All eyes will be on China’s traditional qipao this weekend for the upcoming Milan Expo 2015. Over 500 Chinese and Italian people alike are expected to wear the iconic dress, known as a “mandarin gown” in English, for the expo’s Shanghai Week.
According to nonprofit organization Shanghai Qipao Culture Promotion Association, a one-day exhibition in Florence will take place after the shows at the China Corporate United Pavilion and China Pavilion.
"We wanted to take the Shanghai-style qipao to the Milan Expo after hearing that the event would include a Shanghai Week," said Zhang Lili, who serves as the president of the organization. "What better way to show Shanghai culture than with this iconic fashion?"
Dating back to the 17th century, the qipao first made appearance under Manchu rule during the Qing Dynasty. The original version, first worn by women, featured a loose fit unlike its successors. The Shanghai-style qipao we all know today was made in the 1920s and favored a tighter fitting to accentuate the wearer's body curves.
Socialites and female members of high society often wore the Shanghai-style qipao.
"When women wear this special dress, they feel elegant, confident, slim, and healthy," Zhang said.
Since its designation as an item with "intangible cultural heritage" in 2009, the one-piece dress has enjoyed renewed interest.
The cultural relevance of the qipao was emphasized by Zhang as well. In an interview with Shanghai Daily, she attributes the organization's astounding growth in membership due to the qipao's importance.
"Our success shows that the qipao and what it stands for are still alive."
From humble beginnings with only 92 members, the Shanghai Qipao Culture Promotion Association now has over 300 members. Women from all walks of life have joined the nonprofit group.
Aside from the qipao, Chinese songs, a fashion show, and other cultural activities will be showcased at the Milan Expo 2015.