The cheongsam, a traditional Chinese women’s garment that came into vogue in the 1920s, has captured the hearts of women across generations as a graceful long dress. In the dynamic landscape of fashion, the attire has not only withstood the test of time for a century but also continuously evolved to incorporate innovation while preserving the essence of its tradition, catering to the ever-changing fashion trends and preferences of women throughout different eras. Over time, tailoring techniques have undergone transformations and upgrading so as to align with market trends and development.
The modern-style cheongsam integrates more innovative elements and craftsmanship, featuring a unique and captivating character. It allows for a harmonious fusion of tradition and modernity, exuding a distinctive allure.
The Timeless Elegance – Greater Bay Area Modern Chinese Cheongsam Exhibition, presented by the Macao Fashion Gallery, has garnered significant support from esteemed organizations such as the Guangdong Association of Garment and Garment Article Industry, the Guangdong Fashion Designers Association, and the Hong Kong Fashion Farm Foundation. Collaborating with talented fashion designers hailing from Macao, Guangzhou, and Hong Kong, this exhibition not only upholds the rich traditions of Chinese culture but also seamlessly integrates modern aesthetics. Together, these endeavors champion the advancement of the fashion industry within the Greater Bay Area.
This exhibition unites the fashion design talents from Macao, Guangzhou, and Hong Kong, presenting a meticulously curated collection of nine stunning ensembles. Take for example Phoebe Lai, a representative of Macao. Her works center on capturing the essence of Chinese fashion aesthetics. Lai skillfully infuses casual elements inspired by monochromatic Chinese ink paintings, highlighting a strong sense of fashion. Next comes Mo Hua (Hou Xiaolin) from Guangzhou, whose collection combines the colors xuan (yellow) and xun (Chinese red) with the exquisite artistry of intangible cultural heritage handcrafted embroidery, exuding an air of elegance and nobility. Jessica Lau and Walter Kong, designers from Hong Kong, craftily preserve the essence of the cheongsam while introducing hidden elements through the integration of scarves. These versatile ensembles can be paired with pants or skirts, adding a touch of uniqueness and playfulness to the overall garment design (listed in no particular order).