5 Facts that you might not know about Qipao/ Cheongsam! It was actually inspired by the Manchurian?

As Chinese New Year is approaching really soon, many ladies who will be celebrating are getting ready brand new clothing for the festival and Cheongsam is defiantly one of the top choice to celebrate this joyful festival. However, as a Malaysian Chinese, how much do you really know about this beautiful close-fitting dress?

#1. Cheongsam is an inspired product of the Manchurian costume

Cheongsam also known as Qipao (旗袍) . As we have put it in words, most Chinese will realised QiRen (旗人) is another way of how we refer to the Manchurian during the Qing Dynasty. In short, Qipao is the traditional costume of the Manchurian.

As the European entering to China and introducing their products and cultures to the Chinese, the tailors in Shanghai got inspired by the European and created a close-fitting version of the traditional Qipao.

#2. During the Qing Dynasty, everyone was forced to wear the traditional Qipao

When the Qing Dynasty (清朝) took over from the Ming Dynasty (明朝) , everyone in the country are forced to only wear traditional version of Qipao. During that time, Qipao is not a female’s dress, but it can also be a male’s robe.

#3. The first version of Cheongsam is actually long and luxurious

The original version of Cheongsam is close fitted and long. It was also known as a luxurious wear in the early days of Shanghai which only celebrities and women from the upper social class can afford.

#4. Cheongsam uses as a school uniform in Hong Kong

There are a few school in Hong Kong that are still using Cheongsam as their school uniform. The uniform are usually made of sky blue cotton fabric or a dark blue velvet material depending on the season.

#5. Mandarin Collar

Any similar collar as the Cheongsam known as the Mandarin Collar. Mandarin collar are widely used in the fashion industry and can be commonly seen in men’s outfit especially the working outfit or formal wear.

In here, sending my early wishes to all my readers! Gong Xi Fatt Chai!