The cheongsam, or qipao as it was originally known, is a timeless traditional Chinese dress with a rich history dating back to the seventeenth century. The term "cheongsam" itself means 'long dress' in contemporary usage, but its origins can be traced to the Qing Dynasty in its primitive form. Initially, it was a one-piece, wide-sleeved dress that enveloped the wearer from neck to foot, exemplifying modesty. Variations also existed, such as a two-piece ensemble with long trousers complemented by a flowing overdress.

Traditional Chinese Attire

Over the centuries, the traditional Chinese dress underwent a transformation, evolving from a loose, voluminous garment into the sleek, body-hugging attire we recognize today. In its original form, the qipao served a more utilitarian purpose, prioritizing modesty and grace. Depending on the wearer's social status, these dresses were often adorned with exquisite embroidery, epitomizing the fashion of seventeenth and eighteenth-century China.

Traditional Chinese Wedding Dress

As time passed, the qipao went through a process of modernization, becoming more tailored and form-fitting during the 1920s. With its more flattering and seductive appearance, it became increasingly popular among high-class courtesans and celebrities, thus catapulting this oriental dress style into the limelight. As the dress evolved, it started being referred to more commonly as the "cheongsam," meaning 'long dress.'

The traditional Chinese wedding dress has a strong association with the Far East and the Oriental community. Although various styles exist, these dresses are typically one-piece, often featuring short sleeves or going sleeveless. A distinctive trait of the cheongsam is the side slit along the leg, the length of which varies depending on the dress style. In contemporary times, cheongsam dresses are not typically seen in everyday attire, as they may be considered overly elegant and formal. However, some companies and institutions incorporate them into their dress code. Examples include Chinese restaurants, certain casinos, and a few airlines that have their own variations of the cheongsam for their staff.

The modern cheongsam

The modern cheongsam represents a highly attractive and exquisitely feminine piece of Chinese fashion. Consequently, it is reserved for special social occasions where a woman seeks to stand out and wear something distinctive. There is a wide array of styles available today, making some suitable for everyday wear, although, in reality, these Chinese dresses are usually reserved for extraordinary events. Most cheongsam dresses are procured online from internet retailers and are typically manufactured in China before being shipped worldwide. A cheongsam dress crafted anywhere but China would simply not capture the essence of this iconic and culturally rich attire.