The qipao, also known as cheongsam, is a stunning symbol of Chinese culture, blending timeless elegance with intricate craftsmanship. While traditionally worn during festive occasions, weddings, and formal events, the qipao has also become a fashionable statement piece in modern wardrobes. If you're in the U.S. and looking to purchase one, you're in luck—there are several places where you can find both traditional and contemporary qipaos.

1. Specialty Boutiques in Chinatown

Many major cities with Chinatowns, like New York City, San Francisco, and Los Angeles, offer specialty shops where you can find authentic qipaos. These boutiques often carry a range of styles, from traditional silk designs to modern interpretations with bold prints and unique cuts.

• Good Locations to Explore:

  • New York City: Madame Koo, New Age Designer, Lai’s Loyal Tailoring

  • Other notable NYC designer brands: Snow Xue Gao, Da Wang

  • San Francisco: Ling Ling Chinese Dress, Dragon Seed

  • Los Angeles: Jinza, Brocade Apparel

2. Asian Cultural Stores and Craft Shops

Some Asian cultural stores specialize in selling traditional attire, including qipaos, alongside other cultural goods. These stores often provide options for all age groups and a variety of price ranges, making them accessible for casual shoppers and collectors alike, such as Pearl River Market ($-$$) in NYC or clothing stores on East Broadway, Manhattan.

3. Online Stores with U.S. Shipping

Shopping for a qipao online offers a broader range of choices, from affordable options to high-end, custom-made designs. Look for stores that provide detailed sizing charts and customer reviews to ensure a good fit.

• Popular Online Stores:

  • Shangtai Tang: Shanghai Tang is a Hong Kong luxury fashion house founded in 1994. The brand is known for its luxury homeware collection and fine bone china. $$$-$$$$

  • Shiatzy Chen: A Taiwanese luxury fashion house founded in 1978 by Wang Chen Tsai-Hsia and her husband Wang Yuan-Hong. Its style is described as "neo-Chinese chic", combining the aesthetics of Chinese clothing and handicraft with Western styles. $$$$

  • Vivienne Tam: Vivienne Tam is a fashion designer based in New York City. Tam's fashion brand is named after her and is inspired by Chinese culture, design, modern fashion, and east–west fusion. $$$$

  • Madame Koo: A luxury qipao brand inspired by the elegance and cultural legacy of Madame Wellington Koo with a physical store in Manhattan. $$-$$$

  • East Meets Dress: A brand focused on creating modern Chinese wedding qipaos, with free U.S. shipping. $-$$

  • Beth and Brian: Online qipao store with easy shipping. $-$$

4. Qipao Designers and Tailors

If you’re looking for a bespoke qipao, many independent designers and tailors in the U.S. specialize in creating custom pieces. Custom tailoring allows you to select the fabric, embroidery, and cut, ensuring a one-of-a-kind piece that fits perfectly.

• Connie Tao: Connie Tao’s passion for art and design, inspired by her dressmaking family, led her to pursue art classes and earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Fashion Design from Otis College of Art and Design.

• Qipaology: Qipology is a Hong Kong brand modernizing the qipao (cheongsam) with high-quality, wearable designs. It balances heritage and modernity, using luxurious fabrics and thoughtful details for various occasions, including bridal, formal, and casual wear. Qipology seeks to make the qipao stylish and accessible while preserving traditional aesthetics.

Final Tips for Buying a Qipao

1. Understand Your Size: Qipaos are often form-fitting. Check the measurements carefully or consider alterations for the best fit.

2. Know the Occasion: Choose a style and fabric that suits the event—silk for formal occasions or lighter fabrics for casual wear.

3. Consider Modern Alternatives: If a traditional qipao feels too formal, look for qipao-inspired dresses with a modern twist.

No matter where you purchase your qipao, wearing one is a meaningful way to celebrate Chinese culture and express timeless elegance. Whether you’re attending a wedding, a cultural event, or simply want to incorporate this iconic dress into your wardrobe, there’s a perfect qipao waiting for you in the U.S.