Most cultural clothing is pure elegance and style. The qipao is a prime example of this. It belongs to the land of China but this iconic dress can be styled in various ways for events anywhere around the world.
Whether you have a wedding to attend, a friend to catch up with, hit the mall, or even just hang out at a cafe, a qipao has limitless styling options for all your activities.
If you want to add this garment to your wardrobe, your style journey begins with a simple thought - Take Me to This Store! So, with this staple added to your closet, here are some ways to gracefully style your new piece of garment.
Styling a Qipao for Different Occasions
Go Classic for Formal Events
If you are going to a formal event, wearing a luxe and classic qipao is a perfect choice. You can style it for a variety of formal events like gala dinners, traditional ceremonies, weddings, and black-tie events as well. For such occasions, it is best to go for jewel tones to add more sophistication to the look; e.g., sapphire blue, emerald green, ruby red, and royal purple are ideal. These colors display just the right mixture of elegance, class, and luxury, making a qipao in these tones versatile for all kinds of formal events.
To take the look up a notch and add some more glam to the outfit, you can pair it up with accessories such as jade bangles or pearl jewelry like earrings or a choker. As for shoes, neutral or metallic colors for heels will look best and complement the most with jewel tones for formal events. Do an elegant updo with hair neatly tied and styled to complete the look.
Rock Cocktail Parties with Modern Chic
Cocktail parties offer a chance to include contemporary and chic modern aspects into the qipao. Choose a style that features striking geometric designs, an asymmetrical hemline, or vivid hues like turquoise or magenta to rock cocktail parties. For a more modern look, pair this with statement pieces like large earrings, a bold ring, or a hefty cuff bracelet.
For instance, an emerald green sleeveless qipao with a high slit would appear stylish and contemporary when worn with a sleek purse and elegant black shoes. To finish the look, use striking makeup like winged eyeliner and a traditional red lip. Leave the hair in flowy waves to finish up that party look.
Hanging Out On a Casual Day
Selecting a lightweight fabric, such as cotton or linen, and decorating it with delicate floral motifs or pastel hues may make the qipao more approachable for a laid-back day out. These are cozy and ideal for daytime activities like breakfast a park walk with a friend or just your pet. For practicality, wear this with plain flats, comfy sandals, or white sneakers.
As an example, you can get a casual yet fashionable ensemble by pairing a crossbody purse, white sneakers, and a sky-blue linen qipao with cherry blossom designs. For a carefree look, wear your hair in loose waves and keep your accessories simple, maybe just a delicate bracelet or stud earrings. You can also do a high ponytail if you are going for an even more casual look to hang in the cafe.
Professional Business Look
Choose a pattern in neutral hues like charcoal gray, beige, or navy to turn the qipao into office-appropriate clothing. To stay professional, use designs that are more straightforward and have fewer decorations. Wear the qipao with traditional closed-toe heels and a structured blazer in a matching hue.
A sophisticated, business-ready appearance may be achieved, for instance, by layering a white jacket and black heels over a charcoal gray qipao with delicate designs. Choose a sleek bun or straightened hairstyle to further simplify the look, and for extra refinement, carry a leather tote bag.
Full Glam for Big Celebrations
Festive occasions such as the Lunar New Year or holiday gatherings call for qipaos with rich embroidery, sequins, or metallic threads. Bold colors like gold, red, or royal purple are ideal for celebrating cultural and festive themes.
A pair of metallic heels will go just perfectly with this outfit. You can also add some bold accessories, such as hanging or chandelier earrings, as well as a sleek clutch. So, for example, celebrating the New Year with a bright red qipao adorned with golden dragon embroidery paired with gold stilettos and statement earrings can perfectly reflect the festive spirit. Add a pop of gold eyeshadow to your makeup to enhance the glamorous vibe.
Conclusion
With these styling tips, you are all set for the upcoming packed festive season. No matter the event, all you need is the right qipao and you are done for the eve. When styling anything, make sure to go with the occasion and stay true to your personality. Even with simplicity and subtle accessories, you can make your qipao pop if you wear it confidently. So, take tips and shuffle your wardrobe for some fresh chic additions of qipao and go shopping.
