Confession: I know I’m Chinese, but I could never see myself wearing a qipao, a traditional and well-known Chinese dress. I think it’s because I’ve seen too many cheap fetish versions for Halloween — aptly named “Sexy China Doll Costume” or something similar. Hm, no.
However, NE Tiger, a Chinese luxury label, presented its 2009 Haute Couture collection at China Fashion Week with traditional Chinese motifs and modernized silhouettes — a collection that could represent modern China itself with its eastern and western influences.
Of course, the traditional high-necked qipao is still evident in these designs, but in graceful and elegant frames that elicit national pride — nothing stereotypical as from Kung Fu movies (can you guess what my pet peeve is now?).
Modern silhouettes again, but with traditional floral patterns on silk. NE Tiger effortlessly proves that you can embrace modernity and still retain tradition — a lesson we could all learn.
ex.oh.ex.oh
Miss Couturable
Post reprinted with permission from Miss Couturable
wow, those qipaos are really beautiful! and since when we’re “a chinese” a costume? silly XP
// Miss Van
I love the pictures of these clothes. I have always looked for a “qipao-like” dress that was an updated version of the original. There website is kind of difficult to use, but the dresses that I saw on there are beautiful. Just wish there was a way to buy without flying to China!