Be realistic
Pick a cheongsam that suits your figure. Only those with a model's lithe body can carry off a long, sleeveless or halter-neck cheongsam. Shorter women should opt for a design that ends slightly above the knees.
Those with thicker arms should pick a cheongsam with three-quarter sleeves.
Women who are on the fuller side should opt for a design that skims rather than clings to the body. Go for bigger print motifs or choose a cheongsam in a single darker shade.
Don't flash too much skin
A cheongsam already allows you to show off your assets. Choose one part of your body to flaunt. If you want to show off your legs, don't flash your cleavage. Unless you are using the cheongsam as a costume, less is definitely more.
Watch the slit
The perfect slit ends at mid-thigh. When the cut is too deep or too high, you risk looking like a lounge hostess.
Go easy on the bling
Understated elegance is key. Keep jewellery to a minimum or focus on one area, such as a chunky jade bangle and a few smaller bracelets on one wrist.
Keep make-up light
You want to avoid looking like a showgirl. Instead of picking a bright red lip colour, opt for the stained lip effect in darker shades of pink by dabbing the colour onto your lips. Keep the rouge light and the eye make-up bright. Avoid the smoky-eye effect - it is too punk-rock for the classy outfit.
Go for a simple hairstyle
Wear your hair in a loose chignon or let it down in loose curls. It gives the look a more modern, classy feel. Also avoid a tai tai-like updo, a tight bun or high ponytail a la Chinese restaurant waitresses.
Don't wear fishnet stockings
It is a look too risque for a dress so elegant. Opt instead for sheer, nude or flesh-coloured stockings - if you must.
Watch your posture
A figure-hugging cheongsam can be very unforgiving. Slouching will cause the fabric around your tummy to bunch up and make even the trimmest tummy look like a bulging one.
Get a manicure
The whole idea is to look poised and polished. Nothing spoils the outfit more than unkempt nails.
Not a fan of the cheongsam? You can still cop the Chinoiserie look.
Opt for pastel dresses with big floral prints. Complete the look with Chinoiserie jewellery or bags with Oriental motifs in auspicious shades of red and pink (see accessories in image below).
Go for modern dresses that have a more structured neckline to emulate the cheongsam's Mandarin collar. A square-cut neckline works best on modern dresses to show off the collarbone.
Instead of a dress, choose a cheongsam-inspired top and pair it with this season's ankle-length pants for a modern take on the traditional look.
