On what formal or semiformal occasions is it acceptable to wear a qipao?

Question

A qipao, BTW, is the name for the "Chinese dress" or sometimes, as it's sometimes called, the "Shanghai dress"- form-fitting brocade dresses that usually (almost always) have a mandarin collar. They're beautiful, IMO.

I was wondering what the qipao's Western formal equivalent is, and what events/social gatherings in the US it's acceptable to wear a qipao to.

Answer 1

It's suitable for all formal occasions. For very formal occasions the hemline goes down to the ankle.

Answer 2

if full-length, any evening event, a nice dinner out, concert, or otherwise, if half-length, could be worn to a nice cocktail party, or a formal daytime event like a graduation. you have to be the judge of how formal you look in it. different folks look more or less formal in them. also depends on the fabric and design of the particular qipao.

Answer 3

Anywhere but sporting events.

Answer 4

black tie only