Chu Hongsheng, the revered Shanghai-style qipao master whose career spanned over eight decades, passed away in early 2026, leaving behind a legacy that redefined traditional Chinese fashion. Born in the 1940s, Chu rose to prominence after designing a white-lace qipao for a rising movie starlet in the 1950s—a piece that later became emblematic of Shanghai's golden age of glamour.
Over his lifetime, Chu crafted more than 5,000 qipao dresses, blending intricate embroidery with modern silhouettes. His work gained global recognition when select pieces were exhibited at the New York Metropolitan Museum of Art in the 2010s, introducing Eastern sartorial artistry to international audiences.
Before his passing, Chu dedicated himself to mentoring a new generation of tailors, ensuring the survival of Shanghai-style qipao craftsmanship. "This artform carries our history in every stitch," he remarked during a 2025 interview. Today, his apprentices continue to innovate while honoring traditional techniques, with recent collections showcased at cultural festivals across Asia.
The qipao's resurgence among young Chinese designers this year underscores Chu's enduring influence, bridging heritage and contemporary fashion in 2026.
