The extremely elegant and feminine Cheongsam is a quintessential Chinese womens dress of the 20th century. In its modern form, it is a fusion of traditional Chinese costume and western fashion, that started its development in the early 20th century, notably in Shanghai. Later, Cheongsam design evolved primarily in Hong Kong and overseas Chinese communities. Interesting to note is that many great fashion styles have been incorporated in Cheongsam design, without affecting the ever present Chinese identity expressed by, among others, the mandarin collar and shoulder and side closures. This book in the PEPIN series contains a wonderful selection of photographs of some of the most beautiful Cheongsams from all decades of the 20th century, as well as many historical photographs. Also included are cutting schemes, embroidery details and vector drawings of typical decorative elements such as dragons, peacocks and floral designs.
