Qipao awards showcase the beauty of traditional fashion
Updated 19:37, 17-Jan-2019
By Sun Wei, Yang Ran
["china"]
02:24
The Qipao, also known as a Cheongsam, is a traditional close-fitting dress for women that is like a bright blossom in China's fashion scene and an award ceremony for the 2018 Charming Qipao Ladies Competition was held on Monday in Beijing, showcasing the beauty of Oriental female culture.
It's a festival for the Qipao and fans of this graceful figure-hugging clothing. On and off stage, women could be seen clad in Qipao of various colors, textiles, patterns and styles.
Following a three-month competition -- two months of local selection and nominations, as well as one month of internet and WeChat voting -- the official Top 30 Charming Qipao Ladies for 2018 were chosen from over 3,000 contestants from 63 cities and regions across the globe.
Contestants posing for photos during the competition. /CGTN Photo

Contestants posing for photos during the competition. /CGTN Photo

For many, the experience has led to a deeper recognition of Chinese culture and a growth in self-confidence.
"I've gotten to know so many sisters who have the same affection towards the Qipao like myself. We've come to better understand the culture behind the dresses. We also realize the new meanings that modern times have given to the traditional costume," gold prize winner Liu Xiaolu said.
Originating from a type of Manchurian female robe in the Qing Dynasty (1636-1912), the Qipao developed fast and were very popular from 1912 to 1949.
Its main features are a mandarin collar, fitted waist, knotted buttons, hemmed silts on two sides and a tailored fit. It expresses Chinese women's temperament of elegance, while reflecting the shapes of their bodies. 
Contestants posing for photos during the competition. /CGTN Photo

Contestants posing for photos during the competition. /CGTN Photo

Nowadays, the Qipao has gone beyond just displaying women's modesty, softness and beauty. It also represents a sense of self identity and is a culture and lifestyle symbol.
"Our Qipao culture enjoys a time-honored history, embodying traditional virtues of Chinese women. Yet in the new era, the revival of Qipao coincides with the extension of Chinese women's spiritual pursuits. Our event has attracted the participation of Chinese women from around the world. Wearing a Qipao shows their growing confidence in lives and culture," competition organizer Shi Wenjun said.
The event has been held annually since 2015. Parameters are set not only on appearance, but on personality, talent and social values.