Difference Between Qipao and Cheongsam

The Difference Between Qipao and Cheongsam – Qipao and cheongsam are both terms for one- or two-piece Chinese clothing.

Difference Between Qipao and Cheongsam

As a garment, it is mostly designed for ladies. It is sometimes regarded as the quintessential Chinese national dress.

The primary distinction between the two terms is their linguistic origin.

Cheongsam is the English translation of Cantonese cheuhngsaam (which means long dress). The Cantonese cheongsam is used in the southern region of China, while the qipao is used in the northern region.

Eventually, the Cantonese cheuhngsaam arrived in Shanghai and transitioned into the English cheongsam. This dress is also known as a “mandarin gown” in English.

Both the cheongsam and the qipao evolved from the attire of Manchurian women. The dress is composed of silk and has a high or low mandarin collar.

The dress can have a variety of sleeve lengths. It could be sleeveless, long sleeves, short sleeves, or quarter-length sleeves. The dress can have high or low slits on one or both sides of the skirt. Slits may extend up to the waist or hip.

From the neck to the right armhole, the garment has a diagonal opening. The dress is intended to be closed by fastening frog closures or buttons to the right front side.

The cheongsam or qipao comes in a variety of patterns and designs. Embroidered or plain material may be combined with a variety of patterns. Patterns might include a variety of floral designs as well as symbolic designs such as fish, dragons, or phoenixes. Colours can range from two to more than two, depending on the material and design. Accessories and embellishments may be added to the outfit.

The original cheongsam or qipao is a broad and loose dress that exposes just the head, hands, and toe tips. It developed into a modernized design with a tighter shape and better conformity to the feminine figure.

Modern cheongsam or qipao are often worn during Chinese-themed parties and festivities. The cheongsam or qipao is worn as a formal dress or as part of the uniform at many Chinese businesses and workplaces.

Summary of the Difference Between Qipao and Cheongsam

  • The terms “qipao” and “cheongsam” both refer to a Chinese dress for women with a front, right-side opening, mandarin collar, sleeves, and a skirt length of varied lengths with or without side slits. It is possible to wear it by opening the side opening and fastening it with frog closures and buttons.
  • The main distinction between qipao and cheongsam is the root of the words. “Qipao” is a Mandarin Chinese term for the outfit, while “cheongsam” is an English translation of the Cantonese term “cheuhngsaam.” The term “cheongsam” originated in southern China and later spread to Shanghai. The alternative name is “qipao,” which is used in Northern China.
  • The outfit was invented by Manchurian women and was used until the Chinese Revolution. The original cheongsam or qipao was a broad, loose-fitting garment. Chinese tailors fled to Shanghai during the Chinese Revolution and transformed the outfit. The tailors gave it a more contemporary appearance. The modern cheongsam both corresponds to and enhances the feminine figure.
  • The dress is regarded to be a typical Chinese attire. The dress is made from a variety of materials and is considered a very versatile dress. It might either be plain or embroidered. It may be worn with or without accessories. The dress can also have some patterns and designs in the form of flowers or symbols. Some designs may include Western influences in the form of patterns, materials, or accessories.
  • The modern cheongsam or qipao is worn as a formal dress in various Chinese and normal celebrations and festivities. It is also used as an official uniform in a lot of Chinese and Chinese-themed companies and schools.

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