Qipao in the City | Shanghai Tang

QIPAOS IN THE CITY

You may have never donned one, but you will definitely have heard of the qipao. Also known as ‘cheongsam’, the qipao is an integral part of Chinese fashion history, particularly known for its classic beauty and for accentuating the curves in all the right places.

Whether you are new to the qipao and want something easy to begin with, or a seasoned cheongsam-wearer who’s looking to mix things up, there are plenty of ways to work the iconic piece in an urban, everyday setting.

Here are three of our modern takes on the legendary qipao and how to wear them for complete city chic.
1. TOP SECRET

If you prefer separates instead of a dress, try a qipao top that easily combines classic elegance with the modern comfort of knitwear.

This top is a fan-favourite that blends the best of both worlds. It retains the truly essential elements of cheongsams – mandarin collar, diagonal front opening, and gemstone frog buttons – all while offering the perfect amount of cosy with a knitted blend of mulberry silk and cotton perfect for urban daily styling.
STYLE TIP

Dress it up with tailored pants or a pencil skirt for work, and pair it with jeans and a denim jacket for the weekend.
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2. BRING YOUR ‘A’ GAME

Before the qipao evolved into the body-hugging silhouette that we all know nowadays, the original qipao actually had a more loose-fitting A-line cut.

This ruffled qipao is a nod to the archetype with a modern interpretation. The relaxed A-line fit and shorter mid-thigh length result in a chic, almost babydoll-like silhouette. Ruffles adorn the back hem for a hint of volume, while all the iconic Shanghai Tang qipao elements are firmly in place — the mandarin collar and gemstone buttons.

OUR TIP: Pair it with combat boots. You’ll be amazed how well they work together for a cool modern look.
Ruffled Hem A-line Qipao
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Ruffled Hem A-line Qipao
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We always love a total look and especially so this spring summer season where head-to-toe white frequented the runway.

Try layering this ivory qipao over the matching palazzo pants for a tonal ensemble that looks relaxed and effortlessly chic. Finish the look with our linen loafer mules with a cute ‘Catch Me If You Can’ embroidery.
Ruffled Hem A-line Qipao
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3. PEEK-A-BOO ALERT

While qipaos were traditionally made from woven fabrics with little give, novelty knit qipaos offer the modern luxury of a stretchy fit, making them a great investment piece for both qipao novices and those who already own woven varieties.

Soft against the skin, the resilient milano knit fabric on our signature qipao provides the perfect balance of stretch and support for a flattering, body-hugging fit.

For the more adventurous, the eye-catching detail on this version will surely pack a punch — intricate lace-like macramé panels outlining orchids and magnolia are inserted at the front and back for peek-a-boo allure.
STYLE TIP

Knit qipaos have a less formal look that makes it easy to wear during daytime yet is equally stunning for dressy occasions.

Pair this little black qipao with combat boots for a snappy all-black look for the day, and swap out the boots for strappy sandals or pumps to head straight from desk to dinner.
Jewel Button Knit Qipao with Macramé Detail

Coming Soon
Shop All Qipaos
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'Felix’ Cat Eye Sunglasses
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Bing Xu for Shanghai Tang 'Catch Me If You Can' Embroidered Linen Loafer Mules
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Half Moon Leather Wristlet Clutch
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QIPAOS IN THE CITY

1. TOP SECRET

STYLE TIP

2. BRING YOUR ‘A’ GAME

Ruffled Hem A-line Qipao

Ruffled Hem A-line Qipao

Ruffled Hem A-line Qipao

3. PEEK-A-BOO ALERT

STYLE TIP

Jewel Button Knit Qipao with Macramé Detail

Coming Soon

StylingAccessories

'Felix’ Cat Eye Sunglasses

Bing Xu for Shanghai Tang 'Catch Me If You Can' Embroidered Linen Loafer Mules

Half Moon Leather Wristlet Clutch

Styling
Accessories