Figure-hugging Manchu ladies' wear is popular again as it begins its metamorphosis

It was a dress that every Shanghai woman had in the 1930s and today, it remains a bride's must-have for her wedding day. After some twists and turns, qipao stands as an unspoken Chinese icon.

China's first lady Peng Liyuan prompted a continuous sparkle of camera flashes when she wore qipao-style dresses during her husband's State visits. Experts believe the so-called "Liyuan style" will stimulate the rejuvenation of the traditional garment.