Photo of Lady in Silk Cheongsam with Printed Floral Motifs

This picture was taken in Shanghai in the 1930s and 1940s. It is speculated that the textile for the cheongsam embellished with complete floral patterns is jacquard satin. The ingenious tailoring skills of the artisan can be unveiled by the tight-fitting silhouette of this gown although no bust or waist darts were added.