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…

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…

When the daughter of Hong Kong actress Weng Hong (翁虹) turned eighteen, she didn't want a modern party. Instead, her family organized a traditional Jiji Li (及笄礼), a Chinese coming-of-age ceremony for young women. The celebration, held in full Hanfu attire, was a beautiful and meaningful departure from the Western-style birthdays common today. This deliberate choice highlights a growing trend of cultural rediscovery, where ancient traditions are being revived to mark significant life milestones with a profound sense of heritage and identity. A Ceremony of Red and Respect The centerpiece of the event was the young woman known online as Crystal, dressed in a vibrant crimson Ming Dynasty-style Hanfu. The elaborate outfit and intricate hair accessories, including a carefully chosen hairpin from her mother, transformed her. She carried herself with a grace that resonated with the ceremony's solemnity, appearing every bit the poised young noblewoman from a historical drama. The visual impact was powerful, connecting her to a lineage of Chinese women who have participated in this ritual for centuries. Her parents were equally invested in the authenticity of the day. Weng Hong and her husband, Liu Guanting (刘冠廷), dressed in traditional scholarly and aristocratic attire, fully embodying their roles.…