Table of Contents
A cheongsam, also known as a qipao, is a traditional Chinese dress that originated in the 17th century and became popular in the 20th century. It is a form-fitting, one-piece garment that features a high collar, a slit skirt, and various patterns and colors. The cheongsam is widely regarded as a symbol of Chinese culture, elegance, and femininity. But is it ok to wear a cheongsam in the modern world? This article will explore the history, meaning, and controversy of the cheongsam, and provide some tips on how to wear it respectfully and appropriately.
The History of the Cheongsam
The cheongsam has a long and complex history that spans several dynasties, regions, and social classes. The word “cheongsam” means “long dress” in Cantonese, while “qipao” means “banner robe” in Mandarin. The origin of the cheongsam can be traced back to the Qing dynasty (1644-1912), when the Manchu people conquered China and imposed their clothing style on the Han Chinese. The Manchu women wore loose-fitting, long robes with wide sleeves and a straight cut, which were called qipao. The Han women adopted the qipao, but modified it to suit their preferences and body shapes. They added slits, buttons, collars, and embroidery to the qipao, making it more fitted and fashionable.
The cheongsam reached its peak of popularity in the early 20th century, especially in Shanghai, where it became a symbol of modernity, urbanity, and cosmopolitanism. The cheongsam was worn by women of different backgrounds, such as socialites, celebrities, politicians, students, and workers. The cheongsam also reflected the changing social and political landscape of China, as it incorporated elements from Western and Japanese fashion, such as shorter hemlines, lower collars, and brighter colors. The cheongsam was not only a dress, but also a statement of identity, status, and style.
The cheongsam declined in popularity after the establishment of the People’s Republic of China in 1949, when it was seen as a relic of the feudal past and a sign of bourgeois decadence. The cheongsam was banned during the Cultural Revolution (1966-1976), when people were forced to wear plain, uniform clothing. The cheongsam was revived in the 1980s and 1990s, when China opened up to the world and embraced its cultural heritage.
The cheongsam became a symbol of nostalgia, nostalgia, and national pride, as well as a fashion item that appealed to both domestic and international markets. The cheongsam is still worn today by some women on special occasions, such as weddings, festivals, and ceremonies, or as a daily outfit, depending on their personal taste and preference.
The Meaning of the Cheongsam
The cheongsam is not just a piece of clothing, but also a representation of Chinese culture, history, and aesthetics. The cheongsam embodies the values, beliefs, and traditions of the Chinese people, as well as their creativity, diversity, and adaptability. The cheongsam also expresses the personality, mood, and occasion of the wearer, as it can be customized and accessorized in various ways. The cheongsam has different meanings for different people, depending on their perspective and experience.
For some people, the cheongsam is a way of honoring and celebrating their Chinese heritage and identity. The cheongsam connects them to their ancestors, their roots, and their community. The cheongsam is a way of showing respect and appreciation for the rich and complex history and culture of China. The cheongsam is a way of preserving and passing on the legacy and legacy of the Chinese people to the next generations.
For other people, the cheongsam is a way of expressing and exploring their individuality and creativity. The cheongsam allows them to experiment with different styles, colors, patterns, and accessories, and to create their own unique look and feel. The cheongsam is a way of showcasing their beauty, elegance, and femininity, as well as their confidence, charisma, and charm. The cheongsam is a way of making a fashion statement and a personal statement, and to stand out from the crowd.
The Controversy of the Cheongsam
The cheongsam is not without controversy, especially in the context of globalization, multiculturalism, and diversity. The cheongsam has been the subject of debate and criticism, both within and outside the Chinese community, for various reasons. Some of the main issues and questions that arise are:
- Who can wear the cheongsam? Is it exclusive to Chinese women, or can anyone wear it regardless of their ethnicity, nationality, or background?
- How can one wear the cheongsam? Is there a right or wrong way to wear it, depending on the occasion, the setting, the style, and the etiquette?
- Why does one wear the cheongsam? Is it for cultural appreciation or cultural appropriation, for admiration or exploitation, for respect or disrespect, for empowerment or objectification?
There is no definitive or universal answer to these questions, as different people may have different opinions, feelings, and experiences regarding the cheongsam. However, some general guidelines and principles that can help one to wear the cheongsam in a respectful and appropriate way are:
- Do your research. Learn about the history, meaning, and significance of the cheongsam, and understand the context and nuances of the Chinese culture and society. Avoid wearing the cheongsam as a costume, a stereotype, or a fetish, and do not trivialize or mock its value and importance.
- Ask for permission. If possible, consult with someone who is knowledgeable and experienced in wearing the cheongsam, and seek their advice and feedback. Respect their opinions and preferences, and listen to their stories and perspectives. Do not assume that you have the right or authority to wear the cheongsam without their consent or approval.
- Be mindful and sensitive. Consider the occasion, the setting, the style, and the etiquette of wearing the cheongsam, and choose the one that is suitable and respectful. Avoid wearing the cheongsam in inappropriate or offensive situations, such as religious ceremonies, political rallies, or Halloween parties. Do not alter or modify the cheongsam in a way that damages or distorts its original design and intention.
- Appreciate and acknowledge. Show your appreciation and gratitude for the cheongsam and the Chinese culture, and acknowledge the source and inspiration of your outfit. Give credit and recognition to the people who made, designed, or wore the cheongsam before you, and honor their contribution and influence. Do not claim or pretend that the cheongsam is your own creation or invention, or that you are the first or the best to wear it.
