The original sheath style of a qipao was designed to accentuate a woman's curves in all the right ways, and the side slits allow for easy mobility so you can take over the dance floor with your friends..
Today many people like to wear their qipaos above the knee as they consider this a more contemporary look.
I still personally prefer either below the knee or mid-calf, as I think this balances better with the “heavier” top half of a qipao with its mandarin collar and pankous..
The word qipao and cheongsam are used interchangeably today.
However, the two separate terms symbolise the difference in origins.
Cheongsam is in Cantonese and it means “long gown” when translated.
As for qipao (旗袍), it is in Mandarin and it means banner robe..
The qipao has become the symbol of identity for Chinese women.
It is a tight-fitting dress with a standing collar, an asymmetric left-over-right opening and two-side slits.
Chinese knot buttons are also an essential part of the qipao..
The word qipao (keipo), which literally means "Bannerman robe" and originally referred to a loose-fitting, trapezoidal-cut garment worn by both Manchu men and women, became a more formal term for the female chèuhngsāam..
A Qipao, sometimes referred to as a cheongsam or a “Mandarin gown,” is a classic garment traditionally made from embroidered silk, featuring a high collar and delicate cloth buttons on the front.
The qipaos you might be familiar with are tight-fitting and associated with the Shanghainese socialites of the '60s..
Traditional Chinese Dances
Some of the most breathtaking dances that you can expect to watch and enjoy in a Chinese traditional dance performance include the Court dance, Prince Qin's Cavalry, Nichang Yuyi, Ribbon dance, Dai dance, Tibetan dance, Mongolian dance, The Miao dance, and the Lion dance..
