The history gallery is showcasing the revolution of Cheongsams since the 20th century with the shift in social role of women – from obsequiousness to independence.
Cheongsam is a Cantonese term for qipao and it is made popular by Cantonese speaking tailors and domestic helpers from the past. The popularity, however, declined in the 1970s and 1980s. Fortunately, with the injection of modern fashion sense, cheongsams are recreated into a contemporary iconic symbol of Chinese distinctiveness that is popular even amongst the younger generation now.
Array of Cheongsams displayed traced from 1920s to present day.
The timeliest cheongsams started off as 2 pieces with the gradual transition to full piece dresses. Design and fit also varied from fabric to hemming; collar as well as embellishments. It is truly fascinating to witness such intricacy as we cruise through every milestone of women’s societal role.
Educated females in the earliest days wore cheongsams that are long sleeved and wide fit. This clearly displays the conservativeness of women in that era. With the infiltration of western influence and women’s integration into the workforce, cheongsams are made to match with Western-style jackets fit for work. This is a tad divergence from the initial feminine tone of cheongsams with a modish touch.
We are warmed to see such transformation which commenced the acknowledgement of women’s role in the workforce instead of the backward thinking that women are meant to stay at home while men are in charge of working. Looking at present day, it would be a disaster to the standard of living without dual income for many.
Geometric patterns/Slim fit
With the growing modernization, slim fit cheongsams were introduced. Emphasis on accentuating body contours are deemed as flattering and elegant for ladies, especially for formal events. Length of sleeves were reduced from long to short/capped and even sleeveless. Other groups of cheongsams on display were the black series. Pieces worn by famous local figures, such as Singapore’s first ladies, were also exhibited. Remarkably though, cheongsams still maintain its poise outlook despite the tweaks down the history of shifting society.
An interesting nook showcased the recent interpretations of the cheongsam by renowned brands: Christian Dior and Anna Sui. These pieces integrated the essence of a cheongsam, with a modern touch.
We found the interactive corner near the exit of the exhibit fun and cleverly implemented, appealing to both kids and adults. Stencils were available for the tracing of authentic cheongsam. These popular motifs include the peony, fish and bat. Color pencils were also available to liven up the picture. We felt it doubled up as a great DIY take home souvenir.
Overall, the exhibit was enjoyable. The trail down the years of cheongsam was well delivered and the transition was easy to follow. The history and evolution were informative and the collection was impressively expansive. We particularly appreciated the relations of cheongsams to well-known Singaporean figures of yesteryears. This provided a very local flair and touch. It also enabled us to better appreciate the functionality of cheongsams for different occasions – from everyday wear to special events.
Overall, it was a great trip down cheongsam memory lane. We recommend this exhibit for everyone, especially those who have an interest in fashion evolution where the eclectic wardrobe of cheongsams will serve as an inspiration to the next trend!
Information:
National Museum Of Singapore
93 Stamford Road
Singapore 178897
Exhibition Gallery 1, Basement
Wed 28 Mar – Wed 27 June 2012 | 10am – 6pm
More information at
http://www.nationalmuseum.sg/ExhibitionDetail.aspx?id=67&cat=2
Muse@Singapore 