From 'battle robe' to fashion icon

From runway to daily wear

FayWeaver's design philosophy rejects the stereotype that qipao is meant only for formal occasions. The brand's "commuter qipao" is shortened to just above the knee and made from wrinkle-resistant acetate fabric, with detachable frog button brooches that allow working women to exude cultural elegance while remaining comfortable.

The sportswear series is even more revolutionary — stretchy lycra fabric combined with modified standing collars enables movements in yoga, cycling, and other activities. There are even pet-themed qipao-inspired outfits to fit modern lifestyles.

"Wearing a qipao can be as easy as how you feel in the moment; breathable and flexible for lounging on the couch or chic and elegant for a night of entertaining friends," Wang states.

Wang's designs are made with a range of premium Chinese fabrics, such as gambiered Guangdong gauze, silk charmeuse, jacquard Luo silk, Songjin brocade, and mulberry silk satin. In addition to ready-to-wear pieces handmade by qipao artisans, custom options cater to diverse tastes and body types.

"As a young brand, we can experiment at our will, breaking boundaries to cater to women and of all ages, children, and even pets," says Wang. "By integrating traditional qipao craftsmanship with modern aesthetics and lifestyles, we hope more people will understand, appreciate, help design, and wear qipao."

Designer Tan Yanping's brand Leaves Fashion has created a series for various scenarios — business, day-to-day, and evening. Business styles are made using structured wool-blend fabrics with back slits to sit comfortably; daily styles incorporate cotton and linen for a relaxed feel; evening styles feature intricate frog buttons that re-create the glamour of 1930s social events.

"We balance inheritance and innovation," Tan explains. "We inherit craftsmanship. For example, we collaborate with Shanghai's Gu embroidery artisans and traditional button-makers. But the overall style must adapt to modern lifestyles, as fashion is constantly evolving."

Tan further explains that today's younger generation loves clothing with traditional elements, "Those who haven't tried them just haven't found the right fit yet."