The name "cheongsam," meaning simply "long dress," is also called Qipao. Known as one of the most typical, traditional costumes for Chinese women, cheongsam enjoys a growing popularity in the international world of high fashion. In the early 17th century in North China, Nurhachi, a great political and military strategist, unified the various Nuzhen tribes and set up the Eight Banner System. Over the years, a collarless tube-shaped gown was developed, This is the embryo of the Qipao. It became popular among the royal palace of the Qing(1644-1911) Dynasty and the mansions of the Manchu nobility.

    Easy to slip on and comfortable to wear, the cheongsam fits well the female Chinese figure. Its neck is high, collar closed, and its sleeves may be either short, medium or full length, depending on season and taste. The dress is buttoned on the right side, with a loose chest, a fitting waist, and slits up from the sides, all of which combine to set off the beauty of the female shape. Usually it is made of silk, and embroidered, with broad laces trimmed at the collar, sleeves and edges.

    Like other costumes, the beauty of cheongsam comes first. Simplicity is one of its features from the collar, loop, chest, waist and hips to the lower hem, and a cheongsam almost varies with a woman's figure. Practicality always goes with beauty. Qipaos are worn in both urban and rural areas, its long-standing elegance and serenity making wearers fascinating. Qipaos can display Chinese women's modesty, softness and beauty. Like Chinese women's temperament, Qipaos are elegant and gentle.

    Nowadays fashion culture has become a point of intersection of social culture, reflecting economic developments, social progress and educational level. It represents people's spirit, living standards and aspirations towards beauty. With an impression of simple and quiet charm, elegance and neatness, the cheongsam has become a wonderful flower in the Chinese colorful fashion scene.