What is a Traditional Handmade Qipao?
What is a Qipao (Cheongsam)?
A Qipao, also known as Cheongsam, is a traditional Chinese dress that became iconic in the 1920s and 1930s. Known for its elegant silhouette, high collar, and side slits, it embodies both grace and strength. Today, it is cherished not only as formal wear but also as a piece of cultural heritage.
What makes a Qipao “traditionally handmade”?
A traditionally handmade Qipao is crafted using time-honored tailoring techniques. Every detail—from cutting the fabric to hand-stitching the seams, from shaping the collar to creating the intricate frog buttons—is done by skilled artisans. Unlike mass-produced dresses, each handmade Qipao is a unique work of art, reflecting the craftsperson’s expertise and care.
Why does it take so long to make?
Making a Qipao by hand requires patience and precision. The tailoring must perfectly follow the wearer’s measurements, and the dress is often adjusted several times to ensure the ideal fit. Hand-sewn details, such as piping and button loops, are delicate and time-intensive. Depending on the fabric and design, a single Qipao may take several days to weeks to complete.
Why is it more expensive than a regular dress?
The cost reflects the craftsmanship, time, and artistry invested in each piece. Unlike machine-made clothing, a handmade Qipao cannot be rushed—every stitch is intentional. In addition, luxurious fabrics such as silk, brocade, and lace are often used, adding to its value. What you are paying for is not just a dress, but a piece of wearable art that can be cherished for years.
When is it appropriate to wear one?
A Qipao is versatile and can be worn for many special occasions. It is traditionally worn at weddings, Chinese New Year, and important cultural celebrations. In modern times, it is also chosen for formal events, cocktail parties, and even as an elegant evening dress. Many women wear it when they want to feel graceful, confident, and connected to heritage.
Shop FAQ
Why choose handcrafted custom qipaos?
As a close-fitting garment, the qipao requires extremely precise measurements to accommodate different body types—whether fuller, petite, tall, or slender. Only through customization can you truly bring out its elegance and essence.
What is the process for a custom sized cheongsam?
When placing your order, please supply either in order notes or via email:
▪️ Height (in cm)
▪️ Weight (in kg)
▪️ Body Measurements (in cm):
- Bust
- Waist
- Hips
▪️ Back Shoulder Width (in cm)
▪️ Full-Body Photos (2 required):
- Front view + Side view
- Wear form-fitting clothing (e.g., fitted t-shirt + slim pants)
- Hair tied up (to reveal neck/shoulder contours)
- Stand naturally against a plain background
📌 All measurements must be provided in centimeters (cm) and kilograms (kg).
To make self-measurement easier, you only need to provide the above information. For any special requests, please feel free to contact us.
Production begins immediately upon receiving your measurements. Total crafting time is 15 business days. We appreciate your patience as we create your unique piece.
How to take my body measurements?
You can refer to our Measuring Guide for measurement instructions.
When will my order be shipped?
As a purely handcrafted custom atelier, we carry no ready-made stock.To ensure workmanship quality and a perfect fit, every qipao is individually tailored.
Production begins immediately upon receiving your measurements. Total crafting time is 15 business days. We appreciate your patience as we create your unique piece.
When will my order be delivered?
Your total delivery time consists of two parts:
Production Time: Approximately 15 business days for custom garments.
Shipping Time: Typically 7-14 business days (varies by destination).
Total Delivery Time = Production Time + Shipping Time
Please account for both phases when ordering, especially for gifts or special occasions.
How can I track my package?
Once your order has been shipped, you will receive an email containing tracking information.
What If My Package Hasn’t Arrived on Time?
If your order is taking longer than the estimated delivery time, please double-check that the submitted shipping address is correct and contact your local postal service. Please contact us at: support@susielocheongsam.com if you need any assistance.
Can I change my shipping address?
Please contact us along with your order number in the subject line to change your address.
You can also email us at: support@susielocheongsam.com.
Please kindly note that updating the shipping address in your personal account won't affect the shipping address in your processing orders.
Shipping addresses have to be changed manually by us, so please let us know as soon as possible.
We are unable to change addresses after orders have been shipped.
Can I exchange items?
Unfortunately, we do not currently offer an exchange service.We apologize for any inconvenience.
What if my custom size item doesn’t fit well?
We offer a free local tailoring credit up to $25 USD to help cover the cost if your bespoke size cheongsam requires alterations for an optimal fit. Be sure to let us know if you'll be getting alterations within 15 days of when you receive your order, by sending an email to support@susielocheongsam.com. Simply send us a picture of the receipt afterwards (within 2 months) and we'll process your reimbursement back to your original form of payment.
What if there is an issue with my item?
Please email us at support@susielocheongsam.com with clear photos/videos showing the issue and we will make sure to follow up with you to resolve the issue.
How to contact you?
You can send us an email to support@susielocheongsam.com. We'll get back to you within 24-48 hours.
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