(Ecns.cn)！Nothing cries feminine elegance and beauty quite like a body-hugging Qipao (also known as a cheongsam or mandarin gown), a traditional dress that caught on in Shanghai during the 1920s. Unlike other traditional Chinese dresses for women, the Qipao is designed to fit perfectly and flatter a woman's body.
These high-necked sleeveless dresses can be elaborate, making them inconvenient for mass production. As a result, you must turn to a custom-made store to acquire one.
Such stores are abundant, however some lack signs and may be hard to find. Below are some time-honored Qipao stores in Shanghai, mainly located in Maoming and Changle roads, where you can have your special garment made to order.
1. Old Shanghai, Changle Road
It's special because of the color preferences of the designer; extraordinary because of the artistic value of its dresses; and unique because of its 90-year-old chief designer and tailor, who devotes himself to his work with great passion. This is Old Shanghai, one of the most famous Qipao stores in the city.
Most designers use dark green and bright red in their Qipao as a way to deliver a nostalgic message; this is not the case at Old Shanghai. Here, low-profile colors such as white, beige and navy blue are preferred, which endows the dresses with a tinge of elegance. The art of embroidery has also been introduced by the chief designer into his Qipao.
Due to its exquisite craftsmanship, Old Shanghai attracts collectors from home and abroad, including movie stars.
Address: No.201, Changle Road, Luwan District
Tel: 86-21-54049576
2. Jinzhiyuye, Maoming South Road
If you are looking for a Qipao that not only bears the Chinese style, but also depicts personal taste, Jinzhiyuyue should be your choice. Yezi, the owner and chief designer, consults with her customers before creating personal and elaborate traditional styles.
Address: No.72 Maoming South Road, Luwan District
Tel: 86-21-64314398
3. 2002 on Sea, Changle Road
Time-honored and professional, 2002 on Sea targets younger customers and incorporates bits and pieces from international fashion into its Qipao designs.
Address: No.201 Changle Road (a block away from Maoming South Road), Luwan District
Tel: 86-21-5404295761
