This cream coloured mid-length cheongsam with medium length sleeves has a lustrous sheen as it is made from silk damask – silk woven with elaborate patterns. Silk damask commands a high price because of the costliness of silk as a raw material. The cheongsam is a ubiquitous Chinese dress that first gained popularity in the early 20th century and was an essential part of a typical woman’s wardrobe. It has its origins in the originally long robes worn by Manchu women of the Qing Dynasty. The cheongsam is usually bespoked to ensure a fitted silhouette and its other distinctive features include a high collar, side slits at the hem and a decorative knot and loop fastener for the collar or shoulder flap, called the ‘hua niu’.
