust stains from contaminating the garment). Store it in a place away from moisture and sharp objects. It's not advisable to store it together with spun silk or fur clothing. 4. Sun Exposure Prevention Silk is a protein fiber, and long - term exposure to the sun can cause the protein to denature, leading to yellowing, decay, or discoloration of the silk. Hence, don't expose the Qipao to the sun for extended periods. 5. Wearing Care Silk fibers are delicate…

Autumn and winter are indeed the perfect seasons for velvet. How can these seasons be complete without velvet? Its rich nobility, combined with a low - key yet luxurious velvety texture, makes it irresistible to many, thanks to its unmistakable aristocratic charm. Although its history can be traced back to the ancient Warring States period, velvet truly gained popularity during the Republican era. Inspired by cultural shifts and restoration movements, women started wearing streamlined and loose cheongsams, where velvet showed its unique allure. Take Soong Mei - ling (宋美龄), the First Lady of the Republic, as an example. Whether she was visiting the U.S. or attending important events, she always favored a fitted velvet cheongsam. Dignified, luxurious, and subtly elegant, her choice solidified velvet's status as a symbol of nobility and identity. Recommend a Velvet Gown Seizing the romance of October, I'm recommending an exquisitely simple yet elegant velvet gown named Huaman. Inspired by the dark - green Datura, it symbolizes mystery and eternal vitality. Made from silk velvet, its dense pile shimmers in different shades, like a precious relic from an ancient castle. The understated aristocratic charm, along with the serene dark - green color, creates a visually stunning…

In the world of Qipao, sleeve selection is crucial! In Qipao making, sleeves are an extremely important part. They not only help the skirt and waist achieve a slender silhouette but also accentuate the delicate beauty of the shoulders and neck. Moreover, a uniquely - designed and romantic sleeve is like the icing on the cake, an extension of decoration and an enhancement of beauty. Today, I'll focus on the sleeve types and styles of Qipao and discuss what kinds of sleeves it has. Classic Qipao Sleeve Types Sleeveless: A versatile Qipao style, it's light and simple, allowing the arms to be more fully exposed, which helps elongate the arm lines and create a slender figure. Shoulder Sleeve: The shoulder and sleeve parts are connected, creating soft shoulder lines and highlighting the overall feel of traditional Qipao, naturally fitting the curve of our shoulders. It's especially friendly to ladies with narrow shoulders and is often used in younger - styled Qipao. Moon Sleeve: Based on the sleeveless design, a small sleeve is added, softening the shoulder lines and providing some coverage for a slimming effect. Ultra - short Sleeve: Slightly longer than the moon sleeve, offering better coverage for the…

In the previous article, I introduced the main sleeve types of Qipao. Today, let's explore the details of Qipao collars. Don't underestimate the collar's role. A well - chosen Qipao collar can visually enhance and beautify, highlighting the elegance and classical charm of Qipao. It's the starting point of a Qipao, and a perfect beginning sets the tone for the rest. So, let's look at different Qipao collar types. Round - Cornered Stand - Up Collar The round - cornered stand - up collar is the most classic and common type, named for its soft and rounded edges. It suits most people, being highly inclusive while retaining the elegance and delicacy of Qipao. There are high and low variations. The high one has a stronger three - dimensional effect, looking more crisp and decisive, and easily showing the slender and reserved temperament of Eastern women. The low one has a gentler and more well - behaved feel, fitting younger, casual styles. Square - Cornered Stand - Up Collar The square - cornered stand - up collar has right - angle edges, exuding a strict, dignified, and grand feel. It suits many, but those with square faces should be careful as…

