As we inch closer towards Chinese New Year 2023, it’s about time to get some new year shopping done. If you’re looking to wear a cheongsam but you don’t want to endure visiting in a high-collared and tight-fitting outfit, then how about dressing yourself up in one that has a modern twist?
The fashion world is always looking to bring back past styles in a relevant way, and now you can find cheongsam that are modernised with fresh trims and contemporary touches. Now you can find different silhouettes, comfortable fabrics, and trendy patterns. We’re so happy cheongsams are traditional clothes made modern.
Here is a list of some that we think are perfect for CNY visiting in 2023.
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Modern Ways To Wear The Cheongsam
Looking for something exquisite? Established Singapore couturier Goh Lai Chan has got you covered. The designer has been creating modern cheongsams for almost 30 years, with a long list of loyal clients. Expect impeccable craftsmanship and delightful, off-the-rack designs set to impress.
Shop online or visit #03-20 Paragon, 290 Orchard Road, Singapore 238859
Ong Shunmugam needs no introduction. Known for their striking designs with a modern twist, you’ll want to check out the homegrown label’s Cheongsam 2023 for bold, printed dresses and separates that will continue to work hard in your wardrobe beyond Chinese New Year.
Shop online or visit 43 Jalan Merah Saga 01-76 Singapore 278115
We love the myriad styles from Joli Pretty that can be mixed and matched to create different looks. With eye-catching details such as intricate lace and embroidery, unique colours and vintage fabrics, you’re bound to find something you love for the festivities.
Shop online.
Popular cheongsam label The Missing Piece carries covetable styles with unexpected details such as cape-sleeved frocks, brocade minidresses and jumpsuits with waist cut-outs. Go matchy with the entire fam—yes, men, boys and girls included—with the label’s varied offerings.
Shop online or visit 501 Bukit Timah Rd, #03-05 Cluny Court, Singapore 259760
A unique cut, this cocoon cheongsam long top can be worn as a dress or shirt. It’s made with eco-friendly and sustainable ramie fabric. This fabric is made from a kind of weed, but it looks like a cross between silk and linen. Ramie fabric has a stylish sheen, and is cooler to wear than cotton in warm and humid weather.
This top is a contemporary statement piece that will set you apart from all your relatives and friends this CNY. Flowy and unrestrictive, there is a knot at the bottom that turns it into something special.
They also carry this design in black and brown for those who want to go for darker colours this year. (Maybe to show off your gold jewellery?)
You Living prides itself on being a sustainable, slow-fashion, low-waste brand. So they have limited quantities on hand. Your order will be shipped two to three weeks after ordering – so best get ordering now!
Buy it here.
Conceptualised and created for the modern woman, Lark and Peony prides itself in “weaving modernity, comfort and sensibility into every piece [they] create.” You’ll find cheongsams, peplum tops and flared dresses featuring retro prints, as well as oriental style dresses in pastel shades of rose, meringue, and lilac—whimsical favourites to do your house visits in.
Shop online.
YeoMama Batik boasts handmade batik designs aimed at empowering the batik craft and community in Indonesia. Thoughtfully designed by a mother and daughter duo who believe that everyone deserves to look good and feel good regardless of age and body shape, the label’s offerings include printed cheongsams, dresses, jumpsuits and outerwear, as well as fun styles for men and kids.
Shop online or 65 Ubi Road 1, #01-87 Oxley Bizhub 1, Singapore 408729.
Hong Kong fashion brand Shanghai Tang is the go-to label for contemporary ready-to-wear collections that nod to Chinese heritage. From lace qipao tops to silk crepe dresses and jacquard jackets, the label’s versatile pieces will take you from desk to dinner.
Shop online or visit its multiple store locations including The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands and Raffles City.
Hong Kong-based fashion brand Yi-ming has launched a new capsule collection just in time for the CNY festivities. Inspired by our sunny island, the collection sees wearable separates featuring iconic prints of Singapore motifs that also showcase the brand’s signature East-meets-West aesthetic.
Yi-ming, 2nd Level Yue Hwa Chinese Products Pte Ltd, 70 Eu Tong Sen Street, Singapore 059805
OliveAnkara celebrates the richness and diversity of different cultures by melding traditional attire (cheongsams and kimonos) with African wax-print fabrics. These vibrant styles are sure to give your CNY outfit a playful spin.
Shop online or visit #01-02, 79 Chay Yan Street, Singapore 160079
Text: Shermin Ng/Harper’s Bazaar