The qipao has always been a mainstay of traditional Chinese fashion, from its original incarnations to more modern interpretations. Also known as the cheongsam in Cantonese, these dresses exude sheer beauty and class, along with having an incredible element of historical meaning behind them. Thinking of Maggie Cheung in those incredible qipaos in In the Mood for Love is already enough to get you swooning, let alone all the other versions of the attire throughout history.

It’s exactly why the Hong Kong Museum of History, in conjunction with the Institute of Textiles and Clothing at HK Poly U, is presenting its latest exhibition called Transformation of the Qipao. The collection is an in-depth look at the way the dress has evolved over the years, from the looser cuts to tighter form-fitting versions. This exhibition will showcase 70 qipaos, all from different periods, including some noteworthy contributions from stars such as Suet Nei, as well as the dress that prominent politician Ms Anson Chan wore during the 1997 handover. More compellingly, fashion students from Poly U will be designing and showcasing their own updated styles of the clothing. As a garment that embodies a very traditional Chinese essence, the exhibition will surely be as glamorous as the dresses themselves.

Louise Choi

Transformation of the Qipao runs at Olympian City from Saturday April 28 to Sunday June 10 and is free to attend.