How to Wear a Cheongsam
If you decide to wear a cheongsam, here are some tips on how to wear it well and make the most of it:
- Choose the right size and fit. The cheongsam should fit your body shape and curves, but not too tight or too loose. The cheongsam should also be comfortable and easy to move in, but not too short or too long. The cheongsam should also match your height and proportions, and not overwhelm or underwhelm your figure.
- Choose the right color and pattern. The cheongsam comes in a variety of colors and patterns, each with its own meaning and symbolism. The cheongsam should suit your skin tone and hair color, as well as your personality and mood. The cheongsam should also complement the season and the occasion, and not clash or contrast with the environment or the theme.
- Choose the right accessories and shoes. The cheongsam can be accessorized with different items, such as jewelry, bags, hats, scarves, or gloves, depending on the style and the effect you want to achieve. The cheongsam can also be paired with different shoes, such as heels, flats, sandals, or boots, depending on the comfort and the elegance you want to achieve. The accessories and shoes should enhance and balance the cheongsam, and not overpower or distract from it.
- Choose the right attitude and posture. The cheongsam is not only a dress, but also an attitude. The cheongsam should be worn with confidence, grace, and dignity, as well as with joy, fun, and flair. The cheongsam should also be worn with good posture, such as standing straight, walking smoothly, and sitting properly. The cheongsam should also be worn with respect, both for yourself and for others, and not with arrogance, rudeness, or ignorance.
Conclusion
The cheongsam is a beautiful and meaningful dress that has a long and rich history and culture behind it. The cheongsam is a way of expressing and exploring one’s identity, style, and creativity, as well as honoring and celebrating one’s heritage, culture, and community. The cheongsam is also a way of connecting and communicating with others, both within and outside the Chinese community, and sharing and learning from their experiences and perspectives. The cheongsam is a dress that can be worn by anyone, as long as they do it with respect, appreciation, and mindfulness, and follow some basic guidelines and principles.
FAQ
What is the difference between a cheongsam and a qipao?
What is the significance of the collar, the buttons, and the slits on the cheongsam?
The collar, the buttons, and the slits on the cheongsam have different meanings and functions. The collar is a symbol of modesty and elegance, as it covers the neck and the chest. The buttons are a symbol of unity and harmony, as they connect the two sides of the dress. The slits are a symbol of mobility and flexibility, as they allow the wearer to walk and move freely.
What are the common colors and patterns on the cheongsam?
The cheongsam comes in a variety of colors and patterns, each with its own meaning and symbolism. Some of the common colors and patterns are:
Red: a symbol of happiness, prosperity, and luck. Red is often worn on festive occasions, such as weddings, New Year, and birthdays.
Black: a symbol of elegance, sophistication, and mystery. Black is often worn on formal occasions, such as parties, ceremonies, and meetings.
White: a symbol of purity, innocence, and simplicity. White is often worn on mourning occasions, such as funerals, or on religious occasions, such as temples.
Blue: a symbol of calmness, tranquility, and wisdom. Blue is often worn on casual occasions, such as outings, picnics, and dates.
Green: a symbol of freshness, vitality, and growth. Green is often worn on spring occasions, such as festivals, markets, and gardens.
Yellow: a symbol of royalty, dignity, and power. Yellow is often worn by emperors, empresses, and nobles, or on imperial occasions, such as coronations, banquets, and parades.
Pink: a symbol of sweetness, romance, and femininity. Pink is often worn by young girls, brides, and lovers, or on Valentine’s Day, anniversaries, and weddings.
Floral: a symbol of beauty, grace, and nature. Floral patterns often feature flowers, such as peonies, lotuses, orchids, and chrysanthemums, each with their own meaning and symbolism.
Dragon: a symbol of strength, courage, and majesty. Dragon patterns often feature dragons, which are mythical creatures that represent the emperor, the nation, and the culture of China.
Phoenix: a symbol of rebirth, renewal, and immortality. Phoenix patterns often feature phoenixes, which are mythical birds that represent the empress, the femininity, and the spirituality of China.How to care for and maintain a cheongsam?
A cheongsam is a delicate and precious dress that requires special care and maintenance. Here are some tips on how to care for and maintain a cheongsam:
Wash: Wash the cheongsam by hand, using mild detergent and cold water. Do not use bleach, fabric softener, or dryer. Gently squeeze out the excess water, and hang the cheongsam to dry in a shaded and ventilated place. Do not wring, twist, or iron the cheongsam, as it may damage the fabric and the shape of the dress.
Store: Store the cheongsam in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture. Fold the cheongsam neatly, and wrap it in a cotton or silk cloth. Do not use plastic bags, hangers, or pins, as they may cause wrinkles, stains, or holes on the dress.
Repair: Repair the cheongsam as soon as possible, if it has any tears, holes, or loose threads. Use a needle and a thread that match the color and the material of the dress. Sew the cheongsam carefully and gently, following the original stitches and seams. Do not use glue, tape, or patches, as they may ruin the appearance and the quality of the dress.Where to buy a cheongsam?
A cheongsam can be bought from different sources, depending on your budget, preference, and availability. Some of the common sources are:
Online: Online platforms, such as websites, apps, or social media, offer a wide range of cheongsams, from different styles, colors, patterns, and prices. You can browse, compare, and order the cheongsam online, and have it delivered to your doorstep. However, you should be careful of the quality, the size, and the authenticity of the cheongsam, and check the reviews, the ratings, and the return policy of the seller before buying.
Offline: Offline places, such as shops, markets, or boutiques, offer a more personal and authentic experience of buying a cheongsam. You can see, touch, and try on the cheongsam, and get advice and feedback from the seller or the tailor. However, you may have to spend more time, money, and effort to find the right cheongsam, and deal with the crowds, the traffic, and the bargaining.
