Pretty Chinese New Year cheongsams with a modern twist for women (and girls) of all shapes and sizes: 2024 edition

The two years plus of pandemic in which restrictions forbade us from meeting up with our loved ones during the Chinese New Year have only taught us to treasure every single day we are gifted. The year of the Wood Dragon in 2024 is fast approaching and there's no better time to embrace our Chinese traditions: Tuck into traditional CNY dishes, carry on with the CNY hamper gifting tradition, and dress up in traditional clothes like the elegant qipao, also known as the cheongsam.

The interest in cheongsam was revived when Maggie Cheung arrested our attention as she strutted effortlessly in them in the movie, "In the Mood for Love" (2001), set in 1962 Hong Kong. Scene after scene, she made us (males and females alike) lust after her, and her cheongsams, as she glided across the screen in one tight-fitting traditional qipao after another. Never will we see cheongsam in the same light again! Inspired by the tall and lithe screen siren, some of us may have attempted to wear a cheongsam only to look more like the service staff in a Chinese restaurant. Alas, mortals like us are not typically blessed with the star’s height and figure to carry off the traditional straight-cut cheongsam.

Well, now you can! Liven up your 2024 CNY by donning traditional attire with a modern twist. Think mandarin collars that do not choke your neck, frog buttons without the fuss, sleeves that allow your arms to move freely, roomier cuts, and A-line skirts – all-round flattering designs for the modern lady who refuses to be encumbered by restrictive attire. What’s more, we also found sizes from 2XS to 4XL – designs for every woman, including your mini-me! Believe it or not, prices start from under ten dollars!

Now, that's a fabulous start to the lunar new year. Happy cheongsam shopping, ladies!

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The modern cheongsam

Devanka Batik Cheongsam Chinese New Year

Looking for a traditional attire with an added touch of heritage? This cheongsam with batik motif is the perfect twist to the modern take on cheongsam.

Modern cheongsam improved version, plaid

This trendy cheongsam is instantly infused with a touch of youthfulness thanks to the plaid designs in vibrant and cheerful colours – ideal for Chinese New Year!

Modern Cheongsam vintage

Modest, traditional yet modern, this new take on the cheongsam updates the look with different fabric designs while retaining the quintessential frog buttons.

Narrow-waisted, Long cheongsam, contrast stitching

This breezy long dress is hardly cheongsam, yet exudes a cultural vibe while being comfortable and slimming with its cinched waist. The hidden pleated design adds volume and sophistication all at once.

Sia Tweed Mandarin Collar Mini Dress

The use of tweed instantly ups the look of this mini cheongsam. The interesting slit at the chest area adds a peekaboo effect to the outfit.

Improved Cheongsam Dress

The polka dot design seamlessly merges with the voile fabric adding a sweet and chic look to the cheongsam. Pick and choose from the high-slit design, be it at the side or the front of the thighs.

China Style Cheongsam 2024 Spring and Summer, S$9.80

This cheongsam is so classic with its distinctive floral design, standing collar, frog buttons and high slit. The lace detailing however, adds an interesting twist to this classic number.

French Improved Cheongsam Knitted Long-Sleeved Dress

"New and improved" could be used to describe this long-sleeve knitted dress. Perfect for chilly weather, especially while travelling, this cheongsam is both Chinese and French, all at the same time.

Goelia Cartoon Printed Cheongsam Qipao Mini Dress

Look no further if you wish to find something cute and very Chinese New Year. Emblazoned with a lion dance motif, and piping details, this dress is comfortable and traditional.

Dri Fit My Melody / Hello Kitty CNY 2024 Ladies Dress / Cheongsam / Qipao (Adult)

If comfort is top on your list, look no further than these dresses with cartoon prints. I mean, who can resist the kawaii Hello Kitty and My Melody?

Loose Buckle Cheongsam Modern Qipao Retro, S$24.20 (was S$41.37)

There's no need to bypass good food during your Chinese New Year visits with this roomy and lovable modern cheongsam. The printed lady with a pipe and shades is a great conversation starter too!

Cute Design Modern Style Cheongsam, from S$29.90 (was S$69.90)

Modern and cute animal prints instantly livens up these modern cheongsams. The low slit adds an element of interest without revealing too much skin. Perfect when visiting the elderly.

Joso Improved Cheongsam Autumn Retro, S$29.90 (was S$50.77)

Blooming flowers in vibrant colours on this cheongsam will surely attract eyeballs during your Chinese New Year visits around the island.

For the fabulously plus-sized

Fung Jie Cheongsam Dress

Totally comfortable, totally traditional. This cheongsam fits all sizes and comes with pretty florals perfect for ushering in the new year.

Ryn studio Women Cheongsam Dress - up to XXL

Vintage and modern at the same time, this cheongsam comes with a little Chinese knot elevates the entire outfit.

2024 Summer New R Printed New Improved Cheongsam Dress - up to 2XL

Bold prints make this outfit an instant stand-out.

Internet Celebrity Chinese Style Loose Large Size

Spacious and made of polyester, you can do away with ironing after every wear.

Plus size cheongsam dress Chinese style

Eye-catching fish and autumn leaves make an outstanding design for this roomy cheongsam, ideal for all the Chinese New Year goodies to come.

Art Improvement Cotton and Linen Buckle Collar Short Sleeve Robe, S$13.80 (was S$15)

Featuring a different take on the collar, this round-necked cheongsam doesn't pinch into your neck and its A-lined skirt makes it easy for movement.

Stanley Coco Ins M-4XL Cheongsam A-Line Dress, S$26.53 (was S$46.96)

Beautiful women featured heavily in Japanese at and this modern take of the cheongsam cleverly blends sakura flowers and a Japanese beauty in full kimono.

For your mini-me (and you)

Cheongsam Dress Chinese Style Summer Retro Parent-Child Dress

Available in 2 colours

Twin with your daughter in this modern dress, perfect for our humid weather.

CNY Kids Cheongsam, 2-7 years old, S$13.50

Dress up your little one and pick from the range of cute prints in a variation of colours this Chinese New Year.