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…

The Lantern Festival, as the last important festival in the Chinese Spring Festival customs, is an ancient festival that has lasted for more than two thousand years. In the ancient Chinese calendar, the first lunar month is called the Yuan month. According to Shuowen Jiezi, "Yuan" means the beginning, and "Xiao" means night. The 15th day of the first lunar month is the first full - moon night of the year, a time when everything begins anew and spring returns to the earth. So, this day is called the Lantern Festival, also known as the Shangyuan Festival. Since there is a custom of hanging lanterns on this day, it is also called the Lantern Festival. There are also some religious origins among its many meanings. In Taoist culture, as recorded in Dream of the Liang Record written by Wu Zimu in the Song Dynasty, "The 15th day of the first lunar month is the Yuanxi Festival, the time when the Heavenly Official of Shangyuan bestows blessings." In the Southern Dynasties, Imperial Decree of Emperor Yuan of Liang also recorded that "Shangyuan is the time when the Heavenly Official bestows blessings; Zhongyuan is the time when the Earthly Official pardons sins;…

Today, I want to talk about the patterns and prints of Qipao. Prints are the soul of a Qipao, a distinct marker that lights up the dress, sets its style, and reflects the wearer's artistic charm. In traditional Chinese culture, they're not just decoration; they carry auspicious meanings, adding cultural depth to the Qipao. The exquisite craftsmanship subtly conveys style and beauty, a method linked to aristocratic aesthetics. Indeed, Qipao has always symbolized noble beauty, a blend of status and refined taste. From centuries - old silk traditions to meticulous hand - crafting, every detail makes Qipao a rare work of art. Among these elements, prints play a crucial role. Today, let's explore the beauty and types of common Qipao prints. Floral Prints Floral prints are the most widespread in Qipao designs. From spring orchids to autumn chrysanthemums, and various plants, they serve as the main focus, accents, or borders. These designs draw on plant characteristics and symbolism, with auspicious meanings and people's aspirations for beauty. The plum blossom, or 'Five Blessings Flower,' symbolizes longevity, success, peace, happiness, and luck due to its five petals. As the first spring flower, it's the 'Queen of Flowers' and a top 'Four Gentlemen'…

Qipao, with its profound cultural heritage and sartorial charm, has served as a unique muse for countless artists, inspiring diverse expressions and creations. Today, I'd like to explore the different charms and beauty of Qipao as depicted in paintings. Xu Beihong, a foundational figure in modern Chinese art, was one of the most influential painters in 20th - century China. He pioneered the introduction of Western realism into Chinese painting, blending the 'linear modeling' of Chinese art with Western 'light and shadow structures,' innovating without losing essence. His oil painting 'Portrait of Miss Jenny' is widely regarded as his best work in terms of color. Painted in 1939 at the request of the Belgian Vice - Consul in Singapore, it depicts Miss Jenny in a light - toned, figure - hugging Qipao. The satin's fluidity and the floral print are enhanced by impressionistic touches. Behind this masterpiece, Xu showed his dedication to supporting the anti - Japanese war effort. He often exhibited his works in Southeast Asia to raise funds for war orphans. Portrait of Sun Duoci This portrait depicts Xu's student, Sun Duoci, in an ink - wash - style printed Qipao. The side slit highlights her legs, and…

The beauty of summer Qipao lies in the allure of silk and satin. The encounter with the scents of gardenia and jasmine marks an unforgettable start. Summer, a vibrant and colorful season, has finally arrived. Although the heat can be tough for many, it's nothing compared to the richness and beauty this season brings. For women who love Qipao, summer is the perfect time to display its inherent charm. Today, let's explore the beauty of Qipao suitable for summer. Song Jin and Su Jin If fabric is the essence of a Qipao, then a Qipao made of Song Jin (宋锦) is a living embodiment of rich historical and cultural heritage. It dates back to the Song Dynasty, telling the story of that era's splendor and the remarkable weaving craftsmanship. A Song Jin Qipao is an excellent choice for summer. With its firm yet soft texture, elegant patterns, and classical allure, the wearer exudes artistic charm and noble grace. Take this Song Jin Qipao as an example. Its unique, classical floral print is eye - catching. The straight - cut silhouette with wavy edges adds a touch of playfulness, while the bold peony motifs in soft camel and light purple create…

