Inspired by the history of the qipao influenced by the development of western feminism, I experimented with heavy-weight cotton denim to make a qipao in western style tailoring and construction for eveningwear. I chose to use denim to add more culture clash and fusion to the design because the textile represents the western and modern culture, also opposite to the traditional choice in the lightweight material of the qipao traditionally.

The design of the petticoat serves to give a trumpet silhouette to the look. It is constructed wrapped around the hip to avoid bulge under the qipao and starts gathering from the top of the slits. The number of ruffles increases by layers to create a trumpet silhouette and decrease in transparency, visually balancing the qipao and the petticoat from top to bottom.

Materials:

• Qipao: 12oz Cotton Denim, 7oz Washed Cotton Denim (binding)

• Petticoat: Polyester Lining, Nylon Tulle