A blue sleeveless cheongsam with white floral embroidery

Title
A blue sleeveless cheongsam with white floral embroidery
Year/Period
1960s-1980s
Region
Singapore
Dimension
Gross measurement: 107.2 x 43.6 cm
Accession No.
2011-00062
Credit Line
Gift of Mrs. Irene Lim

This is a blue cheongsam with intricate white floral embroidery all over. This knee-length piece is made from Swiss cotton, a material that absorbs sweat easily and is thus ideal for wear in Singapore’s tropical climate.The cheongsam is a ubiquitous Chinese dress that first gained popularity in the early 20th century and was an essential part of a typical woman’s wardrobe. It has its origins in the originally long robes worn by Manchu women of the Qing Dynasty. The cheongsam is usually bespoked to ensure a fitted silhouette and its other distinctive features include a high collar, side slits at the hem and a decorative knot and loop fastener for the collar or shoulder flap, called the ‘hua niu’.