Searching for the perfect cheongsam or qipao is tricky. Firstly, there’s the silhouette to take into consideration, and then the print, the length, down to the height of the collar and the type of sleeves. Thankfully, aside from our local fashion designers, more brands have also launched capsule collections in conjunction with Chinese New Year, so if you’re looking for more options, we’ve got you covered.
Below, find eight places you can get your ‘Year of the Tiger’ outfits from:
Fern
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Luxury Malaysian batik label Fern has been giving the traditional batik a modern spin with its handcrafted fabrics ever since its launch over six years ago, and for Chinese New Year 2022, the brand launched a new print inspired by the lotus flower. Dubbed ‘The Lotus Series’, the blooms—which symbolise rebirth and transformation—are introduced in painterly motifs, whether it’s on bias cut sleeveless silk number or on a ruffle-sleeved frock with mandarin collar and knot buttons.
Check out the pieces at Fern’s Bangsar Village II store, and watch our interview with the founder here.
Nala
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Started out as a pattern design boutique, Nala, who’s owned by Lisette Scheers (a Dutch who’s born in Singapore and now based in Malaysia) has always been known for its graphic patterns that extends from homeware and lifestyle items to clothing. The brand has recently launched its Chinese New Year collection entitled ‘Sweet Sixteen’, featuring designs that are inspired by a trip to Japan on the brand’s 16th birthday. Aside from the sleeveless cheongsam in an array of prints, you can find a fit-and-flare design that also comes with a belt.
View the full collection here.
Ugly Pretty
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Look to IG label Ugly Pretty, who first gained a following for its unique, upcycled corsets, for something a bit more Gen-Z and in line with the upcoming trends of Spring/Summer 2022. The brand has unveiled a capsule of qipao crop tops complete with cut-outs and in gradient colours that come with matching high-slit minis.
View the collection here.
Behati
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Known for their unique yet contemporary take on traditional local fabrics, Behati has dropped their Lunar New Year collection featuring cheongsams reconstructed into two piece ensembles that include corset boning, fringed hems, and even in a hybrid of clashing prints. If you’re a fan of the oversized, their Palazo Tang suit comes in vibrant colours with a mix of traditional Malay and Chinese constructions, and there’s also a traditional samfu reinvented in a sporty silhouette.
View the collection here.
Zalora
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If you’re shopping for new threads on Zalora this Chinese New Year, the e-retailer also has a variety of traditional attire available at an affordable price point (plus massive deals till the end of the month), from its in-house labels and more.
Shop for cheongsams on Zalora here.
Chinatown Classic
Founded in 1988, Chinatown Classic has branches not only in Kuala Lumpur, but in Singapore and Jakarta as well. If you’re all about options, the boutique has more than 5,000 oriental apparels and accessories for you to choose from, including modern and casual designs that are suitable for different events. What we like most, is its in-house tailor who can customise any piece to your liking and give you the perfect fit.
Chinatown Classic is located at LG-056, Mid Valley Megamall.
Emerald Brilliant
Emerald Brilliant has been around since 1973, and with eight outlets across West Malaysia, the brand has established itself as one of the most prominent oriental-wear brands in Malaysia. In each store, you’ll be able to find locally-made cheongsams, ‘qun kua‘ (the Chinese wedding attire), and gowns with traditional elements. Can’t find anything you like? The boutique also offers tailor-make services in-store.
Emerald Brilliant has outlets in SS2, Empire Subang Gallery, 1 Utama and Mid Valley Megamall.
Farfetch
Luxury e-retailer Farfetch also has some qipao options, notably from Paris-based brands Shiatzy Chen and Andrew Gn, London-based designer Samuel Guì Yang, and Hong Kong label Shanghai Tang. Check out the first two brands if you’re looking for something a bit more modern.
Shop the cheongsams on Farfetch here.
Read more Chinese New Year stories here.
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