Embracing Tradition in the Modern Workplace: The Everyday Qipao

In a world that’s constantly evolving, the balance between tradition and modernity can be a challenging yet rewarding pursuit. Our new collection, Everyday Qipao, embodies this delicate balance, offering a fresh take on a classic garment that has stood the test of time.

Co-founder and designer, Summer Wang, delves into the design inspiration behind our innovative Everyday Qipao collection, celebrating its cultural roots while adapting it for the contemporary professional environment. 

Bridging Tradition & Modernity

In creating the Everyday Qipao collection, I embarked on a mission to tackle a prevalent issue faced by professional women, especially those in demanding fields like law, consulting, and financial services: the discomfort and lack of functionality in traditional work attire. Say goodbye to impractical jackets and tight pencil skirts! 

With any new collection, we draw on many influences and references when creating new designs. Reimagining the qipao for work and everyday needs has been a project that is very close to our hearts for eukari, and so I am very excited to share my two main inspirations for this collection!

Inspiration One: Empowering the Modern Woman

At the core of our design philosophy lies the embodiment of feminine power. Influenced by the 1960's Hong Kong style qipao, the key design element of the eukari qipao dress enhances posture and elegance. 

Transforming the mandarin collar into a V-shape neckline, reflects a harmonious fusion of Eastern and Western influences, which mirrors so many professional women's “global citizen” status, as well as my own; having lived in 5 countries in the past 10 years!

Our collection uses carefully selected fabrics that are wrinkle-resistant and machine-washable, tailored specifically for professionals who are always on the go or need to maintain a polished appearance throughout the day. We want to ensure that our garments are not only chic but also ultra-practical for the modern, ambitious eukari woman.

Through draping techniques and three-dimensional cutting, our designs prioritize comfort and confidence. Empowering women to conquer professional environments with grace and self-assurance while adding a touch of cultural richness to a contemporary garment.  

Inspiration Two: Men’s Tailoring Jacket

My time studying bespoke tailoring in the UK exposed me to the meticulous craftsmanship of men's tailoring jackets. The thoughtful design and numerous pockets was a stark contrast to women's jackets (or any women’s garments for that matter). This functionality gap has long been a source of frustration.

In response, our collection introduces functional elements inspired by menswear, such as the inclusion of a slim lipstick pocket inside our jackets. This small yet significant detail aims to enhance both the utility and elegance of our garments. 

close up of pocket detail inside eukari jacket sample

We understand the diverse roles that modern women juggle, so we designed the Everyday Qipao to empower women to carry what they need without sacrificing style!

Celebrating Heritage with Functionality & Innovation

By blending traditional design elements with contemporary functionality, the Everyday Qipao collection is a celebration of cultural heritage, a nod to timeless elegance, and a testament to the strength and versatility of modern women.

At eukari, this fusion of practical innovation and timeless elegance is how we want to redefine womenswear to empower women to express their individuality and heritage in the workplace.

Let the Everyday Qipao inspire you to bring a touch of elegance to your everyday work attire, and let it remind you that true style is timeless.