Recreating the Past 

When a film plot is set in an historical era, in theory the choice of costume should match accordingly. The fabric and style of a costume as well as the way it was made and fitted should be in accordance with its time period. However, film usually emphasises the attractiveness of the lead actresses, and thus filmmakers would forego historical fact to create a ‘feel of the era’ that would be acceptable to the audience.

Since the 1950s, qipao has developed aesthetic details such as prominent bust and cinched waists. In films set in the Republican era, most of the qipaos were modified from the historical loose-fitting styles to more figure-hugging, so that the actresses would maintain the contemporary aesthetics. The most ideal result may be the audience response, ‘It’s so pretty. I must have one made, too!’