3Transcending time and trends, the qipao brings a rich slice of heritage into the modern world of fashion. Probably one of the most legendary Chinese style dresses in fashion history, the Chinese qipao, also known as the 'cheongsam', is particularly known for its classic beauty and tailored silhouette that accentuates the curves in all the right places.

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In its most widely known form, the modern qipao dress is a form-fitting piece with a mandarin collar and often with frog buttons and side slits. Shanghai Tang's take on the modern qipao combines the masterful tailoring and intricate elements of the traditional qipao with a modern twist, such as contemporary materials, elevated details and modernised silhouettes. Our qipao dress lengths range from the more traditional long qipao dresses, ankle-length qipao gowns and knee-length qipaos to more modern mini qipaos cut at an ultra-modern cheeky mid-thigh length. Showcasing stunning floral prints inspired by Chinese culture, our form-fitting modern cheongsams are crafted from fabrics that are as comfortable as they are flattering.

Think qipaos a tad too dressy? Contrary to common perception, Chinese cheongsams, especially as a modern Chinese dress style, can easily be dressed up and dressed down and Shanghai Tang's iconic qipao designs are here to prove it. Besides a range of gorgeous, occasion-ready cheongsam dresses, including Shanghai Tang's most revered silk qipaos, jacquard qipaos and stretch cotton qipaos that are perfect for Chinese New Year and festive events, there is also a variety of casual qipao options. Consider the stretch mini qipao made from a travel-friendly poly fabric that can be packed in your luggage and emerge virtually wrinkly-free; an A-line qipao that echoes a sweet babydoll silhouette; or our signature modern qipao knitted from a blend of mulberry silk and cotton, thoughtfully combining traditional cheongsam elements with the modern comfort of knitwear. These smart yet casual qipaos are a great qipao prom dress option as they can be dressed up with pumps and strappy sandals for the evening; swap for a pair of combat boots and the qipao will look modern and chic for the daytime. There's an iconic Shanghai Tang qipao dress for every occasion.

For those seeking qipao-inspired variations other than a full cheongsam dress, Shanghai Tang has designed separates including our best-selling qipao blouse made from a comfortable and stretchy knit fabric. This modern cheongsam blouse is embellished with gemstone bead buttons for a bejewelled touch.

Besides Chinese qipao dresses, Shanghai Tang also offers an enticing range qipao-inspired modern Chinese dresses that combine traditional qipao elements such as the mandarin collar with novelty fabrics and cuts. From the Shanghai Tang dress collection, discover stylish designs such as fit-and-flare skater dresses with a silk mandarin collar, biker-inspired zipped mini cheongsam, and Chinese collar dresses that mix different fabric panelling.

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