Learn how the qipao wedding dress — a classic symbol of Chinese chic — is now a show-stopping bridal statement that fuses tradition with modern flair. Whether out of respect for your heritage or you’re simply looking for a unique, culturally significant gown, this guide will help you find, wear, and style the perfect cheongsam on your wedding day.
Key Takeaways
The qipao wedding dress is a work of traditional art and modern bridal design.
White qipaos offer a Western-inspired twist while maintaining cultural elegance.
Maroon crop top qipaos for brides represent good luck in Chinese wedding traditions.
Today’s cheongsam styles offer fashionable options for both brides and guests.
Understanding the cultural roots of the qipao deepens appreciation, especially for non-Chinese wearers in the U.S.
???? Table of Contents
Introduction to Qipao Wedding Dresses
The Evolution of the Modern Bridal Qipao
Symbolic Colors: Red vs. White Qipao
How to Style Qipao as a Wedding Guest
What to Consider When Choosing a Qipao Wedding Dress
Where to Buy Qipao Wedding Dresses in the U.S.
Conclusion
Frequently Asked Questions
Introduction to Qipao Wedding Dresses
The qipao wedding dress (also known as a cheongsam) is a beautiful and meaningful outfit that bridges traditional Chinese wear and modern bridal aesthetics.
Designer Tan shares: “The qipao, like the kimono, is something brides often draw inspiration from to design a custom dress — especially if they want to honor their heritage without going fully traditional.”
With its high mandarin collar, figure-hugging fit, and intricate detailing, the qipao has become a beloved option for many modern brides, particularly in the U.S. Whether crafted in luxurious red silk with golden embroidery or made of understated white lace, the bridal qipao is versatile, significant, and undeniably chic.
The Evolution of the Modern Bridal Qipao
Traditionally, the qipao had a straight silhouette with modest decoration and side slits. Today, modern qipao wedding dress options have evolved to include:
Floor-length gowns with sheer panels and lace
Tea-length qipaos for casual receptions or tea ceremonies
Custom hybrids with initials, embroidered symbols, or Western silhouettes like peacoats paired with qipao collars
This transformation turns the qipao into more than just a dress — it becomes a cultural and romantic expression.
Symbolic Colors: Red vs. White Qipao
???? Red Qipao Wedding Dress
In Chinese culture, red symbolizes happiness, prosperity, and luck. A red qipao wedding dress is a classic choice for the tea ceremony or even as the main gown. The gold dragon and phoenix embroidery makes it not only meaningful but also visually striking.
⚪ White Qipao Wedding Dress
Once associated with mourning, white is now linked to purity and new beginnings — especially in Western contexts. A white qipao wedding dress allows brides to combine cultural heritage with modern bridal tradition.
Pro Tip: Some brides wear both — red for the tea ceremony, white for the ceremony or reception.
How to Style Qipao as a Wedding Guest
Wedding guests can also embrace the elegance of the qipao. A few etiquette tips to follow:
Avoid red or gold — those are traditionally reserved for the bride
Choose alternatives like blush, navy, emerald, or floral prints
Go for conservative cuts in keeping with tradition
Accessorize with delicate modern or Asian-inspired jewelry
Short cheongsams or midi-length qipaos are great for guests who want to be stylish yet respectful.
What to Consider When Choosing a Qipao Wedding Dress
???? Body Type
Petite brides: Look for high slits and clean silhouettes to elongate your figure.
Curvy brides: Stretchy silk with side panels provides comfort and flattering structure.
Tall brides: Floor-length embroidered qipaos add elegance and visual balance.
???? Ceremony Type
Tea ceremony: Red or gold with traditional embroidery
Western wedding: White, champagne, or pastel tones with lace or tulle
Outdoor venue: Light, breathable fabrics for comfort
???? Customization Tips
Personalize the sleeves, neckline, waist, or slits
Add embroidery (initials, double happiness symbols)
Pair with silk veils or matching fans for cultural flair
Where to Buy Qipao Wedding Dresses in the Philippines
Whether you're looking for a custom-made or ready-to-wear qipao wedding dress, the Philippines offers several excellent options, especially in urban centers with strong Chinese-Filipino cultural ties.
????️ Online Stores
Lazada & Shopee Philippines – These major e-commerce platforms offer a wide selection of affordable cheongsam and qipao-style wedding dresses from local and regional sellers. Many listings include custom sizing and fast nationwide shipping.
BridalWonderland-PH.com – A dedicated Filipino bridal website offering a curated collection of modern and traditional qipao wedding dresses. From elegant red silk cheongsams to minimalist white bridal qipaos, Bridal Wonderland PH provides both custom-made and ready-to-wear options tailored to Filipino brides with a love for Chinese aesthetics.
Facebook Marketplace & Instagram Boutiques – Local bridal creators and tailors often showcase their qipao collections via social media, with the option to book fittings or request custom embroidery directly.
Etsy (International) – While not local, Etsy provides global handmade qipaos with Philippine shipping, ideal for unique or artisanal designs.
???? In-Person Boutiques
Binondo, Manila (Chinatown) – As the oldest Chinatown in the world, Binondo has traditional Chinese dress shops and wedding suppliers that offer qipao rentals, bespoke tailoring, and bridal packages.
Divisoria & Tutuban Center – Budget-friendly ready-to-wear cheongsam dresses are widely available here, perfect for secondary bridal looks or wedding guests.
Quezon City & Makati Bridal Studios – High-end bridal ateliers may accept qipao-style custom orders, especially for multicultural weddings or fusion-themed events.
Tip: If you're planning to order a custom qipao, allow 3–4 weeks for design and adjustments, especially during wedding season.
Conclusion
The qipao wedding dress is the perfect blend of cultural heritage and modern style. Whether you’re drawn to a bold red gown or a refined white cheongsam, this iconic dress lets you express your identity with elegance.
As more brides across the U.S. and beyond embrace the qipao, they not only pay tribute to tradition — they also redefine what it means to be a modern bride.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is the meaning of the qipao wedding dress?
The qipao represents grace, legacy, and respect for Chinese culture. It is commonly worn during weddings, tea ceremonies, and other significant events to honor ancestry and tradition.
Q2: Can I wear a qipao wedding dress if I’m not Chinese?
Absolutely! Many brides from other cultures wear qipaos to celebrate diversity, pay tribute to their partner’s heritage, or simply because they appreciate its beauty. Cultural appreciation is always welcome.
Q3: Can I wear both a qipao and a Western-style wedding dress?
Yes. Many brides wear a qipao during the tea ceremony or reception, then change into a Western gown for the main ceremony. It’s a thoughtful way to embrace both cultures.