The History and Culture of the Chinese Qipao (cheongsam) : Why You Should Own One
Step into the world of elegance and grace with the mesmerizing history and culture of the Chinese Qipao. This iconic garment, also known as the Cheongsam, has been enchanting fashion enthusiasts for centuries. Its origins can be traced back to the 17th century during the Qing Dynasty, when it was primarily worn by the Manchurian ruling class. Over time, the Qipao evolved into a symbol of femininity and sophistication, embodying the essence of Chinese culture. Today, it continues to captivate the hearts of fashionistas around the globe, making its way into the wardrobes of modern women. But owning a Qipao is not just about owning a beautiful piece of clothing; it’s about embracing a rich heritage and celebrating the intricate craftsmanship that goes into creating each exquisite piece. Join us as we delve into the fascinating history and cultural significance of the Chinese Qipao, and discover why every woman should have one in her closet. Get ready to embark on a sartorial journey that combines tradition and style, as we unravel the allure of the Qipao.
- The Qipao originated from the Manchu women’s long gown during the Qing Dynasty (1644–1911), when China was ruled by the Manchu ethnic group. The name Qipao means “banner gown”, as the Manchu people were also called the banner people by the Han Chinese.
- The Qipao was initially a loose-fitting and modest dress that covered most of the body, except for the head, hands, and feet. It had a high collar, wide sleeves, and side slits for easy movement. It was usually made of silk and embroidered with floral or geometric patterns.
- The Qipao underwent a major transformation in the 1920s, when it became popular among the young and fashionable women in Shanghai. Influenced by Western styles, the Qipao became more fitted and flattering, with a lower collar, narrower sleeves, and higher slits. It also came in various colors, fabrics, and lengths, reflecting the individuality and creativity of the wearers.
- The Qipao was adopted as one of the national dresses of China in 1929, along with the male version called the Changshan. It symbolized the modernization and emancipation of Chinese women, who were breaking away from the traditional gender roles and expectations.
- The Qipao continued to be worn by women of different ages and social classes until the 1950s, when it was replaced by more practical and uniform clothing under the Communist regime. However, the Qipao survived in Hong Kong, Taiwan, and overseas Chinese communities, where it remained a symbol of elegance and sophistication.
- The Qipao experienced a revival in the 1980s, when it was featured in films, fashion shows, TV shows, and other media. It also became a popular choice for formal occasions, such as weddings, parties, and beauty pageants. Today, the Qipao is still worn by many Chinese women who appreciate its beauty and heritage.
The evolution of the Qipao can be divided into four stages: the Manchu style, the Shanghai style, the Republican style, and the modern style.
- The Manchu style was the original form of the Qipao that was worn by the Manchu women during the Qing Dynasty. It was a long and loose gown that had a high collar, wide sleeves, side slits, and frog buttons. It was usually paired with trousers or leggings underneath.
- The Shanghai style emerged in the 1920s, when the Qipao was modified by the fashionable women in Shanghai. It became more fitted and body-hugging, with a lower collar, narrower sleeves, higher slits, and a variety of colors and fabrics. It also had more decorative elements, such as lace, beads, sequins, or fur.
- The Republican style developed in the 1930s and 1940s, when the Qipao became more standardized and simplified. It had a medium collar, short or cap sleeves, medium slits, and a knee-length or ankle-length hemline. It was usually made of plain or printed silk or cotton.
- The modern style emerged in the 1980s and onwards, when the Qipao was reinvented by designers and artists who incorporated new materials, patterns, cuts, and accessories. It had a variety of collar shapes, sleeve lengths, slit heights, and hemlines. It also had more fusion elements with Western or ethnic styles.
- The Qipao is more than just a dress; it is a symbol of Chinese culture and identity that reflects its history and values.
- The Qipao represents femininity and beauty, as it showcases the curves and grace of a woman’s body. It also expresses individuality and creativity, as it allows for different choices of colors, fabrics, patterns, and styles.
- The Qipao embodies tradition and heritage, as it preserves the elements of the ancient Manchu gown and reflects the influence of different historical periods and regions. It also demonstrates craftsmanship and artistry, as it requires skillful tailoring and embroidery to create each exquisite piece.
- The Qipao signifies liberation and empowerment, as it was worn by women who challenged the old social norms and pursued their own dreams and aspirations. It also conveys respect and dignity, as it was worn by women who represented China in various official and diplomatic occasions.
The Qipao has been worn by many celebrities and influencers who have popularized and promoted the dress to a wider audience. Some examples are:
- Soong Ching-ling, one of the leaders of the Republic of China and the wife of Sun Yat-sen, who wore the Qipao as her signature outfit and became a role model for many Chinese women.
- Ruan Lingyu, a famous silent film actress in the 1930s, who wore the Qipao in many of her movies and became a fashion icon for her glamorous and modern style.
- Maggie Cheung, a Hong Kong actress who starred in the 2000 film “In the Mood for Love”, where she wore 23 different Qipaos that showcased her elegance and charm.
- Anne Hathaway, an American actress who wore a red Qipao at the 2011 Golden Globe Awards and received positive reviews for her stunning and sophisticated look.
- Melania Trump, the former First Lady of the United States, who wore a black Qipao with pink floral embroidery at the state dinner in China in 2017 and impressed the Chinese hosts and media.
