Filipino Wedding Glossary › Qipao
Qipao
Pronunciation: CHEE-pow
Origin: Mandarin (also Cantonese cheongsam), fitted bridal dress with origins in Manchu Qing-dynasty fashion, adapted across the Chinese diaspora
A fitted, high-collared dress with side slits, worn by Chinese-Filipino brides at the tea ceremony or reception.
A qipao (Mandarin) or cheongsam (Cantonese) is a fitted, high-collared dress with side slits. The design has roots in Qing-dynasty Manchu fashion and was adapted in Shanghai and Hong Kong in the early 20th century.
Tsinoy brides commonly wear a red qipao for the tea ceremony or as a reception change after a Western gown. Embroidery often features dragon-and-phoenix or peony motifs.
The term cheongsam refers to the same garment in Cantonese-speaking communities. Style varies by family heritage and modern designer interpretation.