If you have ever admired a qipao at a wedding, a Chinese New Year gathering, or in an old movie, you are not alone. The qipao is one of the most iconic pieces of Chinese fashion, and it is still loved today. But many people are not sure what a qipao really is, how it is different from a cheongsam, or where to get one made properly in Singapore. This guide will walk you through everything in simple terms, so you know exactly what to look for before you buy or book a fitting.
What Exactly Is a Qipao?
A qipao is a fitted, one-piece dress that started in China. It usually has a high collar, a close fit through the body, and a slit on one or both sides of the skirt. The word "qipao" comes from Mandarin, and it simply means "banner gown," a name linked to its origins. Today, the qipao is worn for special occasions, but it can also be styled for everyday, more relaxed use.
What makes a qipao stand out is the fit. Unlike a loose dress, a qipao is meant to follow the shape of your body closely. This is one reason why made-to-measure tailoring works so much better than buying one off the rack. Every person's body is different, and a qipao that fits well will always look better than one that is simply the closest size available in a shop.
A Short History of the Qipao
The qipao has a long history that goes back to the 1920s in Shanghai. At that time, it was a modern update on older, looser Manchu robes worn by women. As fashion changed through the decades, the qipao became more fitted and more tailored, eventually becoming the elegant silhouette we recognise today.
Over the years, the qipao has been worn by everyone from everyday women to film stars, and it has appeared in countless movies and photographs that celebrate Chinese culture. In Singapore and across Southeast Asia, the qipao remains a meaningful choice for weddings, Chinese New Year, and formal family events, connecting the wearer to a long tradition while still feeling fresh and modern.
Qipao vs Cheongsam: Are They the Same?
Many people use "qipao" and "cheongsam" to mean the same dress, and in most everyday conversations, that is perfectly fine. The small difference is really about language and region. "Qipao" is the Mandarin name, more commonly used in mainland China and Taiwan. "Cheongsam" comes from Cantonese, and it is the term more often used in Hong Kong and here in Singapore.
So if someone asks you for a "cheongsam" and someone else asks for a "qipao," they are usually talking about the very same style of dress. You do not need to worry about picking the "correct" term; both are widely understood and accepted.
Popular Qipao Fabrics and Styles
The fabric you choose changes the whole feel of a qipao. Here are some of the most common options:
Silk: This is the classic choice. Silk qipao look smooth, elegant, and slightly shiny. They are ideal for weddings, banquets, and formal events.
Brocade: This fabric has a raised, woven pattern, often floral. Brocade qipao feel more traditional and textured, and they work beautifully for Chinese New Year or festive occasions.
Lace: A lace qipao, sometimes layered over a plain fabric, gives a softer and more romantic look. It is a popular choice for modern brides or guests who want something a little different.
Cotton and cotton blends: These are more breathable and comfortable, making them a good option for everyday or office-friendly qipao, especially in Singapore's warm weather.
Beyond fabric, you can also choose the sleeve length, the height of the slit, and the collar style. A modern qipao might have short sleeves and a shorter, more comfortable cut, while a traditional one may have a higher collar and a longer skirt.
How to Choose the Right Qipao for You
Choosing a qipao is not just about picking a fabric you like. Here are a few simple things to think about:
Occasion: A wedding or banquet calls for richer fabrics like silk or brocade, while an everyday or office qipao works better in lighter, more comfortable materials.
Fit: Because a qipao is fitted, measurements matter a lot. This is where made-to-measure tailoring makes a real difference, since it is built around your exact body shape instead of a standard size chart.
Comfort: A qipao should feel special, but it should also let you move, sit, and eat comfortably through a full event. A good tailor will factor this in when adjusting the fit.
Colour and pattern: Red and gold are popular for Chinese New Year and weddings because they are linked to luck and celebration, but qipao today come in almost every colour, so you can pick something that suits your personal style too.
When Can You Wear a Qipao?
A qipao is not only for weddings. Here are some common occasions people wear one in Singapore:
Chinese New Year: A qipao in red, gold, or another festive colour is a lovely way to mark the occasion, whether for reunion dinner or visiting family.
Weddings: Brides, guests, and even mothers of the bride or groom often choose a qipao for the tea ceremony or the wedding banquet.
Work events and dinners: A more understated, modern-cut qipao can work well for formal work functions or dinners that call for smart, elegant dressing.
Everyday wear: With the right fabric and a more relaxed cut, some people now wear qipao-inspired tops or dresses as part of their regular wardrobe, not just for special occasions.
How to Take Care of Your Qipao
Because qipao are often made from delicate fabrics like silk or lace, they need gentle care. Dry cleaning is usually the safest option, especially for silk and brocade pieces. Avoid hanging a heavily embroidered qipao for long periods, as the weight of the beading or embroidery can pull on the fabric over time. It is better to store it folded with tissue paper, in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight.
Where to Buy a Qipao in Singapore
You have two main options when getting a qipao in Singapore: buying an off-the-rack piece, or going for a made-to-measure design. Off-the-rack qipao are convenient and often cheaper, but the fit is based on standard sizing, which does not always suit every body shape.
A made-to-measure qipao, on the other hand, is built around your own measurements from the start. This means a better fit through the bust, waist, and hips, and the freedom to choose your own fabric, colour, sleeve length, and slit height. It usually costs more than buying off the rack, but for an important occasion, many people feel it is worth the investment.
At Outpost, we specialise in tailoring cheongsam and qipao for any occasion, made to fit your exact measurements. Whether you are looking for a formal piece for a wedding banquet or an everyday cheongsam for more relaxed wear, our studio at 1 Maritime Square, Harbourfront Centre, is open Monday to Saturday, 11am to 8pm, with walk-ins welcome for alterations and appointments available for full tailoring consultations.
Final Thoughts
The qipao is more than just a dress; it carries decades of history while still feeling relevant today. Whether you are dressing up for Chinese New Year, a wedding, or simply want a piece that celebrates Chinese heritage in a modern way, understanding the fabric, fit, and occasion will help you choose the right one.
If you are ready to find or design your own qipao, you can book an appointment with our team, and we will help guide you through fabric, fit, and style so your qipao feels as good as it looks.