Image: Shanghai Tang
The Christmas and New Year fêtes may be over but another festive occasion that is just about to make a crackling appearance is the Lunar New Year. Chinese New Year goodies, decorations, reunion dinners and red packets aside, strutting in our brand new CNY outfits is one of the many highlights we look forward to each year.
To help with your Chinese New Year shopping, we’ve compiled a list of brands that boast a mix of modern and traditional qipao (or cheongsam) collections for women and kids, as well as smart casual to formal wear for men – all in our guide to Oriental Fashion in Hong Kong.
For Kids
China Doll
Fills the gap between traditional and modern qipaos
Available online | Visit their Facebook page for updates on pop-up stores
A new player in the luxury Kids market, Chinadoll Kids also fills the gap between modern and traditional qipaos for kids. Playful, modern, chic dresses are made with luxurious brocade silks, the traditional touch of hand-sewn techniques as well as a beaded mandarin collar to complete the look. Custom-made dresses are also available upon request.
Ganas Kids
Adorable designs for infants
Available online.
This innovative kid’s label believes that kid’s fashion should be not only stylish but functional and affordable as well. The result is a range of playful, modern and adorable designs that incorporate rich colours and fun prints. Select from a collection of long sleeve tees, bodysuits, two-piece kimono sets and rompers. Sizes range from 0-24 months.
Little Islanders
Classic and modern qipao dresses with a cause
Available online.
This ethical childrenswear label constantly creates thoughtful designs made with artisanal hand-woven Filipino textiles. Whilst the fabric is sourced from the Philippines, dresses are sewn in Hong Kong by a talented group of craftswomen. Their qipao collection includes classic and modern qipao dresses clad in a myriad of vibrant colours.
For Ladies and Gents
RCANO
Avant-garde designs with a Mexican flair and Asian touch
Available online.
Founded in 2014 by Mexican siblings Rafael and Tamara Raya Cano, RCANO brings authenticity and uniqueness to men’s fashion. The Avant-garde designs give a twist to the classic menswear label, adding a vibrant, colourful Mexican flair – and an Asian touch. Though the pieces don’t necessary scream “Oriental Fashion”, we think some of these designs are going to be instant hits at your reunion dinner parties.
SAU
Sensuous silhouettes, edgy cuts, elegant and sheer lace details
47 Staunton Street Central, Hong Kong (Pop-up shop) | Also available online.
Inspired by the bold, eclectic women of Hong Kong, SAU is the answer to modern working women all around the world who have a love for fashion and who aren’t afraid to stand out. Founder and designer, Cheryl Sau manages to create a collection that is classic and timeless, yet modern and devious at the same time. Sensuous silhouettes, edgy cuts, elegant and sheer lace details are some staples you’ll find in the collection.
Shanghai Tang
Sleek, sexy and sophisticated pieces
1 Duddell St, Central, Hong Kong | Also available at various locations.
Since its inception in 1994, Shanghai Tang has been the pioneering international luxury lifestyle brand from China. Shanghai Tang’s iconic qipao dresses are known for exemplifying modern Chinese chic. Sleek, sexy and sophisticated, this season they are coming in a thrilling variety of new fabrics to update classic shapes. Men can select from a collection of formal evening wear including perfectly cut suits, jackets and shirts using specially sourced luxurious materials.
Yi Ming
Modern touches on the traditional cheongsam
Flat A, 8/F, Kimley Commercial Building, 142 Queen’s Rd Central, Hong Kong (By Appointment only) | Also available at various stockists.
With an appreciation for the arts and an eye for quality, Yi-ming creates contemporary East-meets-West style garments, combining oriental Chinese detail with western craftsmanship. This fusion of East and West is reflected in their qipao/cheongsam collection where modern touches like ruffles, off-shoulder style trends and snake skin patterned fabrics are incorporated in the traditional cheongsam.
