This is a black sleeveless cheongsam with an all over abstract print of sailing ships. The collar, sleeves and hems are lined with double black and white piping. It is decorated with knotted buttons and loops known as frog buttons (花钮, hua niu) on the collar and right flap of the bodice.This piece belonged to Mdm. Low Suet Hing, who used to visit a Shanghainese tailor at Geylang to make her cheongsams. Shanghainese tailors were known for their workmanship in producing cheongsams of superior quality. Mdm. Low would personally select fabrics from High Street, Arab Street, and Queen Street in Singapore. Influenced by the Western style, Mdm. Low would complement her cheongsam with a small handbag, high-heeled shoes and stockings.