The beauty of gardenias and jasmines intertwined is truly unforgettable. In the previous feature, we briefly introduced Anna May Wong. Those familiar with Chinese - American actors in Hollywood surely know this name. Even if not, you've probably seen her iconic photos. With big bright eyes, classic willow - leaf eyebrows, high cheekbones, and a fringe, dressed in a cheongsam, she was a well - known Eastern face in early 20th - century Western society. Her hairstyle, makeup, and clothing style were emulated by countless Western girls. She was also the first Chinese actress to bring the cheongsam image to Hollywood. Let's explore her story and the beauty of the cheongsam she presented. Anna May Wong was born in Los Angeles, US, with her ancestral home in Taishan, Guangdong. Her family was third - generation immigrants. Her grandfather was among the earliest Chinese laborers who went to California to pan for gold. Her father, Huang Shanxing, held traditional ideas, favoring sons over daughters and longing to return to his roots. He returned to Guangdong, got married and had children there, then came back to the US and married Anna May Wong's mother. Before her, there was an elder sister, and…

When Qipao meets traditional Chinese red, each piece is a true masterpiece! The fusion of gardenia and jasmine scents creates an unforgettable beginning. Today, I’m sharing about red Qipao. Among all colors, red is undoubtedly the star of Qipao. It's not only associated with wedding attire but also deeply rooted in China's historical and cultural symbolism. Red embodies the soul of Chinese culture, symbolizing auspiciousness, celebration, eternal brightness, warmth, hope, vitality, and prosperity. In Chinese history, the five colors—white, blue, black, red, and yellow—were linked to the Five Elements (metal, wood, water, fire, earth) and virtues (benevolence, righteousness, propriety, wisdom, trust). Starting from the Zhou Dynasty, red was revered as a symbol of power and nobility, gradually becoming a staple in both royal and common households. By the Tang and Song Dynasties, red was widely adopted in daily wear and weddings. In the Tang Dynasty, the fourth - rank officials wore dark crimson, and the fifth - rank officials wore light crimson. The popular colors at that time were crimson, purple, bright yellow, and green. The combination of crimson and green was commonly used for women's clothing, and this color scheme was also applied in weddings, with grooms in red…

In previous features, we discussed the unsurpassable peak in Qipao cinema history—In the Mood for Love. Today, I want to focus on Qipao appearances in TV dramas, highlighting those classic moments where Qipao beauties shone. Each of these beauties has her unique charm, and the Qipao they wore were equally distinctive. In the vast ocean of Qipao styles, external beauty is secondary; the key lies in wearing the Qipao with personal flair and character. First, let's talk about a widely recognized Qipao beauty from recent years—Jing Tian in Rattan (2021). Her portrayal of a vine spirit, set in the Republican era, featured numerous Qipao styles that redefined elegance. The satin Qipao, primarily in pearl white, with its high side slit, atmospheric connected shoulder sleeves, double-round front placket paired with delicate piping and inlaid silk hard flower buttons, exuded both nobility and grace. It was not only light and smooth but also convenient for movement. Paired with Jing Tian's long hair like satin, it combined sexiness and cold beauty. The lace-embellished Qipao in pale blue highlighted her delicate features. The lace perspective showed the female's graceful figure in a hazy and implicit way. With exquisite bead embroidery printing and a small…

The encounter between Qipao and the magnificent Chinese green creates unforgettable masterpieces. Green symbolizes the vastest and most touching freedom on earth. As writer Li Juan once said, 'When we see green, we always think: nothing will ever end, right?' This interpretation, though not as romantic or unique as others, perfectly captures the essence of green—its freshness and vitality that bring hope and life from spring to summer. It's no wonder so many people adore and continuously fall in love with green. This love has persisted since ancient times. Starting from the Han Dynasty, influenced by Taoist and Confucian philosophies, green became widely popular in both culture and aesthetics, admired for its natural and serene beauty. Beyond clothing, green was also prominently used in architecture, as recorded in Zhang Heng's 'Ode to the Western Capital.' In ancient Chinese art, green flourished in paintings, particularly in the Dunhuang Mogao Caves during the Wei, Jin, and Southern and Northern Dynasties. The harmonious blend of green with colors like earthy red, lapis lazuli blue, and black showcased its elegant and rich beauty. By the Tang and Song Dynasties, green became a staple in landscape paintings, symbolizing the vibrant life and artistic refinement of…

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…