Captivating Cheongsams: Beauty Fashion from a Century Ago

In the summer of 2026, the Japan-China Friendship Center Museum in Bunkyo, Tokyo, will host a remarkable exhibition titled "Captivating Cheongsams: Beauty Fashion from a Century Ago," focusing on the exquisite cheongsam that has captured the hearts of Chinese women. This exhibition will showcase a carefully curated selection of representative dresses from the renowned Xie Li Collection, highlighting pieces from the 1900s to the 1940s. Alongside these iconic garments, visitors will also explore traditional bound-foot shoes and meticulously embroidered accessories, offering a comprehensive look into this elegant fashion.

A Glimpse into History

During the Taisho Romantic Era in Japan, Western influences began to shape modern society, fostering a new fashion culture that combined both Japanese and Western elements. Simultaneously, China underwent significant modernization, with Eastern and Western influences intersecting in politics, economy, and culture, ultimately blending into a new era. In this context, the cheongsam emerged in Shanghai, becoming a revolutionary icon in women's fashion history.

The Modern Girl in Cheongsam

This exhibition embraces the concept of "wearing and opening up time," tracing the evolution of the cheongsam from the traditional Manchu attire, the qipao, originating from the Qing Dynasty. As it absorbed Western fashion influences, the cheongsam transformed from a traditional garment into a stylish piece for modern women. Each era's cheongsam reflects broader changes, including shifts in women's social status and the awakening of new beauty standards during China's transition from a feudal monarchy to a modern state.

Highlights of the Exhibition

1. The Aesthetic Beauty of Antique Cheongsams
Visitors will have the opportunity to admire the intricate embroidery, rich colors, and elegant silhouettes of these antique cheongsams, which exemplify the era's sophisticated urban culture.

2. Fashion Evolution Amid Urban Modernization
The rapid urbanization and influx of Western culture birthed new lifestyles in modern China. The cheongsam, as a symbolic garment, adapted over time in style, material, and decoration, reflecting the evolution of women's fashion alongside modern culture.

3. The New Image of Women and Changing Beauty Ideals
The transition from a feudal society to a modern nation significantly altered women's lives and values. As education spread and social participation increased, so did new perceptions of the body and beauty. This exhibition will help visitors understand this shift through clothing and related artifacts that embody the emerging image of women in modern society.

Exhibition Details

- Exhibition Title: Special Exhibition in 2026

"Captivating Cheongsams: Beauty Fashion from a Century Ago"

- Dates: May 29 (Friday) - June 28 (Sunday), 2026
- Venue: Japan-China Friendship Center Museum, Bunkyo, Tokyo
- Opening Hours: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Fridays until 8:00 PM)
- Closed: Mondays
- Admission: Free
- Access: Museum access

Exhibition Structure

The exhibition will be divided into four chapters, tracing the development of the cheongsam through different periods:

1. Origin of the Cheongsam: Explore the historical roots of the cheongsam and its connections to the qipao, using real artifacts and artwork to reveal its significance in society.

2. Awakening Beauty Standards: This section highlights the new-style cheongsams that emerged in the 1910s and 1920s, reflecting the evolving views of women's roles and bodies during modernization.

3. Trends of Modern Urban Life: Featuring cheongsams from the 1930s, this chapter illustrates how Shanghai's fashion scene embraced a blend of traditional and modern designs, enhancing women's silhouettes and reflecting social dynamics.

4. The Golden Age of Cheongsams: Focusing on the 1940s, this chapter showcases how new materials and styles transformed women’s fashion, emphasizing individuality and decorative elements against the backdrop of changing societal values.

Special Features

- Bound Foot Shoes Exhibition: The exhibition will also include a section on bound-foot shoes, offering insights into this traditional practice and its societal implications, as well as showcasing the evolving beauty ideals of modern women.

Related Events

1. Special Lecture: "Released Bodies, Wrapped Cities - The Cheongsam of Old Shanghai" will take you through the birth and evolution of the cheongsam, exploring the lives and consciousness of women in early 20th century China.
- Date: June 6 (Saturday), 14:00 - 15:30
- Location: Hall B1, Japan-China Friendship Center
- Admission: Free with prior registration.

2. Glamorous Century: A special performance featuring dancers and musicians celebrating the beauty of the cheongsam through traditional Chinese dance and music, bringing the vibrancy of the modern era to life.
- Date: June 14 (Sunday), 14:30 - 15:30
- Admission: Free with prior registration.

Conclusion

This exhibition, organized by the Japan-China Friendship Center and supported by various cultural institutions, aims to foster appreciation for the rich history and cultural significance of the cheongsam, while also bridging a connection between two cultures. Visitors are encouraged to explore, experience, and engage with this captivating display of history and fashion that continues to transcend generations.