Shenyang, birthplace of the national dress of the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911), has set a goal to become the center for qipao production and promoting related culture.

The qipao is a traditional Chinese dress and got its name from the Man people, as the ethnic group were previously known as qiren (Qi people).

Shenyang is known for being the birthplace of the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911), and was the capital of two Qing emperors. Huang Taiji, the second emperor of the dynasty, ordered that the Man ethnic group’s clothes be the national dress, which eventually evolved into the qipao.

Shenyang was recently designated as a national center for the qipao. A celebration ceremony was held at Shenyang Imperial Palace on Sept 19.

A qipao show was also held at the palace on the same day, as part of the First Shenyang Qipao International Cultural Festival.

Sponsored by China National Textile and Apparel Council, and Shenyang government, the festival aimed at promoting qipao culture and boosting the development of the qipao industry.

“Shenyang will develop a value chain for the qipao industry, and design its own brand,” said Tao Zhen, chairman of Shenyang Qipao Association. Shenyang is expected to become a center for qipao culture.

Officials pose for a group photo at the celebration ceremony held at Shenyang Imperial Museum on Sept 19. [Photo/Chinanews.com]

A traditional Chinese music performance is held at the opening ceremony of the First Shenyang Qipao International Cultural Festival at Shenyang Imperial Palace on Sept 16. [Photo/Chinanews.com]

Models wearing qipaos pose for a group photo at a qipao show held at Shenyang Imperial Palace. on Sept 19. [Photo/Chinanews.com]