I love cheongsams. I don’t wear them much (click here to read the post explaining why not) but I love them for their clean lines and for being the only dresses in existence that manage to be utterly suggestive, yet in possession of a seriously high collar.

I was recently contacted by Elaine who is at the helm of the new, homegrown label The Lady General. She has breathed new life into the traditional, expected shape of cheongsams and mandarin collared tops and I love what she has done.

Free from their original 1920’s Shanghai constraints, here are cheongsams with character: think box pleats, flared skirts, belts…you name it. There is nothing restricting, tight or uncomfortable, which is also my gripe with the classic versions. I’m also pleased that a lot of the designs have been made in cotton – far more wearable (and less sweaty) than silk.

My top picks include her Osaka Obi Cheongsam

made with Japanese chirimen crepe and finished off with a vintage kimono obi belt.

It’s sadly currently sold out but due to be recommissioned again soon. Priced at $189

This is also great fun. Style name: Jia (featured image at very top of the post) as well as below:

It’s beautifully cut on the bias and available in sky blue and white striped seersucker cotton for $149

I also love the two tone cheongsam top which she very kindly gave me. It’s pure cotton and a slightly relaxed fit. Perfect with shorts in the daytime. Here’s the front panel

…and here’s its Jekyll and Hyde reverse colour: aqua

All items come in small, medium and large (medium is about a UK size 10 FYI and what I take). See her website for exact measurements. 

Everything is available online and shipping to Singapore, Hong Kong and Taiwan is free. Shipping to the rest of the world is charged at the flat rate of $15 (GBP 7.50)

My top, Song, was gifted by The Lady General. It is priced at S$149 and available here