Bold and vibrant colours are often taken as a hallmark of Lunar New Year fashion. Yet, you also can’t run away from traditional dressing.
The cheongsam is a perennial favourite, and designers constantly include it into their festive collections every year.
One way to make the dress form more contemporary is by the use of trendy shades – something which designer Keith Kee has done this year.
His eye-catching cheongsam designs come in colours with fancy (or rather, Gen Z-appealing) names like sunset coral, aquatic awe, transcendent pink, bio mint and radiant raspberry.
“Pastels are a big trend,” Keith declares.
According to him, the aim is to present the cheongsam as cool, modern and contemporary, but without steering away from traditional elements.
The mandarin collar is included in every one of his designs, as are the Chinese loop buttons (pankou) and cap sleeves.
“It blends heritage with bold, modern perspectives. Each piece – no matter how it is changed – will always reflect the timeless beauty that is Chinese New Year,” Keith comments.
“My goal is always to reimagine the cheongsam, creating fresh silhouettes and innovative ideas that push beyond the traditional.”
Read more: Layered, reddish-brown, short bobs: Trending hairdos for Chinese New Year
A design you can fall in love with
Jimmy Wong says that the classic cheongsam embodies the feminine aspect of the wearer. This helps bring about a classy and sophisticated vibe.
When it comes to modern reinterpretations, the designer believes in their cross-generational appeal – which means the cheongsam won’t risk dying out.
“I am just glad the younger generations are embracing the traditional attire, and making it a norm during festive seasons,” Jimmy shares.
He explains that he approaches his Chinese New Year collections differently each year.
“Last year, my cheongsams were more classic. They looked more like a traditional one-piece dress, and fitted,” Jimmy relates.
“This time, my designs are more contemporary. Some are pieces that can be layered to create different looks – or taken apart and worn individually. They can also be styled as an everyday garment, without looking like an oriental piece.
His advice is that you need to know your own personal style when choosing a cheongsam. Available styles can range from classic and feminine, to edgy or experimental.
“I believe there is always that one special cheongsam that is made for you,” he waxes poetic.
“It’s like love at first sight, if it catches your eye for some reason, don’t be afraid to try it on and see how it makes you feel when you wear it.”
Not a difficult choice to make
While the cheongsam comes in varied looks, shopping for one need not necessarily be complicated.
“I always tell my customers to start by picking the colour first,” states Shirley Wong of Maglifestyle.
“This is because I feel colours are important in bringing ‘energy’ to your dressing. The right colour can help change your mood, and this is something you should take note of, especially during a festive celebration.”
Shirley says that cheongsams have many designs – there are those with a flared skirt, others are fitted; they can come in two pieces or as a one-piece dress.
Her sister and co-founder of the brand, Yen Lee Wong, adds that oriental elements like the pankou are trendy. Western designers have featured them in their creations frequently.
She stresses that international fashion runways have also showcased cheongsams.
“So, don’t worry about whether the garment is too traditional for your age. Don’t think about trends, or question if the cheongsam you like and wish to buy is trendy,” she says.
“Cheongsams can and should be worn all time, in my opinion. Not just for Chinese New Year.”
Read more: Creative flair: Chinese New Year fashion campaigns celebrate culture in style
Styling it the right way
Other local designers and brands have also introduced beautiful cheongsams this year.
For example, there are the designs by Innai Red and Khoon Hooi. Campaign images show models carrying moddish bags and chic heels.
Stylist Andrea Kee says that elevating your cheongsam look with accessories is easy.
“When it comes to mandarin collars – because they tend to have a high neckline, then a pair of drop earring would be perfect. Wear a simple necklace, otherwise it will look messy in that area,” she shares.
“For bags, a clutch will look sleek and pared-down enough. It also complements the whole oriental theme if you pick one made out of brocade jacquard, or silk. I would say flats work perfectly, if you want something more comfortable other than heels.”
On getting getting share-worthy pictures for social media, Andrea’s advice is to always think of a colour theme. This is so that you can have a cohesive series of festive snaps.
She also cautions against choosing a cheongsam that is too tight.
Despite the belief that cheongsams are meant to be worn fitted, her preference is for comfort above all else – especially as you will be constantly out and about visiting loved ones during Chinese New Year.
“There is no harm in going a size up, then getting it altered to fit just perfectly,” Andrea concludes.
Already a subscriber? Log in
Get 20% OFF The Star Digital Access
Cancel anytime. Ad-free. Unlimited access with perks.
