Make a statement at your family reunion dinners and weddings by channelling oriental chic with a classic one-piece Chinese dress—qipao
Though Cheongsam (which is more widely known as qipao in Mandarin) might be no longer popular as an everyday garment, one cannot deny that the dress has been an essential part of Chinese culture and traditional craftsmanship.
In the 1920s, the close-fitting dress rose to prominence in Shanghai, which was particularly beloved and made iconic by the upper-class ladies and socialites during that time. Often recognised with a mandarin collar, knotted buttons and side slit, qipao is more than just a wardrobe staple for special occasions such as Lunar New Year, Chinese weddings or tea ceremonies. The art of Chinese tailoring is the quintessence of elegance and femininity that never goes out of style.
Since the older generation of experienced Shanghainese tailors in Hong Kong is retiring as time goes by, finding a good qipao is no easy task. Here, we have found four highly-acclaimed stores in Hong Kong where you can buy or have a beautiful qipao tailored—with quality guaranteed, of course.
Read more: 10 Traditional Trades To Support In Hong Kong Before They Disappear
Shanghai Tang
Founded by Tatler lister Victoria Tang-Owen’s father—Sir David Tang in 1994— Shanghai Tang is known as one of the city’s most prestigious home-grown fashion brands. With an approach of combining traditional Shanghainese tailoring with modern design and fabrics, you can expect every qipao at Shanghai Tang is contemporary yet sophisticated, without losing the essence of a traditional Chinese dress.
Their qipaos are made from stretch cotton and silk jacquards, with plenty of options for guests to choose from—think floral prints, embroidery details and bamboo patterns to match your character and every mood.
Though an appointment at Shanghai Tang is one of the hardest to book for a full tailoring experience in town, it’s definitely worth the wait. The brand also boasts a ready-to-wear collection, which means, you can still snap up a beautiful dress just in time before Chinese New Year.
Discover more at shanghaitang.com
Don't miss: Victoria Tang-Owen on Family Legacy and Her First Collection as Shanghai Tang’s Creative Director