Why has wearing the qipao become a fashion trend in Suzhou?

As a representative of Jiangnan culture, Suzhou has long been renowned for its exquisite and elegant lifestyle. The qipao, one of the classic garments of modern Chinese women, features soft and subtle lines that perfectly complement the gentle and refined temperament of Jiangnan.

In the early 20th century, Jiangnan cities such as Shanghai and Suzhou were key regions for the innovation and popularization of the qipao. Moreover, Suzhou’s well-developed silk industry—such as Song brocade and Su embroidery—played a significant role. Suzhou is the birthplace of “Su embroidery,” one of China’s four famous embroidery styles, and is also known for producing high-quality silk, including Song brocade and Kesi silk.

The luxurious texture of the qipao is inseparable from the support of these traditional crafts. Suzhou is home to many long-established tailoring shops and skilled artisans who excel at creating qipaos that perfectly fit the body. The inheritance of such craftsmanship has allowed the qipao to maintain its vitality locally.

Locals have easier access to high-quality custom-made qipaos, which in turn has fostered a strong local preference for wearing them.

Suzhou’s classical gardens and ancient towns, such as Pingjiang Road and Shantang Street, provide natural backdrops for the qipao. Both tourists and locals often wear qipaos for photos, giving rise to a “qipao check-in” culture. The government and businesses also organize qipao-themed events, such as the Suzhou Qipao Festival. The portrayal of Jiangnan women in films and TV dramas, such as The Flowers of War, further reinforces this image.

In daily life, the qipao is not only worn for special occasions such as weddings and tea parties, but its modernized versions have also been incorporated into everyday outfits, blending tradition with contemporary fashion.

Suzhou is like poetry—boats moor by Maple Bridge at night, and people glide across Heng Tang. Suzhou is like a painting—the moon shines on Gusu Terrace, and everyone seems almost otherworldly.

Wearing a qipao while strolling along Pingjiang Road or listening to a piece of Pingtan may allow one to more deeply experience this unique “Suzhou elegance.”