Choosing the right Qipao for you depends on several factors, such as your body shape, skin tone, personal preference, and occasion. Here are some tips to help you find your perfect Qipao:
- Choose a Qipao that fits your body shape well. A Qipao should hug your curves but not be too tight or too loose. You should be able to sit comfortably and move freely in it. If you have a pear-shaped body, opt for a Qipao with a high slit or a flared skirt to balance your proportions. If you have an apple-shaped body, go for a Qipao with a lower collar or a V-neck to elongate your neck. If you have an hourglass-shaped body, choose a Qipao that accentuates your waist and bust.
- Choose a Qipao color that complements your skin tone. A Qipao should enhance your natural beauty and make you glow. If you have a warm skin tone, go for warm colors such as red, orange, yellow, or gold. If you have a cool skin tone, go for cool colors such as blue, green, purple, or silver. If you have a neutral skin tone, go for neutral colors such as beige, brown, black, or white.
- Choose a Qipao style that suits your personal preference and occasion. A Qipao should reflect your personality and taste and match the mood and theme of the event. If you want a traditional and classic look, go for a Qipao with a high collar, short sleeves, frog buttons, and floral embroidery. If you want a modern and chic look, go for a Qipao with a low collar, sleeveless or cap sleeves, zipper closure, and geometric patterns. If you want a casual and playful look, go for a Qipao with a mini length, side pockets, or colorful prints.
Wearing the Chinese Qipao can be fun and easy if you follow some simple styling tips to complete your look. Here are some suggestions to help you rock your Qipao:
- Pair your Qipao with shoes that match its color or contrast it. For example, if you wear a red Qipao, you can wear red shoes to create a monochrome look or black shoes to create a contrast look. Avoid wearing shoes that are too bulky or flashy, such as wedges or platforms, as they can overpower your Qipao. Instead, opt for shoes that are sleek and elegant, such as high heels or kitten heels.
- Accessorize your Qipao with jewelry that enhances its features or adds some sparkle. For example, if you wear a Qipao with a high collar, you can wear earrings or bracelets to draw attention to your face or wrists. If you wear a Qipao with a low collar, you can wear a necklace or pendant to fill in the neckline. Avoid wearing jewelry that is too big or heavy, such as chokers or bangles, as they can clash with your Qipao. Instead, opt for jewelry that is delicate and refined, such as pearls or crystals.
- Style your hair according to the length and shape of your Qipao’s collar. For example, if you wear a Qipao with a high collar, you can style your hair in an updo or bun to show off your neck and collarbone. If you wear a Qipao with a low collar, you can style your hair in a ponytail or braid to add some volume and texture. Avoid styling your hair in a way that covers or competes with your Qipao’s collar, such as a bob or a fringe.
Buying an authentic Chinese Qipao can be a rewarding and satisfying experience if you know where to look and what to look for. Here are some tips to help you find your ideal Qipao:
- Look for reputable and reliable online stores that specialize in selling Qipaos. You can browse through their catalogs and reviews to see their products and services.
- Look for local shops or boutiques that sell Qipaos in your area. You can visit them in person and try on different Qipaos to see how they fit and feel. You can also ask the staff for advice and recommendations. Some examples of local shops or boutiques that sell Qipaos in Chicago are: [Chinatown Gift Shop], [Mee Hee Boutique], [Lily’s Talent Agency], and [Jade Dragon].
- Look for custom-made Qipaos that are tailored to your measurements and preferences. You can contact a professional tailor or seamstress who can make a Qipao for you according to your specifications. You can choose the fabric, color, pattern, style, and details of your Qipao. Some examples of custom-made Qipao services are: [Qipao Couture], [Cheongsam Dress], [Qipology], and [Lan Yu Couture].
Taking care of your Chinese Qipao is important to preserve its quality and longevity. Here are some tips to help you maintain your Qipao:
- Wash your Qipao by hand or dry clean it, depending on the fabric and instructions on the label. Do not machine wash or tumble dry your Qipao, as it can damage the fabric and embroidery. Use mild detergent and cold water to wash your Qipao gently and avoid rubbing or wringing it.
- Dry your Qipao by hanging it on a padded hanger or laying it flat on a towel. Do not expose your Qipao to direct sunlight or heat, as it can fade the color and shrink the fabric. Avoid folding or creasing your Qipao, as it can cause wrinkles and distortions.
- Iron your Qipao carefully using low heat and a pressing cloth. Do not iron directly on the fabric or embroidery, as it can burn or melt them. Iron your Qipao inside out or on the reverse side to protect the surface.
- Store your Qipao in a cool and dry place, away from moisture and insects. Use a garment bag or a breathable cover to protect your Qipao from dust and dirt. Do not hang your Qipao with other clothes that can stain or snag it.
- Owning a Chinese Qipao is a must for every woman who loves fashion and culture. A Qipao is not just a dress; it is a piece of art that tells a story of China’s history and identity. A Qipao is not just a garment; it is a statement that expresses femininity and individuality. A Qipao is not just a clothing; it is an experience that connects tradition and style.
- By owning a Chinese Qipao, you are honoring the legacy of the women who wore it before you, who paved the way for modernization and emancipation. You are also celebrating the craftsmanship of the artisans who made it for you, who put their heart and soul into creating each exquisite piece.
- By owning a Chinese Qipao, you are adding a touch of elegance and grace to your wardrobe, that can make you stand out from the crowd. You are also embracing a rich heritage and culture that can enrich your knowledge and perspective.
- By owning a Chinese Qipao, you are joining a community of fashionistas who share your passion and appreciation for this iconic dress. You are also inspiring others to discover and enjoy the beauty and charm of the Chinese Qipao.
I hope this helps you. Good luck!
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