Wearing Cheongsam at a Chinese Wedding: The Do's & Don'ts
While often associated with the attire that women wear during Chinese New Year, cheongsam is a versatile and elegant option for many occasions, including weddings. Wearing a cheongsam as a wedding guest in Singapore is a charming nod to a cultural tradition that blends elegance with personal style. However, picking the perfect cheongsam before going to a wedding involves understanding key considerations such as choosing the right color, dress length, as well as the fabric & prints. Worry not, because this guide will walk you through these nuances to ensure you make a respectful and stylish choice during someone's special day.
Choosing the Right Colors
When choosing a cheongsam as a wedding guest attire, selecting the appropriate color is crucial. Wearing a cheongsam with the right color not only enhances your appearance but also shows respect for cultural traditions on the couple's special day.
Do: If you are going to a Chinese wedding, it is safer to opt for colors such as pastels, blues, greens, or other auspicious hues that signify joy and celebration in Chinese culture. These shades not only complement the festive atmosphere but also adhere to cultural sensitivities, and ensure that you respect the traditions of the event. Additionally, always check the wedding invitation for any specific color in the dress code and choose your cheongsam dress accordingly to align with the couple's preferences.
Don't: Wear red. This is because red is traditionally reserved for the bride in Chinese weddings. Doing so as a guest can unintentionally draw attention away from the bride, which is generally considered inappropriate. Similarly, it is best to avoid black or white, as some people may associated these colors with mourning. Also, some brides may wear white, so unless the invitation specifies otherwise, it is better to choose a different color other than red or white to avoid overshadowing the bride.
Selecting the Appropriate Length
The length of your cheongsam contributes significantly to its elegance and suitability. A perfect cheongsam dress must be those that strikes a balance between tradition and modernity, and importantly, it ensures you adhere to conservative dress norms that are commonly observed at such events.
Do: You can choose a cheongsam that falls at or below the knee. This length is considered classic and appropriate for formal occasions like weddings. It maintains a modest and refined appearance, and aligns well with societal expectations.
Don't: Opt for a cheongsam that is too short or too revealing. Respect for tradition and cultural norms dictates that attire should be tasteful and conservative especially at Asian weddings.
If you're looking for a stylish, below the knee cheongsam alternative, you can consider donning our Momota Lace Cheongsam Jumpsuit, or Kaizen Lace Cheongsam Dress which offers a modern twist while maintaining the traditional modesty expected at such gatherings.
Considering the Fabrics and Prints
The choice of fabric and prints also plays an important role in the overall look and feel of your cheongsam.
Do: Opt for fabrics such as satin, brocade, or lace. These materials not only enhance the elegance of the cheongsam but also offer comfort and breathability, which is essential especially for weddings in Singapore's tropical climate. Additionally, consider subtle floral patterns, traditional motifs, or delicate textures that add sophistication without overwhelming the attire.
Don't: Choose fabrics that are excessively shiny or have bold, distracting prints. Reflective fabrics can detract from the traditional and formal nature of the cheongsam, while busy prints might overshadow the bride. Select fabrics and prints that strike a balance between style and appropriateness for the event's ambiance and weather conditions.
Additional Tips: The Choice of Accessories and Footwear
Completing your cheongsam ensemble with the right accessories and footwear is essential. You can pair your modern cheongsam with traditional accessories such as jade jewelry, a clutch purse, and elegant heels or flats. These accessories should complement the color and style of your dress while adding to its cultural authenticity and overall appeal.
Avoid over-accessorizing or wearing overly casual footwear to maintain the cheongsam's elegance and to ensure that your overall look remains cohesive and appropriate with formal dress wear for wedding settings.
Overall, wearing a cheongsam as a wedding guest in Singapore allows you to honor cultural heritage while embracing modern elegance. By adhering to the do's and don'ts outlined above, you can ensure your attire is both respectful and stylish. Your thoughtful choice of cheongsam attire will not only reflect your appreciation for tradition but also contribute positively to the joyous atmosphere of the wedding celebration.
Explore Our Finest Cheongsam Dress Collection
If you're in doubt about what to wear to a Chinese wedding or what to wear to a wedding in Singapore, worry not—Faire Belle’s cheongsam collection has you covered! Discover our variety of designs that blend tradition with contemporary style to ensure you find the perfect cheongsam dress in Singapore. For other options, explore our latest collection to find the perfect outfit for any occasion.