Qipao or Cheongsam

Qipao or Cheongsam is a formal type of Chinese gown from China’s Manchu Nationality.  The centuries old history of this dress form is legend, and as such may not be true. What is known is that this type of dress became popular among female members of the Chinese royal family during the Qing Dynasty (1644-1912).

This example made in Hong Kong from dark green velvet with decorative embellishment along the neck opening was brought to Richmond in the late 20th century and was worn by Ms. Julie Laghi of Singapore. Ms. Laghi is a member of The Asian American Society of Central Virginia, which was founded in 1998 to promote awareness and recognition of Asian heritage.